JP5384698B2 - Press detection sensor, input device, and electronic device - Google Patents

Description

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is a pressure detection sensor suitable for application to a mobile phone, an information processing device, a mobile phone, an information portable terminal device, and the like that inputs information by sliding and pressing an input detection surface on a display screen. The present invention relates to an apparatus and an electronic device. Specifically, a conductive contact body having a predetermined length and width and electrically connecting between the first and second conductors on the base member having a predetermined shape is provided on the inside. A covering member covering the base member including the first and second conductors, the covering member having flexibility and / or elasticity, and the contact body according to an external force being the first and second conductors A frame-shaped press detection sensor with a thin and simple structure that can reliably detect the indentation force at a position where the gaps are electrically connected and can prevent entry of dust, moisture, etc. Can be provided.

  In recent years, a user (operator) has photographed a subject using a digital camera equipped with various types of operation modes, or has taken various contents into a mobile terminal device such as a mobile phone or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistants) There are many cases where it is used. These digital cameras, portable terminal devices, and the like 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.

  Furthermore, an input device (XY direction detection function) that allows the user to input information by physically moving a finger or the like on the touch panel on the display unit, or information input operation by pressing the operation surface with the user's finger A possible input device (Z direction detection function) is also disclosed.

  According to Patent Document 1, an input device with a haptic function is disclosed in relation to an input device having this type of Z-direction detection function. According to this input device, a resistive film type touch panel is provided on a display unit such as a liquid crystal display element, and a pressure detection system is provided below the display unit. The pressure detection system includes four pressure detection sensors provided at four corners on the lower side of the display unit, and a driver IC that processes the pressure detection signal.

  According to the pressure detection system, when the pressure in the Z direction is detected, when the user presses the finger on the touch panel, the four pressure detection sensors supporting the display unit detect the pressure. Then, four types of pressure detection signals are output to the driver IC. The driver IC calculates four types of pressure detection signals, obtains an average value among the four pressure detection sensors, and compares it with a preset threshold value. By configuring the input device in this way, an input device having a Z direction detection function in addition to an XY direction detection function can be provided.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-332063 (page 3, FIG. 3)

  By the way, according to the digital camera including the input device with the detection function in the XY direction and the Z direction according to the conventional example, and the electronic apparatus such as the information processing device, the mobile phone, and the information portable terminal device, the following problems are caused. is there.

  i. According to an electronic apparatus provided with an input device with a detection function in the Z direction as seen in Patent Document 1, a display unit such as a liquid crystal display element on four pressure detection sensors, a surface operation member such as a touch panel, It has a laminated structure in which the upper housing and the like are combined in multiple stages. Therefore, the pressure detection system is complicated, and the pressure detection sensor must be mounted so that an unstable load unrelated to the input operation is not applied to these members. That is, the members appearing above are required to be mounted with high precision during assembly, and there is a problem that the assemblability is extremely low.

  ii. Since a configuration in which the pressure detection sensor is arranged under the display unit is adopted, the display unit needs to be mechanically supported only by the pressure detection sensor from the viewpoint of the pressure detection principle, and there is a mechanical gap around the display unit. Had to secure. For this reason, there is a problem that a path through which moisture and dust enter the electronic apparatus is unintentionally generated, resulting in poor waterproofness and dustproofness.

  iii. Since a dedicated driver IC for calculating the four types of pressure detection signals output from the four pressure detection sensors described above is required, there is a problem that the cost of the pressure detection system is increased.

  iv. As an input device that solves the above-mentioned waterproof and dust-proof problems, according to the input device currently filed by the present inventors, an image sensor is incorporated in the display unit, an operation surface is set in the display unit, and the user An operation body (thing) such as a finger is captured as an image, and the pressure is calculated from the imaging area of the operation body. However, there has been a problem in that it is difficult to obtain detection data of an imaging area proportional to the applied pressure in the video data acquired while the operating body is pressed after touching the operating surface. This hinders reliable detection of the applied pressure.

  v. Under the illuminance environment around diversified electronic devices, when a user's finger is captured as an image, a different image can be obtained even in the same pressure state under different illuminance environments. It is difficult to detect (image acquisition) the detection data of the imaging area that is sufficiently linked to the image. Incidentally, there is a problem that the pressure detection system becomes complicated (large scale) when it is attempted to incorporate calculation processing such as image feature analysis in order to detect detection data of the imaging area that is sufficiently linked with the applied pressure.

  Therefore, the present invention solves such a conventional problem, so that it is possible to reliably detect the pushing force according to the external force at the pushing position, and to prevent entry of dust, moisture, and the like. An object of the present invention is to provide a pressed detection sensor, an input device, and an electronic device.

The above-described problems include a frame-shaped base member having an opening at an in-plane center portion, one or a plurality of first and second electrode patterns arranged in parallel at predetermined intervals on the base member, An elastic conductor disposed between the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern and contacting the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern according to an external force; the elastic conductor; and the first and second electrodes A covering member that covers the electrode pattern, and in each set, the first and second electrode patterns are a resistance value and a length of a current path when the elastic conductor contacts the first and second electrode patterns. However, this is solved by a press detection sensor having a layout that does not depend on the pressed position of the elastic conductor.

  According to the press detection sensor according to the present invention, the pressing force according to the external force can be reliably detected at the position where the elastic conductor is electrically connected between the first and second electrode patterns during the pressing operation. Become.

  An input device according to the present invention is provided between a display unit that displays input information, a position detection unit that detects a contact position of an operating body, a display unit and a position detection unit, and is configured to reduce the pressing force of the operating body. And a pressure detection unit for detection. The pressure detection unit is a pressure detection sensor according to the present invention.

  According to the input device according to the present invention, since the press detection sensor according to the present invention is provided, when inputting information in response to the pressing operation of the operating body on the input detection surface on the display screen, Not only information on the position where the first and second electrode patterns are electrically connected, but also the length by which the elastic conductor electrically connects the first and second electrode patterns according to the external force. The pushing force can be reliably detected.

  An electronic apparatus according to the present invention includes the input device according to the present invention.

  According to the electronic device according to the present invention, the input device according to the present invention is provided. Therefore, when information is input in response to the pressing operation of the operating body on the input detection surface on the display screen, the first device is selected according to the external force. In addition to the information of the position where the second electrode pattern is electrically connected, the elastic conductor pushes in accordance with the length of the electrical connection between the first and second electrode patterns according to the external force. Force can be detected reliably.

  According to the press detection sensor of the present invention, it is possible to provide a frame-like press detection sensor having a thin and simple structure while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like.

  According to the input device of the present invention, it is possible to provide an input device in which a frame-shaped press detection sensor or the like having a thin and simple structure is mounted while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like. .

  The electronic device according to the present invention provides an electronic device with an input device on which a frame-shaped press detection sensor having a thin and simple structure is mounted while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like. become able to.

It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the press detection sensor 100 as a 1st Example. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of one side of a press detection sensor 100. FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of a press detection sensor 100. (A)-(C) are the top views which show the example of arrangement | positioning of the electrode patterns 51 and 52 and the elastic conductor 53, and the figure which shows the equivalent circuit. FIG. 6 is a table showing an operation example of the press detection sensor 100. 3 is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of a detection circuit of a pressure detection sensor 100. FIG. (8)-(C) are the conceptual diagrams which show the pressing state of the elastic conductor 53, and the graph which shows the example of a change of the resistance value between the electrode patterns 51 and 52. FIG. (A)-(E) are the conceptual diagrams which show the example of pressing operation of the press detection sensor 100, and the graph figure which shows the output characteristic example of the press detection sensor 100. FIG. (A)-(C) are sectional drawings which show the example of a shape of the section of elastic conductor 53, and other examples of composition. It is a top view which shows the structural example of electrode pattern 51 'and 52'. It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the mobile telephone 200 with a tactile sense input function as a 2nd Example provided with the input device which concerns on this invention. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration example of a mobile phone 200. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the input device 90. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structural example of the mobile telephone 200 with a tactile sense input function. It is a flowchart which shows the information processing example in the mobile telephone 200 which concerns on a 2nd Example. It is sectional drawing which shows the structural example of the mobile telephone 300 as a 3rd Example. It is a perspective view which shows the assembly example of the input device 901. FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the structural example of the mobile telephone 400 as a 4th Example. It is a perspective view which shows the example of an assembly of the input device 902. FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the structural example of the mobile telephone 500 as a 5th Example. It is a top view which shows the structural example of the electrode pattern in the press detection part 50 ', and its function example (the 1). It is a top view which shows the structural example of the electrode pattern in the press detection part 50 ', and its function example (the 2). It is a top view which shows the structural example of the electrode pattern in the press detection part 50 ', and its function example (the 3). FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the input device 903. It is a circuit diagram which shows the example of an equivalent circuit of the press detection part 50 ', and the example of a detection of the output voltage Vo. It is a graph which shows the example of a characteristic at the time of shipment of the resistance value Rv in the press detection part 50 ', and a calibration. It is a top view which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the elastic conductors 53a'-53d 'in the press detection part 50'. It is a top view which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of electrode pattern 51a'-51d 'and electrode pattern 52a'-52d' in the press detection part 50 '. 6 is a plan view showing an example of an X mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. (A) And (B) is a top view which shows the Y mode input function example in the mobile telephone 500. FIG. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing an example of a Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. 6 is a plan view showing an example of an X + Y mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of an X + Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of a Y + Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of an X + Y + Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of a multipoint mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example (part 1) of operation mode switching in the mobile phone 500. 12 is a flowchart showing an example (part 2) of operation mode switching in the mobile phone 500. 10 is a flowchart showing an example (No. 3) of operation mode switching in the mobile phone 500.

  Subsequently, embodiments of the press detection sensor, the input device, and the electronic apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of a press detection sensor 100 as a first embodiment. A press detection sensor 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes electrode patterns 51 and 52, an elastic conductor 53, a cover sheet 54, and a base sheet 55. The base sheet 55 constitutes an example of a base member, has a predetermined length and width, and has a predetermined shape. The base sheet 55 has an insulating property, and has, for example, a frame shape in which a central portion forms an opening. The reason why the press detection sensor 100 is set in a frame shape is to configure an input device in which a display unit such as a liquid crystal display element is incorporated in the central portion and the display surface is an operation surface.

  The electrode pattern 51 constitutes an example of a first conductor, has a predetermined length, and is disposed on the base sheet 55. The electrode pattern 52 constitutes an example of a second conductor, and is disposed on the base sheet 55 so as to face the electrode pattern 51. An elastic conductor 53 constituting an example of a conductive contact body is disposed between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 so as to electrically connect the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 according to an external force. To be made. For the elastic conductor 53, for example, a conductive rubber member is used.

  The covering sheet 54 constitutes an example of a covering member, and is provided so as to cover the base sheet 55 including the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 having an elastic conductor 53 inside. The covering sheet 54 has flexibility and / or elasticity. In this example, the elastic conductor 53 and the covering sheet 54 may be made of the same material. For example, since the elastic conductor 53 and the covering sheet 54 can be formed with the same mold, the manufacturing process of the press detection sensor 100 can be simplified.

  In this example, one end of the electrode pattern 51 is connected to the first terminal 56, one end of the electrode pattern 52 is connected to the second terminal 57, and the other ends of the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are both open. . The base sheet 55 on which the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are arranged has a frame shape.

  FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration example of one side of the press detection sensor 100. In FIG. 2, when the width of the base sheet 55 is w, the width w is about 3 to 5 mm. When the thickness of the press detection sensor 100 is t, t is about 0.5 to 1.5 mm. For the base sheet 55, a polyimide-based sheet-like resin material having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm is used.

  On the base sheet 55, the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are arranged side by side with a predetermined interval. For the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52, a copper (Cu) foil, a silver foil, a bronze foil, or a brass foil is used.

  The covering sheet 54 includes, for example, an upper base sheet 54a, an outer space sheet 54b, and an inner space sheet 54c. An outer space sheet 54b and an inner space sheet 54c are provided on both sides of the base sheet 55, and the upper base sheet 54a and the base sheet 55 function as spacers. The reason for providing the spacer is to secure (create) a space inside the region surrounded by the covering sheet 54 on the base sheet 55. As the upper base sheet 54a, a polyimide sheet-like resin material having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm is used.

  In this example, the elastic conductor 53 is provided below the upper base sheet 54a (back surface) so as to contact the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 on the base sheet 55 when the upper base sheet 54a is pressed. The conduction state is maintained. For the elastic conductor 53, a conductive rubber having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to 0.5 m is used.

  The elastic conductor 53 is configured to lightly touch the edge of the electrode pattern 51 and the edge of the electrode pattern 52 when the upper base sheet 54 a is lightly pressed. When the upper base sheet 54 a is strongly pressed, the elastic conductor 53 is inserted between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52. The contact resistance is significantly lower than when lightly touched.

  When the upper base sheet 54a is not pressed, the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 on the base sheet 55 are separated from each other, so that an electrically insulated state is maintained. In this example, the elastic conductor 53, the upper base sheet 54a, the outer space sheet 54b, and the inner space sheet 54c may be formed of the same conductive rubber member.

  For example, an adhesive sheet 58 is provided on the upper part of the upper base sheet 54a, and is used when bonding the upper parts. An acrylic adhesive is used for the adhesive sheet 58. The thickness is about 25 to 300 μm. The pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 58 may be omitted when no components are stacked on the top.

  With regard to the component laminated on the upper part, a surface plate such as a tactile input sheet, which the present inventors have applied for, can be cited. The tactile sense input sheet is a sheet in which projections having a columnar shape or a conical shape are provided so as to stand upright in a direction perpendicular to the sheet surface of the base sheet that forms the base material. .

  An adhesive sheet 59 is provided below the base sheet 55, and is used when bonding the lower parts. With respect to the components located in the lower part, a casing, a substrate, a display panel, and the like of an electronic device can be given. An acrylic adhesive is used for the adhesive sheet 59. The thickness is about 25 to 300 μm. The pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 59 may be omitted when no parts are arranged below.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the press detection sensor 100. According to the press detection sensor 100 shown in FIG. 3, the frame-shaped base sheet 55 is prepared. For the base sheet 55, a polyimide-based sheet-like resin material having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm is used.

  Next, the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are arranged on the base sheet 55 at a predetermined interval. A resist material is applied to the entire surface of the single-sided copper foil substrate, and the resist material is exposed and developed through a reticle on which a frame-like electrode pattern 51 and electrode pattern 52 are drawn, and then the single-sided copper foil substrate is coated with a resist film. Using the mask, unnecessary portions of the copper foil pattern are immersed in an etching solution and removed. For the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52, a silver foil, a bronze foil, or a brass foil is used in addition to the copper foil.

  On the other hand, the elastic conductor 53 is joined to the covering sheet 54. The covering sheet 54 is formed into a C-shape, and a method of adhering a square annular elastic conductor 53, or a mold having a core and a cavity in the shape of the covering sheet 54 and the elastic conductor 53, is prepared. Alternatively, a conductive rubber-based resin may be sealed in and integrally molded. Thereafter, the cover sheet 54 with the elastic conductor 53 is thermally bonded so as to cover the base sheet 55. The temperature condition at this time is about 100 ° C to 120 ° C. Thereby, the press detection sensor 100 as shown in FIG. 1 is completed.

  Subsequently, an operation example of the press detection sensor 100 will be described. 4A to 4C are a plan view illustrating an arrangement example of the electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, and the elastic conductor 53 and an equivalent circuit thereof. FIG. 5 is a table showing an operation example of the press detection sensor 100.

  In this example, the four corners of the frame-shaped electrode pattern 51, electrode pattern 52, and elastic conductor 53 are designated as points A, B, C, and D, respectively, and the center of gravity at points A, B, C, and D is designated as point E. The behavior of the electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, and the elastic conductor 53 when the locations of points A, B, C, D, and E are pressed with each strength is shown.

  According to the arrangement example of the electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, and the elastic conductor 53 shown in FIG. 4A, the electrode pattern 51 shown by oblique lines is arranged in a frame shape at the outermost corner, and the electrode pattern 52 shown by white outline is at the innermost corner. The elastic conductors 53 that are arranged and shown in a satin finish are arranged in a frame shape between the electrode patterns 51 and 52.

  When the frame-shaped electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, and the elastic conductor 53 are linearly extended, the result is as shown in FIG. 4B. According to the development example of the electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, and the elastic conductor 53, the electrode pattern 52 is disposed on the left side, the elastic conductor 53 is disposed on the central portion, and the electrode pattern 51 is disposed on the right side.

  According to the equivalent circuit example shown in FIG. 4C, the press detection sensor 100 configures the variable resistor VR in which the resistance value between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 is variable depending on the pressed state of the elastic conductor 53. become.

  For example, in the operation table shown in FIG. 5, when the point A is lightly pressed, the elastic conductor 53 straddles and contacts between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 and conducts between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52. . The resistance value at this time is R (I). When the point A is pressed down strongly, the elastic conductor 53 comes into contact between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 and conducts between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52. The resistance value at this time is R (II). When the other points B, C, and D are lightly pressed, a resistance value R (I) is obtained, and when these are strongly pressed, a resistance value R (II) is obtained.

  When the point E is lightly pressed, the elastic conductor 53 is in contact between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 and conducts between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52. The resistance value at this time is R (I) in the same manner as when the points A, B, C, and D are lightly pressed. When the point E is pressed down strongly, the elastic conductor 53 comes into contact between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 and conducts between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52. The resistance value at this time is R (II) in the same manner as when the points A, B, C, and D are strongly pressed. That is, the resistance value R (I) when the A, B, C, D, and E points are lightly pressed and the resistance value R (II) when the A, B, C, D, and E points are strongly pressed There is a relationship of R (I)> R (II) between them.

  From such a relationship, it is understood that the pressing force F can be detected by the pressing detection sensor 100 without reading through the driver IC by reading the resistance values R (I) and R (II) without depending on the pressing position. It was.

  FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram illustrating a detection circuit example of the pressure detection sensor 100. According to the detection circuit example of the press detection sensor 100 shown in FIG. 6, a DC power source Edc and a voltage detection circuit 63 are connected in series to the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52. The voltage detection circuit 63 includes a voltmeter and a load resistor RL.

  In this detection circuit, when the elastic conductor 53 is pressed, the current i flowing out from the DC power source Edc flows into the load resistor RL through the variable resistor VR including the electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, and the elastic conductor 53. . A voltage drop VL is generated in the load resistance RL. The voltage drop VL becomes an analog voltage depending on the pressed state of the elastic conductor 53. By detecting this analog voltage, the pressing force F can be detected (detection principle).

  7A to 7C are a conceptual diagram showing a pressed state of the elastic conductor 53 and a graph showing an example of a change in resistance value between the electrode patterns 51 and 52. The vertical axis shown in FIG. 7C is the resistance value [Ω] between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 when the elastic conductor 53 is pressed. The horizontal axis of the figure is the pressing force F [N] when the elastic conductor 53 is pressed.

  According to the example of change in the resistance value between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 of this example, as shown in FIG. 7A, when the elastic conductor 53 is pressed with the pressing force F1 by the operator's finger 30a or the like, the resistance The value R (I) is obtained. Similarly, when the elastic conductor 53 is pressed with the pressing force F2, the resistance value R (II) is obtained. The resistance value change curve has a tendency to decrease exponentially as the pressing force increases.

  8A to 8E are a conceptual diagram showing an example of pressing operation of the press detection sensor 100 and a graph showing an example of output characteristics of the press detection sensor 100. FIG. The vertical axis shown in FIG. 8E is the output voltage Vo [V] when the press detection sensor 100 is pressed. The horizontal axis of the figure is the pressing force F [N] when the pressing detection sensor 100 is pressed.

  In this example, the output characteristic curve of the press detection sensor 100 has an exponential increase and saturation characteristic as the pressing force F increases. When a threshold voltage for determination is set in such an output characteristic curve, the pressing force F can be determined from the output voltage Vo. In this example, two determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2 are set (Vth1 <Vth2).

  When the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8A is not in contact with the press detection sensor 100, that is, when not being operated, the pressing force F is naturally F0 = 0. When the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8B is lightly contacted with the pressure detection sensor 100 during the operation of the pressure detection sensor 100, the output pressure Vo equal to or lower than the determination threshold voltage Vth1 is detected, so that the pressure F is substantially F1. Can be determined.

  When the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8C is in strong contact with the pressure detection sensor 100, for example, when the output voltage Vo that exceeds the determination threshold voltage Vth1 and is equal to or lower than the determination threshold voltage Tth2 is detected, the pressing force F is approximately F2. It will be possible to determine that there is. Further, when the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8D is further contacted with the pressure detection sensor 100, for example, when the output voltage Vo exceeding the determination threshold voltage Vth2 is detected, it is determined that the pressing force F is approximately F3. become able to.

  Thus, according to the press detection sensor 100 as the first embodiment, the gap between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 on the base sheet 55 having a predetermined length and width and a predetermined shape is provided. A covering sheet 54 having an elastic conductor 53 that is electrically connected to the inside and covering the electrode sheet 51 and the base sheet 55 including the electrode pattern 52 is provided. The covering sheet 54 has flexibility and / or elasticity. Is.

  Therefore, the pressing force F (pushing force) at the position where the elastic conductor 53 is electrically connected between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 can be reliably detected during the pressing operation. Accordingly, it is possible to provide the frame-shaped press detection sensor 100 having a thin and simple structure while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like. The pressure detection sensor 100 is provided by a very simple system of reading the resistance value of a single variable resistor VR.

  Next, another configuration example of the press detection sensor 100 will be described. 9A to 9C are cross-sectional views showing a cross-sectional shape example of the elastic conductor 53 and other configuration examples. The elastic conductor 53 ′ shown in FIG. 9A has an M-shaped cross section. The elastic conductor 53 'is formed by integrating the elastic conductor 53, the upper base sheet 54a, the outer space sheet 54b, and the inner space sheet 54c described in the first embodiment into an M shape. A conductive rubber member such as silicon rubber is used as the material. The elastic conductor 53 'has a width w and a thickness t. In this example, the M-shaped portion is provided along the outer peripheral direction (longitudinal direction) of the frame of the press detection sensor 100. When the elastic conductor 53 ′ is configured in this manner, the formation process is simplified, and the elastic conductor 53 ′ has flexibility and elasticity. When the press detection sensor 100 is pressed, the space portion in the cross-section M shape absorbs the bending.

  The elastic conductor 531 shown in FIG. 9B has a rectangular cross section. The elastic conductor 531 is formed by integrating the elastic conductor 53, the upper base sheet 54a, the outer space sheet 54b, and the inner space sheet 54c described in the first embodiment into a rectangular shape. The elastic conductor 531 includes, for example, conductive mass particles (hereinafter referred to as conductive particles 533) contained (mixed) in the material of the rubber member 532. The elastic conductor 531 has a width w and a thickness t. When the elastic conductor 531 is configured in this way, the rubber member 532 has flexibility and elasticity, and when the elastic conductor 531 is bent, the conductive particles 533 are electrically connected between the electrode patterns 51 and 52. . The contact resistance formed by the electrode patterns 51 and 52 and the conductive particles 533 is reduced.

  The elastic conductor 534 shown in FIG. 9C has a comb-tooth shape in cross section. The elastic conductor 534 is formed by integrating the elastic conductor 53, the upper base sheet 54a, the outer space sheet 54b, and the inner space sheet 54c described in the first embodiment into a comb shape. A conductive rubber member is used as the material. The tip of the comb-like portion is processed into, for example, a spherical shape in order to improve the contact between the electrode pattern 51 'and the electrode pattern 52' shown in FIG.

  In this example, five rows of comb-like portions are provided along the outer peripheral direction (longitudinal direction) of the frame of the press detection sensor 100 ′ as shown in FIG. 10. The elastic conductor 534 has a width w and a thickness t. When the elastic conductor 534 is configured in this manner, the elastic conductor 534 has flexibility and elasticity. When the press detection sensor 100 'is pressed, the plurality of space portions in the cross-sectional comb shape absorb the deflection. In addition, the elastic conductor 534 exhibits a unique movement on the electrode pattern 51 'and the electrode pattern 52' as compared with the elastic conductor 53 '. For example, when a plurality of elastic conductors 534 are in contact between the electrode pattern 51 'and the electrode pattern 52', the contact area increases and the resistance value decreases.

  FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a configuration example of the electrode patterns 51 ′ and 52 ′. In this example, the pressing detection sensor 100 ′ is configured by combining the comb-like elastic conductors 534 shown in FIG. 9C. According to the configuration example of the press detection sensor 100 ′ shown in FIG. 10, the electrode pattern 51 ′ and the electrode pattern 52 ′ are patterned on a base sheet 55 (not shown) in a form that is cut out in a planar comb shape. In this example, one comb-like portion of the electrode pattern 51 ′ or the electrode pattern 52 ′ is patterned into a rectangular shape, and the rectangular portion of the electrode pattern 51 ′ and the rectangular portion of the electrode pattern 52 ′ are combined in a nested state. It is.

  When the press detection sensor 100 ′ is configured in this manner, the distance that the electrode pattern 51 ′ and the electrode pattern 52 ′ face each other is apparently increased as compared with the case where the electrode patterns 51 and 52 are arranged in a straight line. In addition, the area where the elastic conductor 534 contacts between the electrode pattern 51 ′ and the electrode pattern 52 ′ can be increased compared to the first embodiment. Accordingly, it is possible to detect an extremely fine contact state between the electrode pattern 51 ′, the electrode pattern 52 ′, and the elastic conductor 534. The combination of the electrode pattern 51, the electrode pattern 52, the elastic conductor 53, the electrode pattern 51 ', the electrode pattern 52', the elastic conductor 534, and the like may be freely set.

  FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a mobile phone 200 with a tactile input function as a second embodiment provided with the input device according to the present invention.

  A cellular phone 200 shown in FIG. 11 constitutes an example of an electronic device and is an electronic device with a tactile input function that presents a tactile sensation to an operating body (person) during an information input operation, and has a pressing force detection function according to the present invention In addition to the telephone function, the input device 90 is used to perform various data processing, including voice and video processing.

  The mobile phone 200 includes a non-foldable casing 401 having an operation surface, and an input device 90 with a pressing force detection and tactile input function. The input device 90 is a device that inputs information in response to a pressing operation of the operating body on the input detection surface on the display screen. The housing 401 includes an upper operation frame (cabinet) 41 and a lower container 42 (case). The lower container 42 is a box with a bottom.

  The input device 90 is provided so as to be fitted into the upper surface operation frame body 41, and inputs three-dimensional information in the X, Y, and Z directions by a sliding and pressing operation by the operator's finger 30a and the like. . The input device 90 includes, for example, a display unit 29, an input detection unit 45, and a press detection unit 50. Input information such as an icon image is displayed on the display unit 29. The input detection unit 45 is provided on the display unit 29 having an operation surface and detects a sliding position of the operator 30 such as the finger 30a. For the input detection unit 45, for example, a resistive touch panel is used. In this example, the press detection unit 50 is provided with the press detection sensor 100 or 100 'described in the first embodiment of the present invention (see FIG. 12).

  An ultra-small speaker with an actuator function 36b is provided on the upper left of the center of the upper operation frame body 41, and functions as both a telephone receiver and a tactile presentation actuator. In addition to the audio signal, a 200 Hz vibration control signal for tactile presentation is input to the speaker 36b.

  In this example, the display unit 29 is divided into two display areas, input information such as a plurality of button icons is displayed in the upper display area, and an operation panel 98 is displayed in the lower display area. In this example, when the icon image for input operation displayed on the display unit 29 is operated with a finger, a tactile sensation is given to the operator's finger touching the display screen together with a click sound (cyber switch operation sound) from the speaker 36b. It is made to present.

  In this example, the operation panel 98 displayed on the display unit 29 includes a plurality of push button switches 92. For example, the push button switch 92 includes “0” to “9” numeric keys, symbol keys such as “*” and “#”, hook buttons such as “on” and “off”, menu keys, and the like. A camera 34 is attached to the rear surface of the display unit 29 and is operated to capture a subject image. A telephone microphone 93 is attached below the upper surface of the upper operation frame 41 so as to function as a transmitter.

  A connector 99 such as a USB terminal is disposed on the side surface of the lower container 42 so that communication processing with an external device is possible. A module type antenna 96 is attached to the inside of the lower container 42, and a loud sound speaker (not shown) is provided around the inside of the lower container 42 so as to release sound (music) added to the incoming melody or video data. It is made to sound. A circuit board 97 is provided inside the lower container 42. Further, a battery 94 is built in the housing, and power is supplied to the circuit board 97, the display unit 29, and the like.

  FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the internal configuration of the mobile phone 200. A mobile phone 200 shown in FIG. 12 is attached to a lower container 42 having a bottomed box so as to close an upper surface operation frame 41 having a lid shape.

  In this example, the upper surface operation frame body 41 is provided with a concave portion (step portion) 41a for attaching components. An opening 43a for the display window is opened in the recess 41a. The opening 43 a is configured to set a display area 29 a of the display unit 29. The display part 29 is attached so that the outer edge part is attached to the back surface of the upper surface operation frame 41 and hangs down in the lower container 42, for example. Thereby, the display unit 29 is arranged in the lower container 42 with the display screen facing upward, and the input information is displayed. A color liquid crystal display element having a thickness of about 1.65 mm is used for the display unit 29.

  In this example, the pressure detection unit 50 as described in the first embodiment is attached to the step surface of the recess 41 a of the upper operation frame body 41. The press detection unit 50 has a predetermined length and width, and a frame-like base sheet 55 having an opening at the central portion, and an electrode disposed on the base sheet 55 with a predetermined length. A pattern 51, an electrode pattern 52 disposed on the base sheet 55 so as to face the electrode pattern 51, and an elastic conductor 53 disposed between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are provided. The covering sheet 54 having the elastic conductor 53 inside is provided so as to cover the base sheet 55 including the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52, and the covering sheet 54 has flexibility and elasticity.

  For example, the pressure detection unit 50 is bonded to the step surface of the recess 41a via an adhesive. The press detection unit 50 is provided in a frame shape around the display unit 29, electrically connects the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 in accordance with the pressing force F of the operating body, and the pressing force F of the operating body is It is made to detect. The inner opening of the press detection unit 50 forms a display area 29a. The press detection unit 50 also has a fastening function for upper and lower members.

  An input detection unit 45 is provided above the press detection unit 50. The input detection unit 45 is provided above the display unit 29 and on the frame-shaped press detection unit 50. For example, the input detection unit 45 is bonded to the frame-shaped portion of the press detection unit 50 via an adhesive. The input detection unit 45 has an input detection surface on the display unit 29 and detects the contact position of the operating body on the input detection surface.

  As the input detection unit 45, a touch panel integrated with a surface plate-resistive film having a thickness of about 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm is used. The touch panel forming the input detection unit 45 includes, for example, a conductive film 47a for resistance film provided on the base sheet 49, spacers 48a and 48b provided on the conductive film 47a, and upper portions of the spacers 48a and 48b. And a conductive film 47b for selecting a resistance film provided on the substrate. A black silk print 46 is applied to a predetermined region of the conductive film 47b so as to block the display light. Although a space is generated between the display unit 29 and the input detection unit 45, the space may be filled with a transparent member as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-77887.

  Further, for example, a tactile input sheet for icon touch, which is currently being filed by the present inventors, may be used for the surface plate. Here, the tactile sense input sheet refers to a touch sheet that enables an input operation with a feeling of unevenness when the icon image displayed on the display unit 29 is touched with a hand. Of course, the operation is not limited to the operator's finger 30a, and an input operation may be performed using an operation body such as a pen.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the input device 90. According to the input device 90 shown in FIG. 13, the display unit 29, the speaker 36 b with an actuator function, the upper operation frame body 41, the input detection unit 45, and the press detection unit 50 are prepared. As the upper operation frame 41, an injection mold is used. For example, a mold having a core and a cavity in the shape of the opening 43a for the display window and the opening 43b for mounting the speaker 36b is prepared, and an ABC resin or the like is sealed in the mold. The operation frame body 41 is integrally formed.

  First, the press detection unit 50 is attached to the upper operation frame body 41. For example, an adhesive is applied in a frame shape to the step surface of the recess 41a. Thereafter, the press detection unit 50 is aligned with the recess 41a, and the press detection unit 50 is bonded so as to drop into the recess 41a. As the pressing detection unit 50, the one described in the first embodiment is used.

  Then, the input detection unit 45 is attached on the press detection unit 50. For example, an adhesive is applied to the frame-shaped portion of the press detection unit 50. Thereafter, the input detection unit 45 is aligned with the recess 41a, and the input detection unit 45 is bonded onto the press detection unit 50 so as to drop into the recess 41a. As the input detection unit 45, a touch panel integrated with a surface plate and a resistive film is used.

  Next, the speaker 36b with an actuator function is attached to the input detection unit 45. For example, the speaker 36b is disposed at a predetermined position of the input detection unit 45 through the opening 43b of the upper operation frame body 41 and fixed through an adhesive. Further, the display unit 29 is attached to the back side of the upper operation frame body 41. For example, the adhesive is applied along the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43 a of the upper operation frame body 41. Thereafter, the display area 29a of the display unit 29 is aligned with the opening 43a, and the display unit 29 is hung by the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43a and fixed by bonding and / or screwing. A color liquid crystal display element is used for the display unit 29.

  On the other hand, a lower container 42 (not shown) is prepared. The lower container 42 is mounted with a circuit board 97, a connector 99 and the like (not shown). For example, a mold having a core and a cavity in the shape of an opening for a connector (not shown) or an opening for battery replacement is created, and an ABC resin or the like is enclosed in the mold to integrate the lower container 42. Mold. A circuit board, a memory, and the like are mounted in the lower container 42. Then, when the lower container 42 is engaged with the upper surface operation frame body 41 having the surface plate-resistive film integrated touch panel and the press detection unit 50, the mobile phone 200 with the input device as shown in FIG. Is completed.

  Next, an internal configuration example of the mobile phone 200 with a tactile input function and a tactile feedback input method will be described. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a mobile phone 200 with a tactile input function.

  A mobile phone 200 shown in FIG. 14 is configured by mounting blocks of various functions on a circuit board 97 of the lower container 42. In addition, the part corresponding to each part shown in FIGS. 11-13 is shown with the same code | symbol. The mobile phone 200 includes a control unit 15, a reception unit 18, a transmission unit 22, an antenna duplexer 23, an input detection unit 45, a pressure detection unit 50, a speaker 36b with an actuator function, a display unit 29, a microphone 13, a power supply unit 33, A camera 34, a storage unit 35, and an operation panel 98 on the video screen are provided.

  The input detection unit 45 shown in FIG. 14 has been described as an integrated display panel-resistive film input device in FIGS. 11 to 13, but may be anything that can distinguish between the function of cursoring and selection. An input device such as a capacitive method, a surface acoustic wave method (SAW), an optical method, a multistage tact switch, or the like may be used. Preferably, any input device having a configuration in which position information is given to the control unit 15 may be used. The input detection unit 45 detects the sliding position of the finger 30 a of the operator 30 and outputs at least a position detection signal S 1 to the A / D driver 31.

  In this example, a pressure detection unit 50 is provided in addition to the input detection unit 45, and a pressure detection signal for detecting a pressing amount by the finger 30a of the operator 30 at the sliding position to obtain a pressing force F (input amount). S2 is output to the A / D driver 31. The press detection signal S <b> 2 includes an analog output voltage Vo indicating a change in resistance value due to the variable resistor VR of the press detection unit 50.

  The control unit 15 includes an A / D driver 31, a CPU 32, an image processing unit 26, a video & audio processing unit 44, and a memory unit 37. The A / D driver 31 is supplied with a position detection signal S1 from the input detection unit 45 and a pressure detection signal S2 from the pressure detection unit 50. The A / D driver 31 converts an analog signal composed of the position detection signal S1 and the press detection signal S2 into digital data in order to distinguish between the functions of cursoring and icon selection. In addition to this, the A / D driver 31 performs arithmetic processing on this digital data to detect whether it is a cursoring input or icon selection information, and flag data D3, position information D1, or press detection information for distinguishing between the cursoring input and the icon selection. D2 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 telephone set based on the system program. The storage unit 35 stores system program data for controlling the entire telephone. 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 unit 35 and develops it in the RAM, starts up the system and controls the entire mobile phone. For example, the CPU 32 receives input information D1 to D3 from the A / D driver 31 and sends predetermined command data D to the power supply unit 33, the camera 34, the storage unit 35, the memory unit 37, the video & audio processing unit 44, and the like. Control is performed so that the data is supplied to the device, the reception data from the reception unit 18 is taken in, or the transmission data is transferred to the transmission unit 22.

  In this example, the CPU 32 compares the pressure detection information D2 obtained from the pressure detection unit 50 with the two determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2 that are the preset depression determination criteria, and has an actuator function based on the comparison result. The memory unit 37 is controlled to control the vibration of the speaker 36b.

  For example, if the tactile sensations propagated from the input detection surface at the pressed position of the input detection unit 45 are A and B, the tactile sense #a indicates the input detection surface corresponding to the pressing force F of the operator's finger 30a at the pressed position. It is obtained by changing from a low frequency and small amplitude vibration pattern to a high frequency and large amplitude vibration pattern. The tactile sense #b is obtained by changing the input detection surface corresponding to the pressing force F of the finger 30a of the operator at the pressed position from a high frequency and large amplitude vibration pattern to a low frequency and small amplitude vibration pattern. can get.

  For example, the CPU 32 activates the tactile sense #a when the press detection unit 50 detects the press detection information D2 exceeding the determination threshold voltage Vth2, and then detects the press detection information D2 below the determination threshold voltage Vth1. The memory unit 37 is controlled to start #b. In this way, it is possible to generate different vibration patterns according to the “pressing force” of the operator's finger 30a or the like.

  A memory unit 37 is connected to the CPU 32 and generates vibration control data Da based on control information Dc from the CPU 32. The vibration control data Da has output waveform data composed of a sine waveform. A video & audio processing unit 44 is connected to the memory unit 37. A speaker 36 a and a speaker 36 b with an actuator function are connected to the video & audio processing unit 44. The speaker 36b vibrates based on each vibration control data Da.

  In this example, the storage unit 35 stores determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2 corresponding to each application. For example, the determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2 are stored in advance in a ROM or the like provided in the storage unit 35 as a trigger parameter. In the storage unit 35, the CPU 32 expands the pressure detection information D2 in a RAM or the like (not shown), and information on the determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2 set in advance and the output voltage Vo of the pressure detection unit 50 obtained from the pressure detection information D2. And compare. As shown in FIG. 8A, when the finger 30a is not in contact with the press detection unit 50, that is, when not being operated, the pressing force F is naturally F0 = 0.

  When the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8B is lightly contacted with the pressure detection unit 50 during the operation of the pressure detection unit 50, an output voltage Vo equal to or lower than the determination threshold voltage Vth1 is detected, so that the pressing force F is almost equal. It becomes possible to determine that it is F1. Further, when the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8C is in strong contact with the pressure detection unit 50, for example, when the output voltage Vo exceeding the determination threshold voltage Vth1 and not more than the determination threshold voltage Tth2 is detected, the pressing force F is It becomes possible to determine that it is approximately F2. Furthermore, when the finger 30a shown in FIG. 8D is further in contact with the pressure detection unit 50, for example, when the output voltage Vo exceeding the determination threshold voltage Vth2 is detected, the pressing force F may be approximately F3. Can be judged.

  In this example, with respect to the pressing determination criterion, the first pressing determination criterion = 100 [gf] is set corresponding to the determination threshold voltage Vth2, and the input detection surface is set based on the vibration pattern for obtaining the tactile sensation of the classic switch. It is made to vibrate. Further, the second pressing criterion = 20 [gf] is set corresponding to the determination threshold voltage Vth1, and the input detection surface is vibrated based on the vibration pattern for obtaining the tactile sensation of the cyber switch.

  In addition to the actuator drive unit 37, the image processing unit 26 is connected to the CPU 32, and the display information D4 for three-dimensionally displaying button icons and the like is subjected to image processing. The display information D4 after the image processing is supplied to the display unit 29.

  The operator 30 receives the vibration of the finger 30a and feels the vibration of each button icon as a tactile sensation. Further, the display content of the display unit 29 is determined by the visual perception of the operator, and the sound emission from the speakers 36a, 36b, etc. is determined by the perception of the operator's ear. The above-described CPU 32 is connected to an operation panel 98 (function) composed of an image with a numeric keypad or the like on the display screen from the display unit 29 and the input detection unit 45, and is used, for example, when manually inputting the other party's telephone number. The In addition to the icon selection screen described above, an incoming video may be displayed on the display unit 29 based on the video signal Sv.

  Further, the antenna 16 shown in FIG. 14 is connected to the antenna duplexer 23, and receives a radio wave from the other party from a base station or the like when an incoming call is received. A receiver 18 is connected to the antenna duplexer 23, receives reception data guided from the antenna 16, demodulates video and audio, and outputs the demodulated video and audio data Din to the CPU 32 and the like. The A video & audio processing unit 44 is connected to the receiving unit 18 through the CPU 32, and digital audio data is converted from digital to analog to output an audio signal Sout, or digital video data is converted from digital to analog to generate a video signal. Sv is output.

   The audio and video processing unit 44 is connected to a loudspeaker 36a that constitutes a large acoustic receiver and a receiver. The speaker 36a is configured to ring a ringtone, a ringing melody, and the like when an incoming call is received. In addition to the actuator function, the speaker 36b receives the audio signal Sout1 and expands the other party's speech 30d. In addition to the speakers 36a and 36b, the video & audio processing unit 44 is connected to the microphone 13 constituting the transmitter, and collects the voice of the operator and outputs the audio signal Sin. The video & audio processing unit 44 performs analog / digital conversion on the analog audio signal Sin to be sent to the other party at the time of calling and outputs digital audio data, or analog / digital conversion of the analog video signal Sv. Digital video data is output.

  In this way, the display contents of the display unit 29 are determined based on the visual perception by the operator's eyes 30b, and the sound emission from the speakers 36a, 36b and the like is determined based on the perception by the operator's ear 30c.

  In addition to the receiving unit 18, the transmitting unit 22 is connected to the CPU 32 to modulate the video and audio data Dout and the like to be sent to the other party, and supply the modulated transmission data to the antenna 16 through the antenna duplexer 23. To be made. The antenna 16 radiates a radio wave supplied from the antenna duplexer 23 toward a base station or the like.

  In addition to the transmission unit 22, a camera 34 is connected to the CPU 32 described above, and a subject is photographed. For example, still image information and moving image information are transmitted to the other party through the transmission unit 22. The power supply unit 33 includes a battery 94 and supplies DC power to the reception unit 18, transmission unit 22, display unit 29, CPU 32, input detection unit 45, speaker 36 b with an actuator function, camera 34, and storage unit 35. To be made.

  Next, an example of information processing in the mobile phone 200 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of information processing in the mobile phone 200 according to the second embodiment. In this example, it is assumed that information is input by pressing the input detection surface on the display screen of the mobile phone 200 with the operator's finger 30a. The mobile phone 200 is provided with a function (algorithm) for processing a waveform using the pressing force F by the operator's finger 30a or the like as a parameter in the same vibration mode. The CPU 32 reads out the output voltage Vo indicating the pressing force F from the pressing detection information D2, makes a determination based on the two determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2, and uses the determination result to determine what kind of type within the same vibration mode. A tactile sensation corresponding to the movement during the input operation can be generated.

  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 sleeping mobile phone or the like 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 information D4 to the display unit 29 and displays input information such as a numeric keypad and an icon image on the display screen. The input information displayed on the display screen is made visible through an input detection unit 45 having an input detection 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 of pressing a button icon on the input detection surface when an icon image is selected.

  When the button icon input mode is set, the button icon or the like is pushed in, so that the process proceeds to step G4, where the CPU 32 reads the output voltage Vo indicating the press detection information D2 (pressing force F) from the press detecting unit 50, and outputs this output voltage Vo. A pressing force F is detected based on the voltage Vo. At this time, the pressing detection unit 50 detects the pressing force F at the pressing position of the operator's finger 30 a on the input detection surface, and outputs a pressing detection signal S 2 to the A / D driver 31. The A / D driver 31 A / D converts the pressure detection signal S2 and transfers the pressure detection information D2 after the A / D conversion to the CPU 32.

  And it transfers to step G5 and CPU32 compares the output voltage Vo of the press detection part 50 which the press detection information D2 shows, and the determination threshold voltage Vth2, and discriminate | determines whether these relationship becomes Vo> Vth2. . When these relationships are Vo> Vth2, the process proceeds to step G6 to activate the tactile sense #a. The tactile sense #a is obtained by vibrating the input detection surface based on the vibration pattern Pa corresponding to the pressing force F of the operator's finger 30a by the speaker 36b with an actuator function. For example, when the frequency is fx, the amplitude is Ax, and the number of times is Nx, the tactile sense #a vibrates with a vibration pattern of [fx Ax Nx] = [50 5 2] for about 0.1 second. Then, in the next stage, it vibrates with a vibration pattern of [fx Ax Nx] = [100 10 2] for about 0.1 second. In this way, it is possible to generate different vibration patterns in accordance with the operator's “pressing force”.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step G7, where the CPU 32 further detects the pressing force F. The pressing force F is detected by the pressing detection unit 50 when the button icon is pushed away from the button icon. At this time, the press detection unit 50 detects the pressing force F when the operator moves away from the pressing position of the operator's finger 30 a on the input detection surface, and outputs a pressing detection signal S 2 to the A / D driver 31. The A / D driver 31 A / D converts the pressure detection signal S2 and transfers the pressure detection information D2 after the A / D conversion to the CPU 32.

  In step G8, the CPU 32 compares the output voltage Vo of the pressure detection unit 50 indicated by the pressure detection information D2 with the determination threshold voltage Vth1, and determines whether or not the relationship is Vo <Vth1. When these relationships are Vo <Vth1, the tactile sense #b is activated. The tactile sense #b is obtained by vibrating the input detection surface based on the vibration pattern Pb corresponding to the pressing force F of the operator's finger 30a by the speaker 36b with an actuator function. The tactile sense #b from which the button icon is released vibrates in a vibration pattern of [fx Ax Nx] = [80 8 2] for about 0.1 second, and in the next stage, [ It vibrates with a vibration pattern of fx Ax Nx] = [40 8 2]. In this way, it is possible to generate different vibration patterns in accordance with the operator's “pressing force F”.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step G10 to confirm the input. At this time, the input detection unit 45 inputs the input information displayed at the pressed position. Then, the process proceeds to step G12. When another processing mode is selected in step G3, the process proceeds to step G11 to execute another processing mode. Other processing modes include a telephone mode, mail creation, transmission display mode, and the like. The telephone mode includes an operation for making a call to the other party. The button icon and the like include character input items when the telephone mode is selected. After executing another processing mode, the process proceeds to step G12.

  In step G12, 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 mobile phone 200 as the second embodiment, the pressure detection sensor 100 or 100 ′ according to the present invention is provided in the pressure detection unit 50, so that the operator's finger on the input detection surface on the display screen is provided. When inputting information in response to the pressing operation of 30a, not only the information on the position where the conductors of the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are electrically connected, but also the elastic conductor 53 is connected to the electrode pattern in accordance with the pressing operation. The pressing force F (pushing force) corresponding to the length of electrical connection between the conductors 51 and the electrode pattern 52 can be reliably detected.

  In addition, the pressing detection unit 50 has a simple structure, but has a stable pressing force detection function regardless of the pressing position. Compared to the conventional input device, the pressure detection unit 50 is located near the operation surface, and the number of parts interposed between the pressure detection unit 50 and the operation surface can be greatly reduced. In addition, the pressing detection unit 50 is configured by a single variable resistor, and has a structure in which they are formed in a frame shape and bonded to the concave frame of the upper surface operation frame body 41. At any position, the pressing force F can be detected stably and accurately.

  Furthermore, as compared with the conventional input device, the press detection unit 50 is not affected by the surrounding illuminance environment, and when the operation body (object) such as the finger 30a touches the surface and performs the pushing operation. In addition, since the pressing detection data is surely changed, a stable pressing force F can be detected.

  Further, in the pressure detection system, when the pressure force F is determined, pressure detection information D2 obtained by digitizing the output voltage Vo of the pressure detection unit 50 is output to the CPU 32. When the pressure force F is determined, the CPU 32 outputs the output voltage Vo. Since only the determination threshold voltages Vth1 and Vth2 are compared, a conventional driver IC becomes unnecessary. Since the driver IC is unnecessary, the cost can be reduced.

  Furthermore, since the input device 90 including the press detection unit 50 can be provided at a lower cost than the input device including the conventional display device with an image sensor, the input device itself and the input device are provided. The cost of electronic equipment can be reduced.

  In addition, the input device 90 has a sealed display unit 29 that is completely shut off from the outside. In the above-described example, the pressure detection unit 50 is not the display unit 29, but has a function of fastening the upper operation frame body 41 itself and the input detection unit 45. Since the inside of the operation surface member, the display unit 29, and the like can have a sealed structure without a gap from the outside, and can improve waterproofness and dustproofness, the mobile phone 200 excellent in water resistance and dust resistance is assembled. Can do.

  The upper operation frame body 41 employs a structure that supports the transparent input detection unit 45. In an input device that is not equipped with a conventional push-in detection function, a surface member is provided on the upper portion of the display unit 29 via an adhesive tape. At this position, a pressure detection unit 50 that also functions as an adhesive tape. Therefore, the assembling property of the input device 90 is also easier than the configuration of the conventional input device.

  Thereby, compared with the input device of a conventional system, since the member structure located in the upper part of the press detection part 50 can be reduced, it is for avoiding that a load is applied to the press detection part 50 from another member. Design can be omitted. Therefore, the design freedom of the input device 90 can be increased. As a result, the assemblability and ease of the mobile phone 200 can be improved as compared with the conventional method. Therefore, it is possible to provide a mobile phone 200 with a tactile input function having a frame-shaped press detection unit 50 having a thin and simple structure, while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like.

  FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a mobile phone 300 as the third embodiment. In this example, a capacitive touch panel 48 is used below the surface plate 45 '.

  The cellular phone 300 shown in FIG. 16 is attached to the lower container 42 having a bottomed box so as to close the upper surface operation frame 41 having a lid shape in the same manner as the second embodiment. Also in this example, the pressure detection unit 50 having flexibility and elasticity as described in the first embodiment is attached to the step surface of the recess 41a of the upper operation frame body 41.

  A surface plate 45 ′ is provided on the upper portion of the pressure detection unit 50. The surface plate 45 ′ is provided on the frame-shaped press detection unit 50 at the top of the display unit 29. For the surface plate 45 ′, for example, a tactile input sheet for icon touch that is currently being filed by the present inventors may be used. Of course, it is not limited to a tactile sense input sheet, and may be a transparent member such as an acrylic resin film.

  For example, the surface plate 45 ′ is bonded to the frame-shaped portion of the press detection unit 50 via an adhesive. A touch panel 48 is provided below (on the back side of) the front surface plate 45 ′, has an input detection surface on the display unit 29, and detects the contact position of the operating body on the input detection surface. As the touch panel 48, a capacitive touch panel having a thickness of about 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm is used. In addition, since the thing with the same name and the same code | symbol as 2nd Example has the same function, and the same material is used, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the input device 901. According to the input device 901 illustrated in FIG. 17, the display unit 29, the speaker 36 b with an actuator function, the upper operation frame 41, the front plate 45 ′, the capacitive touch panel 48, and the press detection unit 50 are prepared. As the upper operation frame 41, an injection mold formed as described in the second embodiment is used.

  First, as described in the second embodiment, the pressing detection unit 50 is attached to the upper operation frame body 41. As the pressure detection unit 50, the pressure detection sensor 100 described in the first embodiment is used. Then, the surface plate 45 ′ is attached on the pressure detection unit 50. For example, an adhesive is applied to the frame portion of the pressure detection unit 50 on the surface plate 45 ′. Thereafter, the front surface plate 45 ′ is aligned with the concave portion 41 a, and the front surface plate 45 ′ is bonded onto the press detection unit 50 so as to drop into the concave portion 41 a. For the surface plate 45 ′, a tactile input sheet for icon touch that the present inventors have applied for may be used. When a tactile input sheet is used in which projections having a columnar shape or a conical shape are distributed so as to stand in a direction perpendicular to the sheet surface of the base sheet forming the base material in order to give a sense of unevenness. Good.

  For example, a base member in which a transparent silicon rubber member having a hardness of 20 to 40 ° is formed in a sheet shape is prepared. The base member is obtained by molding a silicon rubber member to a thickness t = 0.01 [mm] to 5 [mm] by hot roll molding or injection mold molding. Next, an opening or a hole is formed in the base member for defining a site where a tactile sensation is formed. The opening or hole is formed at a position corresponding to the key image on the icon screen. The opening is formed by punching. Of course, at the time of injection mold molding, a core and a cavity that are shaped like a reversal pattern of the aperture or hole may be created, and the base member and the hole may be molded at once.

  Thereafter, a tactile element member is embedded in the opening or the hole. For example, a transparent silicon rubber member having a hardness of 60 to 80 ° is used as the element member. A method of embedding the element member in the opening portion or the hole portion is performed by two-color molding (double molding) by injection mold molding or an application process. According to the two-color molding, the base member and the element member are integrally molded by combining different materials (materials) constituting the base member and the element member. Thereby, a tactile sense input sheet (not shown) is obtained.

  Next, the speaker 36b with an actuator function is attached to the surface plate 45 '. Similarly to the second embodiment, the speaker 36b is disposed at a predetermined position on the surface plate 45 'through the opening 43b of the upper surface operation frame body 41, and is fixed through an adhesive.

  Further, the display unit 29 is attached to the back side of the upper operation frame 41 in the same manner as in the second embodiment. For example, the adhesive is applied along the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43 a of the upper operation frame body 41. Thereafter, the display area 29a of the display unit 29 is aligned with the opening 43a, and the display unit 29 is hung by the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43a and fixed by bonding and / or screwing. A color liquid crystal display element is used for the display unit 29.

  On the other hand, a lower container 42 (not shown) is prepared in the same manner as in the second embodiment. A circuit board, a memory, and the like are mounted on the lower container 42. When the lower container 42 is engaged with the upper surface operation frame body 41 having the surface plate 45 ′, the capacitive touch panel 48, and the pressure detection unit 50, the input device as shown in FIG. The mobile phone 300 is completed.

  As described above, according to the mobile phone 300 as the third embodiment, the capacitive touch panel 48 is provided below the surface plate 45 ′, and the press detection unit 50 according to the present invention is provided. When inputting information in response to the pressing operation of the operator's finger 30a on the input detection surface on the display screen, the elastic conductor 53 is not only the information on the pressing position by the touch panel 48 but also the electrode pattern according to the pressing operation. Thus, the pressing force F (pushing force) at the position where 51 and the electrode pattern 52 are electrically connected can be reliably detected.

  In addition, since the input device 901 includes the sealed display unit 29 that is completely blocked from the outside, the cellular phone 300 that is excellent in waterproofness and dustproofness can be assembled. Since the upper surface operation frame body 41 has a structure for supporting a surface plate 45 ′ such as a transparent tactile input sheet, the assembling ease of the mobile phone 200 is improved as before. As a result, it is possible to provide a mobile phone 300 with a tactile input function having a frame-shaped press detection unit 50 having a thin and simple structure, while having a sealed structure capable of preventing intrusion of dust, moisture, and the like. .

  FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a mobile phone 400 as a fourth embodiment provided with an input device 902. In this example, a liquid crystal display device with a built-in touch panel is used for the display unit 29 ′.

  A cellular phone 400 shown in FIG. 18 is attached to a lower container 42 having a box with a bottom so as to close an upper operation frame body 41 having a lid shape in the same manner as the second and third embodiments. Also in this example, the pressure detection unit 50 having flexibility and elasticity as described in the first embodiment is attached to the step surface of the recess 41a of the upper operation frame body 41.

  A surface plate 45 ′ is provided on the upper portion of the pressure detection unit 50. The surface plate 45 ′ is provided on the frame-shaped press detection unit 50 at the upper part of the display unit 29 ′. As the surface plate 45 ', a tactile input sheet for icon touch, which has been filed by the present inventors as described in the third embodiment, is used. An acrylic transparent resin film may be used instead of the tactile input sheet. The surface plate 45 ′ is bonded to the frame-shaped portion of the press detection unit 50 via an adhesive.

  A display unit 29 ′ is attached below (on the back side of) the front plate 45 ′. A liquid crystal display device with a built-in touch panel is used for the display unit 29 ′. The display unit 29 ′ has a touch panel unit 29 b in the upper layer part of the liquid crystal display element, and detects the contact position of the operating body on the input detection surface of the touch panel unit 29 b. For the display unit 29 ′, a color liquid crystal display element having a thickness of about 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm is used. In addition, since the thing with the same name and the same code | symbol as the 2nd and 3rd Example has the same function, and the same material is used, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the input device 902. According to the input device 902 shown in FIG. 19, a display unit 29 ′ with a built-in touch panel, a speaker 36 b with an actuator function, an upper operation frame 41, a surface plate 45 ′, and a press detection unit 50 are prepared. As the upper operation frame 41, an injection mold formed as described in the second and third embodiments is used.

  First, as described in the second and third embodiments, the pressing detection unit 50 is attached to the upper operation frame body 41. As the pressure detection unit 50, the pressure detection sensor 100 or 100 'described in the first embodiment is used. Then, the surface plate 45 ′ is attached on the pressure detection unit 50. For example, after applying an adhesive to the frame-shaped portion of the press detection unit 50, the surface plate 45 ′ is aligned with the recess 41a and dropped into the recess 41a so that the surface plate 45 ′ is placed on the press detection unit 50. Glue. For the surface plate 45 ′, a tactile input sheet for icon touch that the present inventors have applied for may be used. When a tactile input sheet is used in which projections having a columnar shape or a conical shape are distributed so as to stand in a direction perpendicular to the sheet surface of the base sheet forming the base material in order to give a sense of unevenness. Good.

  Next, the speaker 36b with an actuator function is attached to the surface plate 45 '. Similarly to the second and third embodiments, the speaker 36b is disposed at a predetermined position of the surface plate 45 'through the opening 43b of the upper operation frame body 41, and is fixed through an adhesive. Further, a display unit 29 ′ with a built-in touch panel is attached to the back side of the upper operation frame body 41. For example, the adhesive is applied along the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43 a of the upper operation frame body 41. Thereafter, the display area 29a of the display unit 29 'is aligned with the opening 43a, and the display unit 29' is hung from the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43a and fixed by adhesion and / or screwing. A color liquid crystal display element is used for the display unit 29 '.

  On the other hand, a lower container 42 (not shown) is prepared in the same manner as in the second and third embodiments. A circuit board, a memory, and the like are mounted on the lower container 42. When the lower container 42 is engaged with the upper operation frame body 41 including the touch panel built-in display unit 29 ′, the surface plate 45 ′, and the press detection unit 50, the input device as shown in FIG. 18 is provided. The mobile phone 400 is completed.

  As described above, according to the mobile phone 400 as the fourth embodiment, the touch panel built-in type display unit 29 ′ is provided below the surface plate 45 ′, and the press detection unit 50 according to the present invention is provided. Therefore, when information is input in response to the pressing operation of the operator's finger 30a on the input detection surface on the display screen, not only the pressing position information by the touch panel unit 29b of the display unit 29 ′ but also the pressing operation is selected. The pressing force F (pressing force) at the position where the elastic conductor 53 is electrically connected between the electrode pattern 51 and the electrode pattern 52 can be reliably detected.

  In addition, since the input device 902 includes the sealed display portion 29 ′ that is completely blocked from the outside, the cellular phone 400 that is excellent in waterproofness and dustproofness can be assembled. Since the upper surface operation frame 41 has a structure for supporting a surface plate 45 ′ such as a transparent tactile input sheet, the ease of assembling the mobile phone 400 is improved as before. As a result, it is possible to provide a mobile phone 400 with a tactile input function that has a frame-shaped press detection unit 50 having a thin and simple structure, while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like. .

  FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a mobile phone 500 as a fifth embodiment provided with an input device 903. In this example, the input device 903 includes a press detection unit 50 ′ having a programmable electrode pattern structure, and variably controls position information detection and pressure detection functions. In this example, the electrode pattern connection program of the press detection unit 50 ′ is linked with the application so that the pressing force F can be individually determined for a plurality of input operations.

  A cellular phone 500 shown in FIG. 20 is attached to a lower container 42 having a box with a bottom so as to close an upper surface operation frame body 41 having a lid shape in the same manner as the second and third embodiments. In this example, a pressure detection unit 50 ′ having a structure different from that of the first to fourth embodiments is disposed on the step surface of the recess 41 a of the upper operation frame body 41. The pressure detection unit 50 'has flexibility and elasticity in the same manner as the pressure detection unit 50 of the first to fourth embodiments.

  A surface plate 45 ′ is provided above the pressure detection unit 50 ′. The surface plate 45 ′ is provided on the frame-shaped press detection unit 50 ′ above the display unit 29. As the surface plate 45 ', a tactile input sheet for icon touch, which has been filed by the present inventors as described in the third embodiment, is used. An acrylic transparent resin film may be used instead of the tactile input sheet. The surface plate 45 ′ is bonded to the frame-shaped portion of the press detection unit 50 ′ via an adhesive. A display unit 29 is attached below (on the back side of) the front plate 45 '. A liquid crystal display device is used for the display unit 29. A color liquid crystal display element having a thickness of about 1.1 mm to 1.7 mm is used for the display unit 29.

  The above-described press detection unit 50 ′ has a programmable electrode pattern structure, and has position information detection and pressing force detection functions. The press detection unit 50 ′ has an input operation surface, and detects the contact position of the operation body on the input operation surface. In addition, since the form demonstrated in the 2nd Example can be applied as it is to the external shape of the mobile phone 500 and the configuration example of the control system, the description is omitted.

Next, a configuration example and a function example of the press detection unit 50 ′ will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIGS. 21 to 23 are plan views showing a configuration example of electrode patterns and a function example (parts 1 to 3) thereof in the press detection unit 50 ′.

  According to the configuration example of the press detection unit 50 ′ illustrated in FIG. 21, an example of the first conductor is included in the L-shaped regions A, B, C, and D that fold each of the four sides of the frame-shaped substrate (not illustrated). The electrode patterns 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d to be configured, the electrode patterns 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d that constitute an example of the second conductor, and the elastic conductors 53a, 53b, 53c, and 53d are arranged. For example, the electrode patterns 51a and 52a and the elastic conductor 53a are arranged in the region A, the electrode patterns 51b and 52b and the elastic conductor 53b are arranged in the region B, and the electrode patterns 51c and 52c and the elastic conductive material are arranged in the region C. The body 53c is disposed, and the electrode patterns 51d and 52d and the elastic conductor 53c are disposed in the region D, respectively.

  One end of the electrode pattern 51a is opened, the other end is connected to the terminal 1, one end of the electrode pattern 51b is opened, the other end is connected to the terminal 4, one end of the electrode pattern 51c is opened, and the other end is the terminal 5 , One end of the electrode pattern 51 d is opened, and the other end is connected to the terminal 8. One end of the electrode pattern 52a is opened, the other end is connected to the terminal 2, one end of the electrode pattern 52b is opened, the other end is connected to the terminal 3, one end of the electrode pattern 52c is opened, and the other end is Connected to the terminal 6, one end of the electrode pattern 52 d is opened, and the other end is connected to the terminal 7.

  In this example, two adjacent electrode patterns 51a and 51b, that is, each switch SWa between terminals 6-7, switch SWb between terminals 1-8, and switch SWc between terminals 2-3 are connected, and the electrode pattern 52a, 52b, that is, a switch SWb (not shown) is connected between the terminals 2-3, and an electrode pattern 51b, 51c, that is, a switch SWc (not shown) is connected between the terminals 4-5, so that the electrode patterns 52c, 52d, A switch SWd (not shown) is connected between the terminals 6-7. In this example, these switches SWa to SWd are turned on and off based on the sampling frequency so as to vary the pressure detection function.

  Here, an XY coordinate system is set on the arrangement plane of the electrode patterns 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d and the electrode patterns 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d shown in FIG. 21, and the pressure detection unit 50 is set in the Z direction orthogonal to the XY coordinates. When the pressing direction F of 'is defined, when the pressing force F in the Z direction is read, the switch SWa between the terminals 6-7 is turned on, the electrode patterns 52c, 52d are connected in series, and between the terminals 1-8 Switch SWb is turned on, and the electrode patterns 51a and 51d are connected in series. Further, the switch SWc between the terminals 2-3 is turned on, and the electrode patterns 52a and 52b are connected in series. The switch SWc between the terminals 4-5 is turned off.

  During the pressing operation, the elastic conductor 53a connects between the electrode patterns 51a and 52a to turn on, the elastic conductor 53b connects between the electrode patterns 51b and 52b, and turns on, and the elastic conductor 53c turns to the electrode pattern 51c. , 52c are connected and turned on, or the elastic conductor 53d is connected between the electrode patterns 51d and 52d and turned on. By measuring the resistance value R45 between the terminals 4-5 in any one of the four ON states, the pressing force F in the Z direction can be detected.

  The pressing force F in the Z direction is obtained by reading the resistance value R45 (4 → 3 → 2 → 1 → 8 → 7 → 6 → 5). In this example, the switch SWa by the CPU 32 shown in FIG. On / off control based on the sampling frequency of SWb, SWc, SWd, and the resistance detected by the press detection unit 50 ′ by turning on or off these switches SWa, SWb, SWc, SWd depending on the type and situation of the application The content of the value will change.

  Further, when the pressing force F in the X direction is read by the pressing detection unit 50 ′ shown in FIG. 22, the switch SWc between the terminals 2-3 is turned on, the electrode patterns 52a and 52b are connected in series, and between the terminals 7-6. Switch SWa is turned on, and the electrode patterns 52c and 52d are connected in series. The switch SWb between the terminals 1-8 and the switch SWd between the terminals 4-5 are turned off. As described above, when the electrode patterns 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d and the electrode patterns 52a, 52b, 52c, and 52d are divided into two press detection areas, position information in the X direction can be detected.

  During the pressing operation, the elastic conductor 53a connects between the electrode patterns 51a and 52a to turn on, the elastic conductor 53b connects between the electrode patterns 51b and 52b, and turns on, and the elastic conductor 53c turns to the electrode pattern 51c. , 52c are connected and turned on, or the elastic conductor 53d is connected between the electrode patterns 51d and 52d and turned on. By measuring the resistance value R14 between the terminals 1-4 and the resistance value R58 between the terminals 5-8 in any one of the four ON states, the pressing force F in the X direction can be detected. As described above, the pressing force F in the X direction is obtained by reading the resistance value R14 (1 → 2 → 3 → 4) and reading the resistance value R58 (5 → 6 → 7 → 8).

In this example, in the XY coordinate system shown in FIG. 22, the left end point to be defined on the product such as the mobile phone 500 on the X axis is the origin, the coordinate is “0”, the right end point is Xmax, When the constant is α, the position detection coordinate Xd is expressed by equation (1), that is,
Xd = Xmax × α × R14 / (R14 + R54) (1)
Is calculated by Equation (1) is calculated by the CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC.

  23, when the pressing force F in the Y direction is read by the pressing detection unit 50 ′, the switch SWb between the terminals 1-8 is turned on, the electrode patterns 51a and 51d are connected in series, and between the terminals 4-5. Switch SWd is turned on, and the electrode patterns 51b and 51c are connected in series. The switch SWc between the terminals 2-3 and the switch SWa between the terminals 6-7 are turned off. As described above, when the electrode patterns 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d and the electrode patterns 52a, 52b, 52c, and 52d are divided into two press detection areas, position information in the Y direction can be detected.

  During the pressing operation, the elastic conductor 53a connects between the electrode patterns 51a and 52a to turn on, the elastic conductor 53b connects between the electrode patterns 51b and 52b, and turns on, and the elastic conductor 53c turns to the electrode pattern 51c. , 52c are connected and turned on, or the elastic conductor 53d is connected between the electrode patterns 51d and 52d and turned on. By measuring the conduction resistance R36 between the terminals 3-6 and the conduction resistance R27 between the terminals 2-7 in any one of these four ON states, the pressing force F in the Y direction can be detected. As described above, the pressing force F in the Y direction can be obtained by reading the resistance value R36 (3 → 4 → 5 → 6) and reading the resistance value R27 (2 → 1 → 8 → 7).

In this example, in the XY coordinate system shown in FIG. 23, the lower end point to be defined on the product such as the mobile phone 500 on the Y axis is the origin, the coordinate is “0”, the upper end point is Ymax, Further, when the constant is β, the position detection coordinate Yd is expressed by equation (2), that is,
Yd = Ymax × β × R36 / (R36 + R27) (2)
Given by. Equation (2) is calculated by the CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC.

  In the case of detecting a pressing operation of two or more points (multi-point pressing mode), two types of pressing can be performed by separately reading two pressing detection data obtained from the pressing detection unit 50 ′ in the X and Y directions. Detection data can be obtained. Of course, the pressure detection data may be read out individually to obtain four or more types of pressure detection data.

  For example, when reading the pressing force F in the XY direction by the pressing detection unit 50 ′, the switch SWa between the terminals 6-7, the switch SWb between the terminals 1-8, the switch SWc between the terminals 2-3, and the terminal 4-5. While the four switches SWd are in the off state, the on state between each pair of the electrode patterns 51a and 52a, the electrode patterns 51b and 52b, the electrode patterns 51c and 52c, and the electrode patterns 51d and 52d is detected. As described above, when the electrode patterns 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d and the electrode patterns 52a, 52b, 52c, and 52d are divided into four press detection areas, position information in the XY directions can be detected.

  During the pressing operation, the elastic conductor 53a connects between the electrode patterns 51a and 52a to turn on, the elastic conductor 53b connects between the electrode patterns 51b and 52b, and turns on, and the elastic conductor 53c turns to the electrode pattern 51c. , 52c are connected and turned on, or the elastic conductor 53d is connected between the electrode patterns 51d and 52d and turned on. For these four ON states, the resistance value R12 between the terminals 1-2, the resistance value R34 between the terminals 3-4, the resistance value R56 between the terminals 5-6, and the resistance value R78 between the terminals 7-8 are respectively measured. Thus, the pressing force F in the XY directions can be detected. In addition, since the thing with the same name and the same code | symbol as the 2nd-4th Example has the same function, and the same material is used, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  Next, an assembly example of the input device 903 will be described. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing an assembly example of the input device 903. According to the input device 903 shown in FIG. 24, the display unit 29, the speaker 36b with an actuator function, the upper operation frame 41, the front plate 45 ', and the press detection unit 50' are prepared. As the upper operation frame 41, an injection mold formed as described in the second to fourth embodiments is used.

  First, as described in the second to fourth embodiments, the press detection unit 50 ′ is attached to the upper operation frame 41. The pressure detection unit 50 'uses the electrode pattern structure described with reference to FIGS. Then, the surface plate 45 ′ is attached on the pressure detection unit 50 ′. For example, after the adhesive is applied to the frame-shaped portion of the pressure detection unit 50 ′, the surface plate 45 ′ is aligned with the recess 41a, and the surface plate 45 ′ is placed on the pressure detection unit 50 ′ so as to be dropped into the recess 41a. Adhere to. For the surface plate 45 ′, a tactile input sheet for icon touch that the present inventors have applied for may be used. In the tactile sense input sheet, for example, a projection block having a columnar shape or a conical shape in order to give a feeling of unevenness is distributed so as to stand in a direction perpendicular to the sheet surface of the base sheet constituting the base material. It is good to use.

  Next, the speaker 36b with an actuator function is attached to the surface plate 45 '. Similarly to the second to fourth embodiments, the speaker 36b is disposed at a predetermined position of the surface plate 45 'through the opening 43b of the upper operation frame body 41 and fixed through an adhesive. Further, the display unit 29 is attached to the back side of the upper operation frame body 41. For example, the adhesive is applied along the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43 a of the upper operation frame body 41. Thereafter, the display area 29a of the display unit 29 is aligned with the opening 43a, and the display unit 29 is hung by the outer peripheral portion on the back surface side of the opening 43a and fixed by bonding and / or screwing. A color liquid crystal display element is used for the display unit 29.

  On the other hand, a lower container 42 (not shown) is prepared in the same manner as in the second to fourth embodiments. A circuit board, a memory, and the like are mounted on the lower container 42. When the lower container 42 is engaged with the upper operation frame body 41 including the touch panel built-in display unit 29, the surface plate 45 ′ and the press detection unit 50 ′, the input device as shown in FIG. The mobile phone 500 is completed.

  Next, an example in which a change in resistance at the time of a pressing operation in the pressing detection unit 50 ′ is detected as the output voltage Vo will be described. FIG. 25 is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of an equivalent circuit of the press detection unit 50 ′ and a detection example of the output voltage Vo.

  According to the equivalent circuit example of the press detection unit 50 ′ shown in FIG. 25, it has four variable resistors VRa, VRb, VRc, VRd and four on / off switches SWa, SWb, SWc, SWd. Is done. These are connected in series in the order of the variable resistor VRc, the switch SWa, the variable resistor VRd, the switch SWb, the variable resistor VRa, the switch SWc, and the variable resistor VRb between the terminals 4-5, and the switch SWd is connected to the terminal 4- 5 is connected.

  The variable resistor VRa is composed of electrode patterns 51a and 52a between the terminals 1-2 and the elastic conductor 53a, and the variable resistor VRb is composed of electrode patterns 51b and 52b between the terminals 3-4 and the elastic conductor 53b. The variable resistor VRc includes electrode patterns 51c and 52c between terminals 5-6 and an elastic conductor 53c, and the variable resistor VRd includes electrode patterns 51d and 52d between terminals 7-8 and an elastic conductor 53d. .

  Further, according to the voltage detection example of the press detection unit 50 ′, the switch detection switch 50 ′ is configured to include four switching switches SWe to SWh, two DC power sources DC1 and DC2, and two voltage detection circuits 61 and 62. . For example, a switching switch SWe is connected to the terminals 5 and 6. A two-circuit one-select switch is used as the switch SWe. The middle point of the switch SWe is connected to the DC power source DC1. The contact “1” is connected to the terminal 5, and the contact “2” is connected to the terminal 6.

  A switch SWf for switching is connected to the terminals 7 and 8. As the switch SWf, a 3-circuit 1-select switch is used. The middle point of the switch SWf is connected to the first voltage detection circuit 61. The contact “1” is connected to the terminal 7, and the contact “2” is connected to the terminal 8. The contact “3” is empty, that is, no connection “OFF”.

  A switch SWg for switching is connected to the terminals 1 and 2. As the switch SWg, a 2-circuit 1-select switch is used. The middle point of the switch SWg is connected to the DC power source DC2. The contact “1” is connected to the terminal 1, and the contact “2” is connected to the terminal 2.

  A switch SWh for switching is connected to the terminals 3 and 4. A two-circuit one-select switch is used as the switch SWh. The middle point of the switch SWh is connected to the second voltage detection circuit 62. The contact “1” is connected to the terminal 3, and the contact “2” is connected to the terminal 4. The voltage detection circuit 61 described above includes a load resistor RL and a voltage detection element Va, and the voltage detection circuit 62 includes a load resistance RL and a voltage detection element Vb. Each voltage detection element Va, Vb measures a voltage drop generated in the load resistance RL.

  Next, with reference to Table 1, an example of voltage detection at the time of pressing operation of the press detection unit 50 ′ illustrated in FIG. 25 will be described.

  According to Table 1, when the pressing force F in the Z direction is read by the pressing detector 50 ', the switches SWa, SWb, SWc are turned on and the switch SWd is turned off. The switch SWe selects the “1” side and connects the DC power source DC 1 to the terminal 5. The switch SWf selects the “3” side and is turned OFF. The switch SWg selects the “3” side and is turned OFF. The switch SWh selects the “2” side and connects the voltage detection circuit 62 to the terminal 4. As a result, the resistance value R45 (4 → 3 → 2 → 1 → 8 → 7 → 6 → 5) can be read, and the change in the resistance value R45 can be discriminated from the output voltage Vo of the voltage detection circuit 62.

  When the position in the X direction is read by the press detection unit 50 ', the switches SWa and SWc are turned on and the switches SWb and SWd are turned off. The switch SWe selects the “1” side and connects the DC power source DC 1 to the terminal 5. The switch SWf selects the “2” side and connects the voltage detection circuit 61 to the terminal 8. The switch SWg selects the “1” side and connects the DC power source DC2 to the terminal 1. The switch SWh selects the “2” side and connects the voltage detection circuit 62 to the terminal 4.

  Thereby, the resistance value R14 (1 → 2 → 3 → 4) and the resistance value R58 (5 → 6 → 7 → 8) can be read out. The change in the resistance value R14 can be determined from the output voltage Vo of the voltage detection circuit 62, and the change in the resistance value R58 can be determined from the output voltage Vo of the voltage detection circuit 61.

  Further, when the position in the Y direction is read by the press detection unit 50 ', the switches SWa and SWc are turned off and the switches SWb and SWd are turned on. The switch SWe selects the “2” side and connects the DC power source DC 1 to the terminal 6. The switch SWf selects the “1” side and connects the voltage detection circuit 61 to the terminal 7. The switch SWg selects the “2” side and connects the DC power source DC2 to the terminal 2. The switch SWh selects the “1” side and connects the voltage detection circuit 62 to the terminal 3. Accordingly, the resistance value R36 (3 → 4 → 5 → 6) and the resistance value R27 (2 → 1 → 8 → 7) can be read out. The change in the resistance value R36 can be determined from the output voltage Vo of the voltage detection circuit 62, and the change in the resistance value R27 can be determined from the output voltage Vo of the voltage detection circuit 61.

  FIG. 26 is a graph showing an example of characteristics at the time of calibration of the resistance value Rv in the press detection unit 50 ′. In this example, an OFF mode is provided in which the determination threshold resistance value Rs ′ (may be the determination threshold voltage Vth) in the press detection unit 50 ′ is updated.

  The vertical axis shown in FIG. 26 is the resistance value Rv in the press detection unit 50 ′, and the electrode patterns 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d, the electrode patterns 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, and the elastic conductors 53a, 53b, 53c. And 53d are values of variable resistors VRa, VRb, VRc, VRd and the like. The horizontal axis is the pressing force F, and is an external force applied to the elastic conductors 53a, 53b, 53c and 53d during the pressing operation.

  The solid line is the resistance value vs. pressing force characteristic curve Ia at the time of shipment. The broken line is the resistance value versus pressing force characteristic curve IIb during calibration. In this example, the resistance value vs. pressing force characteristic curve IIb at the time of calibration is shifted downward compared to the resistance value vs. pressing force characteristic curve Ia at the time of shipment. As described above, the graph at the time of calibration is shifted downward because the electrode patterns 51a and 52a and the elastic conductors are always stored in a state where a load is applied to the press detection unit 50 ′ for a long time. This is probably because 53a or the like is plastically deformed, and the resistance value Rv of resistance decreases to some extent in the state before the operation.

Therefore, the OFF mode is executed to update the resistance value Rs ′ for the determination threshold in the press detection unit 50 ′. In the OFF mode, for example, at the time of shipment from the factory, the resistance between terminals at no load is Rv, and the resistance value for the ON / OFF determination threshold of the input function determined on the application side (side) is Rs, and OFF When the resistance value between the terminals at the time of mode execution is Rn and the updated resistance value for the determination threshold is Rs ′, the value of Rs ′ is calculated by the following formula (3), that is,
Rs ′ = Rs × Rn / Rv (3)
Is calculated and updated. However, the resistance value Rn between the terminals is obtained by measuring the resistance value between the terminals 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8 when the OFF mode is executed.

  As described above, even when the resistance value Rs for the determination threshold is updated to the resistance value Rs ′ by calibration, the resistance value Rn is lower than the resistance value Rs for the determination threshold provided on the application side. No malfunction. As a result, it is possible to prevent inconveniences such as input without permission or shift of the input position. Note that the resistance value update process during calibration does not have to be executed every time. Also, the determination threshold value resistance value Rs is not limited, and the determination threshold voltages Vth1, Vth2, etc. may be updated.

  FIG. 27 is a plan view showing an arrangement example of the elastic conductors 53 a ′ to 53 d ′ in the press detection unit 501. In any of the following modifications, the pressure detection unit 501 has a frame shape (frame shape) in any variation, and the disposition position to be incorporated in the electronic device is not changed. According to the arrangement example of the elastic conductors 53a ′ to 53d ′ shown in FIG. 27, the electrode patterns 51a and 52a, the electrode patterns 51b and 52b, the electrode patterns 51c and 52c, and the electrode patterns 51d and 52d have eight wirings. This is characterized in that there are four or more detection regions, and the elastic conductors 53a ′, 53b ′, 53c ′, 53d ′ are arranged only at the corners of the four corners. When the elastic conductors 53a ′ to 53d ′ are patterned in this way, the conductive rubber member can be omitted as compared with the elastic conductors 53a to 53d shown in FIG. 21, and the X and Y mode input function can be omitted. Press detection accuracy can be improved.

  FIG. 28 is a plan view illustrating an arrangement example of the electrode patterns 51 a ′ to 51 d ′ and the electrode patterns 52 a ′ to 52 d ′ in the press detection unit 502. 28, the electrode patterns 51a ′, 51b ′, 51c ′, 51d ′ and the electrode patterns 52a ′, 52b ′, 52c ′, 52d ′ and only around the corners of the four corners The elastic conductors 53a ′, 53b ′, 53c ′, and 53d ′ are arranged.

  When the electrode patterns 51a to 51d ′, the electrode patterns 52a ′ to 52d ′, and the elastic conductors 53a ′ to 53d ′ are patterned in this manner, a conductive rubber member as compared with the elastic conductors 53a to 53d shown in FIG. In addition, it is possible to improve the accuracy of pressure detection when the X and Y mode input functions of the electrode patterns 51a ′ to 51d ′ and the electrode patterns 52a ′ to 52d ′ are executed.

  Next, eight operation modes at the time of pressing operation in the mobile phone 500 will be described. In the following example, the case where the operation mode at the time of the pressing operation and the application are associated in advance will be described as an example.

  FIG. 29 is a plan view showing an example of an X mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the X-mode input function example shown in FIG. 29, the mobile phone 500 is placed horizontally or held horizontally, and the display unit 29 is displayed horizontally (horizontal style). When the WEB circulation application in the horizontal style is executed, the pressure detection unit 50 'performs a sliding detection operation in the X direction as a vertical scroll function. The CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction for each sampling frequency when executing the X mode. Please refer to FIG. 22 and FIG. 25 for an operation example of the press detection unit 50 ′.

  30A and 30B are plan views showing examples of the Y mode input function in the mobile phone 500. FIG. According to the Y-mode input function example shown in FIG. 30A, the mobile phone 500 is placed vertically or held vertically and the display unit 29 is displayed vertically (vertical style). When the WEB circulation application in the vertical style is executed, the press detection unit 50 'functions as a vertical scroll function.

  Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 30B, the display unit 29 is displayed in a landscape orientation by holding the mobile phone 500 in a landscape orientation or a landscape orientation. When the video playback application in the horizontal style is executed, the pressing detection unit 50 ′ executes a sliding detection operation in the Y direction as a playback position operation function. For example, a volume adjustment bar 29c is displayed on the display unit 29. When the user slides on the bar 29c from left to right, the volume increases or, on the contrary, on the bar 29c from right to left. When sliding, the volume can be reduced. In any case, when executing the Y mode, the CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the Y direction for each sampling frequency. Please refer to FIG. 23 and FIG. 25 for an operation example of the press detection unit 50 ′.

  FIG. 31 is a plan view showing an example of the Z-mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 31, the pressing detection unit 50 ′ detects the pressing force F in the Z direction as a start switch function from the standby state by holding the mobile phone 500 vertically or vertically. Perform the action. When executing the Z mode, the CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency. Please refer to FIG. 21 and FIG. 25 for an operation example of the press detection unit 50 ′.

  FIG. 32 is a plan view showing an example of an X + Y mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the X + Y mode input function example shown in FIG. 32, the mobile phone 500 is placed horizontally or held horizontally, and the display unit 29 is displayed horizontally. In this horizontal style, for example, when the map circulation application is executed, the pressing detection unit 50 ′ detects the sliding and pressing force F in the X and Y directions as a cross scroll function in the X and Y directions such as a position movement operation. Execute. When executing the X + Y mode, the CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction and the coordinate state in the Y direction for each sampling frequency.

  FIG. 33 is a plan view showing an example of an X + Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the X + Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 33, the mobile phone 500 is placed horizontally or held horizontally, and the display section 29 is displayed horizontally. In this horizontal style, for example, when a selection application for various items is executed, as a selection determination function (application for selecting music from a list display with a telephone book or music generation function), the pressure detection unit 50 'slides in the X direction. And the detection operation of the pressing force F in the Z direction is executed. When executing the X + Z mode, the CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction and the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  FIG. 34 is a plan view showing an example of Y + Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the Y + Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 34, when the mobile phone 500 is placed vertically or held vertically and a selection application of various items in the vertical style is executed, as a selection decision function (phone book or music Application for selecting music from the list display with the generation function), the pressure detection unit 50 ′ performs the sliding operation in the Y direction and the detection operation of the pressing force F in the Z direction. When executing the Y + Z mode, the CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the Y direction and the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  FIG. 35 is a plan view showing an example of an X + Y + Z mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the example of the X + Y + Z mode input function shown in FIG. 35, the mobile phone 500 is held vertically or held vertically, and the pressure detection unit 50 ′ operates as an operation function such as a numeric keypad or cross key in the vertical style. Detects the sliding operation at Z and the detection of the pressing force F in the Z direction. When executing the X + Y + Z mode, the CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction, the coordinate state in the Y direction, and the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  FIG. 36 is a plan view showing an example of a multipoint mode input function in the mobile phone 500. According to the example of the multipoint mode input function shown in FIG. 36, when the mobile phone 500 is horizontally long or horizontally long and the game application is executed in the horizontal style, the press detection unit 50 ' The operation of detecting the pressing force F in the Z direction is executed. When executing the multipoint mode, the CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC reads each individual resistance value for each sampling frequency.

  Next, an example of operation mode switching in the mobile phone 500 will be described. 37 to 39 are flowcharts showing operation mode switching examples (parts 1 to 3) in the mobile phone 500. In this example, when there is an execution instruction of an application, regarding the operation mode, the selection candidates are switched in the order of X mode → Y mode → Z mode → X + Y mode → X + Z mode → Y + Z mode → X + Y + Z mode → OFF mode. Take an example.

  Under these switching conditions, an application execution command is waited in step ST1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. If there is an application execution command, the process proceeds to step ST2 to read the application and operation mode information. The operation mode information is associated with the application in advance. When there is an execution command for an application, the operation mode information associated with the application can be determined.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST3, and the control branches depending on whether the X mode or other modes are set. When the operation mode information of the application is the X mode, the process proceeds to step ST4, the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the X mode, and the display unit 29 executes the application. For example, according to the X mode input function example shown in FIG. 29, the mobile phone 500 is placed horizontally or held horizontally, and the display unit 29 displays the image horizontally. In this horizontal style, the CPU 32 executes a WEB circulation application. The press detection unit 50 ′ performs a sliding detection operation in the X direction as a vertical scroll function. The CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST5, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. If there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST4 and the display unit 29 continues the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 and the display unit 29 waits for the next application execution command.

  When a mode other than the X mode is set in step ST3 described above, the CPU 32 branches control to step ST6 depending on whether the Y mode or the other mode other than the X mode is set. When the operation mode information of the application is the Y mode, the process proceeds to step ST7, the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the Y mode, and the display unit 29 executes the application.

  For example, according to the Y-mode input function example shown in FIG. 30A, the mobile phone 500 is placed vertically or held vertically, and the display unit 29 displays the image vertically. In this vertical style, the CPU 32 executes a WEB circulation application. The press detection unit 50 'performs a sliding detection operation in the Y direction as a vertical scroll function. Alternatively, the CPU 32 executes the video reproduction application in the horizontal style shown in FIG. 30B. The press detection unit 50 ′ performs a sliding detection operation in the Y direction as a reproduction position operation function. In either case, the CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the Y direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST8, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. When there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST7 and the display unit 29 continues the display based on the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 and the display unit 29 waits for the next application execution command.

  When a mode other than the X and Y modes is set in step ST6 described above, the process proceeds to step ST9 shown in FIG. 38, depending on whether the Z mode or other modes other than the X and Y modes are set. The CPU 32 branches the control. When the operation mode information of the application is the Z mode, the process proceeds to step ST10, the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the Z mode, and the display unit 29 executes the application.

  For example, according to the Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 31, in the vertical style of the mobile phone 500, the pressing detection unit 50 ′ performs the detection operation of the pressing force F in the Z direction as an activation switch function from the standby state. Run. The CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST11, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. If there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST10 to continue the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 to wait for the next application execution command.

  If a mode other than the X, Y, Z mode is set in step ST9, the process proceeds to step ST12, depending on whether the X + Y mode or other mode is set except for the X, Y, Z mode. The CPU 32 branches the control. When the operation mode information of the application is the X + Y mode, the process proceeds to step ST13, the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the X + Y mode, and the display unit 29 executes the application.

  For example, according to the X + Y mode input function example shown in FIG. 32, in the horizontal style of the mobile phone 500, when the CPU 32 executes the map circulation application, the press detection unit 50 ′ moves in the X and Y directions such as a position movement operation. As the cross scroll function, the sliding operation in the X and Y directions and the detection operation of the pressing force F are executed. The CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction and the coordinate state in the Y direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST14, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. If there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST13 and the display unit 29 continues the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 and the display unit 29 waits for the next application execution command.

  If a mode other than the X, Y, Z, X + Y mode is set in step ST12 described above, the process proceeds to step ST15, and the X + Z mode or other mode is set except for the X, Y, Z, X + Y mode. The CPU 32 branches the control depending on whether it is set. When the operation mode information of the application is the X + Z mode, the process proceeds to step ST16, the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the X + Z mode, and the display unit 29 executes the application.

  For example, according to the X + Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 33, when the CPU 32 executes a selection application for various items in the horizontal style of the mobile phone 500, the press detection unit 50 ′ uses the X direction as the selection determination function. Detects the sliding operation at Z and the detection of the pressing force F in the Z direction. The CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction and the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST17, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. When there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST16 and the display unit 29 continues the display based on the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 and the display unit 29 waits for the next application execution command.

  If a mode other than the X, Y, Z, X + Y, and X + Z modes is set in step ST15, the process proceeds to step ST18, except for the X, Y, Z, X + Y, and X + Z modes. The CPU 32 branches the control depending on whether the mode is set. When the operation mode information of the application is the Y + Z mode, the process proceeds to step ST19, and the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the Y + Z mode and executes the application. For example, according to the Y + Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 34, when the CPU 32 executes a selection application for various items in the vertical style of the mobile phone 500, the press detection unit 50 ′ serves as a selection determination function in the Y direction. , And the detection operation of the pressing force F in the Z direction is executed. The CPU 32 or the dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the Y direction and the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST20, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. If there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST19, and the display unit 28 continues the video display based on the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 and the display unit 29 waits for the next application execution command.

  If a mode other than the X, Y, Z, X + Y, X + Z, Y + Z mode is set in step ST18 described above, the process proceeds to step ST21 shown in FIG. 39, and the X, Y, Z, X + Y, X + Z, Y + Z mode The CPU 32 branches the control depending on whether the X + Y + Z mode or any other mode is set. When the operation mode information of the application is the X + Y + Z mode, the process proceeds to step ST22, the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the X + Y + Z mode, and the display unit 29 executes the application.

  For example, according to the X + Y + Z mode input function example shown in FIG. 35, in the vertical style of the mobile phone 500, the pressing detection unit 50 ′ can operate as sliding functions in the X and Y directions and Z as an operation function such as a numeric keypad and a cross key. The operation of detecting the pressing force F in the direction is executed. The CPU 32 or a dedicated driver IC reads the coordinate state in the X direction, the coordinate state in the Y direction, and the coordinate state in the Z direction for each sampling frequency.

  In step ST23, the CPU 32 determines the end of the application. If there is no termination command for the application, the process returns to step ST22 and the display unit 29 continues the application. If there is an application end command, the process returns to step ST1 and the display unit 29 waits for the next application execution command.

  If an OFF mode other than the X, Y, Z, X + Y, X + Z, Y + Z, and X + Y + Z modes is set in step ST21 described above, the process proceeds to step ST24, and the CPU 32 switches the operation mode to the OFF mode and performs calibration. Run. For example, the resistance value between the terminals 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8 of the press detection unit 50 'is measured to obtain the resistance value Rn between the terminals. Then, according to the update example of the resistance value Rs ′ for the determination threshold at the time of calibration shown in FIG. 26, the resistance value Rv between the terminals without load at the time of shipment from the factory, the input function determined by the application side The resistance value Rs 'for the ON / OFF determination threshold value and the resistance value Rn between the terminals when the OFF mode is executed are substituted into the equation (3) to calculate the updated resistance value Rs' for the determination threshold value. .

  In step ST25, the CPU 32 determines the end of the calibration. If there is no calibration end command, the CPU 32 returns to step ST24 and continues the calibration. If there is an instruction to end the calibration, the process returns to step ST1 and the CPU 32 waits for the next application execution instruction.

  Thus, according to the cellular phone 500 as the fifth embodiment, the display unit 29 is provided below the surface plate 45 ′, and the press detection unit 50 ′ according to the present invention is provided. When information is input in response to the pressing operation of the operator's finger 30a on the input detection surface above, the elastic conductor 53a is not only the information on the pressing position by the pressing detection unit 50 ′ but also the electrode pattern according to the pressing operation. 51a and electrode pattern 52a, elastic conductor 53b is between electrode pattern 51b and electrode pattern 52b, elastic conductor 53c is between electrode pattern 51c and electrode pattern 52c, or elastic conductor 53d is electrode pattern 51d and electrode. The pressing force F (pressing force) at the position where the patterns 52d are electrically connected can be reliably detected.

  In addition, since the input device 903 includes the sealed display unit 29 that is completely blocked from the outside, the cellular phone 500 that is excellent in waterproofness and dustproofness can be assembled. Since the upper surface operation frame body 41 has a structure for supporting a surface plate 45 ′ such as a transparent tactile input sheet, the ease of assembling the mobile phone 500 is improved as before. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a mobile phone 500 with a tactile input function having a frame-shaped press detection unit 50 'having a thin and simple structure, while having a sealed structure capable of preventing entry of dust, moisture, and the like. It was.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case of the mobile phone 200 to 500 has been described with respect to the electronic device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the input device is used in a digital camera, video camera, game machine, personal computer, automatic cash dispenser, etc. If it is an electronic device having 90, 901 to 903, the same effect can be obtained.

The present invention is extremely suitable when applied to a mobile phone or an information portable terminal device that inputs information by sliding and pressing an input detection surface on a display screen.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1-8 ... Terminal, 15 ... Control part, 16 ... Antenna, 18 ... Reception part, 23 ... Antenna sharing part, 26 ... Image processing part, 29 ... Display part 31 ... A / D driver, 32 ... CPU (control unit), 33 ... power supply unit, 34 ... camera, 35 ... storage unit, 37 ... memory unit, 41 ... Upper surface operation frame, 42 ... lower container, 43 ... display window, 43b ... opening, 44 ... video & audio processing unit, 45 ... input detection unit, 48 ... Capacitance type touch panel, 50, 50 ′, press detection unit, 51, 51a to 51d, 52, 52a to 52d, electrode pattern (first and second conductors), 53, 53a to 53d, ..Elastic conductor (contactor), 54 ... covering sheet (covering member), 55 ... base sheet (base) Members), 58, 59 ... adhesive sheet (adhesive), 61, 62 ... voltage detection circuit, 90, 901, 902, 903 ... input device, 200 to 500 ... mobile phone (electronic equipment) )

Claims (6)

A frame-shaped base member having an opening at an in-plane center portion;
One or more sets of first and second electrode patterns arranged in parallel on the base member at a predetermined interval;
An elastic conductor disposed between the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern and contacting the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern according to an external force;
A covering member that covers the elastic conductor and the first and second electrode patterns;
In each set, the first and second electrode patterns have a resistance value and a length of a current path when the elastic conductor contacts the first and second electrode patterns, and the elastic conductor is pressed down. The pressure detection sensor has a layout that does not depend on the position. Both the first and second electrode patterns have a connection terminal connected to an external terminal, and an open terminal,
The direction from the connection terminal to the open terminal in the first electrode pattern is opposite to the direction from the connection terminal to the open terminal in the second electrode pattern. Press detection sensor. The press detection sensor according to claim 1, wherein an adhesive is provided on a lower surface of the base member or an upper surface of the covering member. The press detection sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the elastic conductor is a conductive rubber member. A display for displaying input information;
A position detection unit for detecting the contact position of the operating body;
A pressure detection unit that is provided between the display unit and the position detection unit and detects a pressing force of the operating body;
The pressure detection unit is
A frame-shaped base member having an opening at an in-plane center portion;
One or more sets of first and second electrode patterns arranged in parallel on the base member at a predetermined interval;
An elastic conductor disposed between the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern and contacting the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern according to an external force;
A covering member that covers the elastic conductor and the first and second electrode patterns;
In each set, the first and second electrode patterns have a resistance value and a length of a current path when the elastic conductor contacts the first and second electrode patterns, and the elastic conductor is pressed down. The input device has a layout that does not depend on the position. With input device,
The input device is:
A display for displaying input information;
A position detection unit for detecting the contact position of the operating body;
A pressure detection unit that is provided between the display unit and the position detection unit and detects a pressing force of the operating body;
The pressure detection unit is
A frame-shaped base member having an opening at an in-plane center portion;
One or more sets of first and second electrode patterns arranged in parallel on the base member at a predetermined interval;
An elastic conductor disposed between the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern and contacting the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern according to an external force;
A covering member that covers the elastic conductor and the first and second electrode patterns;
In each set, the first and second electrode patterns have a resistance value and a length of a current path when the elastic conductor contacts the first and second electrode patterns, and the elastic conductor is pressed down. An electronic device with a layout that does not depend on the position.

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