JP4747747B2 - INPUT DEVICE, ITS MANUFACTURING METHOD, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention provides an input device suitable for application to a digital camera, a mobile phone, a mobile terminal device, etc., which selects an icon from a display screen for selecting input items prepared in advance and inputs information. The present invention relates to a method and an electronic device. More specifically, a multi-side operation input sheet having a folded input sheet structure is provided, and a sheet-like input touch member for display surface operation and a sheet-like input touch for side operation are provided on a light-transmissive sheet-like flat member. The input input member for operating the display surface is attached to the display surface operation area of the casing, and the side input operation member is attached to the side operation area of the casing. The input touch member is attached so that the wiring member of the input sheet for multi-surface operation can be concentrated on a part of the position of the input touch member for display surface operation or the input touch member for side operation. And the installation space for wiring terminals and the like can be reduced.

  In recent years, users (operators) have taken various contents into portable electronic devices such as digital cameras, mobile phones, camcorders, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), and have come to use them. These electronic devices are provided with an input device. In many cases, a keyboard, an input means such as a JOG dial, a touch panel combined with a display unit, or the like is used as the input device. The touch panel uses a capacitance method or a resistance film method.

  The capacitive touch panel has a capacitive sheet under the input operation surface, detects the input position where the finger is touched on the input operation surface, and does not touch the finger. The state (non-contact) is discriminated. The resistance film type touch panel has a resistance adjustment film under the input operation surface. The input operation surface detects the input position where the finger is touched, and the touched state and the non-touched state of the finger ( Non-contact).

  Since the capacitive touch panel operates even when an input operation surface such as a casing is interposed between the capacitive sheet and the operator's finger, it is waterproof and excellent in design. Also, compared to a resistive film type touch panel, it has excellent durability because there is no mechanically moving part.

  More functions are mounted on a touch panel mounted on a display unit of a portable electronic device such as a digital camera, a mobile phone, a camcorder, or a PDA, and the display element has been continuously improved in performance. Along with this, the above-mentioned electronic device has a so-called “cursoring function” such as a notebook personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a notebook personal computer) or the like, in which a cursor on the screen is arbitrarily moved and the cursor is placed on an icon and determined. "Has been demanded.

  Such a request requires that two types of input operations, that is, an operation of “selecting” and an operation of “decision” can be detected separately. From the viewpoint of ergonomics, it is easy to think that the operation of selecting the former is directly connected to the operation of “tracing”, and the operation of determining the latter is “directing”.

  On the other hand, the switches arranged in the housing of electrical equipment are also equipped with more functions, and due to design requirements, the number of switches is reduced despite the increase in functions. There are many requests to reduce the level difference. Also in this input operation area, it is required that the operation of “tracing” such as a slide operation and the operation of “pushing” having the meaning of determination can be operated on the same plane.

  According to the electronic device equipped with these capacitive and resistive touch panels, display means is provided in the housing, and on the display area, a capacitive sheet and a resistive film sheet are provided. The mechanical switch is provided on the side surface of the housing independently of these capacitance sheet and resistance film sheet. As an example of a mechanical switch, for example, a dome-shaped metal plate is formed on the electrode pattern on the side of the housing, and when the user presses on the dome, the dome deforms and contacts the electrode pattern under the dome. By doing so, electrical switching is performed. At the same time, the so-called “koshi” of the metal plate when the dome is deformed causes a click feeling.

  In connection with an electronic device using this type of touch panel, Patent Document 1 discloses a touch panel input method. According to this input method, when an important item is selected, a strong touch operation is performed, and a simple selection operation is performed with a light touch operation. By doing so, it is possible to prevent an erroneous operation of the operator.

  Patent Document 2 discloses an imaging device including an external monitor and an electroviewfinder. According to this imaging apparatus, the electroviewfinder is operated to input a pointer that moves within the screen in conjunction with the operation of the touch panel and various operation commands such as shooting information that is designated and selected by the pointer. The area is displayed. Based on the operation of the touch panel, various operation commands related to the photographing information are input. In this way, an operating system dedicated to the electroviewfinder is not provided, and thus an increase in cost can be prevented.

  Patent Document 3 discloses an input device and an input method provided with a touch panel. According to this input method, when an input operation is to be performed by pressing on the touch panel, a part of the input screen to be input is separately displayed together with the input guide information together with the display body that indicates the user's instruction position. Made. In this way, visibility can be improved, input errors can be prevented, and operability can be improved.

  Patent Document 4 discloses a coordinate input device that can be input with a finger or a pen. According to this coordinate input device, the input / output integrated coordinate input device is configured by combining the capacitance pressure sensor and the display means. In this way, input information can be selected with a finger or a pen without using a dedicated electronic pen or the like and without generating electromagnetic noise.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 09-022330 (2nd page, FIG. 3) JP 2000-184241 A (2nd page, FIG. 2) JP 2004-021933 A (page 3 FIG. 3) JP 2000-347807 A (page 3 FIG. 5)

  By the way, according to a digital camera, a mobile phone, a mobile terminal device, or the like according to the conventional example, there are the following problems.

  i. Currently, the electronic device described above is required to realize a “trace” operation and a “push-in” operation on the same plane. However, in the conventional method, only one of the two operations described above can be realized by a human operation without any sense of incongruity. Incidentally, the touchpad of a notebook PC, etc., separates the above two functions by double-clicking etc., but from an ergonomic point of view, it must be said that the operation is uncomfortable.

  ii. Moreover, according to the portable terminal device with the two-dimensional input function which combined the touch panel of various methods and a display part which are seen by patent document 1-patent document 3, when selecting an icon in a display part, the selection At present, the input is not confirmed by the “push” operation at the position.

  iii. Note that it is conceivable to realize a “tracing” operation and a “pushing-in” operation on the same plane by combining a capacitance sheet and a mechanical tact switch as found in Patent Document 4. When such a mechanical tact switch is adopted, not only the apparatus is increased in size but also a design disadvantage is caused, and the operational feeling at the time of the “tracing” operation follows the mechanical switch. For this reason, an unintended uneven feeling is felt, which is not ergonomic.

  iv. Further, according to the mechanical switch that can be attached to the side surface of the housing, a light emitting diode (LED) may be used in combination for on / off confirmation. In this type of mechanical switch, the LED is disposed on the substrate outside the pressing operation axis, and therefore occupies a large part mounting space.

  v. In addition, a flexible wiring sheet (substrate) may be used for wiring between the capacitance sheet, the resistive film sheet, and the like and the control IC substrate, or between the mechanical switch and the IC substrate. Many. Therefore, three to four (strip) expensive flexible wirings must be installed between the sheet substrates, and the same number of connectors to be connected to them must be mounted. This complicates the wiring connection process at the time of assembly, increases the number of parts, and leads to an increase in the cost of the electronic device using the touch panel.

  Therefore, the present invention solves such a conventional problem, and it is possible to simplify the wiring connection process at the time of assembly, and to reduce the number of parts and reduce the size of the equipment. An object is to provide an apparatus, a manufacturing method thereof, and an electronic apparatus.

An input device according to the present invention includes a housing having a first operation region and a second surface operation region, and an input sheet for multi-surface operation attached to the first operation region and the second surface operation region of the housing. the provided, input sheet for multi operation, to form a sheet-like input touch member of the sheet-shaped input touch member for the first side operation to the light-permeable sheet-like flat member for the second side operation The unfolded input sheet is selectively bent, the input touch member for the first surface operation is attached to the first operation area of the housing, and the second surface operation for the second surface operation region of the housing. A resistance adjustment film for detecting the input position of the operating body in an input operation area that defines the X direction and the Y direction is provided on the entire surface of the resistance adjustment film. A transparent conductive film that transmits light and transmits this light. A dielectric film that is provided on the entire surface of the conductive film and transmits light, and the thickness in the Z direction changes in accordance with the pressing force of the operating body when the vertical direction with respect to the input operation area is the Z direction. It has.

  According to the input device of the present invention, since the input sheet for multi-surface operation has the input sheet folding structure, one of the input touch member for the first surface operation or the input touch member for the second surface operation. The wiring member of the input sheet for multi-face operation can be concentrated at the position of the part.

In the method for manufacturing an input device according to the present invention, a sheet-like input touch member for first surface operation and a sheet-like input touch member for second surface operation are formed on a light-transmissive sheet-like flat member. Forming a development input sheet for multi-face operation, forming a housing having a first operation area and a second face operation area for attaching the development input sheet, and selectively folding the development input sheet. bending attach the input touch member for the first side operation in the first operation region of the housing and, together with and a step of attaching the input touch member for the second side operating the second surface operating area of the housing The step of forming the unfolded input sheet includes a step of forming a resistance adjustment film for detecting the input position of the operating body in the input operation region defining the X direction and the Y direction, and a light beam on the entire surface of the resistance adjustment film. A transparent conductive film that penetrates In addition, when the light is transmitted through the entire surface of the transparent conductive film and the vertical direction with respect to the input operation area is the Z direction, the thickness in the Z direction changes in accordance with the pressing force of the operating body. Forming a conductive film.

  According to the input device manufacturing method of the present invention, a foldable unfolded input sheet for multi-surface operation can be formed from a single component, so that the input touch panel for the first surface operation and the second surface operation as in the conventional method can be formed. The number of manufacturing steps can be reduced as compared with the case where the input touch switch for use is composed of two separate and independent components.

The electronic device according to the present invention is arranged on the display unit and on the upper part of the display unit, detects the contact position of the operating body and outputs a position detection signal, and detects the pressing force of the operating body and detects the force detection signal. Bei example, input means and input means having a function of outputting comprises a housing having a first operating region and a second surface operating area, attached to the first operation area and a second surface operating area of the housing The input sheet for multi-surface operation includes a light-transmissive sheet-like flat member, a sheet-like input touch member for first surface operation, and a second-surface operation input sheet. The unfolded input sheet formed with the sheet-like input touch member is selectively bent, the input touch member for the first surface operation is attached to the first operation region of the casing, and the second of the casing An input screen in which an input touch member for second surface operation is attached to the surface operation region. Together with the door folding structures, the resistance adjusting layer that detects an input position of the operation body in the input operation area that defines the X and Y directions, a transparent conductive to transmit light provided on the entire surface of the resistance adjusting layer And a thickness in the Z direction corresponding to the pressing force of the operating body when the vertical direction with respect to the input operation area is the Z direction. And a dielectric film that changes.

  According to the electronic device according to the present invention, the input device according to the present invention is applied, so that the input touch member for the first surface operation or the input touch member for the second surface operation of the input means is located at a part of the position. Wiring members that transmit position detection signals, force detection signals, and the like of the input means can be concentrated.

  According to the input device of the present invention, it is provided with an input sheet for multi-surface operation having an input sheet folding structure, and this input sheet is formed in a sheet-like sheet for first-surface operation on a light-transmitting sheet-like flat member. The unfolded input sheet formed with the input touch member and the sheet-like input touch member for the second surface operation is selectively folded, and the input touch member for the first surface operation is provided in the first operation region of the casing. The input touch member for the second surface operation is attached to the second surface operation region of the housing.

  With this configuration, the wiring member of the input sheet for multi-surface operation can be concentrated on a part of the position of the input touch member for first surface operation or the input touch member for second surface operation. Therefore, compared with the case where the wiring member is pulled out from the separate and independent position of the input touch member for the first surface operation and the input touch member for the second surface operation, it is possible to reduce the installation space for the wiring member, the wiring terminal, etc. The input device can be downsized. In addition, the wiring connection process can be simplified when the input device is assembled. In addition, the cost of the input device can be reduced by reducing the number of parts.

  According to the input device manufacturing method of the present invention, a sheet-like input touch member for first surface operation and a sheet-like input touch member for second surface operation are provided on a light-transmissive sheet-like flat member. The unfolded input sheet for multi-face operation is formed.

  With this configuration, a foldable multi-side operation input sheet can be formed as a single component, so that the input touch panel for the first side operation and the input touch switch for the second side operation as in the conventional method are separately provided. The number of manufacturing steps can be reduced compared to the case where the two components are used.

  According to the electronic apparatus of the present invention, the electronic device is arranged above the display means, detects the contact position of the operating body and outputs a position detection signal, and detects the pressing force of the operating body and outputs the force detection signal. An input unit having a function is provided, and the input device according to the present invention is applied to the input unit.

  With this configuration, the wiring member that transmits a position detection signal, a force detection signal, or the like of the input means to a position of a part of the input touch member for the first surface operation or the input touch member for the second surface operation of the input means. Can concentrate. Therefore, compared with the case where the wiring member is pulled out from the separate and independent position of the input touch member for the first surface operation and the input touch member for the second surface operation, it is possible to reduce the installation space for the wiring member, the wiring terminal, etc. Electronic devices can be miniaturized. In addition, the wiring connection process can be simplified when the electronic apparatus is assembled. In addition, the cost of electronic equipment can be reduced by reducing the number of parts.

  Subsequently, an embodiment of an input device, a manufacturing method thereof, and an electronic apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of an input device 100 as a first embodiment according to the present invention.

  An input device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a device that selects an icon from an input item selection display screen prepared in advance and inputs information, or detects a pressing force in the Z direction to perform a switch operation. . The input device 100 is suitable for application to a digital camera, a mobile phone, a mobile terminal device, or the like that combines display means (not shown).

  The input device 100 includes a housing 20, an adhesive sheet 50, and an input sheet 80 for multi-face operation. The housing 20 includes a display surface operation area I that is an example of a first surface operation area and three side surface operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc that are examples of a second surface operation area. The case 20 is configured by molding an acrylic member with two-color injection molding. The light transmission portion corresponds to a display window portion such as a monitor and maintains the colorless and transparent acrylic. Others maintain the light shielding property that the inside is not visible.

  The input sheet 80 for multi-surface operation is attached (pasted) to the display surface operation area I and the side surface operation areas IIa, IIb, IIc of the housing 20 via the adhesive sheet 50, for example. The input sheet 80 has an input sheet folding structure. In this structure, a sheet-like input touch member for display surface operation (hereinafter, referred to as a display surface touch sheet portion 80d) and a sheet-like input touch member for side operation ( Hereinafter, the unfolded input sheet 80 ′ formed with the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, 80c) is selectively bent, and the display surface touch sheet portion 80d is attached to the display surface operation area I of the housing 20, In addition, the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c are attached to the side operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc of the casing 20. A flexible resin sheet is used for the flat member.

  In the input sheet 80, for example, the display surface touch sheet portion 80d is aligned with the display surface operation area I and joined (adhered) to the inside of the operation surface of the housing 20, and the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c are It is aligned with the side operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc of the housing 20 and bonded (adhered) along the inside of the wall surface. A capacitance input sheet is used for the input touch member having the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c and the display surface touch sheet portion 80d. The capacitance input sheet is composed of, for example, an ITO film forming a grid-like electrode and a Si rubber film forming a dielectric.

  The display surface touch sheet portion 80d and the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c are electrically connected inside the unfolded input sheet 80 ′, and a conductive pattern is provided in the bent portion, so that the capacitance is increased. It is designed not to change. The capacitance input sheet is assigned to the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c and the display surface touch sheet portion 80d with the bent portion as a boundary. Of course, the input touch member is not limited to the capacitance input sheet, and a resistance adjustment film (not shown) may be provided below the capacitance input sheet. This resistance adjusting film can also be used as the above-described flat member.

  A flexible wiring 60 that is an example of a wiring member is connected to the input sheet 80. For example, the flexible wiring 60 is pulled out from the side touch sheet portion 80a, and detects the contact position of an operator's finger or the like (operation body) from the display surface touch sheet portion 80d, the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, 80c, or the like. An obtained position detection signal is transmitted, or a force detection signal obtained by detecting the pressing force is transmitted.

  2A and 2B are a top view and a front view showing a developed example of the input sheet 80 for multi-face operation. The input sheet 80 shown in FIG. 2A is divided into an upper input sheet and a lower input sheet. The input sheet 80 is used by being bent at a boundary portion III indicated by a triangle in the drawing. At the boundary portion III, the input sheet 80 is defined as an upper input sheet 801 and a lower input sheet 802. The upper input sheet 801 is provided with a display surface touch sheet portion 80d so as to transmit an icon image of a display means (not shown).

  The lower input sheet 802 is provided with three side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c. The side touch sheet portion 80a is aligned with the side surface operation region IIa of the housing 20 to form a first operation switch. By pressing this operation switch, the side touch sheet portion 80a is turned on from the capacitance input sheet of this portion. -It is made to detect OFF.

  The side touch sheet portion 80b is aligned with the side surface operation area IIb of the housing 20 to form a second operation switch. By pressing this operation switch, the side touch sheet portion 80b is turned on from the capacitance input sheet of this portion. -It is made to detect OFF. The side touch sheet portion 80c is aligned with the side operation region IIc of the housing 20 to form a third operation switch. By pressing this operation switch, the side touch sheet portion 80c is turned on from the capacitance input sheet of this portion. -It is made to detect OFF.

  2B is a cross-sectional view of the input sheet 80 shown in FIG. In this example, a light-transmitting adhesive sheet 50 is provided on the entire surface of the capacitance input sheet. The adhesive sheet 50 may not be provided on the entire surface. For example, you may provide the adhesive sheet 50 in the part except a light transmissive part. In this case, a non-transparent adhesive sheet 50 'can be used.

  3A and 3B are a top view and a front view showing a configuration example of the housing 20. The casing 20 shown in FIG. 3A has a length of L [mm] and a width of W [mm]. The case 20 is configured by molding an acrylic member with two-color injection molding. The light transmission part corresponds to the display window part and maintains the colorless and transparent acrylic. Other portions (non-transparent portions) maintain the light shielding property that the inside is not visible. An acrylic resin, polycarbonate (PC), or the like is used for the light transmitting (transparent) portion. For the non-transparent portion, ABS resin, PC + ABS resin, PC, or the like is used.

  According to the two-color molding injection mold apparatus, for example, two injection mechanisms are provided side by side, and light from the display surface operation area I and the side operation areas IIa, IIb, IIc, etc. is provided on the primary injection mechanism by the housing 20. A mold that defines the transmissive portion is set, and a mold that defines the non-transparent portion in the housing 20 is set in the injection mechanism on the secondary side. When the injection nozzle on the primary side advances, the movable side mold plate closes, and the acrylic resin in the light transmitting portion is injected, the primary side mold is formed.

  When the molding is completed with the apparatus, the mold (cavity) is opened and the primary sprue runner is separated from the mold. At this time, the primary mold remains on the movable mold (core). Thereafter, the secondary side injection nozzle is advanced by the secondary side injection mechanism, and the movable side having the mold that defines the non-transparent portion is continuous with the primary side mold remaining on the movable side mold plate (core). When the side mold plate is closed and the non-transparent portion of the ABS resin is injected, the secondary mold is formed. When the molding is completed, the mold is opened, and the molded product (housing 20) in which the display surface operation area I and the side operation areas IIa, IIb, IIc and the like are defined is taken out. Note that the number of injection mechanisms is not limited to two, and if three are provided, a housing 20 molded in three colors can be created.

  The housing 20 is suitable for application to the main body of a digital camera, for example. When this casing 20 is applied to a digital camera, the display window portion serves as a monitor display surface, so that the display surface operation area I is positioned on the back surface.

  3B is a cross-sectional view taken along arrow Y1-Y1 of the housing 20 illustrated in FIG. 3A. The housing 20 shown in FIG. 3B has a box shape, and is provided with a display window portion at the bottom and an operation window portion at the side. The opposite side of the bottom of the housing is open. When the casing 20 is applied to a digital camera, mounting components such as a lens, a circuit board, and a battery (not shown) are attached from the open side.

  The display window portion and the operation window portion of the housing 20 are defined by light transmission portions and non-transmission portions by two-color injection molding, and are not actually opened. Of course, the window may actually be opened. In the figure, a white portion is a light transmission portion, and a hatched portion is a non-transmission portion. In this example, the input sheet 80 shown in FIG. 2A is attached so as to adhere to the inside of the housing.

  Then, the manufacturing method of the input device 100 is demonstrated. 4 and 5 are process diagrams showing formation examples (Nos. 1 and 2) of the input device 100. FIG.

  First, a development input sheet (capacitance input switch sheet) 80 'for multi-surface operation shown in FIG. 4A is formed. The unfolded input sheet 80 'is obtained, for example, by forming a display surface touch sheet portion 80d and side surface touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, 80c on a light transmissive resin sheet. In this example, the flexible wiring 60 of the input sheet 80 for multi-surface operation is pulled out from the side touch sheet portion 80a. An adhesive sheet 50 such as a double-sided tape is affixed together with the protective paper 70 on the back surface of the development input sheet 80 ′.

  Next, the housing 20 shown in FIG. 4B is formed. The housing 20 has a display surface operation area I and side operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc for attaching the unfolding input sheet 80 '. The formation method of the housing | casing 20 is as having demonstrated FIG. 3A and 3B.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 4C, the development input sheet 80 ′ is selectively bent and the display surface touch sheet portion 80 d is attached to the display surface operation area I of the housing 20. For example, the protective (release) paper 70 is peeled off from the back surface of the developed input sheet 80 ′, and the adhesive sheet 50 is pressed against the inner bottom surface of the housing 20 using a roller 58 and rolled. When bonded while being pressed by the roller 58, it is possible to prevent “bubbles” from being generated in the display surface operation area I due to non-uniform pasting force.

  In this manner, the development input sheet 80 ′ is joined to the inner side surface of the casing while peeling off the protective paper 70. For example, CS-9621 manufactured by Nitto Denko is used for the adhesive sheet (adhesive) 50. The adhesive sheet 50 is an alkaline adhesive. The corners should be glued while being pressed with fingers. Since this portion is out of the display surface operation area, even if bubbles are generated, manual work is allowed. Of course, a mechanical device for corner press processing may be used. Thereby, the display surface touch sheet portion 80 d can be bonded to the inner bottom surface of the housing 20.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5A, the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c are attached to the side operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc of the housing 20. For example, the side touch sheet portions 80 a, 80 b, and 80 c are joined along the inner wall surface of the housing 20. Note that the casing 20 to which the unfolding input sheet 80 'is attached may be heat-treated as necessary. For example, the case 20 is heat-treated at 60 ° C. for about 20 minutes. In this case, a thermocompression bonding agent is used for the adhesive sheet 50. A hot melt (thermosetting agent) resin is used as the thermocompression bonding agent. This heat treatment can be removed when bubbles are generated in the display portion. Thereby, the housing | casing 20 which has the input sheet bending structure shown to FIG. 5B is completed.

  Thus, according to the manufacturing method of the input device according to the present invention, the foldable unfolded input sheet 80 ′ for multi-surface operation can be formed as a single component, so that the input touch panel for display surface operation as in the conventional method can be formed. And the input touch switch for side operation can be reduced as compared with the case where the input touch switch is composed of two independent components.

  Next, a configuration example and an operation example of the input device 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the input device 100 with a three-dimensional input function. In this embodiment, in addition to the conventional XY position detection function, the force in the pushing direction can be identified or detected.

  In the input device 100 shown in FIG. 6, a resistance adjusting film 2, an ITO film 3 (Indium Tin Oxide film; Indium Tin Oxide) and a Si rubber film 4 are laminated on a substrate 1 to constitute an input sheet 80. In this example, when the input device 100 and a flat display element such as a liquid crystal display panel are used in combination, the substrate 1 also serves as the upper glass substrate of the flat display element. When the input device 100 and a light emitting element such as an LED are used in combination, the substrate 1 also serves as the mold resin portion of the side operation areas IIa, IIb, IIc of the housing 20.

  A resistance adjustment film 2 having an input operation region IV is provided on the substrate 1 so as to detect a contact (input) position of an operator's finger (operation body). The input operation area IV has a length of about L ′ [mm] and a width of about W ′ [mm]. In this example, the X direction and the Y direction are defined in the input operation area IV, and the vertical direction with respect to the input operation area IV is defined as the Z direction. This is to configure the input device 100 with a three-dimensional input function. In the input operation area IV, the sheet width including the display surface touch sheet portion 80d is about W1 [mm], and the sheet width including the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c is about W2 [mm] (W ′ = W1 + W2).

  An ITO film 3, which is an example of a transparent conductive film, is provided on the entire surface of the resistance adjustment film 2, and is used so as to form a planar (accumulation) electrode and transmit light from below. The resistance adjustment film 2 is connected to lead lines Lx1, Lx2, Ly1, Ly2. The lead lines Lx1, Lx2, Ly1, Ly2 are connected to the drive circuit 5 and output voltages V1, V2 (hereinafter referred to as detection voltages) detected in the X direction and Y direction of the resistance adjustment film 2 based on the AC wave signal Sac. To be made. An AC wave oscillation device 6 is connected to the drive circuit 5 so as to supply an AC wave signal Sac.

The entire surface of the ITO film 3 is provided with a Si rubber film 4 (fat film) as an example of a dielectric film, which transmits light from the lower part and responds to the pressing force of the operator's finger. The thickness (distance d) in the Z direction changes. The Si rubber film 4 has a desired elastic modulus, dielectric constant, optical transmittance (optical characteristics), and thickness. The elastic modulus of the Si rubber film 4 is lower than that of the SiO ₂ film, for example.

  In this example, the ITO film 3, the Si rubber film 4, and the operator's finger constitute a capacitance (C = ε · S / d). ε is the dielectric constant of the Si rubber film 4, S is the area (contact area) where the operator's finger touches the input surface, and d is the operator's finger and ITO through the Si rubber film 4. This is the distance between the film 3. The thickness of the Si rubber film 4 is such that the distance from the ITO film 3 may be changed by pressurization of the operator's finger.

  In this example, the fat film such as the Si rubber film 4 is used because the ITO film 3, the Si rubber film 4, the operator's finger, and the like at the contact position of the operator's finger in the input device 100. The voltage detection information (level) depending on the capacitance C constituted by is changed in accordance with the pressing force in the Z direction. This is to detect a plurality of types of voltage detection information based on the pressing force in the Z direction by the operator's finger obtained as a result of this change.

  The above-described bloating film is not limited to the Si rubber film 4, and may be any resin as long as it is transparent and has a high elastic modulus. For example, a Si rubber film 4 having a thickness of about 0.5 mm is used as the bloating film. When the fat film is vertically pressed with a finger (for example, SR6 Si rubber), the fat film is deformed by about 0.1 mm when 50 gf is applied, and by about 0.3 mm when 250 gf is applied, A resin having a transmittance of 80% or more is preferable.

  Next, the characteristics of the ultra-transparent rubber that can be used as a bloating film will be described. For example, a super transparent rubber made of a thermosetting organopolysiloxane composition can be used as the bloating film. The thermosetting organopolysiloxane composition is preferably an addition reaction curable organopolysiloxane composition or an organic peroxide curable organopolysiloxane composition.

In this case, the addition reaction curable organopolysiloxane composition that is a component of the ultra-transparent rubber is
(I) 100 parts by weight of an organopolysiloxane having an average of 2 or more alkenyl groups in one molecule;
(II) 0.1 to 50 parts by weight of an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having hydrogen atoms bonded to two or more silicon atoms on average in one molecule, and
(III) It consists of an addition reaction catalyst in an appropriate amount of catalyst.

The organic peroxide curable organopolysiloxane composition is:
(I) 100 parts by weight of an organopolysiloxane having an average of 2 or more alkenyl groups in one molecule;
(Ii) It consists of an appropriate amount of organic peroxide.

  Here, as an organopolysiloxane having an average of two or more alkenyl groups in one molecule of the addition reaction curable organopolysiloxane composition of component (I) of the ultra-transparent rubber, the following average composition formula (1) Use what is shown.

（１）式中、Ｒ１は互いに同一又は異種の炭素数１〜１０、好ましくは１〜８の非置換又は置換一価炭素水素基であり、ａは１．５〜２．８、好ましくは１．８〜２．５、より好ましくは１．９５〜２．０５の範囲の正数である。

(1) In the formula, R1 is the same or different from each other, and is an unsubstituted or substituted monovalent carbon hydrogen group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 8, and a is 1.5 to 2.8, preferably 1 A positive number in the range of .8 to 2.5, more preferably 1.95 to 2.05.

  Examples of the unsubstituted or substituted monovalent carbon hydrogen group bonded to the silicon atom represented by R1 in the above average composition formula (1) with respect to the ultra-transparent rubber include, for example, methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, isopropyl group, butyl Group, isobutyl group, tert-butyl group, pentyl group, neopentyl group, hexyl group, cyclohexyl group, octyl group, nonyl group, decyl group and other alkyl groups, phenyl group, tolyl group, xylyl group, naphthyl group and other aryl groups , Aralkyl groups such as benzyl group, phenylethyl group and phenylpropyl group, alkenyl groups such as cyclohexenyl group and octenyl group, and some or all of the hydrogen atoms of these groups are halogen atoms such as fluorine, bromine and chlorine, Substituted with a cyano group, such as chloromethyl group, chloropropyl group, bromoethyl group trifluoropro Group, cyanoethyl group and the like.

  In this case, at least two of the groups R1 are alkenyl groups (particularly those having 2 to 8 carbon atoms are preferred, and 2 to 6 are more preferred). The content of the alkenyl group is 0.001 to 20 mol in all organic groups bonded to the silicon atom (that is, in the unsubstituted or substituted monovalent carbon hydrogen group as R1 in the average composition formula (1)). %, Particularly 0.01 to 10 mol%.

  The alkenyl group may be bonded to the silicon atom at the end of the molecular chain or may be bonded to both, but the organopolysiloxane used in the present invention from the viewpoint of the curing speed of the composition and the physical properties of the cured product. Preferably contains at least an alkenyl group bonded to a silicon atom at the end of the molecular chain.

  The structure of the above-mentioned organopolysiloxane is usually a diorganopolysiloxane having a basically straight chain structure in which the main chain is composed of repeating diorganosiloxane units and both ends of the molecular chain are blocked with triorganosiloxy groups. Although it is siloxane, it may be partially a branched structure or a cyclic structure. The alkenyl group-containing organopolysiloxane has a polymerization degree (weight average polymerization degree) of 50 to 20,000, preferably about 100 to 2000. If this average degree of polymerization is less than 50, the physical properties of rubber as a cured product may be insufficient.

  The organohydrogenpolysiloxane of component (II) of the ultra-transparent rubber is represented by the following average composition formula (2): at least 2 (usually 2 to 200), preferably 3 or more per molecule More preferably, it is necessary to have about 3 to 150 silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms (that is, SiH groups).

上述の平均組成式（２）の中で、Ｒ２は炭素数１〜１０の置換又は非置換の一価炭素水素基であり、この基Ｒ２としては先に示した平均組成式（１）中のＲ１と同様の基を上げることができる。また、ｂは０．７〜２．１、ｃは０．００１〜１．０で、かつｂ＋ｃは０．８〜３．０を満足する正数であり、好ましくはｂは１．０〜２．０、ｃは０．０１〜１．０、ｂ＋ｃは１．５〜２．５である。

In the above average composition formula (2), R2 is a substituted or unsubstituted monovalent carbon hydrogen group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and this group R2 includes the average composition formula (1) shown above. The same group as R1 can be raised. B is 0.7 to 2.1, c is 0.001 to 1.0, and b + c is a positive number satisfying 0.8 to 3.0, preferably b is 1.0 to 2 0.0 and c are 0.01 to 1.0, and b + c is 1.5 to 2.5.

  In the above-mentioned ultra-transparent rubber component, SiH groups contained in at least 2, preferably 3 or more in one molecule may be located at either the molecular chain end or in the middle of the molecular chain. It may be located. Furthermore, the molecular structure of the organohydrogenpolysiloxane may be any of linear, cyclic, branched, and three-dimensional network structures, but the number of silicon atoms (or the degree of polymerization) in one molecule is Usually 2 to 300, preferably about 4 to 150, liquid at room temperature (25 ° C.) is desirable.

Specific examples of the organohydrogenpolysiloxane of the above average composition formula (2) include 1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane, methylhydrogencyclopolysiloxane, methylhydrogensiloxane / dimethylsiloxane cyclic copolymer. Polymer, both ends trimethylsiloxy group-blocked methyl hydrogen polysiloxane, both ends trimethylsiloxy group-blocked dimethylsiloxane / methylhydrogensiloxane copolymer, both ends gimethylhydrogensiloxy group-blocked dimethylpolysiloxane, both ends dimethyl hydrogen Siloxy group-blocked dimethylsiloxysan / methylhydrogensiloxysan copolymer, both ends trimethylsiloxysan-blocked methylhydrogensiloxysan / diphenylsiloxane copolymer, both ends trimethyl Siloxy group-blocked methylhydrogensiloxane / diphenylsi copolymer, dimethylhydrogensiloxy group-blocked methylhydrogensiloxysan / diphenylsiloxane copolymer at both ends, (CH3) 2HSiO1 / 2 units and (CH3) 3SiO1 / In addition to 2 units, a copolymer composed of SiO2 4/2 units, a copolymer composed of (CH3) 2HSiO 1/2 units and SiO 4/2 units, (CH3) 2HSiO 1/2 units and SiO Examples include a copolymer of 4/2 units and (C6H5) 3SiO 4/2 units. The amount of the organohydrogenpolysiloxane is 100 parts by weight of the organopolysiloxane of the component (I) of the ultra-transparent rubber. The amount is preferably 0.1 to 50 parts by weight, particularly 0.3 to 20 parts by weight.

  In addition, the organohydrogenpolysiloxane of component (II) of the transparent rubber is bonded to the silicon atom in component (II) with respect to 1 mol of the alkenyl group bonded to the silicon atom in component (I). The amount of hydrogen atoms (SiH groups) can be blended in an amount of about 0.5 to 5 mol, particularly about 0.8 to 2.5 mol.

  The addition reaction catalyst for component (III) of the ultra-transparent rubber includes platinum black, platinum chloride, chloroplatinic acid, a reaction product of chloroplatinic acid and a monohydric alcohol, and a complex of chloroplatinic acid and olefins. Platinum group catalysts such as platinum-based catalysts such as platinum bisacetoacetate, palladium-based catalysts, and rhodium-based catalysts. The addition amount of the addition reaction catalyst can be a catalytic amount, and is usually 0.5 to 1000 ppm, particularly about 1 to 500 ppm as a platinum group metal. Further, the organopolysiloxane having an average of two or more alkenyl groups in one molecule of the addition reaction curable organopolysiloxane composition of the component (I) of the ultratransparent rubber is the same as the component (I) of the ultratransparent rubber. Can be used.

  Further, as the organic peroxide of the component (ii) of the ultra-transparent rubber, conventionally known ones can be used, for example, benzoyl peroxide, 2,4-dichlorobenzoyl peroxide, p-methylbenzoyl peroxide, o-methylbenzoyl peroxide 2,4-dicumyl peroxide, 2,5-dimethyl-bis (2.5-t-butylperoxy) hexane, di-t-butyl peroxide, t-butyl peroxide, t-butyl peroxide Examples include benzoate, 1,1-bis (t-butylperoxy) 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexane, 1,6-bis (t-butylperoxycaloxy) hexane, and the like.

  The compounding amount of the organic peroxide is shown as a catalytic amount, and can usually be 0.01 to 10 parts by weight with respect to 100 parts by weight of the organopolysiloxane as component (I) of the ultra-transparent rubber. The organic peroxide curable organopolysiloxane composition is composed of the component (I) and the component (ii) of the ultra-transparent rubber. Thereby, a fat film such as the Si rubber film 4 can be formed.

  7A to 7C are cross-sectional views illustrating the detection principle of the input device 100 in the Z direction. In the input device 100 shown in FIG. 7A, a resistance adjustment film 2, an ITO film 3, and a Si rubber film 4 are sequentially laminated on a substrate 1, and a mechanical configuration as a push switch is made. The thickness of the Si rubber film 4 at rest is d1. Here, the capacitance distributed in the space between the finger 30a and the Si rubber film 4 when the operator's finger 30a approaches the Si rubber film 4 with respect to the ground (GND) is C1. Indicated. The capacitance using the Si rubber film 4 on the ITO film 3 as a dielectric is indicated by C2. The operator's finger 30a approaching on the Si rubber film 4 can be equivalently shown by a series circuit of a resistor R3 and a capacitance C3. This is referred to as state “A”.

  Furthermore, when the operator's finger 30a is brought close to the Si rubber film 4 and lightly touched on the Si rubber film 4, the electrostatic capacitance C1 between the finger 30a and the Si rubber film 4 is not distributed. The capacitance C2 (= ε · S1 / d1) is distributed by the ITO film 3, the Si rubber film 4, and the operator's finger 30a at this input position. ε is the dielectric constant of the Si rubber film 4, S1 is the area (contact area) of the part where the operator's finger 30a is lightly touching the input surface, and d1 is the operator's finger through the Si rubber film 4. This is the distance between 30a and the ITO film 3. For example, a force of about 50 gf (tracing) is applied to the Si rubber film 4 with the index finger 30a. This is referred to as state “B”.

  Further, at the input position, the operator applies a force of about 250 gf (pressing) on the Si rubber film 4 with the index finger 30a. This is referred to as state “C”. At this time, the capacitance C2 '(= ε · S2 / d2) is distributed by the ITO film 3, the Si rubber film 4, and the operator's finger 30a. ε is the dielectric constant of the Si rubber film 4, S2 is the area of the portion where the operator's finger 30a is strongly pressed against the input surface (contact area; S1 <S2), and d1 passes through the Si rubber film 4 This is the distance (d1> d2) between the operator's finger 30a and the ITO film 3.

  The relationship between the capacitance “C2” in the state “B” and the capacitance C2 ′ in the state “C” is C2 ′> C2. That is, the capacitance C2 'when the finger 30a is strongly pressed against the input surface is larger than the capacitance C2 when the operator's finger 30a is lightly touching the input surface. This change in capacitance C2 → C2 'appears in the detection voltages V1 and V2. If the change of the detection voltages V1 and V2 is determined by a preset threshold value, it becomes possible to determine the tracing (50 gf) or pushing (pressing; 250 gf) of the operator's finger 30a by a control system such as a CPU. For example, the control system distinguishes the difference between tracing and pushing with a threshold value in the Z direction.

  8A and 8B are circuit diagrams illustrating configuration examples of the drive circuit 5 and the resistance adjustment film 2 of the input device 100. FIG. The drive circuit 5 shown in FIG. 8A includes two bipolar transistors Q1 and Q2 and four resistors R11, R13, R21, and R23 when attention is paid to the detection system in the X direction. . Since the detection system in the Y direction is configured in the same manner, its description is omitted.

  In FIG. 8A, one end of each of the resistors R13 and R23 is connected to the power supply line VCC. The resistor R13 is connected to the collector of an npn bipolar transistor (hereinafter simply referred to as a transistor) Q1, and the resistor R23 is also connected to the collector of an npn bipolar transistor (hereinafter simply referred to as a transistor) Q2. . The bases of the transistors Q1 and Q2 are connected to the AC wave oscillation device 6.

  A resistance adjustment film 2 shown in FIG. 8B is connected between the emitters of the transistors Q1 and Q2. In FIG. 8B, the slide range used for “tracing” and “pushing” in the X direction of the resistance adjusting film 2 is from X = 0 to X = MAX. X = 0 is one end of the resistance adjustment film 2, and X = MAX is the other end of the resistance adjustment film 2.

  For example, one end of the resistance adjustment film 2 and one end of the resistor R11 are connected to the emitter of the transistor Q1, and the other end of the resistance adjustment film 2 is connected to the emitter of the transistor Q2. Terminal 54 and one end of resistor R21 are connected. The other ends of the resistors R11 and R21 are connected to the ground line GND.

  An output terminal 51 is connected to the collector of the transistor Q1, and the detection voltage V1 is output. The output terminal 52 is also connected to the collector of the transistor Q2, and the detection voltage V2 is output. In this way, when the drive circuit 5 is configured, a plurality of detection voltages that change depending on the states “A”, “B”, and “C”, that is, the capacitance C2 → C2 ′ due to the tracing or pushing of the operator's finger 30a. V1 and V2 can be obtained.

  FIGS. 9A and 9B are circuit diagrams showing an operation example at the time of “tracing” and “pushing” in the drive circuit 5.

  According to the drive circuit 5 shown in FIG. 9A, in the “strike” state (B state) by the operator's finger 30a, the resistance adjustment film 2 is divided (divided) at the fixed point Ip (x = I) in the X direction. Is done. The dividing resistors based on the fixed point Ip are R1 and R2. A capacitance C2 is connected in series to the equivalent voltage R3 + C3 of the operator's finger 30a shown in FIG. 7B at the resistance voltage dividing point at the fixed point Ip. As a result, the drive circuit 5 outputs the detection voltages V1 and V2 based on the capacitance C2 according to the “strike” state of the operator's finger 30a.

  At the input position, the operator strongly presses the Si rubber film 4 with the finger 30a. At this time, according to the drive circuit 5 shown in FIG. 9B, the resistance adjusting film 2 remains divided at the fixed point Ip in the X direction in the “pressed” state (C state) by the operator's finger 30a. Then, a capacitance C2 'is connected in series to the equivalent voltage R3 + C3 of the operator's finger 30a shown in FIG. 7B at the resistance voltage dividing point at the fixed point Ip. As a result, the drive circuit 5 outputs detection voltages V1 'and V2' based on the capacitance C2 'according to the "push" state of the operator's finger 30a. In the drawing, the capacitance C2 'is shown as a variable capacitor whose capacitance changes with the distance d1. The relationship between the detection voltages V1, V2 and the detection voltages V1 ', V2' is, for example, V1 '> V1, V2'> V2.

  FIG. 10 is a characteristic diagram illustrating an example of detection of XY position information by the drive circuit 5. In FIG. 10, the vertical axis represents the detection voltage VX, which is the detection voltages V 1 and V 2 obtained from the drive circuit 5. The horizontal axis is the input position and indicates the slide range. The slide range is X = 0 to X = MAX. In the figure, the one-dot chain line that rises to the right is a voltage detected by moving the input position in the non-contact (A) state from X = 0 (left side) to X = MAX (right side). Similarly, the rising wavy line is a voltage detected by sliding the input position from X = 0 to X = MAX in the tracing (B) state. Further, the solid line that rises to the right is a voltage that is detected by sliding the input position from X = 0 to X = MAX in the pushed-in (C) state.

  On the other hand, the one-dot chain line that rises to the left is a voltage that is detected by moving the input position in the non-contact (A) state from X = MAX (right side) to X = 0 (left side). Similarly, the rising wavy line is a voltage detected by sliding the input position from X = MAX to X = 0 in the tracing (B) state. Furthermore, the solid line that rises to the left is the voltage detected by sliding the input position from X = MAX (left side) to X = 0 (right side) in the pushed-in (C) state. The two-dot chain line is a line indicating the fixed point Ip in the Z direction.

  In this example, the absolute value of the detection voltage V1 (or V2) is read regarding the input operation phenomenon (tracing and pushing) in the Z direction. Here, regarding the detection voltages V1 and V2, at the fixed point Ip, the detection voltages in the A state (non-contact state) where the finger 30a is close to the input surface but not touched are V1A and V2A, and the finger 30a touches the input surface lightly. The detected voltages in the B state are V1B and V2B, and the detected voltages in the C state where the finger 30a is pressed more strongly than the B state are V1C and V2C. In the C state, the Si rubber film 4 is dynamically dented.

  At such a fixed point Ip, there is a relationship of V1A: V2A = V1B: V2B = V1C: V2C and V1A <V1B <V1C between the detection voltages V1A, V2A, V1B, V2B, V1C, V2C. . That is, XY position information (two-dimensional information) at an arbitrary fixed point Ip is given by V1X: V2X (X = A, B, C).

  FIG. 11 is a characteristic diagram showing a discrimination example of the detection voltage V2F in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip.

  In this embodiment, for the pressing input in the Z direction, it is possible to distinguish inputs such as tracing and pressing. For example, when the finger 30a is pressed on the Si rubber film 4 with 50 gf and 250 gf, the difference can be detected. In this example, the threshold value is changed depending on the input position. In other words, a threshold suitable for the input position is set each time.

  In FIG. 11, the vertical axis represents the detection voltage VX = V2, the horizontal axis represents the input position, the left position is X = 0, and the right position is X = XMAX. In the conventional method, the phenomena of the states A to C could not be classified. However, in the method of the present invention, the absolute values can be discriminated, so that the phenomena of the states A to C can be classified. That is, the XY position information is detected while observing the partial pressure of the resistance adjusting film 2 as in the conventional method, and in the method of the present invention, the absolute value of the detection voltage VX with respect to the amount of change such as the pressing force 250 gf or 50 gf is detected. I made it.

  In this example, the state C is defined as a MAX state in which the voltage detection information does not increase any more. For example, the detection voltage V2 = MAX is detected when the Si rubber film 4 is pressed at 1000 gf. When the X direction is traced from one end to the other end (X = 0 to MAX) while pressing down on the Si rubber film 4 in the state C, the value of the detection voltage V2 output from the drive circuit 5 is the resolution number in the X direction. The value of the detection voltage V <b> 2 is measured with a resolution increment of less than that. This is a function f (x).

  In addition, a constant a in the range 0 <a <1 is set in the function f (x) to create a function g (x) = a · f (x). The function g (x) = a · f (x) is prepared in advance and stored in a ROM or the like. This function g (x) is a threshold function that is set to obtain the threshold g (Ip) when determining the detection voltage V2 in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip. For example, the function g (x) is 250 gf when the constant F is 0.25 when the force F vs. detection voltage V2 characteristic is linear and the state C is f (x) = 1000 gf.

  Here, when the input surface is pressed with a certain force F at a certain input position (fixed point Ip), the above-described function g (x) is used to determine the detection voltage V2F in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip. Indicates. The detection voltage V2 at this time is V2 = V2F. In this case, first, the control system reads the detection voltage V2F output from the drive circuit 5. Next, the control system reads the threshold value g (Ip) at the fixed point Ip with reference to the threshold function g (x) described in the ROM.

  Thereafter, the detection voltage V2F at the fixed point Ip is compared with the threshold value g (Ip). When V2F> threshold value g (Ip), a state A (push-in) flag is set and “push-in” is transmitted to the upper control system. If V2F <threshold g (Ip), the state B (tracing) flag is set and “tracing” is transmitted to the upper control system (three-dimensional information).

  Table 1 shows a relationship example between the function f (x) and the function g (x) with respect to the slide range (input position) X = 0 to x = MAX in the X direction.

表１によれば、入力位置Ｘ＝０で、関数ｆ（ｘ）と関数ｇ（ｘ）とは共に「０」である。Ｘ＝１で、関数ｆ（ｘ）＝αのとき、関数ｇ（ｘ）はａαである。同様にして、Ｘ＝２で、関数ｆ（ｘ）＝βのとき、関数ｇ（ｘ）はａβであり、Ｘ＝３で、関数ｆ（ｘ）＝γのとき、関数ｇ（ｘ）はａγである。

According to Table 1, at the input position X = 0, both the function f (x) and the function g (x) are “0”. When X = 1 and the function f (x) = α, the function g (x) is aα. Similarly, when X = 2 and the function f (x) = β, the function g (x) is aβ, and when X = 3 and the function f (x) = γ, the function g (x) is aγ.

  As a result, in the display surface operation area I of the housing 20, the display surface touch sheet portion 80d can distinguish inputs such as tracing and pushing in the Z direction pressing input. In addition, in the side surface operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc of the housing 20 shown in FIG. 5A, it becomes possible to detect the pushing input by the pressing force in the Z direction at the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c.

  Thus, according to the input device 100 as the first embodiment, since the input sheet 80 for multi-face operation has the input sheet folding structure, the display surface touch sheet portion 80d or the side touch sheet portion 80a. , 80b, 80c, the flexible wiring 60 of the input sheet 80 for multi-face operation can be concentrated.

  As a result, it is possible to reduce the installation space for the flexible wiring 60 and the connector as compared with the case where the flexible wiring 60 is pulled out from the separate and independent positions of the display surface touch sheet portion 80d and the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b and 80c. The apparatus 100 can be downsized. In addition, the wiring connection process can be simplified when the input device 100 is assembled. Further, the cost of the input device 100 can be reduced by reducing the number of parts.

  FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the operation switch 48 in the input device 100 according to the second embodiment.

  In this embodiment, on the side touch sheet portion 80a located in the side operation area IIa of the housing 20 shown in FIG. 5A constituting the operation switch 48, on / off is detected by pressing force in the Z direction, and The LED is turned on when ON is detected.

  The operation switch 48 shown in FIG. 12 includes a light emitting diode (LED) 57 for confirming switch on or off in the operation axis direction of the side touch sheet portion 80a. The side touch sheet portion 80a is connected to the drive circuit 5 by the lead lines Lx1, Lx2, Ly1, and Ly2 shown in FIG. 6, which correspond to the flexible wiring 60 shown in FIG. A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 32 is connected to the drive circuit 5. The drive circuit 5 outputs detection voltages V1 and V2 to the CPU 32 when the side touch sheet portion 80a detects on / off by the pressing force in the Z direction. An LED driver 56 is connected to the CPU 32, and an LED 57 is connected to the LED driver 56.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an operation example when the operation switch 48 is pressed. In the CPU 32 shown in FIG. 13, when the operation switch 48 is pressed, for example, the reference voltages stored in advance in a ROM (not shown) are referred to, the detection voltages V1 and V2 output from the drive circuit 5, and the operation switch 48. Is compared with the reference voltage, and it is recognized that the operation switch 48 to be discriminated currently operated is turned on.

  After this recognition, the CPU 32 outputs an LED control signal Sd to turn on the LED 57 disposed under the operation switch 48 to be determined. An LED driver 56 is connected to the CPU 32 so that a high level (“H” level) LED lighting voltage VL is supplied to the LED 57 based on the LED control signal Sd. The LED 57 is lit based on the LED lighting voltage VL. Thereby, the CPU 32 can detect on / off by the pressing force of the operation switch 48 in the Z direction, and can light the LED 57 under the operation switch 48.

  In this case, it is preferable to design the side operation region (light transmission portion) IIa in advance so as to be larger than the finger contact area so that the light emitted from the LED 57 is not hidden by the operator's finger 30a. In this way, it is possible to obtain a mysterious effect in which LED light spills around the operator's finger 30a.

  Thus, according to the input device 100 as the second embodiment, the mounting space for the LED 57 can be reduced as compared with the case where the light emitting diode is provided at a position independent of the side touch switch as in the conventional method. The input device 100 can be downsized. Of course, by using a capacitive touch panel, the resistance film type touch panel and the mechanical switch can be substituted by one, and the number of parts such as the flexible wiring 60 and the connector can be reduced.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a digital camera 200 with a three-dimensional input function as a third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a top view showing a developed example of the input sheet 80 ′ for the four-surface operation.
In the third embodiment, the input device 100 described in the first and second embodiments is mounted on a digital camera to form a digital camera 200 with a three-dimensional input function. Information can be input by detecting the stroking or pressing of the finger 30a or the like, and input of a button icon or the like displayed on the display means 29 can be confirmed. Furthermore, operation switches 48a, 48b, etc. are provided on the case side surface, case upper surface, etc., and ON / OFF is detected by the pressing force in the Z direction, and the LEDs 57a, 57b, etc. are turned on when ON is detected. .

  A digital camera 200 shown in FIG. 14 is an example of an electronic device, and captures a subject and records video information. The digital camera 200 includes a camera body 201. The camera body 201 is composed of a housing 20 and a front panel 21. The digital camera 200 includes an input device 100 that can perform a sliding contact operation and a pressing operation on an input operation surface on a display screen.

  The input device with the three-dimensional input function described in the first and second embodiments is applied to the input device 100. The input device 100 includes a housing 20 and an input sheet 80 ′ for four-surface operation, and is used in combination with the display unit 29. The input sheet 80 ′ is disposed above the display unit 29 when the back side of the digital camera 200 is directed upward. The input device 100 has a function of detecting an input position of the operator's finger 30a and outputting a position detection signal, and a function of detecting a pressing force of the operator's finger 30a and outputting a force detection signal.

  In this example, the input device 100 includes an input sheet 80 ′ attached to the housing 20 via the adhesive sheet 50. As shown in FIG. 6, the input sheet 80 ′ includes a resistance adjustment film 2 that detects an input position of the operator's finger 30 a in an input operation area that defines the X direction and the Y direction, and the resistance adjustment film 2 on the resistance adjustment film 2. An ITO film 3 that is provided on the entire surface and transmits light, and is provided on the entire surface of the ITO film 3 to transmit light. When the vertical direction with respect to the input operation region is the Z direction, the operator's finger 30a And a Si rubber film 4 whose thickness in the Z direction changes corresponding to the pressing force.

  In addition to the input device 100, a camera substrate 41 is mounted inside the housing. On one side of the camera substrate 41, a control IC 15 ′, a lens 26, a battery 33 ′, a memory 35 ′, and LEDs 57a and 57b are mounted, and on the opposite side, piezoelectric actuators 25a and 25b and a display means 29 are mounted. Has been.

  The control IC 15 ′ executes image processing, memory control, and the like based on input information obtained from the input device 100. The control IC 15 'includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM, actuator drive circuit, A / D driver, and the like. The lens 26 is used to image a subject on a CCD imaging device (not shown). The battery 33 'supplies power to the control IC 15', a lens driving device (not shown), and the like. The memory 35 'records the imaged video information.

  The LED 57a is arranged in the operation axis direction of the operation switch 48a, and is controlled so that it is lit when the side operation area is pressed (pressed) and the on-operation is detected. The LED 57b is arranged in the direction of the operation axis of the operation switch 48b, and is controlled so as to be lit when the side operation area is pressed (pressed) and the on-operation is detected.

  As described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, the operation switches 48 a and 48 b are configured from the side touch sheet portion of the input device 100, and are configured to confirm whether the switch is on or off. If the operation switches 48a and 48b are configured in this way, the mounting space for the LEDs 57a and 57b can be reduced as compared with the case where the light emitting diodes are provided at the side touch sheet portion and the separate and independent positions. Can be planned.

  The piezoelectric actuators 25a and 25b vibrate the housing 20 when the operation switches 48a and 48b or the like are pressed and the on-operation is detected, so that the operator's finger or the like presses the switch. It is made to present. The display means 29 is arranged to face the display surface operation area I of the housing 20, and displays a photographed image of the subject and also displays an image such as a button icon.

  As the input sheet 80 'described above, a sheet in which a side touch sheet portion extends in the left-right direction with respect to the input sheet 80 described in the first embodiment is used. FIG. 15 is a top view illustrating a developed example of the input sheet 80 ′.

  The input sheet 80 ′ shown in FIG. 15 is an example in which both the X axis and the Y axis are developed on the XY coordinate axes indicated by an equally divided scale. Here, the rear surface of the housing 20 is a display surface operation region I, and the top surface corresponds to the side operation regions IIa, IIb, and IIc. In this example, the digital camera 200 is viewed from the front surface direction. At this time, side operation areas IId, IIe, and IIf are newly provided on the right side surface, and side operation areas IIg, IIh, and IIi are further provided on the left side surface. The side operation areas IId, IIe, IIf are on the side where the operation switch 48a shown in FIG. 14 is provided, and the side operation areas IIg, IIh, IIi are the side where the operation switch 48b is provided in the same manner. .

  In FIG. 15, the display surface touch sheet portion 80 d in the A area of the input sheet 80 ′ corresponds to the display surface operation area I on the back surface of the housing 20. For convenience, the A area is divided into four display surface touch sheet portions, which are designated as areas A1 to A4. The A region exists in the range of 50 ≦ X ≦ 120 and 10 ≦ Y ≦ 60 in the XY coordinate system. When searching in the A area, the areas A1 to A4 can be discriminated. Images such as button icons from the display means 29 are superimposed on the areas A1 to A4.

  The side touch sheet portion in the B area of the input sheet 80 ′ corresponds to the side operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc on the top surface of the housing 20. Similarly, the region B is divided into three side touch sheet portions 80a to 80c, which are defined as regions B1 to B3. The region B exists in the range of 30 ≦ X ≦ 140 and 70 ≦ Y ≦ 100 in the XY coordinate system. When searching in the area B, the areas B1 to B3 can be discriminated. The regions B1 to B3 are used so that the LED light from the LED 57 is transmitted when the operation switch 48 shown in FIG. 12 is turned on.

  The side touch sheet portion of the C region of the input sheet 80 ′ corresponds to the side operation regions IId, IIe, and IIf on the right side surface of the housing 20. Similarly, the area C is divided into three side surface touch sheet portions, which are defined as areas C1 to C3. The C region exists in the range of 0 ≦ X ≦ 30 and 0 ≦ Y ≦ 70 in the XY coordinate system. When searching in the C area, the areas C1 to C3 can be discriminated. In the areas C1 to C3, the LED light from the LED 57a is transmitted when the operation switch 48a shown in FIG. 14 is turned on.

  The side touch sheet portion of the D region of the input sheet 80 ′ corresponds to the side operation regions IIg, IIh, and IIi on the left side surface of the housing 20. Similarly, the D region is divided into three side surface touch sheet portions, which are defined as regions D1 to D3. The D region exists in a range of 140 ≦ X ≦ 170 and 0 ≦ Y ≦ 70 in the XY coordinate system. When searching in the D area, the areas D1 to D3 can be discriminated. The areas D1 to D3 are used so that the LED light from the LED 57b is transmitted when the operation switch 48b shown in FIG. 14 is turned on.

  In the figure, the triangle mark III is a bent portion. The corners (corner portions) of the A region, the B region, and the C region and the corner portions (corner portions) of the A region, the B region, and the D region are processed into notches for easy bending. The A region and the B region, the A region and the C region, the A region and the D region are each folded at the bent portion and attached to the housing 20 via the adhesive sheet 50.

  In this example, the input sheet 80 ′ for four-surface operation is a developed input in which a display surface touch sheet portion forming the A region and side surface touch sheet portions forming the BD regions are formed on the light-transmitting resin sheet. The sheet is selectively bent, the display surface touch sheet portion including the A region is pasted on the display surface operation region I of the housing 20, and the side touch sheet portion including the B region on the side operation regions IIa, IIb, and IIc. Is attached to the side operation area IId, IIe, IIf, and the side touch sheet part including the D area is attached to the side operation areas IIg, IIh, IIi. Has a folded structure. Note that the flexible wiring 60 of the input sheet 80 ′ is drawn from the side surface touch sheet portion of the C region. In addition to the flexible wiring 60, the input means 45 is provided with a solid wiring pattern (substrate) such as a grid electrode wiring (not shown).

Next, an internal configuration example of the digital camera 200 will be described. FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of the digital camera 200 with a three-dimensional input function.
A digital camera 200 shown in FIG. 16 is configured by mounting blocks of respective functions on a camera substrate 41 inside the housing. In addition, the part corresponding to each part and means shown in FIG. 14 is shown with the same code | symbol. The digital camera 200 includes a control unit 15, a display unit 29, a power supply unit 33, a camera 34, a storage unit 35, and an input unit 45.

  The input means 45 for four-surface operation controls at least a position detection signal S1 (detection voltage V1) and a pressing force detection signal S2 (detection voltage V2) as an input amount (pressing force F) via the finger 30a of the operator 30. An output is made to the means 15. The control unit 15 constitutes a control system, and includes an A / D driver 31, a CPU 32, a ROM 37, an actuator drive circuit 38, and a video & audio processing unit 44.

  The A / D driver 31 is supplied with a position detection signal S1 and a pressing force detection signal S2 from the input means 45. The A / D driver 31 converts an analog signal composed of the position detection signal S1 and the pressing force detection signal S2 into digital data in order to distinguish between the functions of cursoring and icon selection. In addition, the A / D driver 31 performs arithmetic processing on the digital data to detect whether the input is cursor input or icon selection information, and flag data D13 or position detection information (voltage detection data) for discriminating whether the input is cursor input or icon selection. ) D11 or pressing force detection information (voltage detection data) D12 is supplied to the CPU 32. These calculations may be executed in the CPU 32.

  A CPU 32 is connected to the A / D driver 31. The CPU 32 controls the entire camera based on the system program. A storage unit 35 is connected to the CPU 32, and system program data for controlling the entire camera is stored. A RAM (not shown) is used as a work memory. When the power is turned on, the CPU 32 reads out the system program data from the storage means 35 and develops it in the RAM, starts up the system and controls the entire digital camera.

  A ROM 37 is connected to the CPU 32, and a threshold function for setting the CPU 32 is stored. The threshold function obtains the maximum detected voltage V2 = MAX detected when the input position from one end to the other end of the input operation area of the input means 45 is continuously or at a predetermined step and pressed at the maximum allowable force. It is created by calculating a constant a [0 <a <1] to the maximum detection voltage V2 = MAX corresponding to the input position from one end to the other end of the acquired input operation area.

  The CPU 32 inputs the position detection information D11 and the pressing force detection information D12 obtained from the input means 45 with a three-dimensional input function, and determines the input position and pressing force of the operator's finger 30a. The CPU 32 compares the pressing force detection information D12 obtained when the input position of the operator's finger 30a is detected with the threshold function of the input position read from the ROM 37, and based on the comparison result, the operator's finger The “tracing” or “pressing” of 30a is determined.

  For example, the CPU 32 sets one or more threshold data Dth for the pressing force detection information D12, compares the pressing force detection information D12 with the threshold data Dth, and the pressing force detection information D12 exceeds the threshold data Dth. Determines “pressing” the operator's finger 30a in the Z direction, and if the pressing force detection information D12 is equal to or less than the threshold data Dth, “tracing” the operator's finger 30a in the X or Y direction. Is determined. In this way, only by adding a single algorithm, it is possible to determine “pressing” in the Z direction or “strapping” in the X or Y direction with respect to the pressing force of the operator's finger 30a at the current input position. It becomes like this.

  The threshold function stored in the ROM 37 described above is the maximum detected voltage V2 = MAX detected when the input position from one end of the input operation area of the input means 45 to the other end is continuously or with a predetermined step. , And constants a, b, c [0 <c <b <a <different from the maximum detected voltage V2 = MAX corresponding to the input position from one end to the other end of the input operation area acquired here. 1] may be created.

  In this example, the ROM 37 stores threshold data Dth relating to an upper threshold function (hereinafter simply referred to as function g (x)) and a lower threshold function (hereinafter simply referred to as function h (x)) corresponding to the input position. When threshold value data Dth = function g (x) and function h (x) are set for the pressing force detection information D12 and the pressing force detection information D12 exceeds the threshold data Dth function g (x), the operator's It is determined that the finger 30a is “pressed” in the Z direction, and when the pressing force detection information D12 exceeds the threshold data Dth = function h (x) and is equal to or less than the function g (x), the operator's finger 30a The “tracing” in the X direction or the Y direction is discriminated. In this way, only by adding a single algorithm, it is possible to determine “pressing” in the Z direction or “strapping” in the X or Y direction with respect to the pressing force of the operator's finger 30a at the current input position. It becomes like this.

  As described above, the CPU 32 has threshold data (compared information) Dth related to the pressing force detection information (detected voltage value) D12 when pressed with the allowable maximum force in the storage means 35, and when the input is made, By comparing the input position of the operator's finger 30a and the pressing force detection information D12 with the threshold data Dth, the level for the pressing direction (Z direction) is detected in the current input. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and the level for the pressing direction may be detected in the current input by adding a single algorithm as shown in FIG.

  The CPU 32 receives the position detection information D11, the pressing force detection information D12 and the flag data D13 (hereinafter also simply referred to as input data) from the A / D driver 31, and sends predetermined command data [D] to the power supply unit 33, Control is performed so as to be supplied to devices such as the camera 34, the storage unit 35, and the video & audio processing unit 44.

  A camera 34 is connected to the CPU 32 described above, and a subject is photographed to acquire, for example, still image information and operation information. The camera 34 includes a CCD imaging device (not shown) and the lens 26 shown in FIG. A storage means 35 is connected to the CPU 32 described above, and still image information, operation information, and the like acquired by the camera 34 are recorded. The storage means 35 stores display information D14 for displaying the input item selection display screen on the display means 29 in a three-dimensional manner, for example. As the storage means 35, an EEPROM, a ROM, a RAM, a memory stick, a hard disk, or the like is used. The memory 35 'shown in FIG. 14 is one of them.

  The display means 29 displays image information such as buttons and icons that prompt the user to perform an input operation. The image information is displayed based on a command [D] supplied from the CPU 32. As the display means 29, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a flat display element is used. The video from the display means 29 is viewed through the input device 100.

  The CPU 32 is connected to a video & audio processing unit 44, which performs image processing on display information D14 for displaying button icons three-dimensionally, and converts the digital display information D14 into an analog display signal Sv. The display signal Sv is supplied to the display means 29. In this example, the CPU 32 controls display of the display means 29 so that the button icon in the display screen is displayed in a three-dimensional manner with a perspective in the depth direction.

  The video & audio processing unit 44 converts the digital video data from digital to analog and outputs the video signal Sv, and also converts the digital audio data from digital to analog and outputs the audio signal Sout. A speaker 36 is connected to the video & audio processing unit 44. For example, the speaker 36 amplifies guidance on how to use the digital camera 200 and the like.

  An actuator drive circuit 38 is connected to the CPU 32 and generates vibration control signals Sa and Sb in accordance with a command D from the CPU 32. The vibration control signals Sa and Sb have an output waveform composed of a sine waveform, for example. For example, two actuators 25 a and 25 b are connected to the actuator drive circuit 38, and vibration control signals Sa and Sb are supplied from the actuator drive circuit 38. The actuators 25 a and 25 b receive the vibration control signals Sa and Sb, and vibrate the input detection surface so that the vibration moves in the operation direction based on the vibration pattern calculated by the CPU 32. This vibration is for presenting to the operator's finger or the like by tactile sense that the switch has been pressed.

  The digital camera 200 incorporating the input device 100 configured as described above, for example, presses (contacts) one of a plurality of button icons displayed on the input item selection display screen to perform tertiary on the display screen. The input means 45 for four-surface operation with the original input function is pressed in the Z direction. The display contents of the display means 29 are determined by the eyes of the operator, and the sound emission from the speakers 36a, 36b, etc. is determined by the sounds of the operator's ears. The power supply unit 33 has the battery 33 ′ shown in FIG. 14 and supplies DC power to the display means 29, CPU 32, camera 34, storage means 35, and input means 45.

  FIG. 17 is a characteristic diagram showing a setting example of a plurality of threshold functions in the input means 45 for four-surface operation.

  In this embodiment, a ROM 37 storing a plurality of threshold functions for setting in the CPU 32 is provided, and each threshold function is continuously or with an allowable maximum force with respect to an input position from one end to the other end of the input operation area of the input means 45. The maximum detected voltage value detected when the button is pressed in a predetermined step is acquired, and the constants a respectively different from the maximum detected voltage value corresponding to the input position from one end to the other end of the input operation area acquired here. , B, c [0 <c <b <a <1].

  In FIG. 17, the vertical axis represents the detection voltage VX = V2, the horizontal axis represents the input position, the left position is X = 0, and the right position is X = XMAX.

  Also in this example, the state C is defined as a MAX state in which the voltage detection information V2 does not increase any more. For example, the detection voltage V2 = MAX is detected when the Si rubber film 4 is pressed at 1000 gf. When the X direction is traced from one end to the other end (X = 0 to MAX) while pressing down on the Si rubber film 4 in the state C, the value of the detection voltage V2 output from the drive circuit 5 is the resolution number in the X direction. The value of the detection voltage V <b> 2 is measured with a resolution increment of less than that. This is a function f (x).

  In this example, constants a, b, c [0 <c <b <a <1] are set in the function f (x), and g (x) = a · f (x), h (x) = b Create three functions f (x) and i (x) = c · f (x). The functions g (x) = a · f (x), h (x) = b · f (x) and i (x) = c · f (x) are prepared in advance and stored in the ROM 37 or the like. Made.

  The functions g (x), h (x) and i (x) are set by the threshold data Dth. The function g (x) is a threshold function set to obtain the threshold value g (Ip) when determining the detection voltage V2 in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip. For example, the function g (x) is 800 gf when the constant F is 0.8 when the force F vs. detection voltage V2 characteristic is linear and the state C is f (x) = 1000 gf.

  The function h (x) is a threshold function set to obtain the threshold value h (Ip) when determining the detection voltage V2 in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip. For example, the function h (x) is 550 gf when the constant b is 0.55 when f (x) = 1000 gf in the same manner as described above. The function i (x) is a threshold function set to obtain the threshold i (Ip) when determining the detection voltage V2 in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip. For example, the function i (x) is 300 gf when the constant c is 0.3 when f (x) = 1000 gf in the same manner as described above.

  Table 2 shows an example of the relationship between the function f (x) and the functions g (x), h (x), and i (x) for the slide range (input position) X = 0 to x = MAX in the X direction. ing.

表２によれば、入力位置Ｘ＝０で、関数ｆ（ｘ）、関数ｇ（ｘ）、関数ｈ（ｘ）及び関数ｉ（ｘ）は共に「０」である。Ｘ＝１で、関数ｆ（ｘ）＝αのとき、関数ｇ（ｘ）はａαであり、関数ｈ（ｘ）はｂαであり、関数ｉ（ｘ）はｃαである。同様にして、Ｘ＝２で、関数ｆ（ｘ）＝βのとき、関数ｇ（ｘ）はａβであり、関数ｈ（ｘ）はｂβであり、関数ｉ（ｘ）はｃβである。Ｘ＝３で、関数ｆ（ｘ）＝γのとき、関数ｇ（ｘ）はａγであり、関数ｈ（ｘ）はｂγであり、関数ｉ（ｘ）はγβである。

According to Table 2, at the input position X = 0, the function f (x), the function g (x), the function h (x), and the function i (x) are all “0”. When X = 1 and the function f (x) = α, the function g (x) is aα, the function h (x) is bα, and the function i (x) is cα. Similarly, when X = 2 and the function f (x) = β, the function g (x) is aβ, the function h (x) is bβ, and the function i (x) is cβ. When X = 3 and the function f (x) = γ, the function g (x) is aγ, the function h (x) is bγ, and the function i (x) is γβ.

  As a result, in the display surface operation area I of the housing 20, the display surface touch sheet portion 80d can distinguish inputs such as tracing and pushing in the Z direction pressing input. In addition, in the side surface operation areas IIa, IIb, and IIc of the housing 20 shown in FIG. 5A, it becomes possible to detect the pushing input by the pressing force in the Z direction at the side touch sheet portions 80a, 80b, and 80c.

  With the display surface touch sheet portion including the A region in the display surface operation region I of the housing 20, it is possible to distinguish input such as tracing and pressing with respect to pressing input in the Z direction. Further, indentation input can be detected by the side touch sheet portion including the B region of the side surface operation regions IIa, IIb, and IIc of the housing 20, and similarly, the C region of the side surface operation regions IId, IIe, and IIf is determined. Push-in input can be detected in the side touch sheet portion including the push-in input, and push-in input can be detected in the side touch sheet portion including the D region of the side operation regions IIg, IIh, IIi.

  Next, an information processing example of the digital camera 200 will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart (main routine) showing an example of information processing in the digital camera 200. FIG. 19 is a flowchart (subroutine) showing an example of selecting the application, and FIGS. FIG. 22 is a flowchart (subroutine) showing a discrimination example of the pressed states “I”, “B”, “C”, “D” at the fixed point Ip.

  In this embodiment, on the input operation surface of the digital camera 200 with a three-dimensional input function, it is possible to input information by discriminating or pushing the operator's finger 30a or the like, and the information is displayed on the display means 29. It is assumed that input of button icons etc. is confirmed. Furthermore, operation switches 48a, 48b, etc. are provided on the case side surface, case upper surface, etc., and ON / OFF is detected by the pressing force in the Z direction, and the LEDs 57a, 57b, etc. are turned on when ON is detected. . In this example, for example, four applications AP1 to AP4 are prepared for input operations such as button icons or operation switches 48, 48a, and 48b.

  With these as information processing conditions, the CPU 32 waits for power-on in step G1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. For example, the CPU 32 detects power-on information and activates the system. The power-on information is usually generated when a clock function or the like is activated and a power switch of a digital camera or the like in a sleeping state is turned on.

  In step G2, the CPU 32 controls the display unit 29 to display an icon screen. For example, the CPU 32 supplies the display data D14 to the display means 29 and displays the input information on the display screen. The input information displayed on the display screen is made visible through the input means 45 having an input operation surface. In step G3, the CPU 32 branches the control based on the button icon input mode or other processing mode. The button icon input mode refers to an input operation in which an icon button on the input operation surface or the operation switches 48, 48a, 48b, etc. on the side of the housing are pressed when the button icon is selected.

  When the button icon input mode is set, the process proceeds to step G4, and the CPU 32 waits for input (X, Y). When the button icon input mode is set, the icon, the operation switches 48, 48a, 48b, etc. are pushed in, so that some input (X, Y) is detected by the drive circuit 5 shown in FIG. Then, the process proceeds to step G5, where one of the four applications AP1 to AP4 is selected and the application is executed.

  For example, a subroutine shown in FIG. 19 is called, and it is detected whether or not the application AP1 is selected in step H1. If the application AP1 is selected, the process proceeds to step H2 to execute the application AP1. Thereafter, the process returns to step G5.

  If other than the application AP1 is selected in step H1, the process proceeds to step H3 to detect whether the application AP2 is selected. If the application AP2 is selected, the process proceeds to step H4 to execute the application AP2. Thereafter, the process returns to step G5.

  If other than the applications AP1 and AP2 are selected in step H3, the process proceeds to step H5 to detect whether the application AP3 is selected. If the application AP3 is selected, the process proceeds to step H6 to execute the application AP3.

  If an application AP4 other than the applications AP1, AP2 and AP3 is selected in step H5, the process moves to step H7 to execute the application AP4. Thereafter, the process returns to step G5, and then proceeds to step G6. In step G6, the CPU 32 executes a process for detecting an area where the icon, the operation switch 48, 48a, 48b or the like is pressed.

  For example, the subroutine shown in FIG. 20 is called, and in step K1, the CPU 32 first detects whether the area where the icon, the operation switch 48, 48a, 48b, or the like is pressed is the A area. According to the example shown in FIG. 15, the A region exists in the ranges of 50 ≦ X ≦ 120 and 10 ≦ Y ≦ 60 in the XY coordinate system. Search within this A area. If the A area is pushed in, the process further proceeds to step K2 to detect whether the A1 area is pushed in. If the A1 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. If the A1 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K3 to detect whether the A2 area has been pushed in. If the A2 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine.

  If the A2 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K4 to detect whether the A3 area has been pushed in. When the A3 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. If the A3 area is not pushed in, the process proceeds to step K5 to detect whether the A4 area is pushed in. If the A4 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. As a result, the regions A1 to A4 can be discriminated. Note that images such as button icons from the display means 29 are superimposed on the areas A1 to A4. If none of the areas A1 to A4 is pushed, the process returns to step G4 of the main routine and waits for input (X, Y).

  If the area A is not pushed in step K1, the process proceeds to step K6 to detect whether the area B is pushed. The region B exists in the range of 30 ≦ X ≦ 140 and 70 ≦ Y ≦ 100 in the XY coordinate system. This B area is searched (see FIG. 15). If the B area is pushed in, the process further proceeds to step K7 to detect whether the B1 area is pushed in. When the B1 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. If the B1 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K8 to detect whether the B2 area has been pushed in. When the area B2 is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine.

  If the B2 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K9 to detect whether the B3 area has been pushed in. When the area B3 is pushed, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. As a result, the regions B1 to B3 can be discriminated. It should be noted that the LED light from the LED 57 is transmitted to the regions B1 to B3 when the operation switch 48 shown in FIG. 12 is turned on. If none of the areas B1 to B3 is pushed in, the process returns to step G4 of the main routine and waits for input (X, Y).

  If the area B is not pushed in step K6, the process proceeds to step K10 shown in FIG. 21 to detect whether the area C is pushed. The C region exists in the range of 0 ≦ X ≦ 30 and 0 ≦ Y ≦ 70 in the XY coordinate system. The search is made in the C area (see FIG. 15). If the C area has been pushed in, the process further proceeds to step K11 to detect whether the C1 area has been pushed in. When the C1 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine.

  If the C1 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K12 to detect whether the C2 area has been pushed in. When the area C2 is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. If the C2 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K13 to detect whether the C3 area has been pushed in. When the area C3 is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. Thereby, the regions C1 to C3 can be discriminated. In addition, LED light from LED57a permeate | transmits to area | regions C1-C3 when the operation switch 48a shown in FIG. 14 is ON. If none of the areas C1 to C3 is pushed in, the process returns to step G4 of the main routine and waits for input (X, Y).

  If the C area is not pushed in step K10, the process proceeds to step K14 to detect whether the D area is pushed. The D region exists in a range of 140 ≦ X ≦ 170 and 0 ≦ Y ≦ 70 in the XY coordinate system. This D area is searched (see FIG. 15). If the D area is pushed in, the process further proceeds to step K15 to detect whether the D1 area is pushed in. When the D1 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. If the D1 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K15 to detect whether the D2 area has been pushed in. When the D2 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine.

  If the D2 area has not been pushed in, the process proceeds to step K16 to detect whether the D3 area has been pushed in. When the D3 area is pushed in, the process returns to step G6 of the main routine. Thereby, the regions D1 to D3 can be discriminated. When the operation switch 48b shown in FIG. 14 is turned on, the LED light from the LED 57b is transmitted through the regions D1 to D3. If none of the areas D1 to D3 is pushed in, the process returns to step G4 of the main routine and waits for input (X, Y).

  If any of the areas A to D is pushed in the above steps K2 to K5, K7 to K9, K11 to K13, and K14 to K16, after returning to step G6, the process proceeds to step G7 and pressing at the fixed point Ip A state determination process is executed. For example, in the setting example of a plurality of threshold functions in the input unit 45 for four-surface operation shown in FIG. 17, a case is assumed where the input surface is pressed with a certain force F at a certain position (fixed point) x = I.

  In this example, the pressed state (non-contact) between the function f (x) and the function g (x) is (A), and the pressed state (race # 1) between the function g (x) and the function h (x). ) Is (b), the pressed state (race # 2) between the function h (x) and the function i (x) is (c), and the pressed state (push) weaker than the function i (x) is (d) ). The detection voltage V2 at this time is V2 = V2F. When the input surface is pressed with a certain force F at a certain input position (fixed point Ip) in the input means 45, the threshold functions g (x), h (x) and i (x) stored in the ROM 37 are used. The case where the detection voltage V2F in the Z direction at the fixed point Ip is detected is taken as an example.

  Under this condition, the A / D driver 31 reads the detection voltage V2F output from the drive circuit 5 in step ST1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. Next, in step ST2, the CPU 32 reads the threshold data Dth = threshold i (Ip) at the fixed point Ip with reference to the threshold function i (x) described in the ROM 37.

  Thereafter, in step ST3, the CPU 32 compares the detection voltage V2F at the fixed point Ip with the threshold value i (Ip), and detects the magnitude of the detection voltage V2F and the threshold value i (Ip). When the detection voltage V2F ≦ threshold value i (Ip), the process proceeds to step ST4, where the pressed state “ni” (non-contact) flag is set and “non-contact” is transmitted to the upper control system. If the detection voltage V2F> threshold value g (Ip), the process proceeds to step ST5, and the threshold value data Dth = threshold value h (Ip) at the fixed point Ip is read out.

  Thereafter, in step ST6, the CPU 32 compares the detection voltage V2F at the fixed point Ip with the threshold value h (Ip), and detects the magnitude of the detection voltage V2F and the threshold value h (Ip). When the detection voltage V2F ≦ threshold value h (Ip), the process proceeds to step ST7, where the pressed state “c” (trace # 1) flag is set and “trace # 1” is transmitted to the upper control system. If the detection voltage V2F> threshold value h (Ip), the process proceeds to step ST8 to read threshold data Dth = threshold value g (Ip) at the fixed point Ip.

  Thereafter, in step ST9, the CPU 32 compares the detection voltage V2F at the fixed point Ip with the threshold value g (Ip) and detects the magnitude of the detection voltage V2F and the threshold value g (Ip). If the detection voltage V2F ≦ the threshold value g (Ip), the process proceeds to step ST10, where the pressed state “b” (trace # 2) flag is set and “trace # 2” is transmitted to the upper control system. If the detection voltage V2F> threshold value g (Ip), the process proceeds to step S11 to set the pressed state “I” (push-in) flag and transmit “push-in” to the upper control system (three-dimensional information). . Thereafter, the process returns to step ST1 to repeat the above-described processing.

  Then, after returning to step G7 of the main routine shown in FIG. 18, the process proceeds to step G8 to determine the input at the fixed point Ip. At this time, the CPU 32 determines the input information displayed at the pressed position on the input operation surface. Then, the process proceeds to step G10. When another processing mode is selected in step G3, the process proceeds to step G9 to execute another processing mode.

  Other processing modes include an image reproduction mode and an information transfer mode. The information transfer mode includes an operation of transferring still image information to the printer apparatus. The button icon includes selection items such as playback, rewind, and fast forward when the image playback mode is selected. After executing another processing mode, the process proceeds to step G10. In step G10, the CPU 32 makes an end determination. For example, the power-off information is detected and the information processing is terminated. If the power-off information is not detected, the process returns to step G2, displays an icon screen such as a menu, and repeats the above-described processing.

  As described above, according to the digital camera 200 as the third embodiment, the input device 100 with a three-dimensional input function according to the present invention is applied, and a capacitance type four-surface operation formed of a transparent resin. The input means 45 has a structure in which the input means 45 is integrally formed across the back surface and the side surface of the housing of the digital camera 200 different from the display means 29. In addition, the flexible wiring 60 that transmits the position detection signal S1, the force detection signal S2, and the like of the input means is concentrated at the position of the display surface touch sheet portion or the side surface touch sheet portion of the input means 45 for four-surface operation. Can do.

  Therefore, since the display surface touch panel and the operation switch on the side surface are separately disposed and the flexible wiring is drawn out from each of them, the mounting space for the flexible wiring 60 and the connector can be reduced. Miniaturization can be achieved. In addition, when the digital camera 200 is assembled, the wiring connection process can be simplified. Further, the cost of the digital camera 200 can be reduced by reducing the number of parts (particularly, the number of connectors and the key tops in the mechanical switch unit).

  The function of the input means 45 realized by the present invention can be realized by combining a conventional capacitive touch panel and a mechanical tact switch. In the conventional method, there is no merit in design by adopting the mechanical tact switch, and the operation feeling at the time of “tracing” will trace the mechanical switch. The situation was unfavorable in engineering. The present invention can solve this situation.

  The present invention is extremely suitable when applied to a digital camera, a mobile phone, a mobile terminal device, or the like that selects an icon from an input item selection display screen prepared in advance and inputs information.

1 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of an input device 100 as a first embodiment according to the present invention. (A) And (B) is the top view which shows the example of expansion | deployment of the input sheet 80 for multi-surface operation, and its front view. (A) And (B) is the upper side figure which shows the structural example of the housing | casing 20, and its front view. FIG. 6 is a process diagram illustrating a formation example (No. 1) of the input device 100; FIG. 10 is a process diagram illustrating a formation example (No. 2) of the input device 100; It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the input device 100 with a three-dimensional input function. (A)-(C) are sectional drawings which show the detection principle of the Z direction of the input device 100. FIG. (A) And (B) is a circuit diagram which shows the structural example of the drive circuit 5 and the resistance adjustment film | membrane 2 of the input device 100. FIG. (A) And (B) is a circuit diagram which shows the operation example at the time of "tracing" and "push-in" in the drive circuit 5. FIG. FIG. 6 is a characteristic diagram illustrating an example of detection of XY position information by the drive circuit 5; It is a characteristic view which shows the example of discrimination | determination of the detection voltage V2F of the Z direction in the fixed point Ip. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the operation switch 48 in the input device 100 as a 2nd Example. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an operation example when the operation switch 48 is pressed. It is sectional drawing which shows the structural example of the digital camera 200 with a three-dimensional input function as a 3rd Example. It is a top view which shows the example of expansion | deployment of the input sheet 80 'for the 4 side operation. It is a block diagram which shows the example of an internal structure of the digital camera 200 with a three-dimensional input function. It is a characteristic view which shows the example of a setting of the some threshold value function in the input means 45 for 4 surface operation. 5 is a flowchart (main routine) showing an information processing example in the digital camera 200. It is a flowchart (subroutine) which shows the example of selection of the application. It is a flowchart (subroutine) which shows the example (1) of area | region discrimination | determination in the CPU32. It is a flowchart (subroutine) which shows the example (2) of area | region discrimination | determination in the CPU32. It is a flowchart (subroutine) showing a discrimination example of the pressed states “I”, “B”, “C”, “D” at the fixed point Ip.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Substrate, 2 ... Resistance adjusting film, 3 ... ITO film (transparent conductive film), 4 ... Si rubber film (dielectric film), 5 ... Drive circuit, 6 ... AC wave oscillation device, 9 ... SiO2 film, 15 ... control means, 20 ... housing, 21 ... front panel, 29 ... display means, 32 ... CPU (control) Means), 35 ... storage means, 37 ... ROM, 45 ... input means, 48, 48a, 48b ... operation switch, 60 ... flexible wiring (wiring member), 80, 80 '. ..Input sheet, 80a to 80c ... side touch sheet portion, 80d ... display surface touch sheet portion, 100 ... input device, 200 ... digital camera (electronic device)

Claims (15)

A housing having a first surface operation region and a second surface operation region other than the first surface operation region;
An input sheet for multi-face operation attached to the first operation area and the second face operation area of the housing,
The input sheet is
An unfolded input sheet in which a sheet-like input touch member for first surface operation and a sheet-like input touch member for second surface operation are formed on a light-transmissive sheet-like flat member is selectively folded, An input sheet fold having an input touch member for the first surface operation attached to the first operation area of the housing and an input touch member for the second surface operation attached to the second surface operation region of the housing. Having a bending structure ,
A resistance adjustment film for detecting an input position of the operating body in an input operation region defining the X direction and the Y direction;
A transparent conductive film that is provided on the entire surface of the resistance adjustment film and transmits light;
Provided on the entire surface of the transparent conductive film to transmit light, and when the vertical direction with respect to the input operation area is the Z direction, the thickness in the Z direction changes corresponding to the pressing force of the operating body. With dielectric film
An input device. The input sheet is
Input touch member for the first side operation is joined to the operation surface inside the housing, an input touch member for said second surface operation Ru formed are joined along the wall surface inside of the housing
The input device according to 請 Motomeko 1. Ru an input touch member or the wiring member input sheet for the multi operation drawn from the input touch member for the second side operations for the first surface operation
The input device according to 請 Motomeko 1 or claim 2. The operation direction of the input touch member for said second surface operation, Ru a switch-on or light-emitting diodes off confirmation
Input device according to any one of the 請 Motomeko 1 to claim 3. That having a insulating film provided on the entire surface of the dielectric film transmits light
Input device according to any one of the 請 Motomeko 1 to claim 4. The dielectric film has a desired elastic modulus, dielectric constant, optical transmittance and thickness,
Elastic modulus of the dielectric film is not lower than the elastic modulus of the insulating film
The input device according to 請 Motomeko 5. Wherein the dielectric layer, a silicon rubber Ru is used
Input device according to any one of the 請 Motomeko 1 to claim 6. A sheet-like input touch member for the first surface operation and a sheet-like input touch member for the second surface operation are formed on the light transmissive sheet-like flat member to form a developed input sheet for multi-surface operation. Process,
Forming a housing having a first surface operation region and a second surface operation region for attaching the unfolded input sheet;
The unfolded input sheet is selectively bent to attach an input touch member for the first surface operation to the first surface operation region of the housing, and for the second surface operation to the second surface operation region of the housing. and a step of attaching the input touch member,
The step of forming the development input sheet includes:
Forming a resistance adjustment film for detecting the input position of the operating body in the input operation area defining the X direction and the Y direction;
Forming a transparent conductive film that transmits light on the entire surface of the resistance adjustment film;
Dielectrics that transmit light over the entire surface of the transparent conductive film and change the thickness in the Z direction corresponding to the pressing force of the operating body when the vertical direction with respect to the input operation region is the Z direction. Forming a conductive film and
A method for manufacturing an input device. Joining the input touch member for said first surface operating the operation surface inside the housing, it joins the input touch member for the second side operation along a wall surface inside of the housing
Method of manufacturing an input device according to 請 Motomeko 8. To pull out the input touch member or the wiring member deployment input sheet for the polygon operation from one of the input touch member for the second side operations for the first surface operation
Method of manufacturing an input device according to 請 Motomeko 8 or claim 9. The operation direction of the input touch member for said second surface operation, Ru mount the switch on or the light emitting diode off for confirmation
Method of manufacturing an input device according to any one of 請 Motomeko 8 through claim 10. Display means;
An input means disposed above the display means and having a function of detecting a contact position of the operating body and outputting a position detection signal; and a function of detecting a pressing force of the operating body and outputting a force detection signal. Bei example,
The input means includes
A housing having a first operation area and a second surface operation area;
An input sheet for multi-face operation attached to the first operation area and the second face operation area of the housing;
The input sheet for multi-face operation is
An unfolded input sheet in which a sheet-like input touch member for first surface operation and a sheet-like input touch member for second surface operation are formed on a light-transmissive sheet-like flat member is selectively folded, An input sheet fold having an input touch member for the first surface operation attached to the first operation area of the housing and an input touch member for the second surface operation attached to the second surface operation region of the housing. Having a bending structure ,
A resistance adjustment film for detecting an input position of the operating body in an input operation region defining the X direction and the Y direction;
A transparent conductive film that is provided on the entire surface of the resistance adjustment film and transmits light;
Provided on the entire surface of the transparent conductive film to transmit light, and when the vertical direction with respect to the input operation area is the Z direction, the thickness in the Z direction changes corresponding to the pressing force of the operating body. With dielectric film
Electronic equipment having The input sheet for multi-face operation is
Input touch member for the first side operation is joined to the operation surface inside the housing, an input touch member for said second surface operation Ru formed are joined along the wall surface inside of the housing
The electronic device according to 請 Motomeko 1 2. Ru an input touch member or the wiring member input sheet for the multi operation drawn from the input touch member for the second side operations for the first surface operation
請 Motomeko 1 2 or electronic device according to claim 13. The operation direction of the input touch member for said second surface operation, Ru a switch-on or light-emitting diodes off confirmation
請 Motomeko 1 2 or electronic device according to any one of claims 14.

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