U.S. patent application number 15/516221 was filed with the patent office on 2017-11-02 for input device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Takashi AOKI, Hiroyuki HOSHINO, Masaki SAWADA, Hideki TAKAHASHI.
Application Number | 20170316901 15/516221 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55954011 |
Filed Date | 2017-11-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170316901 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SAWADA; Masaki ; et
al. |
November 2, 2017 |
INPUT DEVICE
Abstract
An input device has a first electrode, a second electrode, and a
third electrode. The second electrode opposes to the first
electrode while being spaced apart therefrom. The third electrode
is spaced apart from the first electrode and rotatably or slidably
provided relative to the second electrode. By the third electrode
being brought into contact with or spaced apart from the second
electrode, an electrical state between the first electrode and the
second electrode changes. Based on this electrical change, a rotary
manipulation or a slide manipulation is detected.
Inventors: |
SAWADA; Masaki; (Osaka,
JP) ; TAKAHASHI; Hideki; (Osaka, JP) ;
HOSHINO; Hiroyuki; (Kanagawa, JP) ; AOKI;
Takashi; (Osaka, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. |
Osaka |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
55954011 |
Appl. No.: |
15/516221 |
Filed: |
November 5, 2015 |
PCT Filed: |
November 5, 2015 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2015/005548 |
371 Date: |
March 31, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0443 20190501;
H01H 19/02 20130101; H01H 25/00 20130101; G06F 3/03547 20130101;
H01H 15/06 20130101; H01H 19/08 20130101; H01H 19/14 20130101; G06F
3/044 20130101; G06F 3/0362 20130101; G06F 3/0416 20130101; G06F
2203/04103 20130101; H01H 89/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01H 19/14 20060101
H01H019/14; H01H 19/08 20060101 H01H019/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 10, 2014 |
JP |
2014-228083 |
Aug 28, 2015 |
JP |
2015-168415 |
Claims
1. An input device comprising: a first electrode; a second
electrode that opposes to the first electrode while being spaced
apart from the first electrode; and a third electrode that is
spaced apart from the first electrode and rotatably or slidably
provided relative to the second electrode, wherein the third
electrode being in contact with or spaced apart from the second
electrode changes an electrical state between the first electrode
and the second electrode.
2. The input device according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of
the first electrodes, wherein each of the plurality of first
electrodes includes a transmitter electrode, and a receiver
electrode being electrically independent of the transmitter
electrode.
3. The input device according to claim 2, further comprising a
fourth electrode that is electrically connected to the third
electrode, wherein the fourth electrode is different from the
transmitter electrode in potential.
4. The input device according to claim 3, wherein the fourth
electrode is connected to ground.
5. The input device according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of
the first electrodes and a plurality of the second electrodes,
wherein. the third electrode is spaced apart from the plurality of
first electrodes and rotatably provided relative to the plurality
of second electrodes, the third electrode has an annularly formed
pattern, and the third electrode being in contact with or spaced
apart from each of the plurality of second electrodes changes an
electrical state between each of the plurality of first electrodes
and opposing one of the plurality of second electrodes so that a
phase difference occurs.
6. The input device according to claim 1, further comprising a
light-transmissive first base member that retains the first
electrode.
7. The input device according to claim 6, further comprising a
light-transmissive second base member that retains the second
electrode.
8. The input device according to claim 1, further comprising a
manipulation knob that is electrically connected to the third
electrode.
9. The input device according to claim 1, further comprising a
fourth electrode that is electrically connected to the third
electrode, wherein the fourth electrode is connected to ground.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to an input device used as an
input manipulation unit of various electronic devices.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] As an input manipulation unit of various electronic devices,
an input device of the rotary manipulation type is frequently
employed for setting and adjusting various functions.
[0003] For example, PTL 1 discloses a conventional input device of
the rotary manipulation type. The input device has a rotary
manipulation knob, a variable electrode disposed at the rotary
manipulation knob, and fixed electrodes disposed so as to oppose to
the variable electrode. When the user rotates the rotary
manipulation knob, the rotation causes the variable electrode to
rotationally shift. This rotational shift causes an electrical
change at the fixed electrodes. Detecting this electrical change
enables to contactlessly detect the rotary manipulation of the
rotary manipulation knob.
[0004] On the other hand, PTL 2 discloses other input device of the
rotary manipulation type. This input device has a rotary
manipulation knob (a rotary manipulator) disposed on a touch panel,
and a variable electrode (a terminal) provided at the rotary
manipulation knob. When the user rotates the rotary manipulation
knob, the rotation causes the variable electrode to slide over the
upper surface of the touch panel. The touch panel is manipulated by
the sliding.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0005] PTL 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No.
2007-80778
[0006] PTL 2: Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No.
2012-35782
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present disclosure provides an input device capable of
stably detecting a rotary manipulation or a slide manipulation.
[0008] An input device of the present disclosure has a first
electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The second
electrode opposes to the first electrode while being spaced apart
therefrom. The third electrode is spaced apart from the first
electrode and rotatably or slidably provided relative to the second
electrode. By the third electrode being brought into contact with
or spaced apart from the second electrode, an electrical state
between the first electrode and the second electrode changes. Based
on this electrical change, a rotary manipulation or a slide
manipulation is detected.
[0009] In this structure, the third electrode is brought into
contact with or spaced apart from the second electrode in
accordance with a rotary manipulation or a slide manipulation.
Accordingly, an electrical state between the first electrode and
the second electrode changes. For example, capacitance generated
between these electrodes changes always similarly in accordance
with a certain rotary manipulation or slide manipulation.
Therefore, the input device is capable of stably detecting a
predetermined manipulation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an input device
according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the input device
shown in FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a rotary
manipulation unit of the input device shown in. FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a top view of a lower casing of the input device
shown in. FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a top view showing the disposition pattern of
sensor electrodes of a touch panel of the input device shown in
FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part showing the
relationship between the lower casing and a contact of the input
device shown in FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a variable electrode and fixed
electrodes of the input device shown in FIG. 1 being brought into
contact with or spaced apart from each other.
[0017] FIG. 7B is a diagram showing the variable electrode and the
fixed electrodes of the input device shown in FIG. 1 being brought
into contact with or spaced apart from each other.
[0018] FIG. 7C is a diagram showing the variable electrode and the
fixed electrodes of the input device shown in FIG. 1 being brought
into contact with or spaced apart from each other.
[0019] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing the positional relationship
between a projection of a click spring and a concavity-convexity
portion of a rotary body in FIG. 7A.
[0020] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing the positional relationship
between the projection of the click spring and the
concavity-convexity portion of the rotary body in FIG. 7B.
[0021] FIG. 8C is a diagram showing the positional relationship
between the projection of the click spring and the
concavity-convexity portion of the rotary body in FIG. 7C.
[0022] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an input device
according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a rotary
manipulation unit of the input device shown in FIG. 9.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between a
contact pattern of a wiring substrate and a contact of the input
device shown in FIG. 9.
[0025] FIG. 12 is a top view showing the disposition pattern of
sensor electrodes of a touch panel of the input device shown in
FIG. 9.
[0026] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an input device
according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a rotary
manipulation unit of the input device shown in FIG. 13.
[0028] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a lower casing of the input
device shown in FIG. 13.
[0029] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the lower casing
shown in FIG. 15.
[0030] FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the lower casing shown in FIG.
15.
[0031] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the relationship between a
contact pattern of a wiring substrate and a contact of the input
device shown in FIG. 13.
[0032] FIG. 19 is a top view showing the disposition pattern of
sensor electrodes of a touch panel of the input device shown in
FIG. 13.
[0033] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 in
FIG. 19.
[0034] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of an input device
according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0035] Prior to a description of exemplary embodiments of the
present invention,a description will be briefly given of a problem
associated with the conventional input device of the rotary
manipulation type. In the input device of the rotary manipulation
type disclosed in PTL 1, a clearance is provided between the
variable electrode and the fixed electrodes. Based on detecting a
change in capacitance between the variable electrode and the fixed
electrodes, a rotary manipulation is detected.
[0036] However, in this structure, variations in the clearance
between the variable electrode and the fixed electrodes may result
in variations in capacitance. Accordingly, it is difficult to
stably detect a rotary manipulation.
[0037] In the following, a description will be given of input
devices according to various exemplary embodiments of the present
invention with reference to the drawings.
First Exemplary Embodiment
[0038] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of input device 3000 of the
rotary manipulation type according to a first exemplary embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of
input device 3000. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of rotary
manipulation unit 1000 of input device 3000.
[0039] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, input device 3000 has rotary
manipulation unit 1000, and touch panel unit 2000 equipped with
rotary manipulation unit 1000. Touch panel unit 2000 includes touch
panel 31, and cover panel 41 which is made of transparent resin and
stacked on the upper surface of touch panel 31. Rotary manipulation
unit 1000 includes lower casing 11, and the lower surface of lower
casing 11 is fitted into cover panel 41.
[0040] In rotary manipulation unit 1000, variable electrode 18
rotates in accordance with a rotary manipulation of rotary
manipulation knob 23, and brought into contact with or spaced apart
from fixed electrodes 13. By variable electrode 18 and fixed
electrodes 13 being brought into contact with or spaced apart from
each other, an electrical state between fixed electrodes 13 and
sensor electrodes 32 of touch panel unit 2000 changes. With input
device 3000, based on detecting a change in capacitance generated
between fixed electrodes 13 and sensor electrodes 32, a rotary
manipulation of rotary manipulation unit 1000 can be detected.
[0041] As described above, input device 3000 has sensor electrodes
32 being the first electrode, fixed electrodes 13 being the second
electrode, and variable electrode 18 being the third electrode.
Fixed electrodes 13 oppose to sensor electrodes 32 while being
spaced apart therefrom. Variable electrode 18 is spaced apart from
sensor electrodes 32, and rotatably provided relative to fixed
electrodes 13. By variable electrode 118 being brought into contact
with or spaced apart from fixed electrode 13, an electrical state
between sensor electrodes 32 and fixed electrodes 13 changes. Based
on this electrical change, a rotary manipulation can be
detected.
[0042] In the following, a detailed description will be given of
the structure of each element. Firstly, with reference to FIGS. 1,
3, and 4, a description will be given of rotary manipulation unit
1000. FIG. 4 is a top view of lower casing 11. Rotary manipulation
unit 1000 has lower casing 11, holder 19, click spring 120, elastic
bodies 21, connecting electrodes 22, rotary body 16, variable
electrode 18, rotary manipulation knob 23, first connecting
terminal 24, and pressing body 25.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 3, lower casing 11 made of insulating resin
is provided with a concavity which opens upward. As shown in FIG.
4, lower casing 11 is circular as seen in a top view. At the upper
surface of the concavity, groove 12 which is annular as seen in a
top view is provided. Further, on the position inner than groove
12, four pillars 11A extending upward and two recesses 11B are
formed.
[0044] The inner bottom surface of groove 12 is formed to be flat.
At the inner bottom surface of groove 12, a plurality of fixed
electrodes 13 are exposed, which fixed electrodes 13 are each made
of a thin metal plate and insert-molded into lower casing 11. The
plurality of fixed electrodes 13 are radially disposed at the inner
bottom surface of groove 12. The adjacent; fixed electrodes 13 are
electrically insulated from each other by resin surface 14
interposed between them. Note that, in each fixed electrode 13, the
portion on the outer circumference side of groove 12 has its both
sides cut away. Accordingly, in each resin surface 14, the portion
positioned on the outer circumference side of groove 12 is greater
than in width than the portion positioned on the inner
circumference side of groove 12.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, holder 19 made of insulating resin is
circularly formed as seen in a top view. Holder 19 has bottomed
cylinder 19A and flange 19B which annularly projects in the outer
diameter direction from the top of cylinder 19A. At the lower
surface of flange 19B, click spring 120 which is made of elastic
metal and annular as seen in a top view is swaged. Click spring 120
is provided with projections 120 which project downwardly in an
arc-shaped manner.
[0046] At the bottom surface of holder 19, swage holes 19D are
provided. By pillars 11A of lower casing 11 being respectively
inserted into swage holes 19D and having their tips swaged, holder
19 is fixed to lower casing 11.
[0047] At the bottom surface of holder 19, cross-shaped penetrating
button mounting portion 19C is formed. Each elastic body 21 made of
rubber has a shape of a truncated cone whose bottom side is open.
Each connecting electrode 22 is bent to be U-shaped. Connecting
electrodes 22 and elastic bodies 21 have their respective lower
surfaces housed in recesses 11B of lower casing 11, respectively.
Elastic bodies 21 and connecting electrodes 22 form a push button
in button mounting portion 19C.
[0048] Rotary body 16 made of insulating resin is provided with
central hole 16A, and formed to be annular as seen in a top view.
Cylinder 19A of holder 19 is inserted into central hole 16A.
Accordingly, rotary body 16 is rotatably fixed relative to holder
19.
[0049] Over the entire inner circumference of rotary body 16,
concavity-convexity portion 17 having concavities and convexities
on the upper side is provided. In concavity-convexity portion 17,
convexities 17A projecting upward and concavities 17B recessed
downward are alternately formed. By projections 120A of click
spring 120 being elastically brought into contact with the upper
surface of concavity-convexity portion 17, a click step is obtained
corresponding to a predetermined rotation angle when rotary body 16
is rotated. That is, concavity-convexity portion 17 and click
spring 120 structure a clicking mechanism which provides a click
step corresponding to a predetermined rotation angle of rotary
manipulation knob 23 being rotationally manipulated.
[0050] Variable electrode 18 is formed by a thin elastic metal
plate which is bent to be L-shaped. One side of the L shape forms
contact 18A, and the other side structures fixing portion 18B which
projects upward in a predetermined width. By fixing portion 18B
being press-fitted into insert portion 16B provided at rotary body
16, variable electrode 18 is fixed to the lower surface of the
outer circumferential portion of rotary body 16. On the other hand,
contact 18A of variable electrode 18 is elastically in contact with
the inner bottom surface of groove 12 of lower casing 11 at a
predetermined position.
[0051] Note that, the sign "double circle" in FIG. 4 schematically
represents the disposition position of contact 18A of variable
electrode 18. Contact 18A is in contact with the inner bottom
surface of groove 12 at the position of the sign "double circle".
Contact 18A slides on concentric track T1 in accordance with the
rotational movement of rotary body 16.
[0052] That is, variable electrode 18 is brought into contact with
or spaced apart from fixed electrodes 13 on track T1 by the
rotational movement of rotary body 16. Accordingly, depending on
the rotation angle position of rotary body 16, variable electrode
18 is in contact with none of fixed electrodes 13 or one of fixed
electrodes 13.
[0053] As described above, rotary body 16 is provided with,
concavity-convexity portion 17, and projections 120A of click
spring 120 are elastically in contact with the upper surface of
concavity-convexity portion 17. In the state where variable
electrode 18 is in contact with none of fixed electrodes 13,
projections 120A of click spring 120 are positioned at concavities
17B of concavity-convexity portion 17.
[0054] On the other hand., in the state where variable electrode 18
is in contact with one of fixed electrodes 13, projections 120A are
positioned at convexities 17A of concavity-convexity portion
17.
[0055] That is, in rotary manipulation unit 1000, in the
non-manipulation state where a predetermined rotational torque is
not applied to rotary body 16, projections 120A are positioned at
concavities 17B, and the rotation angle position of rotary body 16
is stable. Then, in synchronization with the click step with the
rotational movement of rotary body 16, contact 18A and fixed
electrodes 13 are brought into contact with or spaced apart from
each other.
[0056] Rotary manipulation knob 23 which is annular as seen in a
top view is fitted to rotary body 16 while covering the outer
circumference of rotary body 16, and fixed so as to rotate together
with rotary body 16. Rotary manipulation knob 23 is made of metal,
and insert groove 23A is provided at the sidewall on the inner
circumference side. First connecting terminal 24 made of a thin
metal plate is bent to be U-shaped, and is springy. First
connecting terminal 24 is fixed by being press-fitted into insert
groove 23A. First connecting terminal 24 is elastically in contact
with fixing portion 18B of variable electrode 18, and electrically
connects between variable electrode 18 and rotary manipulation knob
23.
[0057] Rotary manipulation knob 23 is formed by metal such as
aluminum, for example. Note that, the portion touched by the user's
finger which will be described later, that is, the outer
circumferential portion of rotary manipulation knob 23 may be
decorated by anodizing the aluminum or the like. Further, at the
outer circumferential portion of rotary manipulation knob 23, an
insulating body such as insulating resin may be formed film-like.
That is, the outer circumferential portion of rotary manipulation
knob 23 may be covered with an insulating body having a thickness
of about 5 .mu.m to 50 .mu.m.
[0058] Pressing body 25 made of metal is circular as seen in a top
view. The lower portion of pressing body 25 is vertically movably
fixed inside holder 19. The upper surface of pressing body 25 is
bowl-shaped, being curved and slightly recessed, and provided with
a not-shown design. Pressing body 25 has pressing portions 25A
which project downward. Pressing portions 25A have their respective
lower surfaces abutted on the upper surfaces of elastic bodies 21,
respectively.
[0059] Pressing body 25 is formed by metal such as aluminum. Note
that, the portion touched by the user's finger which will be
described later, that is, the upper surface of pressing body 25 may
be decorated by anodizing the aluminum or the like. Further, at the
upper surface of pressing body 25, an insulating body such as
insulating resin or the like may be formed film-like. That is, the
upper surface of pressing body 25 may be covered with an insulating
body having a thickness of about 5 .mu.m to 50 .mu.m.
[0060] Rotary manipulation unit 1000 is structured in the
above-described manner. Fixed electrodes 13 of rotary manipulation
unit 1000 oppose to the upper surface of touch panel 31 of touch
panel unit 2000.
[0061] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, a description will be
given of touch panel unit 2000. FIG. 5 is a top view showing the
disposition pattern of sensor electrodes 32 of touch panel 31. As
described above, touch panel unit 2000 includes touch panel 31, and
cover panel 41 which is made of transparent resin and stacked on
the upper surface of touch panel 31.
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, touch panel 31 has first base
member 31A which is film-like and made of light-transmissive
insulating resin, and a plurality of sensor electrodes 32, 33 which
are formed to be transparent by indium tin oxide (ITO) or the like
at the upper surface of first base member 31A. Sensor electrodes
32, 33 are each formed into a predetermined pattern. Touch panel 31
detects a change in capacitance formed between an electrically
conductive body in contact with or in close proximity to its upper
surface and sensor electrodes 32, 33, thereby detecting the plane
position of the electrically conductive body. That is, touch panel
31 is of the capacitance scheme. Note that, sensor electrodes 32,
33 are not necessarily transparent, and may each be a thin metal
film formed through vapor deposition or the like.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 5, in touch panel 31, a plurality of sensor
electrodes 32, 33 are formed at the position where rotary
manipulation unit 1000 is mounted. Each sensor electrode 32 is
formed to have a shape substantially identical to that of fixed
electrode 13 as seen in a top view. Sensor electrodes 32 are each
formed at the position opposing to one of fixed electrodes 13. Each
sensor electrode 33 is formed to have a shape substantial to that
of the lower surface of connecting electrode 22 as seen in a top
view. Sensor electrodes 33 are each formed at the position opposing
to the lower surface of one of connecting electrodes 22. Note that,
to sensor electrodes 32, 33, not-shown leads are respectively
connected, so that sensor electrodes 32, 33 are connected to a
not-shown predetermined electronic circuit. Sensor electrodes 32,
33 may be respectively structured by at least one transmitter
electrode and at least one receiver electrode.
[0064] While shown in the drawings, touch panel 31 is provided also
with a grid-like sensor electrode (transparent electrode) at a
place other than the plane position where rotary manipulation unit
1000 is mounted. Thus, touch panel 31 accepts a touch manipulation
with the user's finger or the like.
[0065] Further, with input device 3000, while it is desirable to
use touch panel 31 in which sensor electrodes 32, 33 are arranged
in the above-described disposition pattern, it is also possible to
use a touch panel of a general disposition pattern in which a
grid-like sensor electrode (transparent electrode) is formed over
the entire surface of the touch panel.
[0066] Note that, touch panel 31 is just required to be capable of
detecting a change in capacitance formed between an electrically
conductive body in contact with or in close proximity to its upper
surface and the sensor electrodes. That is, so long as touch panel
31 is of the capacitance scheme, touch panel 31 may be surface
capacitive or projected capacitive. Further, touch panel 31 may be
of the self capacitance type or the mutual capacitance type.
[0067] Note that, when touch panel 31 is of the mutual capacitance
type, one sensor electrode is formed by a pair of the transmitter
electrode and the receiver electrode, and the sensor electrode
detects a change in capacitance. That is, sensor electrodes 32, 33
may be structured by at least one transmitter electrode and at
least one receiver electrode.
[0068] Next, with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8C, a description will be
given of an operation of input device 3000 by a rotary
manipulation. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the main part showing
the relationship between lower casing 11 and contact 18A of
variable electrode 18. FIGS. 7A to 7C are diagrams showing variable
electrode 18 and fixed electrodes 13 being brought into contact
with or spaced apart from each other. FIGS. 8A to 8C are diagrams
showing the positional relationship between projection 120A of
click spring 120 and concavity-convexity portion 17 of rotary body
16 in FIGS. 7A to 7C.
[0069] Note that, in order to describe the operation of input,
device 3000, part of fixed electrodes 13 in FIG. 6 are shown as
fixed electrodes 13A, 13B, and part of resin surfaces 14 are shown
as resin surfaces 14A, 14B. Similarly, part of fixed electrodes 13
in FIGS. 7A to 7C are shown as fixed electrodes 13A, 13B, and
sensor electrodes 32 opposing to fixed electrodes 13A, 13B are
shown as sensor electrodes 32A, 32B.
[0070] Note that, similarly to FIG. 4, the sign "double circle"
shown in FIG. 6 schematically shows the disposition position of
contact 18A of variable electrode 18. Contact 18A is in contact
with the inner bottom surface of groove 12 at the position of the
sign "double circle". Contact 18A slides on concentric track T1 in
accordance with the rotational movement of rotary body 16.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 8A, in the non-manipulation state,
projection 120A of click spring 120 is positioned at concavity 17B
of rotary body 16, and therefore the rotation angle position of
rotary manipulation knob 23 is stable. In this state, as shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7A, contact 18A is in contact with resin surface 14
(resin surface 14A). That is, variable electrode 18 is in contact
with none of fixed electrodes 13.
[0072] Next, when the user touches rotary manipulation knob 23 with
his/her finger or the like, the user's finger is electrically
connected to variable electrode 18 via rotary manipulation knob 23
and first connecting terminal 24. From this state, when the user
rotationally manipulates rotary manipulation knob 23, rotary body
16 coupled to rotary manipulation knob 23 rotates together. Then,
contact 18A shifts on groove 12 along track T1, and as shown in
FIG. 7B, contact 18A and fixed electrode 13 (fixed electrode 13A)
are brought into contact with each other. While the shifting, the
electrical connection between the user's finger and variable
electrode 18 is maintained.
[0073] As a result, fixed electrode 13A is electrically connected
to the user's finger via variable electrode 18, whereby capacitance
generated between fixed electrode 13A and sensor electrode 32.A
changes. Then, by a not-shown electronic circuit detecting the
change in capacitance, the position of variable electrode 18 is
detected.
[0074] In the state where variable electrode 18 and fixed electrode
13A are in contact with each other, as shown in FIG. 8B, projection
120A of click spring 120 is positioned at convexity 17A of
concavity-convexity portion 17 of rotary body 16. That is, the
rotation angle position of rotary manipulation knob 23 is not
regulated.
[0075] Then, when the user further rotationally manipulates rotary
manipulation knob 23 from the state shown in FIG. 7B, contact 18A
further shifts on groove 12 along track T1 with clicking touch.
Thus, as shown in FIG. 7C, variable electrode 18 and resin surface
14 (resin surface 14B) are in contact with each other. That is,
again, variable electrode 18 is in contact with none of fixed
electrodes 13.
[0076] Note that, as shown in FIG. 7C, in the state where variable
electrode 18 is in contact with none of fixed electrodes 13, as
shown in FIG. 8C, projection 120A of click spring 120 is stable
being positioned at concavity 17B of rotary body 16.
[0077] Then, when the user further rotationally manipulates rotary
manipulation knob 23 from the state FIG. 7C, variable electrode 18
is brought into contact with fixed electrode 13B shown in FIG. 6.
Then, capacitance generated between fixed electrode 13B and sensor
electrode 32B changes. By the not-shown electronic circuit
detecting the change, the position of variable electrode 18 is
detected.
[0078] A series of operations having been described above enables
to detect that the position of variable electrode 18 has shifted
from the upper surface of fixed electrode 13A to the upper surface
of fixed electrode 13B.
[0079] As described above, the user's rotationally manipulating
rotary manipulation knob 23 causes contact 18A of variable
electrode 18 to slide on track T1. In accordance with the rotation
angle position, contact 18A and fixed electrode 13 (fixed
electrodes 13A, 13B) are brought into contact with each other.
Then, capacitance between fixed electrode 13 to which contact 18A
is connected and sensor electrode 32 changes. By the not-shown
electronic circuit detecting the change in capacitance, the
position of variable electrode 18 is detected.
[0080] That is, touch panel 31 detects the shift of variable
electrode 18 caused by a rotary manipulation, and a rotary
manipulation in accordance with its rotating direction or rotary
shift amount is performed.
[0081] In this structure, since fixed electrodes 13 do not shift
relative to sensor electrodes 32, variations in the clearance
between sensor electrodes 32 and fixed electrodes 13 are
suppressed. Thus, capacitance generated between the electrodes
changes always similarly in accordance with a certain rotary
manipulation.
[0082] Note that, in the example shown in FIGS. 7A to 7C, while one
fixed electrode 13 (13A) opposes to one sensor electrode 32 (32A)
in a one-to-one relationship, the present invention is not limited
thereto. For example, one fixed electrode 13 (13A) may oppose to
two adjacent sensor electrodes 32 (32A, 32B) so as to straddle
sensor electrodes 32 (32A, 32B). In this case, a not-shown
electronic circuit detects a change in capacitance generated
between fixed electrode 13 (13A) and one sensor electrode 32 (32A)
and a change in capacitance generated between fixed electrode 13
(13A) and other sensor electrode 32 (32B). The electronic circuit
performs processing of comparing the changes in capacitance, that
is, signal weighting processing or the like, and detects the
position of fixed electrode 13 to which contact 18A is
connected.
[0083] Note that, alternative to the user's finger and variable
electrode 18 being electrically connected to each other in terms of
direct-current components, they may be electrically connected to
each other in terms of alternating-current components. That is,
even when the outer circumferential portion of rotary manipulation
knob 23 is covered with a film-like insulating body by anodizing of
aluminum or insulating resin, a rotary manipulation can be detected
in the above-described manner by the user's finger and rotary
manipulation knob 23 being electrically connected to each other
with full capacitive coupling via the insulating body.
[0084] Further, it is just required that the user's finger and
variable electrode 18 are electrically connected to each other via
rotary manipulation knob 23. Therefore, for example, rotary
manipulation knob 23 may be structured by a resin molded body, and
an electrically conductive portion formed by electroplating at a
predetermined surface position of the resin molded body. Further,
rotary manipulation knob 23 may be formed by insert molding of a
thin metal plate processed to have a predetermined shape. In this
case, rotary manipulation knob 23 should lie structured such that
the user's finger and variable electrode 18 can electrically
connect to each other via the thin metal plate.
[0085] Further, with input device 3000, in the non-manipulation
state where no rotary manipulation is performed, variable electrode
18 is not in contact with fixed electrodes 13. Accordingly, touch
panel 31 can easily detect the position of variable electrode 18.
That is, a rotary manipulation is stably detected. In the
following, the reason thereof and others are described in
detail.
[0086] In general, with a touch panel of the capacitance scheme,
the absolute value of capacitance changes over time due to
variations in temperature or the like, even in the non-manipulation
state. Accordingly, with a touch panel device of the capacitance
scheme, a reference value that changes in accordance with
variations in capacitance over time is set. Thus, performing
calibration and determining the amount of change in capacitance
from the predetermined reference value reduces the influence of
variations in capacitance over time.
[0087] The reference value is determined by an electronic circuit
or the like mounted on the touch panel device, and preferably
updated constantly in order to reduce the influence of temperature
variations.
[0088] Such a reference value is set based on, for example, the
absolute value of capacitance which is measured when the power
supply of the touch panel device is turned ON. After the power
supply is turned ON, the reference value is set based on the
absolute value of capacitance which is measured every predetermined
time in the state where any manipulator such as the user's finger
or an electrically conductive body is not in contact with or in
close proximity to the upper surface of the touch panel. Then, the
reference value is stored in memory inside the electronic circuit,
and updated from an old reference value to a new reference
value.
[0089] Note that, measures are taken for errors. For example, in
the case where the absolute value of the measured capacitance
deviates from a predetermined set range, the measurement result is
determined as abnormal value and such value is not employed as the
reference value.
[0090] When capacitance is measured for calibration in the state
where, after the power supply is turned ON, a manipulator such as
the user's finger or any foreign object such as an electrically
conductive body is in contact with or in close proximity to the
upper surface of the touch panel, the capacitance value may largely
deviate from the normal value because of the foreign object being
in contact or in close proximity. In this case, the measured
capacitance value deviates from the predetermined set range.
Accordingly, control is exerted such that the measured capacitance
value is not set as the reference value, and calibration is
correctly performed by again performing measurement, for
example.
[0091] However, a touch panel device of the general capacitance
scheme is designed on the premise that, in the non-manipulation
state, any conductive manipulator such as the user's finger or
other foreign object is not in close proximity to the upper surface
of the touch panel. Accordingly, with a touch panel device of the
general capacitance scheme, when the power supply is switched from
OFF to ON in the state where a manipulator such as the user's
finger or a foreign object such as an electrically conductive body
is in contact with or in close proximity to the upper surface of
the touch panel, the absolute value of capacitance influenced by
the manipulator such as the user's finger or the foreign object
such as an electrically conductive body is disadvantageously set as
the reference value.
[0092] On the other hand, with input device 3000, rotary
manipulation unit 1000 is always placed on the upper surface of
touch panel unit 2000. Accordingly, despite the above-described
setting of the reference value being performed in the state where
rotary manipulation unit 1000 is always in close proximity to the
upper surface of touch pane 31, calibration of touch panel 31 must
be correctly performed with reduced electrical influence of rotary
manipulation unit 1000.
[0093] In order to cope with such a problem, input device 3000 is
structured such that variable electrode 18 is in contact with none
of fixed electrodes 13 in the non-manipulation state. This is
described in detail in the following.
[0094] For the sake of convenience, it is assumed that variable
electrode 18 is in contact with fixed electrode 13A in the
non-manipulation state. In this case, capacitance between fixed
electrode 13A and sensor electrode 32A, which is influenced by
variable electrode 18 and rotary manipulation knob 23, is greater
than capacitance between other fixed electrodes 13 with which
variable electrode 18 is not in contact and sensor electrodes 32
opposing to such fixed electrodes 13.
[0095] When calibration is performed in this state, as to the set
reference value, just the reference value of sensor electrode 32A
becomes higher than the reference value of other sensor electrodes
32. That is, the sensitivity of sensor electrode 32A becomes lower
than the sensitivity of other sensor electrodes 32. Thus,
sensitivity becomes non-uniform, and stable detection of a rotary
manipulation becomes difficult.
[0096] However, input device 3000 is structured such that variable
electrode 18 is not in contact with none of fixed electrodes 13 in
the non-manipulation state. Accordingly, under the uniform
condition, that is, none of fixed electrodes 13 are in contact with
variable electrode 18, calibration can be performed with all sensor
electrodes 32 opposing to fixed electrodes 13. That is, calibration
can be performed in the state where variable electrode 18 and
rotary manipulation knob 23 are not prone to electrically influence
sensor electrodes 32. Accordingly, without reducing the sensitivity
of sensor electrodes 32 and while reducing variations in
sensitivity, a rotary manipulation can be stably detected.
[0097] Next, a description will be given of an operation of input
device 3000 by a press manipulation. When the user presses downward
the upper surface of pressing body 25 with his/her finger or the
like, elastic bodies 21 buckling deform with steps, and pressing
portions 25A of pressing body 25 are brought into contact with the
upper surface of connecting electrodes 22. Here, the user's finger
and connecting electrodes 22 are electrically connected to each
other via pressing body 25. This increases capacitance between
connecting electrodes 22 and sensor electrodes 33. By a not-shown
electronic circuit detecting the change in capacitance, the press
manipulation is detected. Note that, when the press manipulation is
cancelled, the contact between pressing portions 25A and connecting
electrodes 22 is cancelled and elastic bodies 21 recover the
original shape.
[0098] Note that, in the above-described press manipulation,
alternative to the user's finger and connecting electrodes 22 being
electrically connected to each other in terms of direct-current
components, they may be electrically connected to each other in
terms of alternating-current components. That is, even when the
upper surface of pressing body 25 is covered with a film-like
insulating body by anodizing of aluminum or insulating resin, a
press manipulation can be detected in the above-described manner by
the user's finger and pressing body 25 being electrically connected
to each other with full capacitive coupling via the insulating
body.
[0099] Further, it is just required that the user's finger and
connecting electrodes 22 are electrically connected to each other
via pressing body 25. Therefore, for example, pressing body 25 may
be structured by a resin molded body, and an electrically
conductive portion formed by electroplating at the predetermined
surface position of the resin molded body. Further, pressing body
25 may be formed by insert molding of a thin metal plate processed
to have a predetermined shape. In this case, pressing body 25
should be structured such that the user's finger and connecting
electrodes 22 can electrically connect to each other via the thin
metal plate.
[0100] Note that, lower casing 11 may be formed by a
light-transmissive resin material such as polycarbonate, and fixed
electrodes 13 may be formed with transparent electrodes such as
ITO. In this case, lower casing 11 is a second base member which is
light-transmissive and retains fixed electrodes 13. Then, when
holder 19, rotary body 16, rotary manipulation knob 23, and
pressing body 25 are made of a light-transmissive resin material
such as polycarbonate, the entire rotary manipulation unit 1000 can
be illuminated by light emitted from beneath lower casing 11.
[0101] Note that, in the foregoing description, a rotary
manipulation is detected using capacitance generated between fixed
electrodes 13 and sensor electrodes 32. However, an electrical
change may be detected by other structure. For example, a rotary
manipulation may be detected by detecting a change in impedance
such as inductance generated by the user's finger touching rotary
manipulation knob 23. The same holds true for detection of a press
manipulation. That is, an electrical change occurring between
connecting electrodes 22 and sensor electrodes 33 should be
detected, and the method therefor is not limited to detection of a
change in capacitance. The same holds true for second to fourth
exemplary embodiments which will be described later.
[0102] Note that, input device 3000 has rotary manipulation unit
1000 disposed on touch panel 31, sensor electrodes 32 forming pairs
with fixed electrodes 13, and sensor electrodes 33 forming pairs
with connecting electrodes 22. However, in structuring the input
device, it is not essential for rotary manipulation unit 1000 to be
disposed on touch panel 31. Further, it is not essential for sensor
electrodes to be transparent.
[0103] That is, the input device may be structured by disposing
rotary manipulation unit 1000 on a wiring substrate such as a
printed circuit board which has a plurality of fixed electrodes
being exposed in a predetermined pattern on a plate-like base
member made of epoxy resin or the like.
Second Exemplary Embodiment
[0104] In the first exemplary embodiment, a description has been
given of input device 3000 of the absolute scheme in which a
rotation angle position of variable electrode 18 is detected by
sensor electrodes 33. In the following, a description will be given
of input device 3001 of the increment scheme according to a second
exemplary embodiment of the present invention and the structure of
electrodes of rotary manipulation unit 1001 used therefor.
[0105] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of input device 3001.
Input device 3001 has rotary manipulation unit 1001, and touch
panel unit 2001 equipped with rotary manipulation unit 1001. Note
that, structures identical to those in the first exemplary
embodiment are denoted by identical reference characters, and a
description will be mainly given of the difference from the first
exemplary embodiment.
[0106] Firstly, with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, a description
will be given of rotary manipulation unit 1001. FIG. 10 is an
exploded perspective view of rotary manipulation unit 1001. FIG. 11
shows the relationship between contact pattern 51A of wiring
substrate 51 of rotary manipulation unit 1001 and contacts 53A, 54A
of fixed electrodes 53, 54, respectively.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 10, similarly to rotary manipulation unit
1000 according to the first exemplary embodiment, rotary
manipulation unit 1001 has lower casing 11, rotary body 16, click
spring 120, holder 19, connecting electrodes 22, elastic bodies 21,
first connecting terminal 24, rotary manipulation knob 23, and
pressing body 25. Unless otherwise described, these components are
similar to those of rotary manipulation unit 1000. In place of
variable electrode 18 and fixed electrodes 13 of rotary
manipulation unit 1000, rotary manipulation unit 1001 has second
connecting terminal 58, fixed electrodes 53, 54, and wiring
substrate 51.
[0108] In rotary manipulation unit 1001, wiring substrate 51
rotationally shifts in accordance with a rotary manipulation of
rotary manipulation knob 23, and contact pattern 51A at the lower
surface of wiring substrate 51 is brought into contact with or
spaced apart from fixed electrodes 53, 54.
[0109] As described above, at the lower surface of the outer
circumferential portion of rotary body 16, second connecting
terminal 58 is fixed in place of variable electrode 18. Further, at
the lower surface of the outer circumferential portion of rotary
body 16, wiring substrate 51 formed to have an annular plate shape
is fixed. Accordingly, wiring substrate 51 rotates together with
rotary body 16.
[0110] Second connecting terminal 58 is formed by a thin elastic
metal plate which is bent to be L-shaped. At the tip of one side of
the L shape, contact 58A is formed. Other side structures fixing
portion 58B which projects upward in a predetermined width. By
fixing portion 58B being press-fitted into insert portion 16B
provided at rotary body 16, second connecting terminal 58 is fixed
to the lower surface of the outer circumferential portion of rotary
body 16. By first connecting terminal 24 being elastically in
contact with fixing portion 58B of second connecting terminal 58,
second connecting terminal 58 and rotary manipulation knob 23 are
electrically connected to each other.
[0111] As shown in FIG. 11, at the lower surface of wiring
substrate 51, contact pattern 51A formed into a predetermined
pattern is formed. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10, at the
upper surface of wiring substrate 51, connection land 51B is
provided. Connection land 51B and contact pattern 51A are
electrically connected to each other. By contact 58A of second
connecting terminal 58 being elastically in contact with connection
land 51B, contact pattern 51A is electrically connected with rotary
manipulation knob 23 via second connecting terminal 58 and first
connecting terminal 24. Note that, as shown in FIG. 11, at the
lower surface of wiring substrate 51, the regions other than
contact pattern 51A structure insulating surfaces 51C.
[0112] As described above, at lower casing 11, two fixed electrodes
53, 54 are disposed in place of fixed electrodes 13. Fixed
electrodes 53, 54 are each made of a thin metal plate and formed to
be sector-shaped as seen in a top view. Fixed electrodes 53, 54 are
each greater in area as seen in a top view than each fixed
electrode 13. Fixed electrodes 53, 54 are respectively provided
with contacts 53A, 54A which extend upward. In accordance with the
rotary manipulation of rotary manipulation knob 23, contacts 53A,
54A are brought into contact with or spaced apart from contact
pattern 51A of wiring substrate 51.
[0113] The sign "double circle" in FIG. 11 schematically represents
the disposition position of contact 53A. Contact 53A is in contact
with the lower surface of wiring substrate 51 at the position of
the sign "double circle". Contact 53A slides on concentric track
T11 in accordance with the rotational movement of rotary body 16.
Similarly,the sign "cross" schematically represents the disposition
position of contact 54A. Contact 54A is in contact with the lower
surface of wiring substrate 51 at the position of the sign "cross".
Contact 54A slides on concentric track T12 in accordance with the
rotational movement of rotary body 16.
[0114] Next, with reference also to FIG. 12, a description will be
given of touch panel 61 of touch panel unit 2001. FIG. 12 is a top
view showing the disposition pattern of sensor electrodes 33, 62A,
62B of touch panel 61.
[0115] With touch panel 61, in place of sensor electrodes 32,
sensor electrodes 62A, 62B are disposed at the upper surface of
first base member 31A. Sensor electrode 62A has a shape
substantially identical to that of fixed electrode 53 as seen in a
top view, and disposed at the position opposing to fixed electrode
53. Sensor electrode 62B has a shape substantially identical to
that of fixed electrode 54 as seen in a top view, and disposed at
the position opposing to fixed electrode 54. Note that, to sensor
electrodes 62A, 62B, not-shown leads are respectively connected, so
that sensor electrodes 62A, 62B are connected to a not-shown
predetermined electronic circuit. Further, sensor electrodes 62A,
62B are formed to be transparent by ITO or the like. Note that,
sensor electrodes 62A, 62B are not necessarily transparent, and may
each be a thin metal film formed through vapor deposition or the
like. Further, sensor electrodes 62A, 62B may be respectively
structured by at least one transmitter electrode and at least one
receiver electrode.
[0116] With input device 3001 structured as described above, a
rotary manipulation of rotary manipulation knob 23 causes contact
53A to be brought into contact with or spaced apart from contact
pattern 51A of wiring substrate 51. Their being brought into
contact with or spaced apart changes capacitance between fixed
electrode 53 and sensor electrode 62A. A not-shown electronic
circuit detects this change in capacitance as signal A. Similarly,
by the rotary manipulation of rotary manipulation knob 23, contact
54A is brought into contact with or spaced apart from contact
pattern 51A. Their being brought into contact with or spaced apart
changes capacitance between fixed electrode 54 and sensor electrode
62B. The electronic circuit detects this change in capacitance as
signal B.
[0117] That is, with input device 3001, based on detecting a change
in capacitance generated between fixed electrodes 53, 54 of rotary
manipulation unit 1001 and sensor electrodes 62A, 62B of touch
panel unit 2001, a rotary manipulation of rotary manipulation unit
1001 is detected. As described above, input device 3001 has sensor
electrodes 62A, 62B being the first electrode, fixed electrodes 53,
54 being the second electrode, and contact pattern 51A being the
third electrode. Fixed electrodes 53, 54 oppose to sensor
electrodes 62A, 62B while being spaced apart therefrom. Contact
pattern 51A is spaced apart from sensor electrodes 62A, 62B, and
rotatably provided relative to fixed electrodes 53, 54. By contact
pattern 51A being brought into electrical contact with or spaced
apart from fixed electrodes 53, 54, an electrical state between
sensor electrodes 62A, 62B and fixed electrodes 53, 54 changes.
Based on this electrical change, a rotary manipulation can be
detected.
[0118] Contact pattern 51A formed at the lower surface of wiring
substrate 51 is a contact pattern for an encoder of the increment
scheme. The shape of contact pattern 51A provides a predetermined
phase difference, upon a rotary manipulation of rotary manipulation
knob 23, between contact 53A and contact pattern 51A being brought
into contact with or spaced apart from each other, and contact 54A
and contact pattern 51A being brought into contact with or spaced
apart from each other.
[0119] That is, the above-described signal A and signal B are
output signals of the increment scheme. By an electronic circuit
processing signal A and signal B, a rotary manipulation
corresponding to the rotating direction or the rotary shift amount
of rotary manipulation knob 23 can be detected.
[0120] In this structure also, since fixed electrodes 53, 54 do not
shift relative to sensor electrodes 62A, 62B, variations in the
clearance between fixed electrodes 53, 54 and sensor electrodes
62A, 62B are suppressed. Thus, capacitance generated between fixed
electrode 53 and sensor electrode 62A, and that between fixed
electrode 54 and sensor electrode 62B change always similarly in
accordance with a certain rotary manipulation.
[0121] Further, since sensor electrodes 62A, 62B are each greater
in area than each sensor electrode 32, higher detection sensitivity
is obtained.
[0122] Note that, similarly to rotary manipulation unit 1000, with
rotary manipulation unit 1001 also, contacts 53A, 54A are in
contact with insulating surface 51C in the non-manipulation state.
That is, contact pattern 51A and fixed electrodes 53, 54 are not
brought into contact with each other in the non-manipulation
state.
[0123] Accordingly, under the uniform condition, that is, none of
fixed electrodes 53, 54 are in contact with contact pattern 51A,
sensor electrodes 62A, 62B opposing to fixed electrodes 53, 54 can
be calibrated. That is, calibration can be performed in the state
where contact pattern 51A of wiring substrate 51 and rotary
manipulation knob 23 are not prone to electrically influence sensor
electrodes 62A, 62B.
[0124] Thus, without reducing the sensitivity of sensor electrodes
62A, 62B while suppressing variations in sensitivity, a rotary
manipulation can be stably detected.
Third Exemplary Embodiment
[0125] Next, a description will be given of input device 3002 of
the increment scheme according to a third exemplary embodiment of
the present invention. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of
input device 3002. Input device 3002 has rotary manipulation unit
1002, and touch panel unit 2002 equipped with rotary manipulation
unit 1002. Touch panel unit 2002 has touch panel 160, and cover
panel 170 made of transparent resin and stacked on the upper
surface of touch panel 160.
[0126] Firstly with reference to FIGS. 14 to 18, a description will
be given of rotary manipulation unit 1002. FIG. 14 is an exploded
perspective view of rotary manipulation unit 1002. FIG. 15 is a
perspective view of lower casing 111 of rotary manipulation unit
1002. FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of lower casing 111.
FIG. 17 is a bottom view of lower casing 111. FIG. 18 shows the
relationship between contact pattern 115A of wiring substrate 115
of rotary manipulation unit 1002 and contacts 141A to 143A.
[0127] As shown in FIG. 14, rotary manipulation unit 1002 has lower
casing 111, first switch electrode 112, second switch electrode
113, elastic bodies 114, wiring substrate 115, rotary body 116,
rotary manipulation knob 118, holder 119, click spring 120, and
pressing body 121. As shown in FIG. 16, lower casing 111 includes
resin portion 130, fixed electrode 141, fixed electrode 142, fixed
electrode 143, and fixed electrode 144.
[0128] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, resin portion 130 made of
insulating resin is provided with a concavity which opens upward.
Resin portion 130 is circular as seen in a top view. To the lower
surface of resin portion 130, fixed electrodes 141 to 144 are
fixed. At the center of the concavity of resin portion 130, four
pillars 111A extending upward and two recesses 111B are provided.
Further, at resin portion 130, at the upper surface of the
concavity outer than pillars 111A, four holes 131 to 134 are
provided.
[0129] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, fixed electrodes 141 to 144 are
each made of a thin metal plate which is sector-shaped as seen in a
top view, and are substantially identical in shape as seen in a top
view. Fixed electrodes 141 to 144 respectively have hook portions
141B to 144B which are each U-shaped projecting upward. Further,
fixed electrodes 141 to 144 are each provided with projection 145
which projects upward in a predetermined width. Fixed electrodes
141 to 144 are fixed to the lower surface of resin portion 130 by
hook portions 141B to 144B and projections 145. Specifically, hook
portions 141B to 144B respectively engage with engaging portions
146 provided at the outer circumference of resin portion 130, and
projections 145 respectively engage with engaging holes (not shown)
provided at the lower surface of resin portion 130. Thus, fixed
electrodes 141 to 144 are exposed at the lower surface of lower
casing 111.
[0130] Further, fixed electrodes 141 to 143 are respectively
provided with contacts 141A to 143A which project upward. Contacts
141A to 143A project higher than the concavity of resin portion 130
through holes 131 to 133 of resin portion 130. Contacts 141A to
143A are in contact with the lower surface of wiring substrate 115
shown in FIGS. 14 and 18. Fixed electrode 144 is partially exposed
at hole 134 of resin portion 130.
[0131] As shown in FIG. 14, first switch electrode 112 is a thin
metal plate formed to have a predetermined shape. First switch
electrode 112 has contact 112A which is bent downward, and two
contact portions 112B which are each circular as seen in a top view
and project slightly upward. First switch electrode 112 is mounted
on the upper surface of the concavity of lower casing 111. Contact
112A is in contact with contact 143A of fixed electrode 143 exposed
at hole 133. Two contact portions 112B are respectively housed in
two recesses 111B.
[0132] Similarly, second switch electrode 113 is a thin metal plate
formed to have a predetermined shape. Second switch electrode 113
has contact 113A which is bent downward, and two contact portions
113B which are each circular as seen in a top view and project
slightly downward. Second switch electrode 113 is also mounted on
the upper surface of the concavity of lower casing 111. Contact
113A is in contact with fixed electrode 144 exposed at hole 134.
Two contact portions 113B are respectively housed in two recesses
111B. Note that, contact portions 112B of first switch electrode
112 and contact portions 113B of second switch electrode 113 oppose
to each other while being spaced apart from each other by a
predetermined gap. That is, first switch electrode 112 and second
switch electrode 113 are not in contact with each other.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 14, elastic bodies 114 made of rubber each
have a shape of truncated cone whose bottom side is open. Elastic
bodies 114 have their bottom portions housed in recesses 111B of
lower casing 111, respectively. Elastic bodies 114, first switch
electrode 112, and second switch electrode 113 form a push button.
That is, when the user pushes pressing body 121, pressing portions
121A push elastic bodies 114, whereby elastic bodies 114 buckling
deform with steps downward. Thus, contact portions 112B of first
switch electrode 112 and contact portions 113B of second switch
electrode 113 are brought into contact with each other. In other
words, fixed electrode 143 and fixed electrode 144 are electrically
connected to each other via first switch electrode 112 and second
switch electrode 113.
[0134] Holder 119 made of insulating resin is circular as seen in a
top view. Holder 119 has bottomed cylinder 119A and flange 119B
which annularly projects in the outer diameter direction from the
top of cylinder 119A. At the lower surface of flange 119B, click
spring 120 made of elastic metal and annular as seen in a top view
is swaged.
[0135] At the bottom surface of holder 119, swage holes 119D are
provided. By pillars 111A of lower casing 111 being respectively
inserted into swage holes 119D and having their tips swaged, holder
119 is fixed to lower casing 111.
[0136] At the bottom surface of holder 119, button mounting
portions 119C, which are each a circular through hole slightly
smaller than the bottom portion of elastic body 114, are formed.
Elastic bodies 114 are inserted into button mounting portions 119C
and thereby retained by holder 119.
[0137] Rotary body 116 made of insulating resin is provided with
central hole 116A, and formed to be annular as seen in a top view.
Cylinder 119A of holder 119 is inserted into central hole 116A of
rotary body 116. Accordingly, rotary body 116 is rotatably fixed
relative to holder 119. Over the entire inner circumference of
rotary body 116, concavity-convexity portion 117 having concavities
and convexities on the upper side is provided. In
concavity-convexity portion 117, convexities 117A projecting upward
and concavities 117B recessed downward are alternately formed.
Projections 120A of click spring 120 are elastically in contact
with the upper surface of concavity-convexity portion 117 of rotary
body 116. Thus, when the user rotates rotary body 116, a click step
corresponding to a predetermined rotation angle is obtained. As
described above, the relationship among holder 119, click spring
120, and rotary body 116 is similar to that among holder 19, click
spring 120, and rotary body 16 according to the first exemplary
embodiment.
[0138] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 18, wiring substrate 115 is annular
as seen in a top view. At the lower surface of wiring substrate
115, contact pattern 115A which is a conductive region having a
predetermined pattern is formed. Note that, the regions other than
contact pattern 115A structure insulating surfaces 115C being
insulating regions. Wiring substrate 115 is fixed to the lower
surface of the outer circumferential portion of rotary body 116,
and rotates together with rotary body 116. Contacts 141A to 143A
are elastically in contact with the lower surface of wiring
substrate 115
[0139] The sign "double circle" shown in FIG. 18 schematically
represents the disposition positions of contacts 141A to 143A.
Contacts 141A to 143A are in contact with the lower surface of
wiring substrate 115 at the positions of the sign "double circle".
Contact 141A of fixed electrode 141 and contact 142A of fixed
electrode 142 slide on concentric track T22 in accordance with a
rotational movement of rotary body 116. As shown in FIGS. 17 and
18, contact 141A is disposed at the angular position where
predetermined phase difference (.theta.) is established relative to
contact 142A. This provides a predetermined phase difference, upon
a rotation of rotary body 116, between contact pattern 115A and
contact 141A being brought into contact with or spaced apart from
each other, and contact pattern 115A and contact 142A being brought
into contact with or spaced apart from each other. On the other
hand, contact 143A of fixed electrode 143 slides on concentric
track T21 in accordance with a rotational movement of rotary body
116. Since contact pattern 115A is formed over the entire track
T21, contact pattern 115A and contact 143A are always in contact
with each other irrespective of the rotational movement of rotary
body 116.
[0140] As shown in FIG. 14, rotary manipulation knob 118 made of
resin is annular as seen in a top view. Rotary manipulation knob
118 is fixed to rotary body 116 and rotates together with rotary
body 116.
[0141] Pressing body 121 made of resin is circular as seen in a top
view, and has pressing portions 121A which project downward.
Pressing body 121 is vertically movably fixed inside holder 119.
Pressing portions 121A of pressing body 121 have their respective
lower surfaces abutted on the upper surfaces of elastic bodies
114.
[0142] Rotary manipulation unit 1002 is structured in the
above-described manner. Fixed electrodes 141 to 144 of rotary
manipulation unit 1002 oppose to the upper surface of touch panel
160 of touch panel unit 2002.
[0143] Next, with reference to FIGS. 13, 19, and 20, a description
will be given of touch panel unit 2002. FIG. 19 is a top view
showing the disposition pattern of sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164
of touch panel 160 in touch panel unit 2002. FIG. 20 is a
cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 19.
[0144] As shown in FIG. 19, touch panel 160 has first base member
31A, sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164, and ground electrode 163.
Sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164 are formed at the positions
opposing to the lower surfaces of fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144,
respectively. Ground electrode 163 is formed at the position
opposing to the lower surface of fixed electrode 143. Note that, to
sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164, not-shown leads are respectively
connected, so that sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164 are connected to
a not-shown predetermined electronic circuit. Further, to ground
electrode 163, a not-shown lead is connected, so that ground
electrode 163 is connected to ground potential of the electronic
circuit.
[0145] Touch panel 160 is of the capacitance scheme. That is, touch
panel 160 detects a change in capacitance formed between
electrically conductive bodies (fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144) in
contact with or in close proximity to its upper surface and sensor
electrodes 161, 162, 164. That is, touch panel 160 is just required
to be capable of detecting a change in capacitance, and therefore
it may be of the self capacitance type or the mutual capacitance
type. Further, touch panel 160 may be surface capacitive or
projected capacitive. Note that, in the following description, a
description will be exemplarily given of touch panel 160 of the
mutual capacitance type.
[0146] As shown in FIG. 19, in touch panel 160, sensor electrode
161 is structured by a pair of transmitter electrode 161A and
receiver electrode 161B. Similarly, sensor electrode 162 is
structured by a pair of transmitter electrode 162A and receiver
electrode 162B. Sensor electrode 1.64 is structured by a pair of
transmitter electrode 164A and receiver electrode 164B. Note that,
in FIG. 19, receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B are hatched.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 20, receiver electrode 161B is disposed at
the upper surface of first base member 31A (the surface opposing to
fixed electrode 141), and transmitter electrode 161A is disposed at
the lower surface of first base member 31A. Note that, while not
shown in the drawing, in sensor electrodes 162, 164 also, receiver
electrodes 162B, 164B are disposed at the upper surface of first
base member 31A, and transmitter electrodes 162A, 164B are disposed
at the lower surface of first base member 31A. Note that, while not
shown in the drawing, ground electrode 163 is disposed at the upper
surface of first base member 31A (the surface opposing to fixed
electrode 143).
[0148] Next, a description will be given of the shape of sensor
electrodes 161, 162, 164 and ground electrode 163.
[0149] Transmitter electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A are sector-shaped as
seen in a top view, and substantially identical to the shape of
fixed electrodes 141 to 144 as seen in a top view. The outer edge
of each of receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B is formed to be
sector-shaped as seen in a top view. Receiver electrodes 161B,
162B, 164B are annular. Note that, outer edges of receiver
electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B are formed inner than the outer edges
of transmitter electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A, respectively. This
structure reduces the influence of electrical noises occurring from
the lower surface side of touch panel 160 on sensor electrodes 161,
162, 164.
[0150] In brief, for example when touch panel 160 is mounted on a
liquid crystal panel or the like, electromagnetic wave noises
occurring from the liquid crystal panel or the like are emitted
from the lower surface of touch panel 160 to the upper surface
thereof. Further, receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B are
susceptible to electromagnetic wave noises as compared to
transmitter electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A. In the present embodiment,
receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B are smaller than transmitter
electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A. Accordingly, with touch panel 160, the
electromagnetic wave noises are blocked by transmitter electrodes
161A, 162A, 164A. Therefore, electromagnetic wave noises are not
prone to enter receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B. In other
words, transmitter electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A are capable of
protecting receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B which are
susceptible to electromagnetic wave noises. This prevents a
reduction in detection sensitivity of sensor electrodes 161, 162,
164 due to electromagnetic wave noises.
[0151] Note that, the shape of fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144 as
seen in a top view may be smaller than that of sensor electrodes
161, 162, 164. For example, fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144 may be
smaller than the inner edge of receiver electrodes 161B, 162B,
164B, and fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144 may oppose to just
transmitter electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A. In this case also, since
fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144 and sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164
(receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B) oppose to each other, a
rotary manipulation can be detected. Further, the shape of fixed
electrodes 141, 142, 144 as seen in a top view may be greater than
that of sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164.
[0152] Ground electrode 163 is sector-shaped as seen in a top view,
and is substantially identical to the shape of fixed electrode 143
as seen in a top view.
[0153] Sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164 and ground electrode 163 are
formed to be transparent by ITO or the like. Further, sensor
electrodes 161, 162, 164 and ground electrode 163 may each be a
thin metal film formed through vapor deposition or the like.
Further, while it has been described that transmitter electrodes
161A, 162A, 164A and receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B are
formed on different planes, they may be formed on an identical
plane. It is just required that each of transmitter electrodes
161A, 162A, 164A and each of receiver electrodes 161B, 162B, 164B
is electrically independent. For example, transmitter electrodes
being comb-like as seen in a top view and receiver electrodes being
comb-like as seen in a top view may be formed on an identical
plane.
[0154] Input device 3002 is structured as described above. Next, a
description will be given of an operation of input device 3002 upon
a rotary manipulation.
[0155] Since fixed electrode 143 opposes to ground electrode 163 of
touch panel 160 in close proximity, fixed electrode 143 and ground
electrode 163 are largely capacitively coupled with each other. In
other words, fixed electrode 143 and ground electrode 163 are
electrically connected to each other in terms of
alternating-current components.
[0156] When the user rotationally manipulates rotary manipulation
knob 118, contacts 141A, 142A are brought into contact with or
spaced apart from contact pattern 115A of wiring substrate 115.
Since contact 143A is always in contact with contact pattern 115A,
for example, when contact 141A is brought into contact with contact
pattern 115A, fixed electrode 141 and fixed electrode 143 are
electrically connected to each other. As a result, fixed electrode
141 is electrically connected to ground electrode 163, whereby the
electrical state of fixed electrode 141 changes. Thus, capacitance
between fixed electrode 141 and sensor electrode 161 changes. In
this manner, a change in the electrical state of fixed electrode
141 disposed in close proximity to sensor electrode 161 changes
capacitance (capacitive coupling) formed between transmitter
electrode 161A and receiver electrode 161B. A not-shown electronic
circuit detects this change in capacitance as signal A.
[0157] Similarly, by contact 142A being brought into contact with
or spaced apart from contact pattern 115A upon a rotary
manipulation, capacitance between fixed electrode 142 and sensor
electrode 162 changes. That is, the electrical state of fixed
electrode 142 disposed near sensor electrode 162 changes.
Accordingly, capacitance (capacitive coupling) formed between
transmitter electrode 162A and receiver electrode 162B changes. The
electronic circuit detects this change in capacitance as signal
B.
[0158] As shown in FIG. 18, a plurality of insulating surfaces 115C
formed on track T22 of wiring substrate 115 are disposed at equal
angular intervals. That is, on track T22, contact patterns 115A are
disposed at equal angular intervals so that contact patterns 115A
and insulating surfaces 115C are alternately disposed. Contacts
141A, 142A slide on track T22. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, contact
141A is disposed at the angular position where predetermined phase
difference (.theta.) is established relative to contact 142A. This
provides a predetermined phase difference, upon a rotary
manipulation of rotary manipulation knob 118, between contact
pattern 115A and contact 141A being brought into contact with or
spaced apart from each other, and contact pattern 115A and contact
142A being brought into contact with or spaced apart from each
other. Thus, signal A and signal B become output signals of the
increment scheme having a predetermined phase difference. By an
electronic circuit processing signal A and signal B, a rotary
manipulation corresponding to the rotating direction or the rotary
shift amount of rotary manipulation knob 118 is detected.
[0159] That is, with input device 3002, wiring substrate 115 is
rotationally shifted in accordance with a rotary manipulation of
rotary manipulation unit 1002. In accordance with the rotary
manipulation, contact 141A of fixed electrode 141 and contact 142A
of fixed electrode 142 are brought into contact with or spaced
apart from contact pattern 115A at the lower surface of wiring
substrate 115 shown in FIG. 18. Input device 3002 detects a change
in capacitance between fixed electrodes 141, 142 of rotary
manipulation unit 1002 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 and sensor
electrodes 161, 162 of touch panel 160 shown in FIGS. 19 and 20,
thereby detecting the rotary manipulation of rotary manipulation
unit 1002. As has been described above, input device 3002 has
sensor electrodes 161, 162 being the first electrode, fixed
electrodes 141, 142 being the second electrode, and contact pattern
115A being the third electrode. Fixed electrodes 141, 142 oppose to
sensor electrodes 161, 162 while being spaced apart therefrom.
Contact pattern 115A is spaced apart from sensor electrodes 161,
162, and rotatably provided relative to fixed electrodes 141, 142.
By contact pattern 115A being brought into contact with or spaced
apart from fixed electrodes 141, 142, an electrical state between
sensor electrodes 161, 162 and fixed electrodes 141, 142 changes.
Based on this electrical change, a rotary manipulation can be
detected.
[0160] In this structure also, since fixed electrodes 141, 142 do
not shift relative to sensor electrodes 161, 162, variations in the
clearance between fixed electrodes 141, 142 and sensor electrodes
161, 162 are suppressed. Thus, capacitance generated between fixed
electrode 141 and sensor electrode 161, and that between fixed
electrode 142 and sensor electrode 162 change always similarly in
accordance with a certain rotary manipulation.
[0161] Further, as shown in FIG. 19, preferably sensor electrode
161 and sensor electrode 162 are formed line-symmetric so that one
corresponds to a mirror image of the other. This suppresses
variations in sensitivity of sensor electrode 161 and sensor
electrode 162. That is, variations in the output intensity of
signal A and signal B are suppressed, and therefore a rotary
manipulation can be stably detected. Further, by virtue of the
increased distance between sensor electrode 161 and sensor
electrode 162, mutual electrical influence can be suppressed. This
also suppresses variations in the output intensity of signal. A and
signal B.
[0162] Note that, similarly to rotary manipulation unit 1001, with
rotary manipulation unit 1002 also, contacts 141A, 142A are in
contact with insulating surfaces 115C in the non-manipulation
state. That is, in the non-manipulation state, none of fixed
electrodes 141, 142 are in contact with contact pattern 115A.
[0163] Accordingly, under the uniform condition, that is, none of
fixed electrodes 141, 142 are in contact with contact pattern 51A,
sensor electrodes 161, 162 can be calibrated. That is, calibration
can be performed in the state where contact pattern 115A of wiring
substrate 115 and fixed electrode 143 are not prone to electrically
influence sensor electrodes 161, 162. Thus, without reducing the
sensitivity of sensor electrodes 161, 162, and while suppressing
variations in sensitivity, a rotary manipulation can be stably
detected.
[0164] Next, a brief description will be given of an operation of
input device 3002 upon a press manipulation.
[0165] As described above, fixed electrode 143 and ground electrode
163 are largely capacitively coupled with each other, and hence are
electrically connected to each other in terms of
alternating-current components. When the user presses downward the
upper surface of pressing body 121 with his/her finger or the like,
elastic bodies 114 buckling deform with steps downward. Thus,
contact portions 112B of first switch electrode 112 and contact
portions 113B of second switch electrode 113 are brought into
contact with each other, and fixed electrode 143 and fixed
electrode 144 are electrically connected to each other.
Accordingly, fixed electrode 144 is electrically connected to
ground electrode 163 via second switch electrode 113, first switch
electrode 112, and fixed electrode 143, which changes an electrical
state of fixed electrode 144. This changes capacitance generated
between fixed electrode 144 and sensor electrode 164. In other
words, the electrical state of fixed electrode 144 disposed in
close proximity to sensor electrode 164 changes, and capacitance
(capacitive coupling) formed between transmitter electrode 164A and
receiver electrode 164B changes. By a not-shown electronic circuit
detecting this change in capacitance, the press manipulation is
detected. Note that, when the press manipulation is cancelled,
elastic bodies 114 recover the original shape, and contact between
first switch electrode 112 and second switch electrode 113 is
cancelled.
[0166] As has been described above, input device 3002 has ground
electrode 163 which is the fourth electrode electrically connected
to contact pattern 115A. When input device 3002 is rotationally
manipulated, in place of the user's finger, ground electrode 163 is
electrically connected to fixed electrode 141, and capacitance
between fixed electrode 141 and sensor electrode 161 changes.
Similarly, in place of the user's finger, ground electrode 163 is
electrically connected to fixed electrode 142, and capacitance
between fixed electrode 142 and sensor electrode 162 changes. Thus,
even when rotary manipulation knob 118 is made of resin and the
user's finger is not electrically connected to the fixed electrode,
the rotary manipulation can be detected. Further, when input device
3002 is pressingly manipulated, in place of the user's finger,
ground electrode 163 is electrically connected to fixed electrode
144, and capacitance between fixed electrode 144 and sensor
electrode 164 changes. Thus, even when pressing body 121 is made of
resin and the user's finger is not electrically connected to the
fixed electrode, the press manipulation can be detected.
[0167] In this manner, input device 3002 does not require an
electrical connection between the user's finger and the fixed
electrode as shown in first and second exemplary embodiments for
causing a change in capacitance. Accordingly, for example, when the
user wearing thick gloves manipulates input device 3002 also, the
rotary manipulation or the press manipulation can be easily
detected. That is, input device 3002 can stably detect a rotary
manipulation or a press manipulation regardless of the difference
in the manipulation situation attributed to the user such as
presence/absence of gloves. Note that, rotary manipulation knob 118
and pressing body 121 are not essentially made of resin. For
example, they may be made of metal similarly to rotary manipulation
knob 23 and pressing body 25.
[0168] Note that, with input device 3002, rotary manipulation knob
118 and fixed electrodes 141, 142 are not electrically connected to
each other. Accordingly, for example, when the user's finger or
other electrically conductive body inadvertently touches rotary
manipulation knob 118, capacitance is not prone to change. Thus,
with input device 3002, stable outputs with reduced noises can be
obtained from sensor electrodes 161, 162.
[0169] Note that, in the foregoing description, ground electrode
163 is connected to ground. However, it is not essential for the
potential of ground electrode 163 to be ground potential. For
example, so long as a potential difference exists between ground
electrode 163 and sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164 (transmitter
electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A), ground electrode 163 may be connected
to any reference potential. Further, such a reference potential may
be constant or variable. That is, a voltage being different from a
predetermined voltage applied to sensor electrodes 161, 162, 164
(transmitter electrodes 161A, 162A, 164A) may be applied to ground
electrode 163.
[0170] Note that, with rotary manipulation unit 1002, fixed
electrodes 141 to 144 are exposed at the lower surface of lower
casing 111. This reduces the distance between sensor electrodes
161, 162, 164 and fixed electrodes 141, 142, 144, whereby
electrical coupling between them increases. Similarly, the distance
between ground electrode 163 and fixed electrode 143 is reduced,
whereby electrical coupling between them increases. This increases
a change in capacitance, whereby a rotary manipulation or a press
manipulation can be stably detected.
[0171] As has been described above, input devices 3001, 3002
according to the second and third exemplary embodiments each have a
plurality of sensor electrodes and fixed electrodes. The annular
contact pattern being the third electrode being brought into
contact with or spaced apart from the fixed electrodes changes an
electrical state between the sensor electrodes and respective
opposing fixed electrodes so that a phase difference occurs.
Obtaining output signals of the increment scheme in this manner
enables to detect a rotary manipulation corresponding to the
rotating direction or the rotary shift amount of the rotary
manipulation knob.
Fourth Exemplary Embodiment
[0172] In the first to third exemplary embodiments, a description
has been given of the input device of the rotary manipulation type.
In a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a
description will be given of input device 3003 of the slide
manipulation type.
[0173] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of input device 3003.
Input device 3003 has slide manipulation portion 1003, and touch
panel unit 2003 equipped with slide manipulation portion 1003.
[0174] Slide manipulation portion 1003 has lower casing 73, a
plurality of fixed electrodes 73A, variable electrode 74, upper
casing 75, and slide manipulation knob 76. Further, slide
manipulation portion 1003 has a not-shown clicking mechanism. Note
that, similarly to that of rotary manipulation unit 1000, the
clicking mechanism may have projections of a click spring
elastically in contact with the upper surface of a
concavity-convexity portion, so that a click step can be obtained
corresponding to a predetermined shift amount upon a slide
manipulation.
[0175] More specifically, the clicking mechanism of slide
manipulation portion 1003 is structured by a concavity-convexity
portion having its position fixed relative to fixed electrodes 73A,
and a click spring having its position fixed relative to slide
manipulation knob 76. This concavity-convexity portion is linearly
disposed in the slide manipulation direction. On the upper surface
of the concavity-convexity portion, projections of the click spring
are elastically in contact. Thus, upon a slide manipulation, a
click step can be obtained corresponding to a predetermined shift
amount.
[0176] Touch panel unit 2003 has touch panel 71 and cover panel
72.
[0177] Touch panel 71 has first base member 71A, and a plurality of
sensor electrodes 71B which are linearly disposed at the upper
surface of first base member 71A. Sensor electrodes 71B are formed
to be transparent by ITO or the like. Note that, sensor electrodes
71B are not necessarily transparent, and may each be a thin metal
film formed through vapor deposition or the like. Further, sensor
electrodes 71B may be structured by at least one transmitter
electrode and at least one receiver electrode.
[0178] Fixed electrodes 73A disposed at the upper surface of lower
casing 73 each oppose to one of sensor electrodes 71B via lower
casing 73 and cover panel 72.
[0179] In this structure, when the user slidingly manipulates slide
manipulation knob 76 of slide manipulation portion 1003 in the
direction represented by arrow in FIG. 21, variable electrode 74
fixed to the lower portion of slide manipulation knob 76 linearly
shifts. Thus, contact 74A of variable electrode 74 is brought into
contact with or spaced apart from fixed electrodes 73A in
accordance with the shifted position of slide manipulation knob
76.
[0180] Variable electrode 74 is electrically connected to slide
manipulation knob 76. When the user's finger touches slide
manipulation knob 76, the user's finger and variable electrode 74
are electrically connected to each other.
[0181] Accordingly, when the user slidingly manipulates slide
manipulation knob 76 with his/her finger or the like, capacitance
between fixed electrode 73A brought into contact with variable
electrode 74 and sensor electrode 71B changes. By a not-shown
electronic circuit detecting this change in capacitance, input
device 3003 can detect the position of variable electrode 74. Based
on the detection, a device equipped with input device 3003 is
manipulated in accordance with the shifting direction or the shift
amount of slide manipulation knob 76.
[0182] In this structure, since fixed electrodes 73A do not shift
relative to sensor electrodes 71B, variations in the clearance
between fixed electrodes 73A and sensor electrodes 71B are
suppressed. Thus, capacitance generated between fixed electrodes
73A and sensor electrodes 71B changes always similarly in
accordance with a certain slide manipulation.
[0183] As has been described above, input device 3003 detects a
change in capacitance generated between fixed electrode 73A of
slide manipulation portion 1003 and sensor electrodes 71B of touch
panel unit 2003, thereby detects a slide manipulation. That is,
input device 3003 has sensor electrodes 71B being the first
electrode, fixed electrodes 73A being the second electrode, and
variable electrode 74 being the third electrode. Fixed electrodes
73A oppose to sensor electrodes 71B while being spaced apart
therefrom. Variable electrode 74 is spaced apart from sensor
electrodes 71B, and slidably provided relative to fixed electrodes
73A. By variable electrode 74 being brought into contact with or
spaced apart from fixed electrodes 73A, an electrical state between
sensor electrode 71B and fixed electrode 73A changes. Based on this
electrical change, a slide manipulation can be detected.
[0184] Note that, similarly to rotary manipulation units 1000,
1001, with slide manipulation portion 1003 also, the
above-described clicking mechanism is structured such that variable
electrode 74 and fixed electrodes 73A are not in contact with each
other in the non.-manipulation state. Accordingly, under the
uniform condition, that is, variable electrode 74 is in contact
with none of fixed electrodes 73A, all sensor electrodes 71B can be
calibrated. That is, calibration can be performed in the state
where variable electrode 74 and slide manipulation knob 76 are not
prone to electrically influence sensor electrodes 71B. Thus,
without reducing the sensitivity of sensor electrodes 71B, and
while suppressing variations in sensitivity; a slide manipulation
can be stably detected.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0185] The input device of the present invention is capable of
stably detecting a predetermined manipulation, and therefore is
useful as an input manipulation unit of various electronic
devices.
REFERENCE MARKS IN THE DRAWINGS
[0186] 11, 73, 111: lower casing
[0187] 11A, 111A: pillar
[0188] 11B, 111B: recess
[0189] 12: groove
[0190] 13, 13A, 13B, 53, 54, 73A, 141, 142, 143, 144: fixed
electrode
[0191] 14, 14A, 14B: resin surface
[0192] 16, 116: rotary body
[0193] 16A, 116A: central hole
[0194] 16B: insert portion
[0195] 17, 117: concavity-convexity portion
[0196] 17A, 117A: convexity
[0197] 17B, 117B: concavity
[0198] 18, 74: variable electrode
[0199] 18A, 53A, 54A, 58A, 74A, 112A, 113A, 141A, 142A, 143A:
contact
[0200] 18B, 58B: fixing portion
[0201] 19, 119: holder
[0202] 19A, 119A: cylinder
[0203] 19B, 119B: flange
[0204] 19C, 119C: button mounting portion
[0205] 191D, 1191D: swage hole
[0206] 21, 114: elastic body
[0207] 22: connecting electrode
[0208] 23, 118: rotary manipulation knob
[0209] 23A: insert groove
[0210] 24: first connecting terminal
[0211] 25, 121: pressing body
[0212] 25A, 121A: pressing portion
[0213] 31, 61, 71, 160: touch panel
[0214] 31A, 71A: first base member
[0215] 32, 32A, 32B, 33, 62A, 62B, 71B, 161, 162, 164: sensor
electrode
[0216] 41, 72, 170: cover panel
[0217] 51, 115: wiring substrate
[0218] 51A, 115A: contact pattern
[0219] 51B: connection land
[0220] 51C, 115C: insulating surface
[0221] 58: second connecting terminal
[0222] 75: upper casing
[0223] 76: slide manipulation knob
[0224] 112: first switch electrode
[0225] 112B, 113B: contact portions
[0226] 113: second switch electrode
[0227] 120: click spring
[0228] 120A: projection
[0229] 130: resin portion
[0230] 131, 132, 133, 134: hole
[0231] 141B, 142B, 143B, 144B: hook portion
[0232] 145: projection
[0233] 146: engaging portion
[0234] 161A, 162A, 164A: transmitter electrode
[0235] 161B, 162B, 164B: receiver electrode
[0236] 163: ground electrode
[0237] 1000, 1001, 1002: rotary manipulation unit
[0238] 1003: slide manipulation portion.
[0239] 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003: touch panel unit
[0240] 3000, 3001, 3002, 3003: input device
* * * * *