Press-type input device and press-rotate-type input device

A press-type input device includes a first pressing member, a second pressing member, a base, and a holding member. The first pressing member has a pressure receiving surface and a first axis and is tiltable around the first axis. The second pressing member has a second axis and is tiltable around the second axis. The base includes a detection unit configured to detect a tilt of the second pressing member. The holding member is configured to hold, together with the base, the first pressing member and the second pressing member. A location of at least one of the first axis or the second axis is variable in accordance with a pushed location on the pressure receiving surface. When viewed in a direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface, the second axis and the detection unit do not overlap each other.

CROSS-REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the U.S. National Phase under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2019/030816, filed on Aug. 6, 2019, which in turn claims the benefit of Japanese Application No. 2018-191083, filed on Oct. 9, 2018, the entire disclosures of which Applications are incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to press-type input devices and press-rotate-type input devices, and specifically, to a press-type input device including pressing members and a press-rotate-type input device including a rotor.

BACKGROUND ART

Patent Literature 1 discloses a rotation-type electric component. The rotation-type electric component disclosed in Patent Literature 1 includes a housing, an operation shaft which is hollow, a rotation detector, and a push switch. The housing includes a bearing section which is hollow. The operation shaft is rotatably held by the bearing section. The rotation detector is accommodated in the housing and detects the rotation of the operation shaft. The push switch is accommodated in the housing and is driven along with a push operation in the axis direction of the operation shaft. The operation shaft is rotatably held by the outer periphery of the bearing section. An accommodation section is provided on an outer peripheral side of the bearing section of the housing to have an annular shape. The rotation detector and the push switch are disposed in the accommodation section having the annular shape.

If the rotation-type electric component of the Patent Literature 1 is provided with two or more push switches, an operator may perform so-called double clicking even though he or she intends to give a push operation to the operation shaft only once. In contrast, the push switch may not be easily driven.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide: a press-type input device configured to detect pushing force by a detection unit no matter where on a pressure receiving surface of the press-type input device the pushing force is exerted; and a press-rotate-type input device.

A press-type input device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first pressing member, a second pressing member, a base, and a holding member. The first pressing member has a pressure receiving surface and a first axis and is tiltable around the first axis by the pressure receiving surface being pushed. The second pressing member has a second axis and is tiltable around the second axis by being pushed due to a tilt of the first pressing member. The base includes a detection unit configured to detect a tilt of the second pressing member. The holding member is configured to hold, together with the base, the first pressing member and the second pressing member. A location of at least one of the first axis or the second axis is variable in accordance with a pushed location of the pressure receiving surface. The second axis and the detection unit do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface.

A press-rotate-type input device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the press-type input device, a rotor, and a circuit block. The press-type input device has a cylindrical part. The rotor surrounds the cylindrical part and is rotatable around the cylindrical part. The circuit block is held by the base of the press-type input device and is configured to detect a rotation amount of the rotor.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

1. First Embodiment

FIGS.1to3show a press-type input device1according to the present embodiment. press-type input device1includes a first pressing member31, a second pressing member32, a base4, and a holding member2.

The first pressing member31has a pressure receiving surface310. The first pressing member31has a first axis S1(seeFIGS.7A to9). The first pressing member31is tiltable around the first axis S1by the pressure receiving surface310being pushed.

The second pressing member32has a second axis S2(seeFIGS.7A to9). The second pressing member32is tiltable around the second axis S2by being pushed due to a tilt of the first pressing member31.

The base4includes a detection unit40. The detection unit40detects a tilt of the second pressing member32.

The holding member2has an opening20. The holding member2exposes the pressure receiving surface310from the opening20and holds, together with the base4, the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32.

The location of at least one of the first axis S1or the second axis S2is variable in accordance with a pushed location on the pressure receiving surface310. The second axis S2and the detection unit40do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface310.

In the press-type input device1, when the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. In this embodiment, the location of the first axis S1varies in accordance with a pushed location on the pressure receiving surface310, and therefore, a direction in which the first pressing member31tilts also varies.

Next, the first pressing member31which tilts pushes the second pressing member32, and the second pressing member32then tilts around the second axis S2. In this embodiment, the location of the second axis S2varies in accordance with a pushed location on the second pressing member32, and therefore, a direction in which the second pressing member32tilts also varies. However, the second axis S2is present at a location where the second axis S2does not overlap the detection unit40when the press-type input device1is viewed in the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface310. Thus, the detection unit40can detect a tilt of the second pressing member32.

Thus, according to the press-type input device1, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted.

The press-type input device1will be described further in detail below with reference toFIGS.1to9. Note that for convenience of explanation, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis orthogonal to one another are shown in part of each figure. The positive direction of the Z-axis is defined as an upward direction, the negative direction of the Z-axis is defined as a downward direction, but these directions are not intended to limit directions in which the press-type input device1is used.

As illustrated inFIGS.1to3, the press-type input device1includes the first pressing member31, the second pressing member32, the base4, and the holding member2. The holding member2, the first pressing member31, the second pressing member32, and the base4are arranged parallel to the Z-axis in this order.

The first pressing member31is, for example, a resin molded body and is electrically insulating. The first pressing member31is an annular member. More specifically, the first pressing member31includes a body part311and a flange312as illustrated inFIG.4A.

The body part311of the first pressing member31is a disk-shaped member. The body part311has a first surface311aand a second surface311b. The first surface311ais in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface311bis in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface311aand the second surface311bare flat surfaces, are parallel to each other, and are respectively front and rear surfaces of the body part311. The first surface311aand the second surface311bare annular band-like surfaces when viewed along a Z-axis direction. At the center of the body part311, a through hole313which is circular is provided parallel to the Z-axis.

The flange312of the first pressing member31protrudes parallel to an XY plane from an outer peripheral surface of the body part311. The flange312has a uniform width and a uniform thickness. The flange312is provided with four ribs314ato314d. The four ribs314ato314dmay form supporting points when the first pressing member31tilts. The four ribs314ato314dprotrude in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The two ribs314aand314care present at symmetrical locations on a straight line L1X which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through a center C1of the through hole313. The remaining two ribs314band314dare present at symmetrical locations on a straight line L1Y which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the center C1of the through hole313. The four ribs314ato314dare present at locations which are in the XY plane and which are symmetrical to each other about the center C1of the through hole313. The four ribs314ato314dare arranged at equal intervals along the flange312. The flange312is further provided with a projection315.

The first pressing member31has the pressure receiving surface310. The pressure receiving surface310is the first surface311aof the body part311. The pressure receiving surface310is a surface which receives force in the negative direction of the Z-axis from the outside of the press-type input device1.

The second pressing member32is, for example, a resin molded body and is electrically insulating. The second pressing member32is an annular member. More specifically, the second pressing member32includes a body part321and a flange322as illustrated inFIG.4B.

The body part321of the second pressing member32is a disk-shaped member. The body part321has a first surface321aand a second surface321b. The first surface321ais in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface321bis in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface321aand the second surface321bare flat surfaces, are parallel to each other, and are respectively front and rear surfaces of the body part321. The first surface321aand the second surface321bare annular band-like surfaces when viewed along the Z-axis direction. At the center of the body part321, a through hole323which is circular is provided parallel to the Z-axis. In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the through hole323of the second pressing member32is equal to the inner diameter of the through hole313of the first pressing member31.

The first surface321aof the body part321of the second pressing member32is provided with two bosses326aand326b. The two bosses326aand326bmay form supporting points when the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32tilt. The two bosses326aand326beach has a tip end which is hemispherical. The two bosses326aand326bprotrude in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The two bosses326aand326bare present at symmetrical locations on a straight line L2Y which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through a center C2of the through hole323.

The flange322of the second pressing member32protrudes from an outer peripheral surface of the body part321parallel to the XY plane. The flange322has a uniform width. The flange322is provided with two ribs324aand324b. The two ribs324aand324bprotrude in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The two ribs324aand324bare present at symmetrical locations on a straight line L2X which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the center C2of the through hole323. The rib324btilts in the negative direction of the Z-axis as the distance from the center C2increases (seeFIG.6A). The flange322is further provided with a recess325.

The second surface321bof the body part321of the second pressing member32is provided with one boss326c. The boss326cmay form a supporting point when the second pressing member32tilts. The boss326chas a tip end which is hemispherical. The boss326cprotrudes in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The boss326cand the detection unit40provided to the base4are present at symmetrical locations on the straight line L2X which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the center C2of the through hole323.

In this embodiment, the size of an outer peripheral circle of the flange312of the first pressing member31is equal to the size of an outer peripheral circle of the body part321of the second pressing member32. In addition, an outer peripheral circle of the flange322of the second pressing member32is larger than the outer peripheral circle of the flange312of the first pressing member31. That is, the second pressing member32is slightly larger than the first pressing member31.

The base4is, for example, a resin molded body and is electrically insulating. As illustrated inFIGS.2and3, the base4is a member having a rectangular plate shape. The base4has a first surface4aand a second surface4b. The first surface4ais in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface4bis in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface4aand the second surface4bare flat surfaces, are parallel to each other, and are respectively front and rear surfaces of the base4.

The base4includes the detection unit40. The detection unit40is provided to the first surface4aof the base4. More specifically, the detection unit40is provided at a location where the detection unit40faces the second surface321bof the second pressing member32in the Z-axis direction. The detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. The detection unit40is a push switch. In this case, when the second pressing member32tilts and pushes the detection unit40, the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. Alternatively, the detection unit40may be a photoelectric sensor such as a photo interrupter. This case will be described in a fifth embodiment.

Two or more detection units40may be provided, but in the present embodiment, one detection unit40is provided. As compared to a case where two or more detection units40are provided, multiple clicks, such as double clicks can be reduced.

The holding member2is, for example, a resin molded body and is electrically insulating. As illustrated inFIGS.2and3, the holding member2is a member which is a rectangular parallelepiped. The holding member2has a first surface2aand a second surface2b. The first surface2ais in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface2bis in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface2aand the second surface2bare flat surfaces, are parallel to each other, and are respectively front and rear surfaces of the holding member2. The holding member2has the opening20. The opening20is provided in the first surface2aof the holding member2.

The opening20has a circular shape having a size the same as the size of an outer peripheral circle of the body part311of the first pressing member31. Alternatively, the opening20may be larger than the outer peripheral circle of the body part311of the first pressing member31and smaller than the outer peripheral circle of the flange312of the first pressing member31.

As illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B, the holding member2has a housing section200. The housing section200includes a first housing section201and a second housing section202. The first housing section201is a columnar space. The second housing section202is a columnar space having a larger inner diameter than the first housing section201. The opening20, the first housing section201, and the second housing section202are aligned parallel to the Z-axis in this order and are communicated with each other.

The first housing section201of the holding member2has a first inner peripheral surface201aand a first bottom surface201b. The first bottom surface201bis an annular band-like surface when viewed along the Z-axis direction. An inner flange23protrudes from the first inner peripheral surface201aparallel to the XY plane. The inner flange23has a uniform width and a uniform thickness. The first bottom surface201bis a surface of the inner flange23, the surface being in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The inner flange23has a surface which is in the positive direction of the Z-axis and which is flush with the first surface2a. The opening20is surrounded by a tip end of the inner flange23. The inner flange23further has a recess23a. The projection315of the first pressing member31can be fit in the recess23a.

The second housing section202of the holding member2has a second inner peripheral surface202aand a second bottom surface202b. The second bottom surface202bis annular band-like surfaces when viewed along the Z-axis direction and is in the negative direction of the Z-axis. In addition, the second inner peripheral surface202ais provided with a projection214. The projection214can be fit into the recess325of the second pressing member32.

As illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, the first inner peripheral surface201ahas a circular shape having substantially the same as the size of the outer peripheral circle of the flange312of the first pressing member31. Alternatively, the inner diameter of the first inner peripheral surface201amay be larger than the outer peripheral circle of the flange312of the first pressing member31.

The first inner peripheral surface201ahas a circular shape having substantially the same as the size of the outer peripheral circle of the body part321of the second pressing member32. Alternatively, the inner diameter of the first inner peripheral surface201amay be larger than the outer peripheral circle of the body part321of the second pressing member32.

The second inner peripheral surface202ahas a circular shape having substantially the same as the size of the outer peripheral circle of the flange322of the second pressing member32. Alternatively, the inner diameter of the second inner peripheral surface202amay be larger than the outer peripheral circle of the flange322of the second pressing member32.

In the holding member2, the first surface2a, the first bottom surface201b, the second bottom surface202b, and the second surface2bare parallel surfaces. As illustrated inFIG.5B, the first bottom surface201b, the first inner peripheral surface201a, the second bottom surface202b, the second inner peripheral surface202a, and the second surface2bform a staircase shape.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the holding member2exposes the pressure receiving surface310from the opening20. As illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, the holding member2holds, together with the base4, the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32. As illustrated inFIGS.2and3, the holding member2has through holes22at four corners thereof. The base4has through holes42at four corners thereof. The holding member2and the base4can be connected to each other by, for example, screws and the like inserted into the through holes22and42.

Next, an assembling method of the press-type input device1will be described.

First, the first pressing member31is accommodated in the housing section200of the holding member2. At this time, the projection315of the first pressing member31is fit into the recess23aformed in the holding member2. This reduces positional displacement of the first pressing member31in the circumferential direction. The “positional displacement in the circumferential direction” refers to positional displacement around a straight line which is parallel to the Z-axis and which extends through the center of the opening20. Note that the straight line which is parallel to the Z-axis and which extends through the center of the opening20extends through the center C1of the through hole313and the center C2of the through hole323.

Second, the second pressing member32is accommodated in the housing section200of the holding member2. At this time, the projection214of the holding member2is fit into the recess325of the second pressing member32. This reduces positional displacement of the second pressing member32in the circumferential direction.

Next, in a state where the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32are accommodated in the housing section200of the holding member2, the second surface2bof the holding member2is placed on the first surface4aof the base4, and the holding member2and the base4are coupled to each other. The holding member2and the base4are coupled to each other by, for example, inserting screws and the like into the through holes22of the holding member2and the through holes42of the base4. The press-type input device1shown inFIG.1is thus assembled.

As illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, in the press-type input device1, the four ribs314ato314dof the first pressing member31are in contact with the first bottom surface201bof the holding member2. The flange312(a portion where the four ribs314ato314dare not provided) of the first pressing member31is not in contact with the first bottom surface201b. Thus, along the direction (a direction parallel to the Z-axis) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the first pressing member31is in contact with the first bottom surface201bof the holding member2at four points in total (in the present embodiment, at the four ribs314ato314d).

As illustrated inFIG.6B, in the press-type input device1, the two bosses326aand326bof the second pressing member32are in contact with the second surface311bof the first pressing member31. Thus, the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32are in contact with each other at two points. The second surface311bof the first pressing member31and the first surface321aof the second pressing member32are not in contact with each other. Thus, the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32are disposed spaced apart from each other by the two bosses326aand326b. As illustrated inFIG.6A, the two ribs324aand324bof the second pressing member32are further in contact with the second bottom surface202bof the holding member2. The flange322(a portion where the two ribs324aand324bare not provided) of the second pressing member32is not in contact with the second bottom surface202b. The ribs324aand324bare provided so that the holding member2holds the second pressing member32in such a way that the second pressing member32neither moves upward (in the positive direction of the Z-axis) nor wobbles in a state where the pressure receiving surface310is not pushed. The ribs314band314dof the first pressing member31are disposed on substantially opposite sides of the first pressing member31from locations where the bosses326aand326bof the second pressing member32respectively come into contact with the first pressing member31, and therefore, the second pressing member32is supported by the bosses326aand326bvia the first pressing member31in a pushing direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis). The second pressing member32is supported at four points in addition to the two ribs324aand324bin the pushing direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis).

As illustrated inFIG.6A, in the press-type input device1, the boss326cof the second pressing member32is in contact with the first surface4aof the base4. On the other hand, the detection unit40of the base4is in contact with the second surface321bof the second pressing member32. Thus, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the second pressing member32and the base4are in contact with each other at two points including the detection unit40. As illustrated inFIG.4B, the boss326cof the second pressing member32and the detection unit40provided to the base4are present at symmetrical locations on the straight line L2X which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the center C2of the through hole323. As illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, the second surface321bof the second pressing member32and the first surface4aof the base4are not in contact with each other. Thus, the second pressing member32and the base4are disposed apart from each other.

A line segment (a line segment of the straight line L2Y) connecting two contact points (apexes of the two bosses326aand326b) of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32and a line segment (a line segment of the straight line L2X) connecting two contact points of the second pressing member32and the base4intersect each other (seeFIG.4B). The line segment (the line segment of the straight line L2X) connecting the two contact points of the second pressing member32and the base4is a bisector of the line segment (the line segment of the straight line L2Y) connecting the two contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32. These two line segments are orthogonal to each other at the center C2. Moreover, the distance between the boss326aand the center C2is equal to the distance between the boss326band the center C2.

When viewed in the direction (the direction parallel to the Z-axis) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the bosses326a,326b, and326care arranged substantially adjacent to the outer peripheral circle of the body part321of the second pressing member32. When locations of the apexes of the bosses326a,326b, and326cand a location where the pushing force is exerted on the detection unit40are connected, a substantially square shape is formed. Thus, the two contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32and the two contact points of the second pressing member32and the base4are located at apexes of the substantially square shape.

In addition, the four ribs314ato314dof the first pressing member31are respectively arranged to substantially overlap the location where the pushing force is exerted on the detection unit40, the apex of the boss326a, the apex of the boss326c, and the apex of the boss326b. Thus, when viewed in the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the four contact points of the first pressing member31and the holding member2overlap the two contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32and the two contact points of the second pressing member32and the base4.

As illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, in a state where the pressure receiving surface310is not pushed, the first surface311aand the second surface311bof the first pressing member31, the first surface321aand the second surface321bof the second pressing member32, and the first surface4aof the base4are all parallel to one another. In this state, the detection unit40do not detect the tilt of the second pressing member32though the second surface321bof the second pressing member32is in contact with the detection unit40.

When the press-type input device1is viewed from the positive to negative direction of the Z-axis, the first surface4aof the base4is viewed through the through hole313and the through hole323. At least viewed part of the base4may be transparent. In this case, the detection unit40is not viewed through the through hole313and the through hole323(seeFIG.6A).

Next, operation of the press-type input device1will be described with reference toFIGS.7A to9.FIGS.7A to9are views schematically illustrating operation of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32when the press-type input device1is viewed from the positive to negative direction of the Z-axis. InFIGS.7A to9, a point O represents the center of the opening20, a point P is the location of the detection unit40(in the present embodiment, the push switch), and a point Q is a location where the pressure receiving surface310is pushed (the location of a working point). A line segment OP is an initial line, a line segment OQ is a moving radius, and an angle anticlockwise formed between the line segment OP and the line segment OQ in the XY plane is denoted by θ.

FIG.7Ashows a case where θ is 0°. In this case, when the point Q on the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, the first axis S1which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the rib314cpresent at a location symmetrical to the point Q about the point O appears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. As the first pressing member31tilts, the two bosses326aand326bmove in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, the second axis S2which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the boss326cappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

As illustrated inFIG.7A, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, a straight line (not shown) connecting apexes of the two bosses326aand326bwhich are contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is located at substantially one-half of the distance from the first axis S1to the point Q and is located at substantially one-half of the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Thus, a pushing load and a stroke at the point Q is substantially the same as a pushing load and a stroke at the detection unit40.

FIG.7Bshows a case where θ is 180°. In this case, when the point Q on the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, a first axis S1which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the rib314apresent at a location symmetrical to the point Q about the point O appears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. As the first pressing member31tilts, the two bosses326aand326bmove in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the boss326cappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

As illustrated inFIG.7B, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, a straight line (not shown) connecting apexes of the two bosses326aand326bwhich are contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is located at substantially one-half of the distance from the first axis S1to the point Q and is located at substantially one-half of the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Thus, a pushing load and a stroke at the point Q is substantially the same as a pushing load and a stroke at the detection unit40.

FIG.8Ashows a case where θ is 90°. In this case, when the point Q on the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, a first axis S1which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the rib314dpresent at a location symmetrical to the point Q about the point O appears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. As the first pressing member31tilts, the boss326amoves in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2extending through the two bosses326band326cappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. Note that the distance from the point P to the second axis S2is equal to the distance from the point Q to the second axis S2.

As illustrated inFIG.8A, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, force pushing the point Q is substantially directly transmitted to the boss326aof the second pressing member32. The distance from the second axis S2to the boss326ais substantially equal to the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Thus, a pushing load and a stroke at the point Q is substantially the same as a pushing load and a stroke at the detection unit40. Note that, although not shown, operation in the case of θ being 270° is symmetrical to the operation in the case of θ being 90° about a straight line which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the point O.

FIG.8Bshows a case where θ is 45°. In this case, when the point Q on the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, a first axis S1extending through the ribs314cand314dappears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. As the first pressing member31tilts, the boss326amoves in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2extending through the two bosses326band326cappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

As illustrated inFIG.8B, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, the distance from the first axis S1to the point Q is about 1.2 times the distance from the first axis S1to the boss326a. Moreover, the distance from the second axis S2to the boss326ais substantially equal to the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Thus, the pushing load at the point Q is about 0.8 times the pushing load at the detection unit40. Moreover, the stroke at the point Q is about 1.2 times the stroke at the detection unit40. Note that, although not shown, operation in the case of θ being 315° is symmetrical to the operation in the case of θ being 45° about a straight line which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the point O.

FIG.9shows a case where θ is 135°. In this case, when the point Q on the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, a first axis S1extending through the ribs314aand314dappears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. As the first pressing member31tilts, the boss326amoves in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2extending through the two bosses326band326cappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

As illustrated inFIG.9, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, the distance from the first axis S1to the point Q is about 1.2 times the distance from the first axis S1to the boss326a. Moreover, the distance from the second axis S2to the boss326ais substantially equal to the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Thus, the pushing load at the point Q is about 0.8 times the pushing load at the detection unit40. Moreover, the stroke at the point Q is about 1.2 times the stroke at the detection unit40. Note that, although not shown, operation in the case of θ being 225° is symmetrical to the operation in the case of θ being 135° about a straight line which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the point O.

As described above, the first pressing member31has the first axis S1. The first axis S1is not a fixed axis. In other words, the location of the first axis S1is variable in accordance with a pushed location on the pressure receiving surface310. That is, the first pressing member31is tiltable around the first axis S1by the pressure receiving surface310being pushed.

The second pressing member32has the second axis S2. The second axis S2is also not a fixed axis. In other words, the location of the second axis S2is variable in accordance with a pushed location on the pressure receiving surface310. That is, the second pressing member32is tiltable around the second axis S2by being pushed due to the tilt of the first pressing member31.

Note that when viewed in the direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the second axis S2and the detection unit40do not overlap each other. If the second axis S2and the detection unit40overlapped each other, the detection unit40could not detect the tilt of the second pressing member32even when the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2.

In practice, θ may be any angle. Moreover, as long as the point Q is present on the pressure receiving surface310, the line segment OQ may also have any length.

According to the press-type input device1of the present embodiment, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted. Note that the pressure receiving surface310may be fully pressed. In this case, the first pressing member31does not tilt but moves in the negative direction of the Z-axis, and the first pressing member31pushes the two bosses326aand326bin the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the rib324band the boss326cappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2in a similar manner to the case shown inFIG.7AorFIG.7B. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. In particular, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, a push operation (the pushing load and the stroke) given to the pressure receiving surface310can be, substantially as it is, transmitted as a push operation (the pushing load and the stroke) given to the detection unit40in four directions where θ is 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°.

2. Second Embodiment

FIGS.10and11show a press-type input device1according to the present embodiment. Note that components similar to those in the press-type input device1of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference signs, and the description thereof will be omitted.

Mainly, in the present embodiment, the configuration of a first pressing member31is different from the configuration of the first pressing member31in the press-type input device1according to the first embodiment. Specifically, the first pressing member31of the present embodiment is not provided with four ribs314ato314das illustrated inFIG.11. Therefore, in a state where a pressure receiving surface310is not pushed, a flange312of the first pressing member31is in contact with a first bottom surface201bof a holding member2. That is, along a direction (a Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the first pressing member31, which has a circular or elliptical (in the present embodiment, a circular) shape in the form of a ring, is in contact with the holding member2. The center of the circular or elliptical shape is a midpoint of two contact points of the first pressing member31and a second pressing member32. The midpoint of the two contact points is a midpoint between two bosses326aand326b. Thus, a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is further stabilized.

Moreover, when viewed in the direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, a contact surface (in the present embodiment, an annular surface of the flange312) of the first pressing member31and the holding member2overlaps the two contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32and two contact points of the second pressing member32and a base4. Thus, a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is further stabilized.

Note that the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the first pressing member31is not provided with a projection315and that the holding member2does not have a recess23a. Also in the present embodiment, the first pressing member31may be provided with the projection315, and the holding member2may have the recess23ain order to reduce positional displacement of the first pressing member31in the circumferential direction.

Next, operation of the press-type input device1will be described with reference toFIG.12.FIG.12is a view schematically illustrating operation of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32when the press-type input device1is viewed from the positive to negative direction of the Z-axis. InFIG.12, a point O represents the center of the opening20, a point P is the location of the detection unit40(in the present embodiment, the push switch), and a point Q is a location where the pressure receiving surface310is pushed (the location of a working point). A line segment OP is an initial line, a line segment OQ is a moving radius, and an angle anticlockwise formed between the line segment OP and the line segment OQ in an XY plane is denoted by θ.

When the point Q on the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, a point S which is on an outer perimeter of the flange312and which is at a location symmetrical to the point Q about the point O is a contact point to the first bottom surface201bof the holding member2. A first axis S1which extends through the point S and which is vertical to a line segment SQ appears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. The location of the first axis S1is variable depending on an arbitrary angle θ. As the first pressing member31tilts, the two bosses326aand326bmove in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2which extends through a boss326cand which is parallel to a straight line connecting apexes of the bosses326aand326bappears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

As to the second pressing member32, the bosses326aand326bare equidistant from a straight line connecting the apex of the boss326cto the point P. Each of the distances from the second axis S2to the bosses326aand326bis half of the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Therefore, a pushing load at the point Q is equally divided between the bosses326aand326b, and additionally, a pushing load at the bosses326aand326bis equal to a pushing load at the point P. Moreover, the sum of travel distances of the bosses326aand326bis equal to the travel distance of the point P.

As to the first pressing member31, the bosses326aand326bare equidistant from a straight line connecting the point Q to the point S. When the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310and the distance from the point O to each of the bosses326aand326bis substantially equal to the line segment OQ, the distance from the first axis S1to the boss326ais OQ(1+sinθ), and the distance from the first axis S1to the boss326bis OQ(1−sinθ). When the pushing load at the point P is denoted by Fsw, and the pushing load at the point Q is denoted by F, it can be seen from the following formula (1) of a balance around the first axis S1that the pushing load Fsw at the point P is equal to the pushing load F at the point Q.
[Formula 1]
2OQ×F=OQ(1+sin θ)Fsw+OQ(1−sin θ)Fsw(1)

Similarly, when the stroke at the point P is denoted by Tsw, and the stroke at the point Q is denoted by T, it can be seen from the following formula (2) that the stroke Tsw at the point P is equal to the stroke T at the point Q.
[Formula 2]
Tsw={OQ(1+sin θ)/(2OQ}T+{OQ(1−sin θ)/(2OQ)}T(2)

According to the press-type input device1of the present embodiment, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted. In particular, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, a push operation (the pushing load and the stroke) given to the pressure receiving surface310can be, substantially as it is, transmitted as a push operation (the pushing load and the stroke) given to the detection unit40no matter where to the entire perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310the push operation is given.

FIGS.13to16show a press-type input device1according to the present embodiment. Note that components similar to those in the press-type input device1of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference signs, and the description thereof will be omitted.

Mainly, in the present embodiment, the configurations of a first pressing member31and a second pressing member32are respectively different from the configurations of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32in the press-type input device1according to the first embodiment.

Specifically, the present embodiment includes a transparent member316which is circular and which is provided parallel to a Z-axis at the center of a body part311of the first pressing member31. The first pressing member31is an annular member surrounding the transparent member316. The transparent member316has a first surface316aand a second surface316b. The first surface316ais a flat surface and is in a positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface316bis a convex spherical surface and is in a negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface316aand the second surface316bare respectively front and rear surfaces of the transparent member316.

The body part311of the first pressing member31has a first surface311asurrounding the first surface316aof the transparent member316. The first surface311aof the body part311protrudes in the positive direction of the Z-axis beyond the first surface316aof the transparent member316. The first surface311aof the body part311and the first surface316aof the transparent member316form a pressure receiving surface310.

As illustrated inFIG.14, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the first pressing member31is not provided with four ribs314ato314d. Therefore, in a state where the pressure receiving surface310is not pushed, a flange312of the first pressing member31is in contact with a first bottom surface201bof a holding member2. That is, along a direction (a Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the first pressing member31, which has a circular, elliptical, or rectangular (in the present embodiment, a circular) shape in the form of a ring, is in contact with the holding member2. The center of the circular, elliptical, or rectangular shape (the intersection of diagonal lines in the case of the rectangular shape) is one contact point of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32. This stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32.

The present embodiment includes a transparent member327which is circular and which is provided parallel to the Z-axis at the center of a body part321of the second pressing member32. The second pressing member32is an annular member surrounding the transparent member327. The transparent member327has a first surface327aand a second surface327b. The first surface327ais in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface327bis in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface327aand the second surface327bare flat surfaces, are parallel to each other, and are respectively front and rear surfaces of the transparent member327.

As illustrated inFIG.14, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that a first surface321aof the body part321of the second pressing member32is not provided with two bosses326aand326b. The first surface321aof the body part321of the second pressing member32is flush with the first surface327aof the transparent member327.

As illustrated inFIGS.16A and16B, in the present embodiment, the second surface316b, which is a convex spherical surface, of the transparent member316of the first pressing member31is in point contact with the first surface327a, which is a flat surface, of the transparent member327of the second pressing member32. Note that the second surface316bof the transparent member316may have a center portion provided with a projection and a portion which is other than the center portion and which is a flat surface, although the figure of this configuration is omitted. In this case, the projection of the second surface316bof the transparent member316is in point contact with the first surface327a, which is the flat surface, of the transparent member327.

As illustrated inFIG.15, the second pressing member32of the present embodiment has a boss326celongated parallel to a Y-axis. The length of the boss326cis longer than the radius and shorter than the diameter of the outer peripheral circle of the transparent member327. As illustrated inFIG.16A, the boss326cof the second pressing member32is in line contact with a first surface4aof a base4.

When the press-type input device1is viewed from the positive to negative direction of the Z-axis, the first surface4aof the base4is viewed through the transparent member316and the transparent member327. At least viewed part of the base4may be transparent. In this case, a detection unit40is not viewed through the transparent member316and the transparent member327(seeFIG.16A).

In the present embodiment, along the direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the second pressing member32and the base4are in contact with each other at two points one of which is the detection unit40. The other point is the boss326c. The first pressing member31and the second pressing member32are in contact with each other at one point (seeFIGS.16A and16B). The one contact point (a point O inFIG.17which will be described later) of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is located on a line segment connecting two contact points (one contact point is a point P and the other contact point is the midpoint of the boss326cin the Y-axis direction inFIG.17which will be described later) of the second pressing member32and the base4. This stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32.

Note that the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the first pressing member31is not provided with a projection315and that the holding member2does not have a recess23a. Also in the present embodiment, the first pressing member31may be provided with the projection315, and the holding member2may have the recess23ain order to reduce positional displacement of the first pressing member31in the circumferential direction.

Next, operation of the press-type input device1will be described with reference toFIG.17.FIG.17is a view schematically illustrating operation of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32when the press-type input device1is viewed from the positive to negative direction of the Z-axis. InFIG.17, the point O represents the center of the transparent member316, the point P is the location of the detection unit40(in the present embodiment, a push switch), and a point Q is a location where the pressure receiving surface310is pushed (the location of a working point). A line segment OP is an initial line, a line segment OQ is a moving radius, and an angle anticlockwise formed between the line segment OP and the line segment OQ in an XY plane is denoted by θ.

When the point Q on the first surface311a, which is the pressure receiving surface310, of the body part311of the first pressing member31is pushed, a point S which is on an outer perimeter of the flange312and which is at a location symmetrical to the point Q about the point O is a contact point to the first bottom surface201bof the holding member2. A first axis S1which extends through the point S and which is vertical to a line segment SQ appears, and the first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. The location of the first axis S1is variable depending on an arbitrary angle θ. As the first pressing member31tilts, a contact point of the second surface316b, which is the convex spherical surface, of the transparent member316of the first pressing member31and the first surface327a, which is the flat surface, of the transparent member327of the second pressing member32also moves in the negative direction of the Z-axis. Then, a second axis S2which extends through the boss326cand which is parallel to the Y-axis appears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

When the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, the contact point (in the present embodiment, the point O) of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is the midpoint of the distance from the first axis S1to the point Q and is the midpoint of the distance from the second axis S2to the point P. Thus, a pushing load and a stroke at the point Q is substantially the same as a pushing load and a stroke at the detection unit40.

When the center (in the present embodiment, the point O) of the first surface316a, which is the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31, of the transparent member316is pushed vertically to the pressure receiving surface310, the first pressing member31does not tilt but moves in the negative direction of the Z-axis. When the contact point (in the present embodiment, the point O) of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32pushes the second pressing member32, the second axis S2which extends through the boss326cand which is parallel to the Y-axis appears, and the second pressing member32tilts around the second axis S2. As a result, the second pressing member32pushes the detection unit40, and the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32.

According to the press-type input device1of the present embodiment, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted. In particular, when the point Q is located near the outer perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310, a push operation (the pushing load and the stroke) given to the pressure receiving surface310can be, substantially as it is, transmitted as a push operation (the pushing load and the stroke) given to the detection unit40no matter where to the entire perimeter of the pressure receiving surface310the push operation is given.

FIGS.18to21show a press-type input device1according to the present embodiment. Note that components similar to those in the press-type input device1of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference signs, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the present embodiment, a first pressing member31is light transmissive. The first pressing member31is a rectangular member. More specifically, the first pressing member31has a body part311which is a member having a rectangular shape and having four round corners. The present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the body part311has no through hole313.

The first pressing member31includes a flange312protruding parallel to an XY plane from an outer peripheral surface of the body part311. The flange312has a uniform width and a uniform thickness. As illustrated inFIG.19, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the first pressing member31is not provided with four ribs314ato314d.

A second pressing member32is a rectangular frame-shaped member. More specifically, the second pressing member32has a body part321which is a member having a rectangular frame shape and having four round corners, and the body part321has two sides parallel to an X-axis and two sides parallel to a Y-axis.

The body part321has two projections328aand328beach provided at the center of a corresponding one of the two sides parallel to the X-axis. Each of the two projections328aand328bhas a semi-circular disk shape and protrudes in the positive direction of a Z-axis. The two projections328aand328bare present at symmetrical locations on a straight line which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the center of a through hole323. The two projections328aand328bserve in a similar manner to the two bosses326aand326bof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment.

The body part321has an outer peripheral surface from which a flange322protrudes parallel to the XY plane. The flange322has a uniform width and a uniform thickness. The present embodiment further includes two protruding pieces329aand329b. The two protruding pieces329aand329brespectively protrude in the positive direction and the negative direction of the X-axis from the center of a corresponding one of two sides, which are parallel to the Y-axis, of the flange322of the body part321. The present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the flange322has no recess325.

In the present embodiment, a base4further has a through hole463, a recess43, and a boss44. The through hole463has a rectangular shape having four round corners and is provided parallel to the Z-axis in the base4. The recess43is provided in the base4so as to open in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The recess43adjoins the through hole463and is communicated with the through hole463. The recess43has a bottom surface provided with a detection unit40. The boss44is provided to a first surface4aof the base4. The boss44protrudes in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The detection unit40and the boss44are present at symmetrical locations on a straight line which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the center of the through hole463. The boss44serves in a similar manner to the boss326cof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment.

In the present embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.20, a holding member2further has two recesses24and25and two ribs26aand26b.

The recess24is a space in which the protruding piece329aof the second pressing member32is to be accommodated. The recess24is provided in the holding member2so as to open in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The recess24adjoins a housing section200and is communicated with the housing section200. The recess24has a bottom surface provided with the rib26a. The rib26aprotrudes in the negative direction of the Z-axis.

The recess25is a space in which the protruding piece329bof the second pressing member32is to be accommodated. The recess25is provided in the holding member2so as to open in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The recess25adjoins the housing section200and is communicated with the housing section200. The recess25has a bottom surface provided with the rib26b. The rib26bprotrudes in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The ribs26aand26bserve in a similar manner to the rib324aand the rib324bof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment.

The two ribs26aand26bface each other in a direction parallel to the X-axis.

In the present embodiment, the press-type input device1further includes a light transmitting member45. The light transmitting member45is a rectangular parallelepiped member and is made of, for example, ulexite. The light transmitting member45has a first surface45aand a second surface45b. The first surface45ais a flat surface and is in a positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface45bis a flat surface and is in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface45aand the second surface45bare parallel to each other and are respectively front and rear surfaces of the light transmitting member45. The first surface45aand the second surface45bare rectangular surfaces having four round corners when viewed along a Z-axis direction. The first surface45ais slightly larger than the through hole463formed in the base4. The second surface45bhas the same size as the through hole463formed in the base4. The thickness of the light transmitting member45is greater than the thickness of the base4. As illustrated inFIGS.21A and21B, the second surface45bof the light transmitting member45is flush with a second surface4bof the base4. The first surface45aof the light transmitting member45protrudes in the positive direction of the Z-axis beyond the first surface4aof the base4. The light transmitting member45is fixed to the base4.

As illustrated inFIGS.21A and21B, in the press-type input device1, the flange312of the first pressing member31is in contact with a first bottom surface201bof the holding member2. That is, along a direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the first pressing member31, which has a rectangular shape in the form of a ring, is in contact with the holding member2. The center (an intersection of diagonal lines) of the rectangular shape is a midpoint of two contact points of the first pressing member31and a second pressing member32. The midpoint of the two contact points is a midpoint between the two projections328aand328b. Thus, a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is further stabilized.

Moreover, when viewed in the direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, a contact surface (in the present embodiment, a substantially rectangular annular surface of the flange312) of the first pressing member31and the holding member2overlaps the two contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32and two contact points of the second pressing member32and a base4. Thus, a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32is further stabilized.

As illustrated inFIG.21B, the two projections328aand328bof the second pressing member32are in contact with a second surface311bof the first pressing member31. The second surface311bof the first pressing member31and the first surface45aof the light transmitting member45are not in contact with each other.

As illustrated inFIG.21A, the protruding piece329aof the second pressing member32is provided between the detection unit40and the rib26aof the holding member2. In this state, the protruding piece329adoes not push the detection unit40, and therefore, the detection unit40does not detect the tilt of the second pressing member32. The protruding piece329bof the second pressing member32is provided between the boss44of the base4and the rib26bof the holding member2. As illustrated inFIG.21B, the flange322(a portion where the projection pieces329aand329bare not provided) of the second pressing member32is not in contact with the first surface4aof the base4.

In the present embodiment, when viewed in the direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32are substantially rectangular. Along the direction (the Z-axis direction) vertical to the pressure receiving surface310, two sides (two sides in the X-axis direction) facing each other of the substantially rectangular shape are vertical to a line segment (a line segment parallel to the Y-axis) connecting the two contact points of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32. The remaining two sides (two sides in the Y-axis direction) facing each other of the substantially rectangular shape are vertical to a line segment (a line segment parallel to the X-axis) connecting two contact points of the second pressing member32and the base4. This stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32.

Next, operation of the press-type input device1will be described with reference toFIG.22.FIG.22is a view schematically illustrating operation of the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32when the press-type input device1is viewed from the positive to negative direction of the Z-axis.

Also the press-type input device1according to the present embodiment which adopts the configuration as described above operates in a similar manner to the press-type input device1according to the first and second embodiments in principle.

The press-type input device1according to the present embodiment is similar to the press-type input device1according to the second embodiment in that components corresponding to the four ribs314ato314din the first embodiment are not provided.

The two projections328aand328bof the second pressing member32of the present embodiment serve in a similar manner to the two bosses326aand326bof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment. The ribs26aand26bof the holding member2of the present embodiment serve in a similar manner to the ribs324aand324bof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment. The boss44of the base4of the present embodiment serves in a similar manner to the boss326cof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.22, the pressure receiving surface310is divided into eight surfaces. Specifically, the pressure receiving surface310is divided into pressure receiving surfaces310ato310hby line segments connecting a point O at the middle of the two projections328aand328bof the second pressing member32to end points of four sides (straight line parts) of the flange312of the first pressing member31.

The pressure receiving surfaces310ato310dare surfaces including the four sides (the straight line parts). The pressure receiving surfaces310eto310hare surfaces including round corner parts each located between the two sides (the straight line parts) adjacent to each other. InFIG.22, shadings different between the pressure receiving surfaces310ato310dand the pressure receiving surfaces310eto310hare applied to distinguish the pressure receiving surfaces310ato310dfrom the pressure receiving surfaces310eto310h. A case where any one of the pressure receiving surfaces310ato310dis pushed and a case where any one of the pressure receiving surfaces310eto310his pushed are separately described below.

When any one surface of the pressure receiving surfaces310ato310dis pushed, a side which is one of the sides (the straight line parts) of the outer perimeter of the flange312and which is at a location symmetrical to the one surface thus pushed about the point O serves as a first axis S1. The first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. InFIG.22, a first axis S11is shown which appears when a point Q1on the pressure receiving surface310ais pushed. Note that when the pressure receiving surfaces310ato310dare pushed, operation is similar to that in the case of θ being 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° respectively in the first embodiment.

On the other hand, when any one pressure receiving surface of the pressure receiving surfaces310eto310his pushed, a tangential line which is one of tangential lines to the round corners of the outer perimeter of the flange312and which is at a location symmetrical to the one pressure receiving surface thus pushed about the point O serves as a first axis S1. The first pressing member31tilts around the first axis S1. InFIG.22, a first axis S12is shown which appears when a point Q2on the pressure receiving surface310his pushed. Note that when the pressure receiving surfaces310eto310hare pushed, operation is similar to that in the second embodiment.

According to the press-type input device1of the present embodiment, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted.

The press-type input device1described above may be incorporated into a press-rotate-type input device10. The press-rotate-type input device10is, for example, a rotary encoder.FIGS.23and24show the press-rotate-type input device10according to the present embodiment. The press-rotate-type input device10includes the press-type input device1, a rotor5, and a circuit block8. The press-type input device1has a cylindrical part21. The rotor5surrounds the cylindrical part21. The rotor5is rotatable around the cylindrical part21. The circuit block8is held by the base4of the press-type input device1. The circuit block8is configured to detect the rotation amount of the rotor5.

Since the press-rotate-type input device10includes the press-type input device1, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted. In addition, the rotation amount of the rotor5is also detectable.

The press-rotate-type input device10will be described further in detail below with reference toFIGS.23to28. Note that for convenience of explanation, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis orthogonal to one another are shown in part of each figure. The positive direction of the Z-axis is defined as an upward direction, the negative direction of the Z-axis is defined as a downward direction, but these directions are not intended to limit directions in which the press-rotate-type input device10is used. Components similar to those in the press-type input device1of the embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference signs, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As illustrated inFIGS.23and24, the press-rotate-type input device10includes the press-type input device1, the rotor5, and the circuit block8. The press-rotate-type input device10further includes spring members60and a fixing bracket7. The press-rotate-type input device10may further include a knob9. The press-rotate-type input device10is fixable to a touch panel (not shown) with, for example, a double-sided tape490. For a user, intuitively grasping that the operation is valid is easier in a case where an operation is given via the press-rotate-type input device10than in a case where the user directly touches the touch panel to give the operation. When a through hole is provided at the center of the press-rotate-type input device10as illustrated inFIG.23, a user can see information displayed on the touch panel or give an operation to the touch panel through the through hole. Note that electrical connection to the touch panel is achieved by accordingly drawing an extension section831of the circuit block8and connecting a terminal part831aof the extension section831to a target circuit.

In the present embodiment, the second surface311bof the body part311of the first pressing member31is provided with two bosses317aand317bas illustrated inFIG.25. The two bosses317aand317bmay form supporting points when the first pressing member31and the second pressing member32tilt. The two bosses317aand317beach has a tip end which is hemispherical. The two bosses317aand317beach protrudes in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The two bosses317aand317bare present at symmetrical locations on a straight line L1Y which is parallel to the Y-axis and which extends through the center C1of the through hole313. The two bosses317aand317bserve in a similar manner to the two bosses326aand326bof the second pressing member32in the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.25B, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment (FIG.4B) in that the second pressing member32is not provided with two bosses326aand326b. In place of the bosses326aand326b, the two bosses317aand317bare provided to the first pressing member31as described above.

In the present embodiment, the second surface321bof the body part321of the second pressing member32is provided with a pressing section365as illustrated inFIG.25B. The pressing section365is a section that pushes a dome41(seeFIGS.26B,29A, and29B) provided to the base4when the second pressing member32tilts. The pressing section365and the boss326care present at symmetrical locations on a straight line L2X which is parallel to the X-axis and which extends through the center C2of the through hole323.

As illustrated inFIG.25B, the present embodiment further includes a shielding plate363provided to the second surface321bof the body part321of the second pressing member32. The shielding plate363is a plate inserted in a slit40aof the detection unit40(seeFIG.26B, in the present embodiment, a photoelectric sensor) provided to the base4when the second pressing member32tilts, and thereby, the shielding plate363shields light between light receiving and emitting parts.

In the present embodiment, the holding member2is an annular member as illustrated inFIG.26A. The holding member2includes the cylindrical part21and the flange213.

The cylindrical part21includes a first cylindrical part211and a second cylindrical part212. The inner diameter and the outer diameter of the second cylindrical part212is larger than those of the first cylindrical part211. The first cylindrical part211and the second cylindrical part212are directly connected to each other and is provided with a difference in height at the border therebetween. The first cylindrical part211has a tip end at which the inner flange23protrudes radially inward. The opening20is surrounded by a tip end of the inner flange23. The inner flange23has a surface which is in the positive direction of the Z-axis and which is the first surface2a.

The flange213protrudes radially outward at a tip end of the second cylindrical part212. The flange213has a surface which is in the negative direction of the Z-axis and which is the second surface2b. The second surface2bhas a plurality of bosses213b. The bosses213bare used to fix the holding member2to the base4. Part of the flange213is cut out to provide a cutout213a. The cutout213ahas a shape along the outer shape of a body part830of the circuit block8.

In the present embodiment, the base4is an annular member as illustrated inFIG.26B. More specifically, the base4has a body part460which is annular and an outer wall461. At the center of the body part460, a through hole463which is circular is provided parallel to a Z-axis. In addition, the body part460has through holes469formed at locations facing the bosses213bof the holding member2. The bosses213bare inserted into the through holes469to fix the holding member2to the base4by heat caulking and the like.

The body part460has a first surface460aand a second surface460b. The first surface460ais in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface460bis in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface460aand the second surface460bare respectively front and rear surfaces of the body part460. The first surface460aand the second surface460bare annular band-like surfaces when viewed along a Z-axis direction.

The outer wall461protrudes from an outer peripheral edge of the body part460in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The outer wall461has an opening461a. Part of the circuit block8provided on an inner side of the base4is pulled out of the base4through the opening461a. The opening461ais closed with a closing piece703of the fixing bracket7(seeFIG.23). The outer wall461has a plurality of (in the present embodiment, four) grooves461b. The grooves461bare provided in the Z-axis direction in the outer surface of the outer wall461. Connection pieces702of the fixing bracket7are fit in the grooves461b(seeFIG.23).

The base4includes the detection unit40. The detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. The detection unit40is a photoelectric sensor. More specifically, the detection unit40includes a light-emitting unit a light-receiving unit which face each other with the slit40aprovided therebetween. The shielding plate363of the second pressing member32is inserted into the slit40aand shields light from the light-emitting unit to the light-receiving unit, and thereby, the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. A specific example of the detection unit40is a photo interrupter. The detection unit40is provided at a location where the detection unit40faces the shielding plate363of the second pressing member32in the Z-axis direction.

The base4has the dome41. The dome41is a member which provides to a user a clicking feeling (moderation feeling) when the user pushes the first pressing member31. The dome41is a member which can be buckled or elastically deformed. The dome41which can be buckled is, for example, a metal dome. The dome41which can be elastically deformed, is, for example, a rubber dome. The dome41is provided on the first surface460a. The dome41is provided to face the pressing section365of the second pressing member32in the Z-axis direction. A boss reception part467having a concave surface is provided at a location symmetrical to the dome41about the center C3of the through hole463. The boss326cof the second pressing member32is disposed in the boss reception part467(seeFIGS.29A and29B).

As illustrated inFIG.26B, the circuit block8is held by the base4. The circuit block8includes a flexible printed wiring board83, the detection unit40described above, and two rotation detection units80.

The flexible printed wiring board83includes the body part830and the extension section831. The body part830is reinforced by a reinforcing plate85disposed thereon (seeFIG.24). The body part830has a through hole. As illustrated inFIG.26B, a boss468of the base4is inserted into the through hole, and heat caulking is performed, thereby fixing the body part830in the interior of the base4.

The body part830includes the detection unit40and the two rotation detection units80. The two rotation detection units80each have a structure similar to the structure of the detection unit40. That is, each rotation detection unit80includes a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit which face each other with a slit80aprovided therebetween. As illustrated inFIG.26B, two rotation detection units81and82are provided to the base4such that a circumference D overlaps the slit80a. The circumference D is a path through which a shielding plate57(FIGS.27B and28) of the rotor5passes. The shielding plate57of the rotor5passes through the slit80aand shields light from the light-emitting unit to the light-receiving unit, and thereby, the rotation detection unit80detects rotation of the rotor5. Since the two rotation detection units81and82are provided, the rotation direction and the rotation amount of the rotor5can be detected. The rotation direction includes both a clockwise direction and an anticlockwise direction in an XY plane. Thus, the circuit block8is configured to detect the rotation amount of the rotor5.

The extension section831extends from the body part830. The extension section831extends through the opening461aformed in the base4and is pulled out of the base4. The extension section831is covered with a coverlay84for protection of wiring. The wiring is formed from the detection unit40and the rotation detection unit80to the terminal part831awhich is a tip end of the extension section831. The terminal part831ais reinforced by a reinforcing plate87disposed thereon. The length of the extension section831is not particularly limited.

The rotor5surrounds the cylindrical part21of the holding member2. The rotor5is rotatable around the cylindrical part21.

The rotor5is, for example, a resin molded body and is electrically insulating. As illustrated inFIGS.27A and27B, the rotor5is a member having an annular shape. More specifically, the rotor5has a body part50which is annular, a cylindrical part53, and a flange56.

At the center of the body part50, a through hole500which is circular is provided parallel to the Z-axis. The body part50has a first surface51and a second surface52. The first surface51is in the positive direction of the Z-axis. The second surface52is in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The first surface51and the second surface52are respectively front and rear surfaces of the body part50. The first surface51and the second surface52are annular band-like surfaces when viewed along the Z-axis direction.

The cylindrical part53protrudes in the positive direction of the Z-axis such that the first surface51of the body part50is divided into two parts. The cylindrical part53divides the first surface51into an outer side area51aand an inner side area51b. The outer side area51ais an annular band-like area present on an outer side of the cylindrical part53. The inner side area51bis an annular band-like area present on an inner side of the cylindrical part53. The outer side area51aand the inner side area51bare concentric. The center of the outer side area51aand the center of the inner side area51bcorrespond to the center of the through hole500.

The body part50includes an outer wall54and an inner wall55. The outer wall54protrudes from an outer peripheral edge of the body part50in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The inner wall55protrudes from an inner periphery of the body part50in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The through hole500is surrounded by the inner wall55and penetrates parallel to the Z-axis through the inner wall55.

The flange56protrudes parallel to the XY plane from an outer peripheral surface of the outer wall54of the body part50. The flange56has a uniform width.

As illustrated inFIGS.24and27A, the flange56has a surface facing the spring member60and provided with a plurality of projections561. The plurality of projections561are arranged in the circumferential direction of the flange56at substantially the same intervals. The plurality of projections561are provided over the entire circumference of the flange56. Thus, the flange56has a concave-convex surface560repeatedly having recesses and projections in the circumferential direction.

As illustrated inFIGS.27B and28, the flange56has a surface facing the base4and provided with a plurality of shielding plates57. The plurality of shielding plates57are arranged in the circumferential direction of the flange56at substantially the same intervals. The plurality of shielding plates57are provided over the entire circumference of the flange56.

As illustrated inFIGS.27A and27B, the rotor5has a plurality of (in the present embodiment, four) groove recesses58. The plurality of groove recesses58are provided around the through hole500at substantially equal intervals. The groove recesses58extend from the inner side area51bof the body part50to the inner wall55. On both sides of each groove recess58, guide projections581are provided. Through the groove recesses58, the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is exposed (seeFIG.23). Projection sections91of the knob9are insertable into the groove recesses58(seeFIG.28).

As illustrated inFIG.28, the rotor5has a plurality of (in the present embodiment, four) opening sections59. The plurality of opening sections59are provided around the through hole500at substantially equal intervals. The opening sections59are provided in the inner wall55of the body part50. Connection sections92of the knob9are insertable into the opening sections59.

In the present embodiment, the press-rotate-type input device10includes two spring members60as illustrated inFIG.24. Each spring member60is a member which provides to a user a clicking feeling, for example, when the user rotates the rotor5. Each spring member60includes a plate spring unit601, a clicking projection602, and fixing parts603.

The plate spring unit601has a shape conforming to the outer peripheral shape of the outer wall54of the rotor5. In the present embodiment, the plate spring unit601has an arc-like shape. The plate spring unit601overlaps the concave-convex surface560of the flange56in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the rotor5.

The clicking projection602is integrated with the plate spring unit601. The clicking projection602protrudes in U-shape toward the flange56at a central part of the plate spring unit601. The clicking projections602are each insertable into and removable from a recess between each two adjacent projections561of the plurality of projections561of the concave-convex surface560of the flange56.

The fixing parts603are located at respective ends of each plate spring unit601. Each fixing part603has a pore604in which a joint projection is to extend. The joint projection protrudes from the bracket body701of the fixing bracket7in a thickness direction of the bracket body701. In a state where the fixing part603is placed to lie over the bracket body701such that the joint projection extends through the pore604formed in the fixing part603, a tip end of the joint projection is clamped, thereby fixing the spring member60to the fixing bracket7.

The fixing bracket7is a bracket for attaching the rotor5to the base4. The fixing bracket7covers the flange56of the rotor5and the spring member60accommodated in the base4. The fixing bracket7is formed from, for example, a steel plate. The fixing bracket7includes the bracket body701which is annular, the plurality of (in the present embodiment, four) connection pieces702, and the closing piece703. The outer diameter of the fixing bracket7is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the base4.

The bracket body701of the fixing bracket7has a through hole700. The inner diameter of the through hole700is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the cylindrical part53of the rotor5.

The plurality of connection pieces702are parts to be fitted in the grooves461bformed in the base4. The closing piece703is a part closing the opening461aformed in the base4. The plurality of connection pieces702and the closing piece703protrude from an outer peripheral edge of the bracket body701. The plurality of connection pieces702and the closing piece703are apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the bracket body701.

The knob9is, for example, a resin molded body and is electrically insulating. As illustrated inFIG.28, the knob9is an annular member. More specifically, the knob9has a body part90which is annular, an outer wall94, and an inner wall95. The outer wall94protrudes from an outer peripheral edge of the body part90toward the rotor5. The inner wall95protrudes from an inner peripheral edge of the body part90toward the rotor5. The knob has a through hole93which is circular. The through hole93is surrounded by the inner wall95.

The knob9has the plurality of (in the present embodiment, four) projection sections91. The plurality of projection sections91are provided at substantially equal intervals on a surface of the inner wall95facing the outer wall94. Each projection section91is insertable through the groove recesses58while guided by the pair of guide projections581of the rotor5to push the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31.

The knob9has the plurality of (in the present embodiment, four) connection sections92. The plurality of connection sections92are provided at substantially equal intervals on the surface of the inner wall95facing the outer wall94. Each connection section92has a tip end provided with a claw protruding toward the outer wall94. When the cylindrical inner wall95is inserted into the through hole500formed in the rotor5, the connection sections92of the knob9are caught in the opening sections59of the rotor5, and connection is thus possible. However, in a direction (in the Z-axis direction) in which the knob9is pushed, the claw of the connection section92is movable in the opening section59.

Next, an assembling method of the press-rotate-type input device10will be described.

First of all, the circuit block8is attached to the base4. In addition, the second pressing member32is placed in the interior of the base4, the first pressing member31is put on the second pressing member32and is covered with the holding member2. The bosses213bof the holding member2are inserted into the through holes469formed in the base4, thereby fixing the holding member2to the base4by heat caulking or the like. In this way, the press-type input device1is assembled at first.

Then, the rotor5is attached to the press-type input device1. Specifically, the cylindrical part21of the holding member2is inserted into the through hole500formed in the rotor5. The flange56of the rotor5is disposed in the base4. The shielding plate57of the flange56is disposed within a space surrounded by the flange56and the base4.

Next, the fixing bracket7to which the spring members60are attached is attached to and fixed to the base4. At this time, the closing piece703of the fixing bracket7closes the opening461aof the base4. The connection pieces702of the fixing bracket7are fit in the grooves461bformed in the base4, and the tip ends of the connection pieces702are bent into an L-shape and are clamped, thereby fixing the fixing bracket7to the base4.

As a result, the press-rotate-type input device10shown inFIG.23is assembled. The knob9may be further attached as necessary. That is, the connection sections92of the knob9are inserted into the opening sections59of the rotor5.

Next, operation of the press-rotate-type input device10will be described. Note that operation described below is an example in which the knob9is attached.

First, a push operation will be described. When a user pushes the knob9, the projection sections91of the knob9are inserted into the groove recesses58formed in the rotor5, thereby pushing the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31. This pushes the second pressing member32, and the shielding plate363thereof is inserted into the slit40aformed in the detection unit40, and thereby, the detection unit40detects the tilt of the second pressing member32. The dome41deforms substantially at the same time, which provides a clicking feeling to a user.

Now, the push operation described above will be supplementarily described with reference toFIGS.29A and29B. Note that the knob9is omitted inFIGS.29A and29B.

FIG.29Ashows a state where the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is not pushed. In this state, the first pressing member31is parallel to the XY plane. More specifically, the first surface311aand the second surface311bof the first pressing member31are parallel to the XY plane. In addition, the second pressing member32tilts to the XY plane. More specifically, the second pressing member32tilts such that the tilt is positive on an XZ plane. Moreover, the first surface4aof the base4is parallel to the XY plane. Thus, when viewed along the Y-axis direction, a substantially wedge-like gap is present between the second surface311bof the first pressing member31and the first surface321aof the second pressing member32. Similarly, a substantially wedge-like gap is present between the second surface321bof the second pressing member32and the first surface4aof the base4.

On the other hand,FIG.29Bshows a state where the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed. InFIG.29B, the first pressing member31tilts, but the first pressing member31does not have to tilt. That is, the first pressing member31may move in the negative direction of the Z-axis while being maintained parallel to the XY plane. Moreover, the second pressing member32is pushed by the bosses317aand317bprovided on the second surface311bof the first pressing member31and tilts with the boss326cserving as a supporting point, and thereby, the second pressing member32pushes the dome41. Although not shown inFIG.29B, the shielding plate363of the second pressing member32is inserted into the slit40aformed in the detection unit40substantially at the same time as the dome41is pushed. Also in this state, the gap remains between the second surface321bof the second pressing member32and the first surface4aof the base4.

No matter where the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31is pushed, the second pressing member32operates substantially in a similar manner to the operation described above. That is, no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310pushing force is exerted, the pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40, and the dome41is pushed substantially at the same time, which provides a clicking feeling to the user.

Next, a rotation operation will be described. When a user rotates the knob9, the rotor5rotates, and the shielding plate57of the rotor5moves on the circumference D in the base4(seeFIG.26B). Thus, the shielding plate57passes through the slit80aformed in the rotation detection unit80, based on which the rotation amount of the rotor5is detected. When the rotor5rotates, the clicking projections602of the spring members60provide a clicking feeling to the user.

In the present embodiment, the pressing member3and the rotor5are separate members and are configured to operate independently of each other. That is, even when the pressing member3is pushed, the rotor5is not pushed. In addition, even when the rotor5rotates, the pressing member3does not rotate.

When the rotor5rotates, the pressure receiving surface310of the first pressing member31exposed through the groove recesses58formed in the rotor5changes. Since the press-rotate-type input device10according to the present embodiment includes the press-type input device1, pushing force is detectable by the detection unit40no matter where on the pressure receiving surface310the pushing force is exerted.

As can be seen from the embodiments and the like described above, the present disclosure includes the following aspects. In the following description, reference signs in parentheses are added only to clarify the correspondence relationship to the embodiments.

A press-type input device (1) according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a first pressing member (31), a second pressing member (32), a base (4), and a holding member (2). The first pressing member (31) has a pressure receiving surface (310) and a first axis (S1) and is tiltable around the first axis (S1) by the pressure receiving surface (310) being pushed. The second pressing member (32) has a second axis (S2) and is tiltable around the second axis (S2) by being pushed due to a tilt of the first pressing member (31). The base (4) includes at least one detection unit (40) configured to detect a tilt of the second pressing member (32). The holding member (2) is configured to hold, together with the base (4), the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32). A location of at least one of the first axis (S1) or the second axis (S2) is variable in accordance with a pushed location of the pressure receiving surface (310). The second axis (S2) and the at least one detection unit (40) do not overlap each other when viewed in a direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310).

With this aspect, pushing force is detectable by the at least one detection unit (40) no matter where on the pressure receiving surface (310) the pushing force is exerted.

In a press-type input device (1) of a second aspect referring the first aspect, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), the second pressing member (32) and the base (4) are in contact with each other at two contact points one of which is the at least one detection unit (40). The first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) are in contact with each other at two contact points. A line segment connecting the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) and a line segment connecting the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4) intersect each other.

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a third aspect referring the second aspect, the line segment connecting the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4) is a bisector of the line segment connecting the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

This aspect further stabilizes the holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a fourth aspect referring the second or third aspect, the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) and the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4) are located at apexes of a substantially square shape.

With this aspect, the pushing force exerted on the pressure receiving surface (310) is detectable by the at least one detection unit (40) without significantly changing the pushing force depending on a place on the pressure receiving surface (310).

In a press-type input device (1) of a fifth aspect referring any one of the first to fourth aspects, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), the first pressing member (31) is in contact with the holding member (2) at a total of four contact points.

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a sixth aspect referring the fifth aspect, when viewed in the vertical direction with respect to the pressure receiving surface (310), the four contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the holding member (2) overlap the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) and the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4).

This aspect further stabilizes the holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a seventh aspect referring any one of the second to fourth aspects, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), the first pressing member (31), which has a circular or elliptical shape in a form of a ring, is in contact with the holding member (2). A center of the circular or elliptical shape is a midpoint of the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

This aspect further stabilizes the holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of an eighth aspect referring the seventh aspect, when viewed in the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), a contact surface of the first pressing member (31) and the holding member (2) overlap the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) and the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4).

This aspect further stabilizes the holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a ninth aspect referring any one of the second to fourth aspects, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), the first pressing member (31), which has a substantially rectangular shape in a form of a ring, is in contact with the holding member (2). A center of the substantially rectangular shape is a midpoint of the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a tenth aspect referring the ninth aspect, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), two sides of the substantially rectangular shape which face each other are vertical to a line segment connecting the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32). Remaining two sides of the substantially rectangular shape which face each other are vertical to a line segment connecting the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4).

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of an eleventh aspect referring the tenth aspect, when viewed in the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), a contact surface of the first pressing member (31) and the holding member (2) overlap the two contact points of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) and the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4).

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a twelfth aspect referring the first aspect, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), the second pressing member (32) and the base (4) are in contact with each other at two contact points one of which is the at least one detection unit (40). The first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) are in contact with each other at one contact point. The one contact point of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) is located on a line segment connecting the two contact points of the second pressing member (32) and the base (4).

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a thirteenth aspect referring the twelfth aspect, along the direction vertical to the pressure receiving surface (310), the first pressing member (31), which has a circular, elliptical, or rectangular shape in a form of a ring, is in contact with the holding member (2). A center of the circular, elliptical, or rectangular shape is the one contact point of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

This aspect stabilizes a holding state of the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32).

In a press-type input device (1) of a fourteenth aspect referring any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the first pressing member (31) and the second pressing member (32) each have an annular shape.

With this aspect, the interior of a through hole (313) formed in the first pressing member (31) and the interior of a through hole (323) formed in the second pressing member (32) can be used for other applications (e.g., display).

In a press-type input device (1) of a fifteenth aspect referring any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, the at least one detection unit (40) includes only one detection unit.

With this configuration, multiple clicks such as double clicks can be suppressed.

The press-rotate-type input device (10) of a sixteenth aspect includes the press-type input device (1) of any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, a rotor (5), and a circuit block (8). The press-type input device (1) has a cylindrical part (21). The rotor (5) surrounds the cylindrical part (21) and is rotatable around the cylindrical part (21). The circuit block (8) is held by the base (4) of the press-type input device (1) and is configured to detect a rotation amount of the rotor (5).

With this aspect, both a push operation input and a rotation operation input are possible.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST