Lever input device

Abstract

This lever input device comprises: an operation lever that is provided in a vehicle and can be operated to move; a restriction unit that restricts a movement direction of the operation lever to form a path in which the operation lever can move between a plurality of positions; a detection unit that detects a movement operation of the operation lever; and a control unit that determines the position of the operation lever on the path on the basis of an input from the detection unit, and executes prescribed processing corresponding to a first function mode when the detection unit detects a movement operation along the path. The control unit executes prescribed processing corresponding to a second function mode when the detection unit detects a movement operation that is not along the path.

Description

Lever input device

[0001] The present invention relates to a lever input device.

[0002] Conventionally, lever-type input devices provided in a vehicle such as a steering column have been used in vehicles such as automobiles. A driver of the vehicle can operate various controlled devices (for example, headlights, turn signals, wipers, etc.) provided in the vehicle by operating the lever-type input device.

[0003] For example, the following Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which, in a column shift lever structure provided at a lower portion of a steering wheel, a rotary contact type wiper switch is integrally provided on a grip portion of the shift lever.

[0004] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-272372

[0005] However, in the technique disclosed in the above Patent Document 1, since the column shift lever can be moved only in a predetermined operable direction, various movement operations using the column shift lever cannot be performed.

[0006] A lever input device according to an embodiment comprises: an operation lever provided in a vehicle and movable for operation; a restricting portion that restricts the movement direction of the operation lever and forms a movable path between a plurality of positions; a detection portion that detects a movement operation of the operation lever; and a control portion that determines a position of the operation lever on the path based on an input from the detection portion, and executes predetermined processing corresponding to a first function mode when the detection portion detects a movement operation along the path, wherein the control portion executes predetermined processing corresponding to a second function mode when the detection portion detects a movement operation not along the path.

[0007] According to the lever input device according to an embodiment, various movement operations can be performed by the operation lever.

[0008] Figure 1 shows an external perspective view of a lever input device according to one embodiment, an example of installation of the lever input device according to one embodiment, an external perspective view showing the configuration of the lever input device according to one embodiment, a plan view showing the configuration of the lever input device according to one embodiment, a side view showing the configuration of the lever input device according to one embodiment, an external perspective view of the restricting part of the lever input device according to one embodiment, a plan view of the restricting part of the lever input device according to one embodiment, a cross-sectional view of the restricting part of the lever input device according to one embodiment, an external perspective view of the restricting member of the restricting part of the restricting part of the restricting part of the restricting part of the lever input device according to one embodiment, a plan view of the restricting member of the restricting part of the restricting part of the restricting part of the restricting part of the restricting part of the restricting device according to one embodiment, a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the lever input device according to one embodiment, an example of movement operation of the operating lever in the first functional mode of the lever input device according to one embodiment, an example of movement operation of the operating lever in the second functional mode of the lever input device according to one embodiment, an external perspective view of the restricting member of the restricting part according to one modified embodiment, a side view of the restricting member of the restricting part according to one modified embodiment

[0009] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. For convenience, in the following description, the X-axis direction in the drawings will be considered the front-to-back direction, the Y-axis direction will be considered the left-to-right direction, and the Z-axis direction will be considered the up-and-down direction. However, the positive X-axis direction will be considered the front direction, the positive Y-axis direction the right direction, and the positive Z-axis direction the up direction. In the steering device 10 shown in Figure 2, the X'-axis direction in the drawing will be considered the front-to-back direction, the Y'-axis direction the left-to-right direction, and the Z'-axis direction the up-and-down direction. However, the positive X'-axis direction will be considered the front direction, the positive Y'-axis direction the right direction, and the positive Z'-axis direction the up direction. These indicate the relative positional relationships within the device and do not limit the installation direction or operating direction of the device. Devices with equivalent relative positional relationships within the device, even if installed or operated in different directions, are all included within the scope of the present invention.

[0010] (Overview of the lever input device 100) Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the lever input device 100 comprises a main body 110 and an operating lever 120.

[0011] The main body 110 has a box-shaped (approximately rectangular parallelepiped) external shape. The main body 110 is fixed to a predetermined installation location where the lever input device 100 is installed. Inside the main body 110, the base 120A of the operating lever 120 is pivotably supported.

[0012] The operating lever 120 is a lever-shaped portion that penetrates the first side surface 111A on the negative Y-axis side of the housing 111 of the main body 110 and extends substantially linearly outward from the first side surface 111A (to the left (negative Y-axis direction) and diagonally upward (positive Z-axis direction)). The base 120A of the operating lever 120 is supported to swing inside the main body 110. As a result, the operating lever 120 can be moved upward (positive Z-axis direction, D1 in the figure), downward (negative Z-axis direction, D2 in the figure), forward (positive X-axis direction, D3 in the figure), and backward (negative X-axis direction, D4 in the figure).

[0013] A switch 121 is provided on the negative Z-axis side (positive X'-axis side in Figure 2, described later) near the tip of the operating lever 120, which can be pressed toward the positive Z-axis side (negative X'-axis side in Figure 2, described later, i.e., the driver's seat side). The switch 121 is an example of a "switching instruction input unit". The lever input device 100 can receive a switching instruction from the operator when the switch 121 is pressed, which switches the function mode of the operating lever 120 between a first function mode and a second function mode.

[0014] The first functional mode is a functional mode for operating a controllable device in the vehicle that corresponds to the first functional mode, when the switch 121 is pressed and the operator moves the operating lever 120 in a direction in which the movement of the operating lever 120 is not restricted by the restricting unit 200 described later (corresponding to a movement operation along a path formed by the restricting unit 200 described later).

[0015] The second functional mode is a mode for operating a controllable device in a vehicle that corresponds to this second functional mode, when the switch 121 is not pressed and the operator performs a movement operation on the operating lever 120 in a direction in which the movement of the operating lever 120 is restricted by the restricting part 200 described later (corresponding to a movement operation that does not follow the path formed by the restricting part 200 described later). In the second functional mode, the operation is in a direction in which the movement of the operating lever 120 is restricted, but the operation in which the operator applies an operating force to move the operating lever 120 in this state is also referred to as "movement operation". Furthermore, as a result of this "movement operation", the operating lever 120 may bend or be slightly displaced within the restricted range of the restricting part 200 that restricts the movement of the operating lever 120 described later, and such bending and slight displacement of the operating lever 120 are also referred to as "movement". In the second functional mode, the controlled device corresponding to the second functional mode can be controlled by detecting the amount of deflection when the operator moves the operating lever 120 in a direction in which movement is restricted, or by detecting the amount of minute displacement within the restricted range in the restricted direction of the restricting unit 200, which will be described later.

[0016] In this embodiment, the switch 121 is one that automatically returns from a pressed state to a non-pressed state when the pressing operation is released. However, it is not limited to this, and the switch 121 may be one that maintains a pressed state even when the pressing operation is released, and switches from a pressed state to a non-pressed state by another pressing operation or other operation. Alternatively, the switch 121 may be one that is slidable. Alternatively, the switch 121 may be an electrostatic sensor. Furthermore, the switch 121 may be provided on the tip surface (the negative Y-axis side) of the operating lever 120. In this case, the switch 121 can be made easier to operate with the operator's hand while holding the operating lever 120. In addition, although an example is shown here in which the first and second functional modes are switched by the direction of movement of the switch 121 and the operating lever 120 along its path, the first and second functional modes may also be switched by the direction of movement of the operating lever 120 along its path without the switch 121.

[0017] Furthermore, the lever input device 100 is equipped with an electrostatic sensor 122 (an example of an "electrostatic input unit") on the Z-axis positive surface of the operating section 120B of the operating lever 120. The electrostatic sensor 122 can detect touch operations (e.g., selection operations, slide operations, etc.) performed by the operator's finger on the electrostatic sensor 122 and output a detection signal indicating the detected input operation. The electrostatic sensor 122 is used, for example, to perform touch operations on functions related to the first or second functional mode.

[0018] (Example of Installation of Lever Input Device 100) Figure 2 shows an example of the installation of a lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 shows the appearance of the steering device 10 when the steering 11 is viewed from the driver's side (negative X' axis) of the vehicle. Note that the three axis directions (X' axis, Y' axis, Z' axis) of the steering device 10 shown in Figure 2 are different from the three axis directions (X axis, Y axis, Z axis) of the lever input device 100 alone shown in Figures 1, 3 to 11, and 13 to 16. Specifically, in the steering device 10, the lever input device 100 is installed so that its upper side (positive Z axis direction) is at the rear of the steering device 10 (negative X' axis direction) (i.e., facing the driver's side). Furthermore, the forward direction (positive X-axis direction) of the lever input device 100 corresponds to the upward direction (positive Z'-axis direction) of the steering device 10, and the rightward direction (positive Y-axis direction) of the lever input device 100 corresponds to the rightward direction (positive Y'-axis direction) of the steering device 10.

[0019] The steering device 10 shown in Figure 2 is located in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle and is operated by the driver of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 2, the steering device 10 comprises a steering wheel 11, a steering column 12, a lever input device 13, and a lever input device 100.

[0020] The steering wheel 11 has a rim 11A, a hub 11B, and a plurality of spokes 11C.

[0021] The rim 11A has an annular shape that forms the outer circumference of the steering wheel 11. The rim 11A is the part that is gripped by the operator's hand when the steering wheel 11 is rotated (i.e., when steering is performed).

[0022] The hub 11B is located in the center of the steering 11. The hub 11B is the part that is fixed to the end of the vehicle's steering shaft (not shown).

[0023] Each of the multiple spokes 11C extends linearly outward in the radial direction from the hub 11B and is connected to the rim 11A, thereby supporting the rim 11A.

[0024] The steering column 12 is located on the back side of the hub 11B of the steering 11 and is a component that encloses the steering shaft (not shown). As viewed from the driver of the vehicle, the operating lever 120 of the lever input device 100 extends linearly upward and to the left from the left side portion 12A of the steering column 12. Also as viewed from the driver of the vehicle, the lever input device 13 extends linearly upward and to the right from the right side portion 12B of the steering column 12.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the lever input device 100 has its main body 110 incorporated and fixed inside the steering column 12, and the operating lever 120 is provided on the back side (positive X' axis side) of the steering 11 so as to penetrate the side surface 12A of the steering column 12 and extend linearly toward the side of the side surface 12A.

[0026] The lever input device 100 is electrically connected to various controlled devices of the vehicle via the vehicle's control unit or the control unit of the controlled device, and the operator can control the operation of the various controlled devices of the vehicle by operating the lever.

[0027] As described above, the lever input device 100 can switch between a first function mode and a second function mode, which corresponds to a movement operation on the operating lever 120, when the switch 121 is operated (push operation).

[0028] In particular, the lever input device 100 enters a first functional mode when the switch 121 is pressed down. In this first functional mode, when the operator moves the operating lever 120 in a direction not restricted by the restricting unit 200 (described later), the device outputs control input information to the controlled device corresponding to the first functional mode.

[0029] On the other hand, when the switch 121 is not pressed, the lever input device 100 switches to a second functional mode. In this second functional mode, when the operator moves the operating lever 120 in a direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 (described later), the device outputs control input information to the controlled device corresponding to the second functional mode.

[0030] In other words, the lever input device 100 can output control input information for different controlled devices in a first function mode and a second function mode, in response to the operator's movement of the control lever 120.

[0031] As an example, in the first functional mode, the lever input device 100 functions as a shifter that controls the operation of the vehicle's transmission when the operating lever 120 is operated.

[0032] As an example, in the second functional mode, the lever input device 100 functions as a turn signal switch and a light switch that control the operation of the vehicle's turn signals and headlights when the operating lever 120 is operated.

[0033] In this embodiment, the lever input device 100 is provided on the steering column 12, but it is not limited to this, and the lever input device 100 may also be provided on the steering wheel 11.

[0034] The lever input device 13 has a shape that is generally symmetrical to the lever input device 100. That is, the main body 13A of the lever input device 13 is incorporated and fixed inside the steering column 12, and the operating lever 13B is provided on the back side (X' axis negative side) of the steering 11 so as to penetrate the side portion 12B of the steering column 12 and extend linearly toward the side of the side portion 12B. The lever input device 13 is electrically connected to various controllable devices of the vehicle, and by operating the lever, it is possible to control the operation of various controllable devices of the vehicle (however, these are different from the controllable devices controlled by the lever input device 100).

[0035] (Configuration of the lever input device 100) Figure 3 is an external perspective view showing the configuration of the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a side view showing the configuration of the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. The housing 111 of the main body 110 of the lever input device 100 is configured to be divisible into two parts, upper and lower. In Figures 3 to 5, the upper part of the housing 111 is omitted from the illustration to show the internal configuration of the housing 111.

[0036] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the main body 110 of the lever input device 100 has a hollow resin housing 111 that is box-shaped (approximately rectangular parallelepiped). An opening 111B is formed in the first side surface 111A on the negative Y-axis side of the housing 111.

[0037] The operating lever 120 of the lever input device 100 has its base portion 120A, which is the end portion (positive Y-axis side), penetrate through the opening 111B of the first side portion 111A of the housing 111 and is incorporated inside the housing 111.

[0038] The base 120A of the operating lever 120 has a prism shape that extends linearly in the Y-axis direction. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the base 120A of the operating lever 120 is parallel to the Y-axis when the operating lever 120 is not being operated.

[0039] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the operating lever 120 has a first pivot shaft 123 provided inside the housing 111 parallel to the X-axis, and is supported by the first pivot shaft 123 so as to be rotatable around the axis of the first pivot shaft 123. By rotating the operating lever 120 around the axis of the first pivot shaft 123, the operating part 120B, which is the tip side (negative Y-axis side), can swing upward (positive Z-axis direction) and downward (negative Z-axis direction).

[0040] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the operating lever 120 has a second pivot shaft 124 provided inside the housing 111 parallel to the Z-axis, and is supported by this second pivot shaft 124 so as to be rotatable around the axis of the second pivot shaft 124. By rotating the operating lever 120 around the axis of the second pivot shaft 124, the operating section 120B can swing forward (positive X-axis direction) and backward (negative X-axis direction).

[0041] Furthermore, the lever input device 100 includes a restricting section 200 inside the housing 111. The restricting section 200 is composed of a restricting member 210 provided opposite the base 120A of the operating lever 120, and an actuator 220 (an example of a "contact section") provided protruding from the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The restricting member 210 is provided on the positive Y-axis side of the base 120A of the operating lever 120, opposite the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The restricting member 210 is a resin block-shaped member and is fixed to the housing 111. The restricting section 200 guides the movement of the operating lever 120 in a predetermined direction by the engagement of the restricting member 210 and the actuator 220 with each other. Here, the direction that is guided is referred to as the direction that is not restricted by the restricting section 200. Furthermore, the restricting unit 200 restricts the movement of the operating lever 120 in directions other than the predetermined direction (i.e., directions other than the guided direction) by engaging the restricting member 210 and the actuator 220 with each other. Here, directions other than the guided direction are referred to as directions restricted by the restricting unit 200. The detailed configuration of the restricting unit 200 will be described later in Figure 6 and subsequent figures. An example of a direction not restricted by the restricting unit 200, and an example of a direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 will be described later using Figures 13 and 14.

[0042] Furthermore, the lever input device 100 includes a first detection unit 151 inside the housing 111 and a second detection unit 152 on the upper part of the housing 111.

[0043] The first detection unit 151 is provided below the base portion 120A of the operating lever 120 inside the housing 111. The first detection unit 151 detects a moving operation of the operating lever 120 in an unrestricted direction. For example, the first detection unit 151 is configured to include a magnet (not shown) interlocked with the operating lever 120, and a magnetic sensor (not shown) provided opposite to the magnet. In the first detection unit 151, when the operating lever 120 is moved in an unrestricted direction, the magnet moves from an initial position facing the magnetic sensor. As a result, in the first detection unit 151, the magnetic field around the magnetic sensor changes, and the magnetic sensor detects the change in the magnetic field, thereby detecting the moving operation (moving direction and moving angle) of the operating lever 120 in the unrestricted direction.

[0044] The second detection unit 152 detects a moving operation of the operating lever 120 in a restricted direction. The second detection unit 152 includes an arm portion 152A extending upward (positive Z-axis direction) and rightward (positive Y-axis direction) from the base portion 120A of the operating lever 120, a conductor 152B provided at a distal end portion of the arm portion 152A, and an electrostatic sensor 152C (not shown) provided opposite to the conductor 152B. In the second detection unit 152, when the operating lever 120 is moved in the restricted direction, the conductor 152B moves from an initial position facing the electrostatic sensor 152C. As a result, in the second detection unit 152, the capacitance between the conductor 152B and the electrostatic sensor 152C changes, and the electrostatic sensor 152C detects the change in the capacitance, thereby detecting the moving operation (moving direction and moving angle) of the operating lever 120 in the restricted direction.

[0045] Furthermore, the first detection unit 151 and the second detection unit 152 may each detect the movement operation of the operation lever 120 by detection means other than magnetic sensors and electrostatic sensors (for example, load sensors, strain sensors, contact switches, etc.). Here, the second detection unit detects a movement operation in a restricted direction, and therefore detects minute movements such as bending of the operation lever 120 and minute fluctuations within the restricted range. Therefore, as an example, the second detection unit is set to accurately detect smaller movements than the first detection unit that detects movement in an unrestricted direction.

[0046] (Detailed configuration of restricting unit 200) FIG. 6 is an external perspective view of the restricting unit 200 provided in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a plan view of the restricting unit 200 provided in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the restricting unit 200 provided in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the restricting unit 200 provided in the lever input device 100 is configured to include a restricting member 210 and an actuator 220 (an example of a "contact portion").

[0048] The restricting member 210 is a block-shaped member made of resin, provided to face the end surface on the Y-axis positive side of the base portion 120A of the operation lever 120. The restricting member 210 has a guide portion 211 on an opposing surface 210A that faces the base portion 120A of the operation lever 120. The guide portion 211 has a groove shape recessed from the opposing surface 210A toward the Y-axis positive side. The guide portion 211 guides the movement operation of the operation lever 120 by the actuator 220 sliding inside the guide portion 211.

[0049] The actuator 220 is a resin or metal component that protrudes from the Y-axis positive end face of the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The actuator 220 is mounted inside the base 120A so as to be movable in the Y-axis direction. The actuator 220 has a tapered shape and a curved tip. The actuator 220 is biased in the Y-axis direction by a coil spring 128 located inside the base 120A. As a result, the tip of the actuator 220 is fitted into the guide portion 211 of the regulating member 210 and pressed against the bottom surface of the guide portion 211 of the regulating member 210.

[0050] When the operating lever 120 is moved in a direction not restricted by the restricting portion 200, the actuator 220 slides within the guide portion 211 of the restricting member 210. In this way, the actuator 220 guides the operation of the operating lever 120 in a direction not restricted by the restricting portion 200.

[0051] Furthermore, when the actuator 220 is moved in the direction restricted by the restricting portion 200 of the operating lever 120, it comes into contact with the inner wall surface of the guide portion 211 of the restricting member 210. In this way, the actuator 220 restricts the movement of the operating lever 120 in the direction restricted by the restricting portion 200.

[0052] (Detailed configuration of guide section 211) Figure 9 is an external perspective view of the restricting member 210 provided in the restricting section 200 according to one embodiment. Figure 10 is a plan view of the restricting member 210 provided in the restricting section 200 according to one embodiment. Figure 11 is a side view of the restricting member 210 provided in the restricting section 200 according to one embodiment.

[0053] As shown in Figures 9 to 11, the guide portion 211 of the regulating member 210 has a horizontal groove portion 212 that has a certain width and extends in the X-axis direction, and a vertical groove portion 213 that has a certain width and extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from an intermediate position of the horizontal groove portion 212.

[0054] The horizontal groove 212 guides the movement of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 in the X-axis direction, that is, it guides the movement of the operating lever 120 in the X-axis direction (the direction not restricted by the restricting portion 200).

[0055] Furthermore, the lateral groove 212 restricts the movement of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 in directions other than the X-axis direction, by having the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 come into contact with the inner wall surface 212A of the lateral groove 212, that is, restricts the movement of the operating lever 120 in directions other than the X-axis direction (directions restricted by the restricting portion 200).

[0056] Furthermore, the lateral groove 212 restricts the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 from moving forward (in the positive X-axis direction) by a predetermined amount when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 comes into contact with the front end surface 212B of the lateral groove 212.

[0057] Furthermore, the lateral groove 212 restricts the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 from moving beyond a predetermined amount backward (in the negative X-axis direction) by contacting the rear end surface 212C of the lateral groove 212.

[0058] The vertical groove 213 guides the movement of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 in the Z-axis direction, as the actuator 220 slides within the vertical groove 213, thus guiding the movement of the operating lever 120 in the Z-axis direction (the direction not restricted by the restricting portion 200).

[0059] Furthermore, the vertical groove 213 restricts the movement of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 in directions other than the Z-axis direction, by having the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 come into contact with the inner wall surface 213A of the vertical groove 213, that is, restricts the movement operation of the operating lever 120 in directions other than the Z-axis direction (directions restricted by the restricting portion 200).

[0060] Furthermore, the vertical groove 213 restricts the upward movement (positive Z-axis direction) of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 by a predetermined amount when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 comes into contact with the upper end surface 213B of the vertical groove 213.

[0061] Furthermore, the vertical groove 213 restricts the downward movement (negative Z-axis direction) of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 by a predetermined amount when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 comes into contact with the lower end surface 213C of the vertical groove 213. In this embodiment, the shape of the guide portion 211 is, for example, a T-shape consisting of a horizontal groove 212 and a vertical groove 213, but the shape of the guide portion 211 is not limited to this, and may be any other shape.

[0062] Here, the depth of the lateral groove 212 is shallowest at both ends in the X-axis direction, and deepest at the intermediate position in the X-axis direction. As a result, the bottom surface 212D of the lateral groove 212 is an inclined surface that gradually slopes downward in the positive Y-axis direction from both ends to the intermediate position in the X-axis direction. Therefore, when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 is inside the lateral groove 212, the actuator 220 is pressed against the bottom surface 212D of the lateral groove 212 by the biasing force of the coil spring 128 and slides down inside the lateral groove 212 to the intermediate position. As a result, the operating lever 120 automatically returns to the neutral position in the X-axis direction when not being operated.

[0063] Furthermore, the vertical groove 213 has the shallowest depth at its lower end in the Z-axis direction (i.e., the midpoint of the horizontal groove 212) and the deepest depth near the upper end (home position) in the Z-axis direction. As a result, the bottom surface 213D of the vertical groove 213 is an inclined surface that gradually slopes downward in the positive Y-axis direction from the lower end to near the upper end (home position). Therefore, when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 is inside the vertical groove 213, the actuator 220 is pressed against the bottom surface 213D of the vertical groove 213 by the biasing force of the coil spring 128 and slides down inside the vertical groove 213 to near the upper end (home position). As a result, the operating lever 120 automatically returns to the neutral position in the Z-axis direction when not in operation.

[0064] With the above configuration, the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 can automatically return to the vicinity of the upper end of the vertical groove 213 (home position) by sliding within the guide portion 211, regardless of whether it is located in the horizontal groove portion 212 or the vertical groove portion 213. As a result, the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 can automatically return the operating lever 120 to the neutral position when the operating lever 120 is not being operated.

[0065] As shown in Figures 6 to 8, when the operating lever 120 is not being operated, the actuator 220 remains stationary near the upper end of the vertical groove 213 (home position). As a result, as shown in Figures 6 to 8, when the operating lever 120 is not being operated, it is in a neutral state parallel to the Y-axis. The home position is not limited to this embodiment and is set to an appropriate position considering the groove shape of the guide section 211, the operating direction of the operating lever 120, the corresponding function, etc.

[0066] Furthermore, at the bottom surface 213D of the vertical groove 213, the inclination angle near the upper end (home position) is steeper than the inclination angle of the other parts. As a result, the regulating unit 200 can provide a change in operating feel when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 moves between the vicinity of the upper end (home position) of the vertical groove 213 and the other parts of the vertical groove 213. (That is, the guide unit 211 has an operating feel providing unit.) For this reason, the regulating unit 200 makes it easier for the operator to recognize that the operating lever 120 is in the home position (that is, the position in which movement operations of the second functional mode are possible). Here, the position in which movement operations of the second functional mode are possible (a position in which movement operations that do not follow the path described later can be detected) is set as the home position, but it may be set to a position other than the home position. (For example, P1, P2, P3, etc.) In that case, the inclination angle of the guide unit 211 may be adjusted to provide an operating feel that allows the operator to recognize that they are in that position.

[0067] (Configuration of the control system of the lever input device 100) Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 12, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment includes a control unit 130 as the control unit of the control system.

[0068] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 130 is electrically and positionally connected to each of the components of the lever input device 100, namely the switch 121, the first detection unit 151, the second detection unit 152, and the electrostatic sensor 122.

[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, the control unit 130 is electrically connected to the electronic control unit 20 provided by the vehicle. The electronic control unit 20 includes a transmission control unit 21 that controls the operation of the transmission, a turn signal control unit 22 that controls the operation of the turn lights, and a headlight control unit 23 that controls the operation of the headlights.

[0070] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 130 detects, based on the detection signal output from the first detection unit 151, that the operating lever 120 has been moved in an unrestricted direction (movement along a path described later). At this time, the control unit 130 may also determine the position of the operating lever 120 within a path that is guided to move between multiple positions by the restricting unit 200 described later, based on the detection signal output from the first detection unit 151. Alternatively, the position of the operating lever 120 may be determined from the information detected by the first detection unit and transmitted to the control unit 130. Furthermore, the detection signal for determining the position of the operating lever 120 may be output to the control unit 130 from a detection unit other than the first detection unit 151.

[0071] Furthermore, the control unit 130 detects, based on the detection signal output from the second detection unit 152, that the operating lever 120 has been moved in a restricted direction (a movement that does not follow the path described later).

[0072] Then, when the control unit 130 detects movement of the operating lever 120 in an unrestricted direction, it outputs a signal to the vehicle's electronic control unit 20 containing information for causing the controlled device (vehicle transmission) corresponding to the first functional mode to perform a predetermined operation, as a "predetermined process corresponding to the first functional mode." As an example of this information, it outputs shift position information corresponding to the position or location within the path determined by the movement operation.

[0073] Furthermore, when the control unit 130 detects movement of the operating lever 120 in a restricted direction, it outputs a signal to the vehicle's electronic control unit 20 containing information for causing the controlled equipment (turn lights, headlights) corresponding to the second functional mode to perform a predetermined operation, as a "predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode." As an example of this information, it outputs information instructing the direction of the turn corresponding to the direction of the movement, or the on / off or high / low beam switching of the headlights. At this time, based on the position information within the path, which will be described later, determined based on the detection signal output from the first detection unit 151, and the detection information of movement of the operating lever 120 in a restricted direction, the control unit 130 may perform a predetermined operation of the corresponding second functional mode.

[0074] For example, if the controlled device is a windshield wiper, the system may output information to instruct the wiper to be turned on / off or to change its speed. Alternatively, it may output information for controlling other controlled devices that can be operated by the vehicle occupant.

[0075] When the operator presses the switch 121, it inputs a switching instruction to the control unit 130 to switch the function mode of the lever input device 100 to the first function mode.

[0076] Furthermore, when the operator releases the push of switch 121, it inputs a switching instruction to the control unit 130 to switch the function mode of the lever input device 100 to the second function mode.

[0077] When the control unit 130 receives a switching instruction from the switch 121 to switch the function mode of the lever input device 100 to the first function mode, it switches the function mode of the lever input device 100 to the first function mode.

[0078] Furthermore, the control unit 130 maintains the operating lever 120 in the first operating mode while the switch 121 is being operated (pressed in). Also, the control unit 130 maintains the operating lever 120 in the second operating mode while the switch 121 is not being operated (pressed in).

[0079] On the other hand, when the control unit 130 receives a switching instruction from the switch 121 to switch the function mode of the lever input device 100 to the second function mode, it switches the function mode of the lever input device 100 to the second function mode.

[0080] (An example of movement operation of the operating lever 120 corresponding to the first functional mode) Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of movement operation of the operating lever 120 in the first functional mode in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the guide portion 211 is formed along a path connecting a plurality of positions P0, P1, P2, and P3. Therefore, the operating lever 120 can be moved along the path connecting the plurality of positions P0, P1, P2, and P3. That is, the restricting portion 200 restricts the direction of movement of the operating lever 120 and forms a path that can move between the plurality of positions. Here, movement operation guided by this restricting portion 200 and along the path is referred to as movement operation in the unrestricted direction. Also, movement operation not along the path is referred to as movement operation in the restricted direction.

[0081] For example, as shown in Figure 13, in the first functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is in the neutral position, the actuator 220 is located at the home position P0 of the guide section 211.

[0082] Here, since the operating lever 120 has a first pivot shaft 123 and a second pivot shaft 124 between the base 120A and the operating section 120B, the actuator 220 provided on the base 120A moves in the direction opposite to the operating direction of the operating section 120B.

[0083] Then, in the first functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is moved upward (positive Z-axis direction), which is an example of a direction not restricted by the restricting unit 200, the actuator 220 moves downward (negative Z-axis direction) from the home position P0 along the guide unit 211 to position P1 of the guide unit 211. This movement operation is detected by the first detection unit 151 and subsequently detected by the control unit 130.

[0084] When the control unit 130 detects that the operating lever 120 has been moved upward (positive Z-axis direction) in the first functional mode, it outputs a control signal to the electronic control unit 20 indicating that the operation has been performed. This allows the electronic control unit 20 to cause the transmission to perform a predetermined shift operation (for example, a shift to the N position) corresponding to the operation. If the switch 121 is to be placed, it should be placed on the opposite side (in this case, the negative Z-axis direction) of the operating lever 120 when moving it from the home position to a different position. This makes it easier to operate and prevents accidental operation of the switch 121, as it can be naturally pressed with a finger or palm when moving the operating lever from the home position.

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, for example, in the first functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is moved upward (positive Z-axis direction), if the operating lever 120 is moved forward (positive X-axis direction), which is an example of a direction not restricted by the restricting unit 200, the actuator 220 moves backward (negative X-axis direction) from position P1 along the guide unit 211 to position P2 of the guide unit 211. This movement operation is detected by the first detection unit 151 and then detected by the control unit 130.

[0086] When the control unit 130 detects that such an operation of moving the operating lever 120 forward (positive X-axis direction) has been performed in the first functional mode, it outputs a control signal to the electronic control unit 20 indicating that the operation has been performed. As a result, the electronic control unit 20 can cause the transmission to perform a predetermined shift operation (for example, a shift operation to the R position) in accordance with the operation of moving the lever.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, for example, in the first functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is moved upward (positive Z-axis direction), if the operating lever 120 is moved backward (negative X-axis direction), which is an example of a direction not restricted by the restricting unit 200, the actuator 220 moves forward (positive X-axis direction) from position P1 along the guide unit 211 to position P3 of the guide unit 211. This movement operation is detected by the first detection unit 151 and then detected by the control unit 130.

[0088] When the control unit 130 detects that such an operation of moving the operating lever 120 in the rearward direction (negative X-axis direction) has been performed in the first functional mode, it outputs a control signal to the electronic control unit 20 indicating that the operation has been performed. As a result, the electronic control unit 20 can cause the transmission to perform a predetermined shift operation (for example, a shift operation to the D position) in accordance with the operation of moving the lever.

[0089] Furthermore, when the control unit 130 detects a touch operation (for example, a selection operation, a slide operation, etc.) on the electrostatic sensor 122 by the operator's finger, it can execute a predetermined function related to the first function mode or the second function mode.

[0090] For example, when a touch operation for the extended function of the second function mode is performed on the electrostatic sensor 122, the control unit 130 may, when the detection unit detects the movement operation of the operation lever in the direction restricted by the restricting unit, perform a predetermined process related to the extended function of the second function mode based on the touch operation and the movement operation.

[0091] In this case, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can perform predetermined processing related to the extended function of the second function mode by a simple operation of the operating lever 120 by the operator.

[0092] (An example of movement operation of the operating lever 120 corresponding to the second functional mode) Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of movement operation of the operating lever 120 in the second functional mode in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 14, the restricting unit 200 has a guide unit 211 formed along a path connecting a plurality of positions P0, P1, P2, P3, thereby restricting movement operation of the operating lever 120 in a direction different from the direction along the path.

[0093] For example, as shown in Figure 14, in the second functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is in the neutral position, the actuator 220 is located at the home position P0 of the guide section 211.

[0094] Then, in the second functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is moved downward (negative Z-axis direction), which is an example of a direction restricted by the restricting unit 200, the actuator 220 contacts the inner wall surface on the upper side (positive Z-axis side) of the home position P0 of the guide unit 211, thereby restricting the downward movement of the operating lever 120. This movement is detected by the second detection unit 152 and subsequently detected by the control unit 130.

[0095] When the control unit 130 detects that such an operation of moving the operating lever 120 downward (negative Z-axis direction) has been performed in the second functional mode, it outputs a control signal to the headlight indicating that the operation has been performed. As a result, the headlight can perform a predetermined lighting operation corresponding to the operation (for example, a passing operation or a high beam operation).

[0096] Furthermore, in the second functional mode, when the operating lever 120 is moved forward (positive X-axis direction), which is an example of a direction restricted by the restricting unit 200, the actuator 220 contacts the inner wall surface on the rear side (negative X-axis side) of the home position P0 of the guide unit 211, thereby restricting the forward movement of the operating lever 120. This movement is detected by the second detection unit 152 and subsequently detected by the control unit 130.

[0097] In the second functional mode, when the control unit 130 detects that the operating lever 120 has been moved forward (in the positive X-axis direction), it outputs a control signal indicating that the movement operation has been performed. As a result, the turn light can perform a predetermined operation, such as a turn signal operation (right turn flashing operation), in accordance with the movement operation.

[0098] Furthermore, in the second functional mode, if the operating lever 120 is moved backward (in the negative X-axis direction), which is an example of a direction restricted by the restricting unit 200, the actuator 220 will contact the inner wall surface on the front side (negative X-axis side) of the home position P0 of the guide unit 211, thereby restricting the backward movement of the operating lever 120. This movement is detected by the second detection unit 152 and subsequently detected by the control unit 130.

[0099] In the second functional mode, when the control unit 130 detects that such an operation of moving the operating lever 120 in the rearward direction (negative X-axis direction) has been performed, it outputs a control signal to the turn light indicating that the operation has been performed. As a result, the turn light can perform a predetermined operation, such as a turn signal operation (left turn flashing operation), in accordance with the operation of the operation.

[0100] In this embodiment, the first and second function modes are switched using the switch 121. However, it is also possible to configure the system without the switch 121, such that the first function mode is activated when the operating lever 120 is moved in a direction not restricted by the restricting unit 200, and the second function mode is activated when it is moved in a direction restricted by the restricting unit 200. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first function mode is set to transmission control and the second function mode to turn signal and headlight control. However, other controllable devices may also be targeted.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the restricting unit 200 is composed of an actuator 220 (an example of a contact part) and a restricting member 210, but other configurations are also acceptable as long as they guide movement along the path of the operating lever 120 and restrict movement in directions other than the path. Also, in this embodiment, the example of movement in the direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 was given for when the lever is in the home position P0, but even when the lever is in other positions (i.e., when the actuator 220 is engaged with a position corresponding to another position of the groove-shaped guide part 211), the control target device corresponding to the second functional mode may be controlled by performing movement in the direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 (movement not along the path). At this time, as described above, the control unit 130 determines the position of the operating lever along the path based on the input of movement from the detection unit, and executes a predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode based on the detection of movement not along the path from the second detection unit 152. Furthermore, in order to improve operability, the depth of the groove may be adjusted so that the lever does not automatically return to the home position when it is in a position other than the home position. For example, the depth of positions other than the home position may be partially reduced, so that the position changes only when a movement operation occurs.

[0102] (Effects) As described above, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment is a lever input device 100 comprising: an operating lever 120 provided on the steering wheel 11 or steering column 12 and movable; a restricting unit 200 that restricts the direction of movement of the operating lever 120 and forms a path that can move between a plurality of positions; detection units 151 and 152 that detect the movement operation of the operating lever 120; and a control unit 130 that determines the position of the operating lever 120 in the path based on the input from the detection units 151 and 152, and executes a predetermined process corresponding to a first functional mode based on the detection result of the movement operation along the path by the first detection unit 151, wherein the control unit 130 further comprises a restricting unit 200 that restricts the direction of movement operation of the operating lever 120, and when the restricting unit 200 by the second detection unit 152 detects movement operation of the operating lever 120 in a direction not along the path, the control unit 130 executes a predetermined process corresponding to a second functional mode.

[0103] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can perform a variety of movement operations using a single operating lever 120. Furthermore, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can suppress erroneous operation because the feel of the operation of the operating lever 120 is clearly different between the movement operation of the operating lever 120 in the first function mode and the movement operation of the operating lever 120 in the second function mode. Moreover, since the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can realize a variety of movement operations using a single operating lever 120 with a relatively simple configuration, the size and cost of the lever input device 100 can be reduced.

[0104] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, when the control unit 130 determines that the operating lever 120 is in any one position (home position P0 in this embodiment), if the regulating unit 200 by the second detection unit 152 detects a movement operation of the operating lever 120 that does not follow the path, it executes a predetermined process corresponding to the second function mode.

[0105] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment makes it easier for the operator to recognize whether or not the operation of the second functional mode can be performed by the operating lever 120.

[0106] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, the regulating unit 200 has an actuator 220 that protrudes from the base 120A of the operating lever 120, and a groove-shaped guide portion 211 corresponding to the path that guides the movement of the operating lever 120 along the path when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 engages with it. When the control unit 130 detects a movement operation of the operating lever 120 that does not follow the path by the second detection unit 152 while the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 is engaged with a position corresponding to any one of the positions of the groove-shaped guide portion 211, it executes a predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode.

[0107] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment makes it easier for the operator to recognize whether or not the operation of the second functional mode can be performed by the operating lever 120. Furthermore, since the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can restrict the movement operation of the operating lever 120 with a relatively simple configuration, the size and cost of the lever input device 100 can be reduced.

[0108] Furthermore, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment includes a switch 121 for switching between a first function mode and a second function mode, and the control unit 130 executes a predetermined process corresponding to the first function mode or the second function mode based on the input from the switch 121 and the input from the detection units 151 and 152 that detect the movement operation of the operating lever 120.

[0109] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can reliably reflect the operator's intention to switch function modes via the switch 121, thereby preventing operation input of a function mode contrary to the operator's intention.

[0110] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, when the control unit 130 determines that the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 is in a predetermined home position P0, if it detects a movement operation of the operating lever 120 that does not follow the path set by the second detection unit 152, it executes a predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode.

[0111] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment makes it easier for the operator to recognize whether or not the operation of the second functional mode can be performed by the operating lever 120.

[0112] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, an automatic return mechanism is provided that automatically returns the operating lever 120 to a predetermined home position when the operating force on the operating lever 120 is removed.

[0113] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment makes it easier for the operator to recognize the position of the operating lever 120, and thus can suppress erroneous operation of the operating lever 120.

[0114] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, the guide portion 211 of the regulating portion 200 includes an operation feel providing portion that provides a change in the operation feel via the actuator 220 of the operation lever 120 when the operation lever 120 moves between a predetermined position (home position P0 in this embodiment) where movement operations of the second functional mode can be performed and a position other than the predetermined position.

[0115] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment makes it easier for the operator to recognize that the operating lever 120 is in a predetermined position where movement in the second functional mode is possible.

[0116] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the lever input device 100, an electrostatic sensor 122 is provided on the operating lever 120, which allows touch operation of functions related to the first or second function mode.

[0117] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can expand the functions related to the first or second functional mode that can be operated by the lever input device 100, while suppressing an increase in size.

[0118] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, the first functional mode controls the transmission.

[0119] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can be equipped with a gear shift operation input function without the need for additional input devices, and the operator can reliably operate the gear shift.

[0120] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, the second functional mode controls the turn signal.

[0121] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can be equipped with a turn signal operation input function without providing an additional input device, and the operator can reliably operate the turn signal.

[0122] Furthermore, in the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, the second function mode controls the headlights.

[0123] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can be equipped with a headlight operation input function without providing an additional input device, and the operator can reliably operate the headlights.

[0124] Furthermore, in a lever input device 100 according to one embodiment, the switch 121 is provided on the operating lever 120 on a surface (negative Z-axis direction) opposite to the direction of movement of the operating lever 120 from a predetermined home position to another position.

[0125] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one embodiment can naturally press the switch 121 when the operating lever 120 is moved in an unrestricted direction, thereby suppressing accidental operation of the switch 121.

[0126] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims.

[0127] For example, the lever input device 100 may include a vibration generating unit that generates vibrations. In this case, the control unit 130 may, in the second functional mode, generate vibrations in the vibration generating unit in response to the movement operation of the operating lever 120, thereby providing a tactile sensation to the movement operation of the operating lever 120. This allows the lever input device 100 to tactilely ascertain that the lever input device 100 has received a movement operation of the operating lever 120.

[0128] Furthermore, for example, the lever input device 100 may be configured to include one of the first detection unit 151 and the second detection unit 152 but not the other, so that the one unit can detect both movement of the operating lever 120 in an unrestricted direction and movement of the operating lever 120 in a restricted direction. In addition, although this embodiment has shown a lever input device incorporated into a steering device, it may also be applied to lever input devices used in other locations in a vehicle, such as a floor-type shift device.

[0129] (Modified Version) Figure 15 is an external perspective view of the restricting member 210-2 provided in the restricting section 200 according to one modified version of one embodiment. Figure 16 is a side view of the restricting member 210-2 provided in the restricting section 200 according to one modified version of one embodiment.

[0130] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the restricting member 210-2 has a movement suppression unit 214. The movement suppression unit 214 suppresses the movement of the operating lever 120 in the direction along the path of the operating lever 120 when the operating lever 120 is moved in the direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 while the operating lever 120 is in the home position (i.e., a predetermined position in which movement operations of the second functional mode can be performed).

[0131] In particular, in this modified example, the movement-restricting portion 214 is provided at the bottom of the guide portion 211 and is a linear hole that extends in a direction perpendicular to the path of the operating lever 120 (in the X-axis direction). Accordingly, in this modified example, the actuator 220 is provided with a projection at its tip that engages with the hole (movement-restricting portion 214).

[0132] With the above configuration, in the lever input device 100 according to one modification of one embodiment, when the operating lever 120 is in the home position and the operating lever 120 is moved in the direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 (X-axis direction), the protrusion provided at the tip of the actuator 220 engages with the movement suppression unit 214, and the movement of the protrusion provided at the tip of the actuator 220 in the direction along the path of the operating lever 120 (Z-axis direction) is restricted by the movement suppression unit 214, thereby suppressing the movement of the operating lever 120 in the direction along the path of the operating lever 120 (Z-axis direction). In other words, when the operator attempts to perform a movement operation in the restricted X-axis direction, unintended movement (wobble) in the Z-axis direction is suppressed.

[0133] As a result, the lever input device 100 according to one modified embodiment can suppress deviation in the direction along the path of the operating lever 120 (Z-axis direction) when the operating lever 120 is moved in the direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 (X-axis direction), which is a movement operation for the second functional mode. Therefore, the operation of moving the operating lever 120 in the direction restricted by the restricting unit 200 (X-axis direction) can be performed stably.

[0134] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the restricting member 210-2 has a hole 215 at the bottom of the guide portion 211 that extends in a direction along the path of the operating lever 120. Specifically, the restricting member 210-2 has a vertical hole 215A at the bottom of the vertical groove portion 213 of the guide portion 211 that extends in a direction along the path of the operating lever 120 (Z-axis direction). The restricting member 210-2 also has a horizontal hole 215B at the bottom of the horizontal groove portion 212 of the guide portion 211 that extends in a direction along the path of the operating lever 120 (X-axis direction). The movement suppressing portion 214 extends from near the upper end of the vertical hole 215A (a position corresponding to the home position) in a direction perpendicular to the vertical hole 215A (X-axis direction). As a result, in the lever input device 100 according to one modified embodiment, when the operating lever 120 is moved in a direction along its path, the protrusion provided at the tip of the actuator 220 can move along the hole 215.

[0135] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the regulating member 210-2 has a gently curved corner 216 formed by the inner wall surface of the vertical groove 213 and the inner wall surface of the horizontal groove 212. As a result, in the lever input device 100 according to one modified embodiment, when switching between moving the operating lever 120 in the direction along the vertical groove 213 (Z-axis direction) and moving the operating lever 120 in the direction along the horizontal groove 212 (X-axis direction), the actuator 220 slides along the corner 216, thereby enabling a smooth switching of the direction of movement of the operating lever 120.

[0136] This international application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-048859, filed on 24 March 2025, and the entire contents of said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0137] 10 Steering device 11 Steering 11A Rim 11B Hub 11C Spoke section 12 Steering column 12A, 12B Side section 13 Lever input device 13A Main body section 13B Operating lever 20 Electronic control unit 21 Transmission control unit 22 Turn signal control unit 23 Headlight control unit 100 Lever input device 110 Main body section 111 Housing 111A First side section 111B Opening 120 Operating lever 120A Base section 120B Operating section 121 Switch 122 Electrostatic sensor 123 First pivot shaft 124 Second pivot shaft 128 Coil spring 151 First detection section 152 Second detection section 152A Arm section 152B Conductor 152C Electrostatic sensor 200 Regulating section 210 Regulating member 211 Guide section 212 Horizontal groove section 212A Inner wall surface 212B Front end surface 212C Rear end surface 212D Bottom surface 213 Vertical groove section 213A Inner wall surface 213B Upper end surface 213C Lower end surface 213D Bottom surface 214 Movement suppression section 215 Hole section 215A Vertical hole section 215B Horizontal hole section 216 Corner section 220 Actuator

Claims

1. A lever input device comprising: an operating lever provided on a vehicle and movable; a restricting unit that restricts the direction of movement of the operating lever to form a path that can move between a plurality of positions; a detection unit that detects the movement operation of the operating lever; and a control unit that, based on input from the detection unit, determines the position of the operating lever along the path and, when the detection unit detects the movement operation along the path, executes a predetermined process corresponding to a first functional mode, wherein the control unit executes a predetermined process corresponding to a second functional mode when the detection unit detects the movement operation that does not follow the path.

2. The lever input device according to claim 1, characterized in that when the control unit determines that the operating lever is in any one of the positions, and the detection unit detects a movement operation of the operating lever that does not follow the path, it performs a predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode.

3. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the restricting portion has a contact portion that protrudes from the base of the operating lever, and a groove-shaped guide portion corresponding to the path that guides the movement of the operating lever along the path when the contact portion of the operating lever engages with it, and the control unit performs a predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode when the detection unit detects a movement operation of the operating lever that does not follow the path when the contact portion of the operating lever is engaged with a position corresponding to any one of the groove-shaped guide portions.

4. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a switching instruction input unit for switching between the first function mode and the second function mode, wherein the control unit performs a predetermined process corresponding to the first function mode or the second function mode based on the input from the switching instruction input unit and the input from the detection unit for detecting the movement operation of the operating lever.

5. The lever input device according to claim 3, characterized in that when the control unit determines that the contact portion of the operating lever is in the home position among the positions, and the detection unit detects a movement operation of the operating lever that does not follow the path, it performs a predetermined process corresponding to the second functional mode.

6. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an automatic return mechanism is provided that automatically returns the operating lever to the home position among the positions when the operating force on the operating lever is removed.

7. The lever input device according to claim 3, wherein the guide portion of the regulating portion is provided with an operation feel providing portion that provides a change in operation feel via the contact portion of the operating lever when the operating lever moves between a predetermined position in which the movement operation of the second functional mode can be performed and a position other than the predetermined position.

8. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the operating lever has an electrostatic input section on which a function relating to the first function mode or the second function mode can be operated by touch.

9. The lever input device according to claim 8, wherein when the control unit detects a movement operation of the operating lever that does not follow the path when the touch operation is performed on the electrostatic input unit for a function related to the second functional mode, the control unit performs a predetermined processing related to the function related to the second functional mode based on the touch operation and the movement operation.

10. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first functional mode controls a transmission.

11. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second functional mode controls a turn signal.

12. The lever input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second functional mode controls the headlights.

13. The lever input device according to claim 4, characterized in that the switching instruction input unit is provided on the operating lever on a surface that is in the opposite direction to the direction of movement of the operating lever from the home position to another position among the positions.

14. The lever input device according to claim 3, further comprising a movement suppression unit that suppresses the movement of the operating lever in a direction along the path when the operating lever is in a predetermined position capable of performing the movement operation of the second functional mode and the movement operation of the operating lever is performed in a direction not along the path.

15. The lever input device according to claim 14, characterized in that the movement restraining portion is provided at the bottom of the guide portion and is a linear hole portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the path, and the contact portion is provided with a protrusion portion that engages with the hole portion.

Images