Patent ID: 7077750
Filing Date: 2006-07-18
Classification: G05G

Abstract:
1. A multi-directional input apparatus comprising a set of upper and lower turning members supported in said case such that said tuning members can turn into two intersecting directions and each having a long hole extending in a direction perpendicular to said turning direction; an operating member passing through each of said long holes of said set of upper and lower turning members, said operating member turning each of said turning members when said operating member is operated in arbitrary direction therearound; a returning mechanism for returning said operating member from a position when said operating member is operated in the arbitrary direction therearound to a neutral position; and set of signal output means connected to ends of said set of upper and lower turning members for outputting signal corresponding to a turning angle of each of said turning members; wherein said operating member is integrally provided at its lower portion with a turning shaft which is perpendicular to said operating member at right angles and/or a turning-type coming-out preventing portion comprising an upwardly swelling semi-spherical portion, and a recess into which said coming-out preventing portion is turnably fitted is provided in a lower surface of the lower turning members, wherein said returning mechanism comprises a spring compressed and accommodated in said cases, and a slider biased by said spring, wherein said slider resiliently abuts from below against a flat surface downwardly formed on a lower portion of said operating member and flat surfaces downwardly formed on opposite end shafts of said set of upper and lower turning members.