Information output device

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention relates to an information output device including one or more information output units. The information output unit includes: a coil unit connected to a power source and disposed to generate a magnetic field as a current flows; a driving magnetic unit which is a permanent magnet having magnetism even when no current flows through the coil unit, and is formed so that the direction of the magnetic field is changed by the magnetic field generated through the coil unit; a driving unit configured to move by the magnetic field generated by the coil unit and the driving magnetic unit; and an expression unit configured to move by the driving unit and disposed to be sensed by a user.

Description

Information output device

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information output device.

[0002] Users can perceive information in various ways. To this end, various types of information output devices are being used.

[0003] For example, visual information output devices using printed materials and auditory information output devices using sound are being used.

[0004] In particular, with the increase in the amount of information and technological advancements in the modern era, information output devices incorporating electronic technology are widely used, and display devices with multiple pixels are commonly used as visual information output devices.

[0005] However, in the case of such display devices, various circuits are built in, which reduces the ease of manufacturing and causes inconvenience in control.

[0006] Meanwhile, due to technological advancements and the diversification of lifestyles, various forms of information output are being required.

[0007] For example, depending on the situation of each user, various information output devices may be required, and in particular, users with weakened senses, such as those with poor or no visual ability, require information output through touch. However, when information is output through touch, it is difficult to control it easily and ensure stable operation, which limits the improvement of user convenience through the enhancement of information output devices.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention provide an information output device capable of improving the precise control capability of information output and the efficiency of information output.

[0009] One embodiment of the present invention relates to an information output device comprising one or more information output units, wherein the information output unit comprises: a coil portion arranged to generate a magnetic field as current flows through it and connected to a power source; a driving magnetic force portion formed such that the direction of the magnetic field changes by the magnetic field generated through the coil portion, and is a permanent magnet having magnetism even when no current flows through the coil portion; a driving portion that moves by the magnetic field generated by the coil portion and the driving magnetic force portion; and a display portion arranged to move by the driving portion and to be detected by a user.

[0010] In this embodiment, the driving unit may include a magnetic member having regions with different polarities.

[0011] In the present embodiment, the drive unit may further include a drive control unit disposed on at least one surface thereof, and the drive unit may perform angular motion or rotational motion centered on the drive control unit.

[0012] In this embodiment, the coil portion may include one disposed around the driving magnetic portion.

[0013] In this embodiment, a driving force limiting member disposed on the outer side of the coil portion may be further included to reduce the transmission of a magnetic field in a direction away from the side of the coil portion.

[0014] In the present embodiment, the information output device may include a plurality of information output units, and the plurality of information output units may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in one direction or in a different direction.

[0015] Other aspects, features, and advantages other than those described above will become clear from the following drawings, claims, and detailed description of the invention.

[0016] The information output device according to the present embodiment can improve the precise control capability of information output and enhance user management convenience.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating an information output device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 is a side view seen from direction A of Figure 1.

[0019] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of Figure 1.

[0020] FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5 are drawings for explaining the operation of the information output device of FIG. 1.

[0021] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the change in the magnetic field of the information output device of Figure 1.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an information output device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 8 is an exemplary front view of FIG. 7 seen from one direction.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of FIG. 7.

[0025] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are schematic perspective views for explaining the driving unit of the information output device of FIG. 7.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the first housing of the information output device of FIG. 7.

[0027] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the first housing of the information output device of FIG. 7.

[0028] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various forms.

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0030] In the following embodiments, terms such as first, second, etc. are used not in a limiting sense, but for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component.

[0031] In the following examples, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] In the following embodiments, terms such as "include" or "have" mean that the features or components described in the specification are present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0033] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated.

[0034] In the following embodiments, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to three axes in an orthogonal coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense that includes them. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may be orthogonal to each other, but they may also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal to each other.

[0035] Where an embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the order described. For example, two processes described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously or proceed in the reverse order of the description.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a front view schematically illustrating an information output device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view taken from direction A of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 1.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the information output device (100) of the present embodiment includes at least one information output unit, and FIG. 1 illustrates one information output unit. That is, the information output device (100) of FIG. 1 may be one information output unit.

[0038] Although one information output unit is shown in FIG. 1, the information output device (100) may include two or three or more information output units as an optional embodiment.

[0039] That is, depending on the purpose, characteristics of the applied product and user characteristics, the information output device (100) may include various numbers of information output units.

[0040] For the convenience of explanation, an information output device including one information output unit as shown in FIG. 1 will be described.

[0041] The information output device (100) may include a coil section (120), a driving magnetic section (170), a driving section (140), and a display section (110).

[0042] The expression part (110) can move according to the movement of the driving part (140) and can move its position upward and downward at least based on the longitudinal direction of the expression part (110). For example, it can move in one direction toward the coil part (120) and in the opposite direction.

[0043] Through this, the expression part (110) can move to protrude in one direction, and the user can detect the movement of the expression part (110) tactilely or visually.

[0044] The expression portion (110) may include an expression surface (111) and a support surface (112).

[0045] The support surface (112) is a surface facing the driving unit (140) among the areas of the expression unit (110) and forms the lower area of ​​the expression unit (110), and is an area where the driving force of the driving unit (140) is transmitted, and as an optional embodiment, it may come into contact with one area of ​​the driving unit (140). For example, the driving surface (140a) of the driving unit (140) may come into contact with the support surface (112) and move the support surface (112) in a first direction, that is, in the Z-axis direction with respect to FIG. 1.

[0046] The expression surface (111) may include the area recognized by the user as the outermost area of ​​the expression portion (110), for example, the area furthest from the coil portion (120).

[0047] For example, the user may perceive the entire area of ​​the display unit (110), but may also perceive only the display surface (111). For example, the user may detect the movement of the display unit (110) through contact with the display surface (111), and the user may easily detect the movement of the display unit (110) through visual detection of the display surface (111).

[0048] As an optional embodiment, the expression surface (111) may include a curved surface.

[0049] The expression part (110) can have various shapes and may include a column-shaped area, for example, a cylinder-shaped area.

[0050] Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the protruding area of ​​the expression portion (110) may have a curved surface, and the corner may also have a curved surface.

[0051] The expression portion (110) may include various materials and may be formed as an insulating material that is lightweight and durable. For example, it may contain a resin-based organic material. As another example, it may include an inorganic material such as a ceramic material. Additionally, as another optional embodiment, the expression portion (110) may be formed from a material such as metal or glass.

[0052] Meanwhile, as an optional embodiment, the expression unit (110) may include a magnetic body (113) in one area, for example, in its internal space (110a) as shown in FIG. 3. Through the magnetic body (113) of the expression unit (110), the driving of the expression unit (110) through the driving unit (140) can be carried out more efficiently and power consumption can be reduced.

[0053] For example, the magnetic body (113) may include metal, and as a specific example, may include iron. The magnetic body (113) may generate magnetic force mutually with the driving unit (140) or the driving magnetic force unit (170). For example, magnetic force may be generated mutually between the magnetic body (113) and the magnetic force member (150) inside the driving unit (140), and as a specific example, magnetic force may be generated sufficient to allow the display unit (110) to descend easily when the driving unit (140) descends. It is not desirable for such mutual magnetic force to be large enough to restrict the movement of the driving unit (140). For example, it is not desirable for such mutual magnetic force to be large enough to maintain the rising or descending position of the display unit (110). Additionally, the display unit (110) may descend easily when the driving unit (140) descends through the weight of the magnetic body (113).

[0054] As a result, unnecessary shaking or unstable movement of the expression part (110) is reduced or prevented through the magnetic material (113), so that the expression part (110) can be stably positioned and moved.

[0055] The coil portion (120) may be formed to be connected to an external power source (not shown). When current flows through the coil portion (120), a magnetic field may be formed around the coil portion (120). Additionally, the properties of the electric field applied to the coil portion (120) can be controlled, for example, the direction of current flow can be controlled to be one direction or the opposite direction. Through this, the direction of the magnetic field generated around the coil portion (120) can be easily controlled to one direction and the opposite direction.

[0056] The coil section (120) may have various shapes, for example, the coil section (120) may have a shape in which multiple circuit wires are wound, and the number of windings can be controlled in various ways. In addition, the coil section (120) may be arranged to be wound around the driving magnetic section (170).

[0057] The driving unit (140) can move through the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the coil unit (120), and the driving force through the movement of the driving unit (140) is transmitted to the expression unit (110) so that the expression unit (110) can move.

[0058] The driving magnetic part (170) may be a permanent magnet. For example, the driving magnetic part (170) may have magnetism even when no current flows through the coil part (120).

[0059] Additionally, the driving magnetic force unit (170) can be formed so that the direction of the magnetic field changes due to the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (120). For example, when a magnetic field in a first direction is generated through the coil unit (120), the magnetic field of the driving magnetic force unit (170) can be maintained in the first direction or changed to the first direction due to this magnetic field. Then, when a magnetic field in a direction opposite to the first direction, i.e., a second direction, is generated through the coil unit (120), the magnetic field of the driving magnetic force unit (170) can also be changed to the second direction due to this magnetic field. The driving unit (140) moves due to the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (120) and the magnetic field generated through the driving magnetic force unit (170), thereby improving the efficiency and control performance of the driving unit (140)'s movement, reducing the power consumption of the information output device (100), improving operational efficiency, and facilitating precise control of the display unit (110). The change in the direction of the magnetic field of the driving magnetic part (170) will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5, which will be described later.

[0060] The driving magnetic force part (170) can be formed to have a coercivity corresponding to the change in the direction of the magnetic field through the coil part (120) as a permanent magnet.

[0061] As an optional embodiment, at least one region of the driving magnetic part (170) may be positioned to be adjacent to or support the coil part (120). For example, the driving magnetic part (170) may include an elongated region and be positioned to penetrate the coil part (120), and as a specific example, a plurality of coils of the coil part (120) may be wound around the driving magnetic part (170).

[0062] The driving unit (140) can be positioned to move by the magnetic field generated from the coil unit (120) and the driving magnetic unit (170).

[0063] The driving unit (140) may be spaced apart from the coil unit (120). The driving unit (140) may be positioned close to the coil unit (120) and driven by the current flowing through the coil unit (120) to perform angular or rotational motion. Through the driving unit (140), the expression unit (110) may move up and down, for example, in one direction toward the coil unit and in the opposite direction.

[0064] In the driving unit (140), for example, a magnetic member (150) may be disposed in the inner space. For example, the magnetic member (150) may contain a magnetic material and may include, for example, a permanent magnet. As a specific example, as shown in FIG. 3, the magnetic member (150) may have a first region (150N, for example, an N pole) and a second region (150S, for example, an S pole) of different polarities.

[0065] The driving unit (140) includes a driving surface (140a) on at least an outer surface, and the driving surface (140a) is formed to support the expression unit (110) and can provide a driving force for the up-and-down movement of the expression unit (110).

[0066] As an optional embodiment, the driving surface (140a) of the driving unit (140) may include a curved surface as an outer surface. As a more specific embodiment, the driving surface (140a) of the driving unit (140) may include a boundary line in the shape of a circle.

[0067] The driving unit (140) may include a driving control unit (149).

[0068] The driving position of the driving unit (140) can be controlled through the driving control unit (149). For example, when the driving unit (140) moves by the coil unit (120), it can move angularly or rotate around the driving control unit (149).

[0069] As an optional embodiment, the central axis of the drive unit (140) and the drive control unit (149) may not coincide and may be eccentric. Through this, the drive unit (140) can move up and down, that is, change the distance from the coil unit (120), while performing angular or rotational movements.

[0070] Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the magnetic member (150) may be positioned so as not to coincide with the central axis of the driving unit (140) and, for example, to overlap with one area of ​​the driving control unit (149).

[0071] Through this, torque force can be easily generated for the driving unit (140), and the driving unit (140) can be made to perform angular or rotational motion, thereby efficiently performing motion for the expression unit (110) and improving the precise expression capability of the information output device (100). In addition, the power consumption of the information output device (100) can be reduced.

[0072] For example, when each movement of the driving unit (140), force is applied only until the driving unit (140) reaches a critical point, and thereafter, additional movement may be performed without any additional force being applied. Through this, current may be applied to the coil unit (120) and power may be consumed only for a portion of the total time of the operation process of the driving unit (140) that moves the expression unit (110).

[0073] As a specific example, when current is applied to the coil part (120) only in the initial stage including the start stage of operation of the driving part (140) and the driving part (140) starts to move, the driving part (140) can easily perform angular movement through the torque force through the eccentricity.

[0074] As an optional embodiment, the driving unit (140) may include a first driving member (143) and a second driving member (144), and may include a spaced-apart space (SA) between them.

[0075] The outer surfaces of the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144) may include a driving surface (140a) on at least one surface to support the expression part (110) when the driving part (140) moves, thereby providing driving force to the expression part (110). For example, the driving surface (140a) may include the first driving surface (143a) of the first driving member (143) and the second driving surface (144a) of the second driving member (144).

[0076] The outer surfaces of the optional first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144) may include a curved surface, and for example, the driving surface (140a) may include a curved surface.

[0077] For example, the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144) may have a shape similar to a rotating body, and each may have a shape similar to a disk.

[0078] Through this, natural driving force is provided to the support surface (112) of the expression part (110) during rotation or movement of the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144), thereby enabling the expression part (110) to efficiently perform continuous and natural movement.

[0079] The drive control unit (149) may be positioned on at least one side of the drive unit (140), for example, on both sides. As a specific example, the drive control unit (149) may be in a protruding shape, that is, protruding in a direction away from the side of the drive unit (140), and as an optional embodiment, the protruding shape of the drive control unit (149) may correspond to a drive groove (not shown). As a specific example, at least one area of ​​the drive unit (140) may be accommodated in a housing (not shown), and the drive control unit (149) may correspond to a drive groove (not shown) of the housing.

[0080] For example, the driving unit (140) can move by means of a magnetic field from the coil unit (120), and as a specific example, it can move up and down due to repulsive and attractive forces on the magnetic member (150) within the driving unit (140). At this time, the driving unit (140) can move up and down while rotating around the driving control unit (149). Also, as an example, the driving unit (140) can move while the driving control unit (149) of the driving unit (140) is positioned in a driving groove (not shown). Through this, the driving unit (140) can maintain a stable state even during movement, and a limit point for up and down movement may be defined.

[0081] An intermediate part (145) may be disposed in the spaced-apart space (SA) between the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144). For example, the intermediate part (145) may be formed to connect the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144). Meanwhile, the intermediate part (145) may be formed in a shape different from the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144), and may have a size and shape such that a space is maintained between the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144).

[0082] The intermediate section (145) may include a first movement area (145a) and a second movement area (145b). The first movement area (145a) and the second movement area (145b) may be formed in areas facing each other, and as an optional embodiment, the first movement area (145a) and the second movement area (145b) may each be areas that serve as references for the lowest point and the highest point during the movement of the driving unit (140).

[0083] As an optional embodiment, a connecting area (145c) may be disposed between the first movement area (145a) and the second movement area (145b), and the connecting area (145c) may include a curved surface.

[0084] For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, when the first movement area (145a) is positioned at the lowest part, that is, the area closest to the coil part (120), the driving part (140) is placed at the lowest point, and accordingly, the expression part (110) may also be placed at the lowest point. As an optional embodiment, the first movement area (145a) may be supported by the upper end of one or more support members (not shown), and may be supported by a support member or support surface in one area of ​​a housing (not shown) that accommodates at least a part of the coil part (120) or the driving magnetic part (170) of the information output device (100).

[0085] In addition, the expression part (110) may be implemented by being physically latched by a support member, etc., in a state where it is placed at the lowest point.

[0086] As an optional embodiment, the driving unit (140) may further include a stopper unit (147). The stopper unit (147) may have a shape that protrudes at a height from the outer surface of the driving unit (140) or the driving surface (140a). As an optional embodiment, the stopper unit (147) may be formed adjacent to the outer surface of the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144), and may be connected to, for example, the second movement area (145b).

[0087] As an optional embodiment, the stopper portion (147) may have a height based on the outer surface of the first driving member (143) and the second driving member (144), and may include a region having a different height.

[0088] For example, among the areas of the stopper part (147), the height of the area farther from the second movement area (145b) may be greater than the height of the area connected to the second movement area (145b).

[0089] The stopper part (147) can be a barrier to movement for the member adjacent to the stopper part (147).

[0090] For example, the stopper part (147) can act as a barrier against the support surface (112) of the expression part (110) and act as a resistance against continuous angular motion in one direction of the driving part (140).

[0091] By controlling the driving unit (140) to unnecessarily perform continuous angular or rotational motion through the stopper unit (147), the shaking or vibration of the display unit (110) can be reduced, and precise motion control of the display unit (110) can be effectively performed.

[0092] As an optional embodiment, a driving force limiting member (CVU) may be further disposed, for example, on at least one side of the periphery of the coil portion (120), and as a specific example, may be disposed to surround the periphery of the coil portion (120).

[0093] Additionally, as a specific example, the driving force limiting member (CVU) may be formed to be long enough to reach near the top of the coil portion (120) or up to the top, based on the height direction of the coil portion (120).

[0094] The driving force limiting member (CVU) can reduce or block the transmission of a magnetic field in a direction intersecting the direction from the coil section (120) toward the expression section (110). For example, the driving force limiting member (CVU) can be positioned to reduce or shield the transmission of a magnetic field in a direction away from the side of the coil section (120). Through this, the efficiency of the transmission of driving force from the driving force limiting member (CVU) toward the expression section (110) can be improved, and if there is another information output unit positioned toward the side of the coil section (120), mutual magnetic field interference can be reduced, thereby reducing unnecessary interference in mutual operation. Through this reduction in mutual interference, the malfunction of the information output device (100) can be reduced or prevented, thereby improving precise driving control characteristics.

[0095] The magnetic field generated through the coil section (120) and the driving magnetic section (170) can be reduced or blocked from being transmitted to adjacent side spaces, and the magnetic field force can be effectively concentrated with respect to the direction from the coil section (120) toward the expression section (110).

[0096] The driving force limiting member (CVU) can be formed of various materials capable of limiting or shielding a magnetic field, and, for example, may contain a metal material. As another specific example, the driving force limiting member (CVU) may contain a magnetic material. Specific examples include iron, nickel, and cobalt, and may contain various other magnetic materials.

[0097] As an optional embodiment, a support member (BSU) is further disposed, and the support member (BSU) can stably support the driving magnetic part (170), and, for example, a portion from below based on the height direction of the driving magnetic part (170) in a shape similar to a column is disposed in the groove of the support member (BSU) so that the driving magnetic part (BSU) can stably maintain its position.

[0098] Additionally, the coil portion (120) may be positioned around the driving magnetic portion (170) and supported by the upper surface of the support member (BSU).

[0099] As an optional embodiment, a circuit control unit (FBU) may be further disposed, for example, on the lower side of the support member (BSU). The circuit control unit (FBU) may include a circuit board for controlling one or more signals for driving the information output device (100), for example, an electric field applied to the coil unit (120).

[0100] FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5 are drawings for explaining the operation of the information output device of FIG. 1.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4, the display part (110) of the information output device is shown in a state where it is at its lowest point.

[0102] At this time, the first region (150N, e.g., N pole) of the magnetic member (150) of the driving unit (140) may face the expression unit (110), and the second region (150S, e.g., S pole) may face the driving magnetic unit (170). The driving magnetic unit (170) has a polarity in a direction having a magnetic field in the same direction as the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (120), and the first region (170N, e.g., N pole) faces the magnetic expression unit (110), and the second region (170S, e.g., S pole) faces in the opposite direction.

[0103] Through this arrangement, the second region (150S) of the magnetic member (150) and the first region (170N) of the driving magnetic member (170) are adjacent, so that the driving member (140) can stably maintain a lowest point state.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 5, the display unit (110) of the information output device is shown in a state where it is at its highest point. For example, the state of FIG. 5 may be a state in which, compared to the state of FIG. 4, the electric field applied to the coil unit (120) is changed, specifically, the direction of the current is changed to change the direction of the magnetic field to the opposite direction, thereby affecting the magnetic member (150) placed in the driving unit (140), causing the magnetic member (150) to move and the driving unit (140) to rotate accordingly.

[0105] At this time, the first region (150N, e.g., N pole) of the magnetic member (150) of the driving unit (140) may face the driving magnetic unit (170), and the second region (150S, e.g., S pole) may face the expression unit (110). The driving magnetic unit (170) has a polarity in a direction having a magnetic field in the same direction as the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (120), and the second region (170S, e.g., S pole) faces the magnetic expression unit (110), while the first region (170N, e.g., N pole) faces in the opposite direction. For example, the direction of the polarity of the driving magnetic unit (170) may be opposite when compared to FIG. 4, and this direction may correspond to a change in the direction of the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (120).

[0106] Through this arrangement, the first region (150N) of the magnetic member (150) and the second region (170S) of the driving magnetic member (170) are adjacent, so that the driving member (140) can stably maintain the highest point state.

[0107] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the change in the magnetic field of the information output device of Figure 1.

[0108] Referring to Fig. 6, the horizontal axis represents time (Tm) and the vertical axis represents magnetic field (Mf).

[0109] As an initial time range of FIG. 6, a first signal application interval (PS) is shown in a time range of less than 0.2 (Tm), for example, less than 0.2 milliseconds (ms). In the first signal application interval (PS), an electric field of the first direction is applied, for example, a current flow in the first direction (defined as the forward direction) is applied, and accordingly, a magnetic field of one direction is generated by the coil part (120) and the driving magnetic force part (170).

[0110] A second signal application interval (NS) is shown in a time range (Tm) starting from around 0.2 in FIG. 6, for example, a range of 0.2 milliseconds (ms) or longer. In the second signal application interval (NS), an electric field is applied in a second direction, for example, a current flow is applied in the opposite direction (defined as reverse direction) of the first direction (defined as forward direction), and accordingly, a magnetic field in the opposite direction of the first direction can be generated by the coil part (120) and the driving magnetic force part (170).

[0111] Meanwhile, between the first signal application section (PS) and the second signal application section (NS), there exists a signal non-application section (ZS). The signal non-application section (ZS) is a section where an electric field is not applied, for example, a section where an electric field is not applied to the coil section (120), and there may be a state where no current flows, or even if it flows, there is no meaningful current, as a specific example, a state where there is no current sufficient to generate a magnetic field capable of moving the driving section (140) through the coil section (120). In this signal non-application section (ZS), the magnetic field through the coil section (120) is not generated or is very weak, but since the magnetic field through the driving magnetic section (170) exists, a magnetic field smaller than the size of the first signal application section (PS) or the second signal application section (NS) may be maintained.

[0112] Through the driving magnetic force unit (170), there may be a time during which a magnetic field is generated in the signal non-applied section (ZS) so as to be adjacent to the first signal applied section (PS) and adjacent to the second signal applied section (NS), and consequently, a driving force for the movement of the driving unit (140) can be provided, and the power consumption for moving the display unit (110) can be reduced. In addition, the responsiveness of the movement of the display unit (110) in the forward direction (e.g., upward) and the reverse direction (e.g., downward) can be improved, thereby facilitating precise control of the fine movement of the display unit (110), and thus improving the precision of the information output of the information output device (100) through the display unit (110) and increasing the speed of the information output.

[0113] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an information output device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an exemplary front view seen from one direction of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of FIG. 7.

[0114] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are schematic perspective views for explaining the driving unit of the information output device of FIG. 7. FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of the first housing of the information output device of FIG. 7. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of the first housing of the information output device of FIG. 7.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 9, the information output device (200) of the present embodiment includes at least one information output unit, and FIG. 7 illustrates one information output unit. That is, the information output device (200) of FIG. 7 may be one information output unit. Although FIG. 7 illustrates one information output unit, the information output device (200) may include two or three or more information output units as an optional embodiment. That is, depending on the application, characteristics of the applied product, and characteristics of the user, the information output device (200) may include various numbers of information output units.

[0116] For the convenience of explanation, an information output device including one information output unit as shown in FIG. 7 will be described.

[0117] The information output device (200) may include a coil section (220), a driving magnetic section (270), a driving section (240), and a display section (210).

[0118] The expression portion (210) can move according to the movement of the driving portion (240) described later, and can move its position upward and downward at least with respect to the longitudinal direction of the expression portion (210). For example, it can move in one direction toward the coil portion (220) and in the opposite direction. The expression portion (210) may include an expression surface (211) and a support surface (212). Additionally, as an optional embodiment, a magnetic material (213) may be placed in one area of ​​the expression portion (210), for example, in an internal space.

[0119] More specific details regarding the expression part (210) can be applied with modifications within the same or similar range as the expression part (110) of the previously described embodiment, so a more specific description is omitted.

[0120] The coil portion (220) may be formed to be connected to an external power source (not shown). When current flows through the coil portion (220), a magnetic field may be formed around the coil portion (220).

[0121] The coil section (220) may have various forms, for example, the coil section (220) may have a form in which multiple circuit wires are wound, and the number of windings can be controlled in various ways. Since more specific details regarding the coil section (220) can be applied with modifications within the same or similar range as the representation section (110) of the aforementioned embodiment, a more specific description is omitted.

[0122] The driving magnetic part (270) may be a permanent magnet. For example, the driving magnetic part (270) has magnetism even when no current flows through the coil part (220).

[0123] Additionally, the driving magnetic force unit (270) can be formed so that the direction of the magnetic field changes due to the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (220). For example, when a magnetic field in a first direction is generated through the coil unit (220), the magnetic field of the driving magnetic force unit (270) can be maintained in the first direction or changed to the first direction due to this magnetic field. Then, when a magnetic field in a direction opposite to the first direction, i.e., a second direction, is generated through the coil unit (220), the magnetic field of the driving magnetic force unit (270) can also be changed to the second direction due to this magnetic field. The driving unit (240) moves due to the magnetic field generated through the coil unit (220) and the magnetic field generated through the driving magnetic force unit (270), thereby improving the efficiency and control performance of the driving unit (240)'s movement, reducing the power consumption of the information output device (200), improving operational efficiency, and facilitating precise control of the display unit (210).

[0124] Although not illustrated, the driving magnetic part (270) can have its polarity reversed by the magnetic field generated by the coil part (220) as illustrated in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 of the aforementioned embodiment.

[0125] The driving magnetic force part (270) can be formed to have a coercivity corresponding to the change in the direction of the magnetic field through the coil part (220) as a permanent magnet.

[0126] As an optional embodiment, at least one region of the driving magnetic force section (270) may be positioned to be adjacent to or support the coil section (220). For example, the driving magnetic force section (270) may include an elongated region and be positioned to penetrate the coil section (220), and as a specific example, a plurality of coils of the coil section (220) may be wound around the driving magnetic force section (270).

[0127] As an optional embodiment, a driving force limiting member (CVU) may be further disposed, for example, on at least one side of the periphery of the coil portion (220), and as a specific example, may be disposed to surround the periphery of the coil portion (120). Since the details regarding the driving force limiting member (CVU) can be modified and applied within the same or similar range as described in the above-mentioned embodiment, a more specific description is omitted.

[0128] As an optional embodiment, an upper driving force limiting member (SLU) may be further disposed. The upper driving force limiting member (SLU) may be disposed so as to be higher than the driving force limiting member (CVU), for example, closer to the expression section (210), and may overlap with, for example, at least one area of ​​the driving section (240), and, as a more specific example, may overlap with the magnetic member (250) disposed inside the driving section (240). As an example, the upper driving force limiting member (SLU) may be disposed to correspond to one side of the first housing (230) and the other side opposite thereto. Through this, the magnetic field generated through the coil section (220) and the driving magnetic section (270) may be reduced from being transmitted laterally and effectively concentrated to the expression section (210), and mutual interference may be reduced by improving the magnetic field shielding effect to adjacent areas, for example, information output units in adjacent areas. The upper driving force limiting member (SLU) can be formed of various materials capable of limiting or shielding a magnetic field, and may, for example, contain a metal material. As another specific example, the upper driving force limiting member (SLU) may contain a magnetic material. Specific examples include iron, nickel, and cobalt, and may contain various other magnetic materials. Additionally, as another example, the upper driving force limiting member (SLU) may be positioned to wrap around the sides of the first housing (230).

[0129] As an optional embodiment, a support member (BSU) may be further disposed and a circuit control unit (FBU) may be further disposed, and since more specific details regarding this can be applied with modifications within the same or similar range as described in the above-mentioned embodiment, a more specific description is omitted.

[0130] The information output device (200) includes one or more housings, for example, a housing that accommodates at least one area of ​​the display unit (210), a driving unit (240), a coil unit (220), and a driving magnetic unit (270), and as a specific example, may include a first housing (230) and a second housing (260).

[0131] The first housing (230) and the second housing (260) may be arranged adjacent to each other. As an optional embodiment, the first housing (230) and the second housing (260) may be connected, and as another example, they may be combined. As another optional embodiment, the first housing (230) and the second housing (260) may be formed integrally.

[0132] The first housing (230) includes a first space (231) to accommodate at least one area of ​​the expression part (210) and the driving part (240) inside, and may include a window (232) to allow access to the expression part (210).

[0133] Additionally, the first housing (230) is in a form where at least one area (or the entire surface) is open in the direction toward the second housing (260), thereby allowing the driving unit (240) to easily perform movement while the height of the driving unit (240) changes during movement.

[0134] As an optional embodiment, a drive groove (234) may be formed in the first housing (230). For example, the drive groove (234) may be formed on both sides facing each other of the first housing (230). As an optional embodiment, the drive groove (234) may be formed in the shape of a groove or as a through area penetrating to the outside.

[0135] The drive control unit (249) of the drive unit (240) may correspond to the drive groove (234). Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the drive groove (234) may be in an open form, so that the open area corresponds to the corresponding surface (267) of the second housing (260). Through this, the drive control unit (249) of the drive unit (240) can stably perform rotation or angular movement while being supported in the space between the drive groove (234) and the corresponding surface (267).

[0136] The second housing (260) may include a second space (261) in which a coil portion (220) is disposed. Additionally, as an optional embodiment, a driving force limiting member (CVU) may be disposed in the second space (261), and additionally, a support member (BSU) and a circuit control unit (FBU) may be disposed in the second space (261).

[0137] At least one area of ​​the second housing (260), for example, the upper surface of the area including the edge, may include a corresponding surface (267). As described above, the corresponding surface (267) corresponds to the drive groove (234) of the first housing (230) to form a space, and the drive control unit (249) of the drive unit (240) may be disposed in this space. Additionally, as an optional embodiment, when the drive control unit (249) is stopped, at least one area may be stably supported by the corresponding surface (267).

[0138] The second housing (260) may include a first groove (263) and a second groove (264).

[0139] The first groove (263) and the second groove (264) are formed with thickness in the direction of the coil portion (220) and may be extended in the form of a groove or a through portion.

[0140] In the first groove (263) and the second groove (264), the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244) of the driving unit (240) may be arranged to correspond to each other. Through this, when the driving unit (240) performs each movement or rotational movement, the driving unit (240) can perform each movement or rotational movement and can also perform up and down movement while the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244) of the driving unit (240) are arranged to correspond to the first groove (263) and the second groove (264). Through this, stable movement of the driving unit (240) is possible, thereby facilitating precise movement control of the expression unit (210).

[0141] As an optional embodiment, a support region (265) may be formed between the first groove (263) and the second groove (264). For example, at least one region of the driving unit (240) may be supported by the support region (265), and as a specific example, the first movement region (245a) or the second movement region (245b) of the intermediate part (245) may be supported. Through this, even when no electric field is applied, the intermediate part (245) is supported by the support region (265), so that the state of the driving unit (240) can be maintained stably.

[0142] For example, the first movement area (245a) of the intermediate part (245) may be supported by the support area (265), and the state in which the expression part (210) is placed at the lowest point may be realized by being physically latched by the support area (265).

[0143] Additionally, the second movement area (245b) may be supported by the support area (265), and the state in which the expression part (210) is placed at the highest point may be realized by being physically latched by the upper surface of the support area (265).

[0144] As an optional embodiment, a through hole (260H) may be formed in one area of ​​the support area (265), and at least one area of ​​the driving magnetic part (270) may correspond to the through hole (260H). The driving magnetic part (270) may be positioned so as not to reach the upper surface of the support area (265).

[0145] The driving unit (240) can be positioned to move by the magnetic field generated from the coil unit (220) and the driving magnetic unit (270).

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 as a specific example, the driving unit (240) may include a first driving member (243) and a second driving member (244), and a spaced-apart space may be formed between them.

[0147] The outer surfaces of the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244) may each include a first driving surface (243a) and a second driving surface (244a), and these driving surfaces may support the expression part (210) and provide driving force to the expression part (210).

[0148] As an optional embodiment, the first driving surface (243a) and the second driving surface (244a) may include a curved surface. For example, the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244) may have a shape similar to a rotating body, and each may have a shape similar to a disk. When the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244) rotate or move, a natural driving force is provided to the support surface (212) of the expression part (210), allowing the expression part (210) to efficiently perform continuous and natural movement.

[0149] In the driving unit (240), for example, a magnetic member (250) may be disposed in the inner space. For example, the magnetic member (250) may contain a magnetic material and may include, for example, a permanent magnet. As a specific example, the magnetic member (250) may have a first region and a second region having different polarities.

[0150] The magnetic member (250) may be positioned between the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244), for example, in the inner space of the intermediate part (245), and as an optional embodiment, may be fixed or coupled to a penetrating area penetrating the inner side of the intermediate part (245).

[0151] As an optional embodiment, the magnetic member (250) may be inserted and positioned during the process of forming the driving unit (240), and may be positioned to have a shape inserted into the intermediate part (245) during the injection molding process of the driving unit (240).

[0152] The drive control unit (249) may be disposed on at least one side of the first drive member (243) and the second drive member (244), for example, on opposite sides of the mutually facing sides of the first drive member (243) and the second drive member (244).

[0153] The drive control unit (249) corresponds to the drive groove (234) of the first housing (230) described above, and as a further optional embodiment, may correspond to the space between the drive groove (234) of the first housing (230) and the corresponding surface (267) of the second housing (260). The drive unit (240) may move up and down while rotating around the drive control unit (249) during rotation or angular movement. In addition, as an example, the drive unit (240) may move while the drive control unit (249) is positioned in the drive groove (234), thereby allowing the drive unit (240) to maintain a stable state even during movement and defining a limit point for up and down movement.

[0154] As an optional embodiment, the central axis of the driving unit (240) and the driving control unit (249) may not coincide and may be eccentric. Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the magnetic member (250) may not coincide with the central axis of the driving unit (240) and may be positioned to overlap, for example, with a region of the driving control unit (249). Since the details regarding this are the same as those described in the previously mentioned embodiment, a more detailed explanation is omitted.

[0155] The driving unit (240) can move by means of a magnetic field from the coil unit (220), and as a specific example, can move up and down due to repulsive and attractive forces on the magnetic member (250) within the driving unit (240). In addition, the driving unit (240) can move by means of a magnetic field generated through the driving magnetic unit (270), and the specific details regarding this are the same as those described in the previously mentioned embodiment.

[0156] An intermediate portion (245) may be disposed in the spaced-apart area (SA) between the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244). For example, the intermediate portion (245) may be formed to connect the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244). Additionally, as described above, it may include a space or a through area to accommodate the magnetic member (250). Meanwhile, the intermediate portion (245) may be formed in a shape different from the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244), and for example, may have a shape in which at least one area is located inward from the boundary line between the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244) so ​​that a space is maintained between the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244).

[0157] The intermediate section (245) may include a first movement area (245a) and a second movement area (245b). The first movement area (245a) and the second movement area (245b) may be formed in areas facing each other, and as an optional embodiment, the first movement area (245a) and the second movement area (245b) may each be areas serving as references for the lowest point and the highest point during the movement of the driving unit (240).

[0158] As an optional embodiment, a connecting area (245c) may be disposed between the first movement area (245a) and the second movement area (245b), and the connecting area (245c) may include a curved surface.

[0159] For example, when the first movement area (245a) is positioned at the lowest point, that is, the area closest to the coil section (220), the driving section (240) may be placed at the lowest point, and accordingly, the expression section (210) may also be placed at the lowest point. As an optional embodiment, the first movement area (245a) may be supported by the upper surface of the support area (265) of the second housing (260). As another example, the driving control section (249) may be supported between the driving groove (234) of the first housing (230) and the corresponding surface (267) of the second housing (260), for example, supported on the corresponding surface (267).

[0160] In addition, the expression part (210) may be implemented by being physically latched by a support member, etc., in a state where it is placed at the lowest point.

[0161] As an optional embodiment, the driving unit (240) may further include a stopper unit (247). The stopper unit (247) may have a shape that protrudes at a height from the outer surface of the driving unit (240), or from the first driving surface (243a) and the second driving surface (244a). As an optional embodiment, the stopper unit (247) may be formed adjacent to the outer surface of the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244), and may be connected to, for example, the second driving area (245b).

[0162] As an optional embodiment, the stopper portion (247) may have a height based on the outer surface of the first driving member (243) and the second driving member (244), and may include a region having a different height.

[0163] For example, among the areas of the stopper part (247), the height of the area farther from the second movement area (245b) may be greater than the height of the area connected to the second movement area (245b).

[0164] The stopper part (247) can be a barrier to movement for the member adjacent to the stopper part (247).

[0165] For example, the stopper part (247) can act as a barrier against the support surface (212) of the expression part (210) and act as a resistance against continuous angular motion in one direction of the driving part (240).

[0166] By controlling the driving unit (240) to unnecessarily perform continuous angular or rotational motion through the stopper unit (247), the shaking or vibration of the expression unit (210) can be reduced, and precise motion control of the expression unit (210) can be effectively performed.

[0167] The information output device (100, 200) of the embodiments of the present invention is illustrated as having only one unit form for convenience of explanation as described above, but may include a plurality of units as needed, and may include a matrix type structure in which a plurality of units are arranged in one direction and another direction (specifically, intersecting directions). Through such an information output device in which a plurality of units are arranged, various information can be output quickly and precisely, and the user can easily check the information.

[0168] As such, the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, but this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

[0169] The specific embodiments described in the embodiments are examples and do not limit the scope of the embodiments in any way. For the sake of brevity of the specification, descriptions of prior electronic configurations, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of said systems may be omitted. Additionally, the connections of lines or connecting members between components shown in the drawings are illustrative of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and may be replaced or additionally represented as various functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections in actual devices. Furthermore, unless specifically stated as "essential," "importantly," etc., a component may not be strictly necessary for the application of the present invention.

[0170] In the specification of the embodiments (particularly in the claims), the use of the term "the above" and similar descriptive terms may be in both singular and plural. Furthermore, where a range is described in the embodiments, it is considered to include the invention with respect to individual values ​​within said range (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting said range in the detailed description. Finally, regarding the steps constituting the method according to the embodiments, unless explicitly stated in order or otherwise stated, said steps may be performed in a suitable order. The embodiments are not necessarily limited by the order in which said steps are described. The use of any examples or exemplary terms (e.g., etc.) in the embodiments is merely for the purpose of describing the embodiments in detail, and the scope of the embodiments is not limited by said examples or exemplary terms unless limited by the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, combinations, and changes may be made according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the claims or equivalents.

Claims

1. An information output device comprising one or more information output units, wherein The above information output unit is, A coil section connected to a power source and arranged to generate a magnetic field as current flows; A driving magnetic force part formed such that the direction of the magnetic field is changed by a magnetic field generated through the coil part, wherein the permanent magnet possesses magnetism even when no current flows through the coil part; A driving unit that moves by a magnetic field generated in the above coil unit and the above driving magnetic force unit; and An information output device comprising: a display unit arranged to move by the above-mentioned driving unit and to be detected by a user.

2. In Paragraph 1, An information output device comprising a magnetic member having regions with different polarities arranged in the above-mentioned driving unit.

3. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a drive control unit disposed on at least one surface of the above-mentioned drive unit, and An information output device comprising the above driving unit performing angular motion or rotational motion centered on the above driving control unit.

4. In Paragraph 1, An information output device further comprising a driving force limiting member disposed on the outer side of the coil portion to reduce the transmission of a magnetic field in a direction away from the side of the coil portion.

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