Handwriting input device

A handwriting input device configured to obtain hand-written data of an electronic pen on a coordinate detection surface of a coordinate input device by an electromagnetic induction effect of the coordinate input device and the electronic pen. The electronic pen includes a first resonance circuit including a coil, a capacitor, and a core, a mechanical pencil unit configured to perform writing on a paper sheet placed on the coordinate detection surface, and a writing pressure detecting portion configured to detect a writing pressure such that a part of the mechanical pencil unit is pushed by receiving the writing pressure applied to a lead projecting from a distal end of the mechanical pencil unit. The detection of the writing pressure causes the coordinate input device to obtain the hand-written data corresponding to a handwriting on the paper sheet while writing is performed on the paper sheet with the electronic pen.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a handwriting input device that includes a coordinate input device and an electronic pen and uses a coordinate detection method by an electromagnetic induction effect.

BACKGROUND ART

Recently, the following handwriting input device has been known. The handwriting input device is configured to simultaneously perform writing on a paper sheet and input to a coordinate input device by providing a writing unit to an electronic pen to use it while the paper sheet is placed on a coordinate detection surface of the coordinate input device.

Following Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 disclose structures of electronic pens including writing units.

CITATION LIST

Patent Document

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

The electronic pens disclosed in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 each include a writing pressure detection function. Here, the electronic pens described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 have a configuration where the whole writing unit, when receiving a writing pressure, retreats by receiving a pressing force. In view of this, even in a state where a lead does not project from a nib, the writing pressure is detected when the writing unit receives the pressing force. Accordingly, though the writing is not performed on a paper sheet in practice (though no writing is performed on the paper sheet), an incorrect input that obtains hand-written data occurs on a side of the coordinate input device.

The present invention has been made in consideration of such a problem, and one of its objectives is to provide a handwriting input device that can reduce an incorrect input.

Solutions to the Problems

A handwriting input device of the present invention is a handwriting input device configured to obtain hand-written data of an electronic pen on a coordinate detection surface of a coordinate input device by an electromagnetic induction effect of the coordinate input device and the electronic pen. The electronic pen includes a resonance circuit including a coil, a capacitor, and a core, a mechanical pencil unit configured to perform writing on a paper sheet placed on the coordinate detection surface, and a writing pressure detecting portion configured to detect a writing pressure such that a part of the mechanical pencil unit is pushed by receiving the writing pressure applied to a lead projecting from a distal end of the mechanical pencil unit. The detection of the writing pressure causes the coordinate input device to obtain the hand-written data corresponding to a handwriting on the paper sheet while writing is performed on the paper sheet with the electronic pen.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. The electronic pen internally includes a lead deliver portion configured to advance and retreat. The lead deliver portion is configured to deliver the lead from the distal end of the mechanical pencil unit. The lead deliver portion is configured to axially retreat together with the lead by receiving the writing pressure in a state where the lead is projecting from the distal end of the mechanical pencil unit. The writing pressure detecting portion acts in response to a movement of the lead deliver portion with the writing pressure.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. The electronic pen internally and fixedly arranges a pipe shaped shaft tube. The lead deliver portion is inserted into a distal end side of the shaft tube. The lead deliver portion includes a flange opposed to a distal end surface of the shaft tube ahead of the distal end surface. The writing pressure detecting portion is disposed on one of the flange and the distal end surface. The writing pressure detecting portion is pushed by the distal end surface or the flange to detect the writing pressure.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. A buffer is arranged on a part of a peripheral area of the lead deliver portion.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. The lead deliver portion has a movement amount with the writing pressure. The movement amount is 0 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. The writing pressure detecting portion is configured from a pressure-sensitive sensor.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. The coordinate input device includes a fixing portion that fixes the paper sheet onto the coordinate detection surface. A presence/absence of the paper sheet is detectable on the fixing portion. Obtaining of the hand-written data is stopped when the paper sheet is determined to be absent.

According to the above-described handwriting input device, the following is preferable. The coordinate input device includes a positional-deviation detecting portion that detects whether the paper sheet is arranged at a predetermined position on the coordinate detection surface or not. Obtaining of the hand-written data is stopped when the positional-deviation detecting portion determines that the paper sheet is not arranged on the predetermined position.

Effects of the Invention

The present invention can reduce the incorrect input such that the hand-written data is obtained on the coordinate input device side though the writing is not performed on the paper sheet, thus improving a consistency between the handwriting written on the paper sheet and the hand-written data obtained by the coordinate input device.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail with reference to the attached drawings.FIG. 1is a schematic diagram of a handwriting input device in an embodiment.FIG. 2is a block diagram of the handwriting input device in the embodiment.FIG. 3Ais a plan view of an electronic pen in the embodiment, andFIG. 3Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic pen illustrated inFIG. 3A.FIG. 4Ais a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the electronic pen in the embodiment in a non-writing state, andFIG. 4Bis a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the electronic pen in the embodiment in a state where a writing pressure is applied to a lead.FIG. 5is a cross-sectional view of an electronic pen illustrating a non-writing state in an embodiment different from that inFIG. 3.FIG. 6is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the electronic pen illustrated inFIG. 5.FIG. 7is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state where the lead is sent out by clicking the electronic pen inFIG. 5.FIG. 8is a cross-sectional view illustrating a writing state of the electronic pen illustrated inFIG. 5.FIG. 9is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state where the writing pressure is applied to the lead in the electronic pen inFIG. 5.FIG. 10Ais a plan view of an electronic eraser in the embodiment, andFIG. 10Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic eraser illustrated inFIG. 10A.FIG. 11Ais a plan view of an electronic eraser in an embodiment different from that inFIG. 10, andFIG. 11Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic eraser illustrated inFIG. 11A.FIG. 12Ais a plan view of an electronic eraser in an embodiment different from those inFIG. 10andFIG. 11, andFIG. 12Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic eraser illustrated inFIG. 12A.

In this description, “writing” means to write a character, painting, and the like on a paper sheet with a lead of a mechanical pencil, and “handwriting” means one written on a paper sheet7such as the character and the painting. In an electronic pen3,4, “front” means a side (X1 side) where the lead projects from a distal end, and “rear” means its opposite side (X2 side). In an electronic eraser5, “front” means a side (X1 side) where an eraser51exists to erase the character and the like written on the paper sheet7, and “rear” means its opposite side (X2 side).

As illustrated inFIG. 1, a handwriting input device1is configured including a coordinate input device2, the electronic pen3, and the electronic eraser5.

The handwriting input device1illustrated inFIG. 1is an electromagnetic induction method digitizer configured to obtain respective coordinate data (input position information) of the electronic pen3and the electronic eraser5on a coordinate detection surface2a(seeFIG. 1andFIG. 2) of the coordinate input device2by an electromagnetic induction effect between the coordinate input device2, and the electronic pen3and the electronic eraser5.

The coordinate input device2is a digitizer main body including the coordinate detection surface2a. A plurality of antenna coils (not illustrated) are arranged side by side in two-dimensional directions that are mutually orthogonal inside the coordinate detection surface2a. The coordinate input device2scans the coordinate detection surface2aby sequentially switching the antenna coils. At this time, an antenna coil closest to the electronic pen3generates the strongest signal on the coordinate detection surface2a. The coordinate input device2includes a controller2billustrated inFIG. 2that is configured to calculate the coordinate data on the coordinate detection surface2aof the electronic pen3based on this signal. Similarly, the controller2billustrated inFIG. 2is configured to calculate the coordinate data on the coordinate detection surface2aof the electronic eraser5.

The coordinate data calculated by the controller2bis recorded by a recorder2cillustrated inFIG. 2. A transmitter2dis configured to transmit the coordinate data to a display device6such as a personal computer or a mobile terminal, which is connected to the outside of the handwriting input device1. The display device6is configured to display a handwriting9written on the paper sheet7. The connection of the display device6is optional.

A configuration of the electronic pen3will be described using mainlyFIG. 3andFIG. 4. As illustrated inFIG. 3AandFIG. 3B, a contour of the electronic pen3is configured including a shaft tube30configured from a front shaft30aand a rear shaft30b, a grip31positioned on an outer periphery of the front shaft30a, a cap32positioned ahead of the front shaft30a(X1 side illustrated inFIG. 3B), and a click portion33positioned at the rear of the rear shaft30b(X2 side inFIG. 3B).

As illustrated inFIG. 3B, a mechanical pencil unit34as a writing unit is arranged inside the electronic pen3. Accordingly, as illustrated inFIG. 1, the writing can be performed on the paper sheet7placed on the coordinate detection surface2ausing the electronic pen3. “Paper sheet” has a material that is not limited insofar as one on which the writing can be performed with a lead8of the mechanical pencil unit34. The following describes the mechanical pencil unit34disposed in the electronic pen3in detail.

The mechanical pencil unit34means a whole mechanism portion that houses the lead8and sends out the lead8forward from a distal end portion32aof the cap32, for example, in a click method, excluding a resonance circuit40described later, a writing pressure detecting portion45, the shaft tube30as the contour, and the grip31(seeFIG. 4B). Accordingly, the mechanical pencil unit34in the embodiment is specifically considered to be the mechanism portion from the distal end portion32aof the cap32to a lead deliver portion36positioned inside the front shaft30a, a lead case37, and the click portion33arranged on a rear end side of the lead case37, as illustrated in mainlyFIG. 3BandFIG. 4A.

The cap32has a hollow and approximately cone shape. The distal end portion32aprojecting forward is formed integrally with the cap32. A through-hole having a diameter identical to that of the lead8illustrated inFIG. 4Bis provided on the distal end portion32a. A diameter of a hole communicated with the through-hole gradually expands in an approximately-cone-shaped inside on the rear end side of the distal end portion32a. Especially, on the rear end side opposed to the lead deliver portion36, which is described later, of the cap32, a space into which a grasping portion360aof a chuck360that constitutes the lead deliver portion36can get is provided. As illustrated inFIG. 4A, a holding chuck35is disposed inside the cap32and on a rear end position of the distal end portion32a. The cap32has a material that is not limited, but, for example, ceramic, stainless steel, and resin. The holding chuck35is preferably made of rubber.

The following describes the lead deliver portion36. As illustrated inFIG. 4A, the lead deliver portion36is configured including the chuck360, a fastener361, a joint362, and a chuck spring363that couples the joint362to the lead case37. As illustrated inFIG. 4A, the lead deliver portion36is inserted into the distal end side (X1 side) of the front shaft30a.

As illustrated inFIG. 4A, the grasping portion360acircumferentially divided into a plurality of (for example, three) pieces is disposed on the front side (X1 side) of the chuck360. The grasping portion360ais, for example, fitted into the fastener361formed into a ring shape with brass in a state having backlash.

As illustrated inFIG. 4A, the chuck360is mounted slidably in an axial direction O (X1-X2 direction) inside the cylindrically-shaped joint362covering a forward peripheral area of the chuck360. The joint362has an outer peripheral surface positioned on an inner peripheral surface of a front portion of the front shaft30a. A cushion spring38couples a rear end portion of the joint362to an inner peripheral end portion disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the front shaft30a, which is opposed to this rear end portion, inside the front shaft30a.

The coiled chuck spring363couples the rear end portion of the joint362to a distal end portion of the lead case37inside the front shaft30a.

With the electronic pen3being held with a side of the cap32down and the click portion33up, when the click portion33illustrated inFIG. 3is clicked forward, the lead case37moves forward and the chuck spring363is compressed to project the chuck360forward. At this time, the divided grasping portion360aof the chuck360opens, and the lead8housed in the lead case37drops under its own weight to pass through the chuck360. The drop of the lead8under its own weight is blocked at a position of the holding chuck35disposed inside the cap32. When the click portion33is returned to the original position, the lead case37returns rearward and the grasping portion360aof the chuck360is fastened with the fastener361. Thus, the lead8is grasped with the grasping portion360aof the chuck360. Repeating this click operation causes the lead8to repeat the forward movement ahead of the holding chuck35and the grasp with the grasping portion360alittle by little. Eventually, the lead8projects forward from the distal end portion32aof the cap32.

As illustrated inFIG. 4A, the electronic pen3in the embodiment includes the first resonance circuit40configured including a ferrite core43formed into an approximately cylindrical shape on an outer peripheral side of the front shaft30a, a coil41wound around an outer periphery of the ferrite core43, and a capacitor42arranged on a side of the rear shaft30b.

The electronic pen3in the embodiment internally includes the writing pressure detecting portion45. As illustrated inFIG. 4A, in the embodiment, the writing pressure detecting portion45is disposed on a distal end surface30a1on the front side (X1 side) of the front shaft30a. As illustrated inFIG. 4A, a flange362adisposed integratedly with the joint362that constitutes the lead deliver portion36is opposed to the front of the distal end surface30a1of the front shaft30a. A stroke width S is provided between the writing pressure detecting portion45, which is disposed on the distal end surface30a1of the front shaft30a, and the flange362a. The stroke width S is preferably 0 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less. When the stroke width S is 0 mm, the writing pressure detecting portion45and the flange362akeep a constantly contact state.

FIG. 4Aillustrates a non-writing state where the lead8is not housed in the lead case37, or even though the lead8is housed in the lead case37, the lead8does not project from the distal end portion32aof the cap32. In this non-writing state, even though the writing is performed on the paper sheet7illustrated inFIG. 1using the electronic pen3, the handwriting9with the lead8does not remain on the paper sheet7, and the writing pressure detecting portion45does not act and the writing pressure is not detected.

Meanwhile,FIG. 4Billustrates a writable state where the lead8is projecting from the distal end portion32aof the cap32. In the state inFIG. 4B, the cushion spring38is compressed by receiving the writing pressure applied to the lead8, and the lead deliver portion36retreats in the X2 direction. Thus, the writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed by the flange362ato detect the writing pressure.

The writing pressure detecting portion45, which is, for example, a pressure-sensitive sensor, receives the pressing force to change a resistance value and a capacitance. The writing pressure detecting portion45is incorporated as a resistor or a variable capacitor in the first resonance circuit40. A resonance characteristic of the first resonance circuit40changes by receiving the writing pressure. The controller2bof the coordinate input device2is configured to detect the writing pressure. For example, the antenna coil generates an induced voltage with a signal (radio wave) transmitted from the electronic pen3on a side of the coordinate input device2. A coordinate value of the electronic pen3is calculated based on a level of a voltage value of the induced voltage. The controller2bis configured to detect the voltage based on the signal (radio wave) transmitted from the electronic pen3and a signal level corresponding to a phase difference with the received radio wave.

The electronic pen4illustrated inFIG. 5andFIG. 6has a configuration partially different from that of the electronic pen3illustrated inFIG. 3andFIG. 4. The electronic pen4inFIG. 5andFIG. 6has a structure referred to as a lead holder (holder type). Here, for convenience, inFIG. 5andFIG. 6, identical reference numerals are attached to constituting members identical or similar to those in the electronic pen3inFIG. 3andFIG. 4. The electronic pen4illustrated inFIG. 5andFIG. 6is applied as the electronic pen of the handwriting input device illustrated inFIG. 1andFIG. 2.

As illustrated inFIG. 5, a contour of the electronic pen4is configured including the shaft tube30configured from the front shaft30aand the rear shaft30b, the grip31positioned on the outer periphery of the front shaft30a, a lip member72positioned ahead of the front shaft30a(X1 side illustrated inFIG. 5), and the click portion33positioned at the rear of the rear shaft30b(X2 side inFIG. 5). The electronic pen4illustrated inFIG. 5does not include the cap32including the holding chuck35illustrated inFIG. 3B.

The electronic pen4illustrated inFIG. 5andFIG. 6has a mechanical pencil unit74considered as a mechanism portion from the lip member72, to the lead deliver portion36, the lead case37, and the click portion33arranged on the rear end side of the lead case37.

The configuration of the lead deliver portion36is as described inFIG. 4A, that is, the lead deliver portion36is configured including the chuck360, the fastener361, the joint362, and the chuck spring363that couples the joint362to the lead case37. In the configuration illustrated inFIG. 6, the fastener361, the joint362, and further the flange362aare integrally formed.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, the grasping portion360acircumferentially divided into a plurality of pieces is disposed on the front side (X1 side) of the chuck360, and the chuck360is mounted slidably in the axial direction O (X1-X2 direction) inside the joint362. As illustrated inFIG. 6, the cushion spring38couples the rear end portion of the joint362to the inner peripheral end portion disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the front shaft30a, which is opposed to this rear end portion, inside the front shaft30a. The coiled chuck spring363couples the rear end portion of the joint362to the distal end portion of the lead case37inside the front shaft30a.

FIG. 7is the cross-sectional view illustrating the state where the lead is sent out by clicking the electronic pen inFIG. 5. As illustrated inFIG. 7, when the click portion33is clicked forward (X1), the lead case37moves forward and the chuck spring363is compressed to project the chuck360forward from the lip member72. At this time, the divided grasping portion360aof the chuck360opens, and the lead8housed in the lead case37drops under its own weight to pass through the chuck360. At this time, when the click portion33is returned to the original position, the lead case37returns rearward (X2) and the grasping portion360aof the chuck360is fastened with the fastener361. Thus, as illustrated inFIG. 8, the lead8is grasped with the grasping portion360aof the chuck360.

Similarly to the electronic pen3illustrated inFIG. 4, the electronic pen4in the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 6, includes the first resonance circuit40configured including the ferrite core43formed into the approximately cylindrical shape on the outer peripheral side of the front shaft30a, the coil41wound around the outer periphery of the ferrite core43, and the capacitor42arranged on the rear shaft30bside.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, the electronic pen4internally includes the writing pressure detecting portion45. For example, the writing pressure detecting portion45is disposed on the distal end surface of the front shaft30a. As illustrated inFIG. 6, the flange362adisposed integratedly with the joint362that constitutes the lead deliver portion36is opposed to the front side (X1 side) of the writing pressure detecting portion45. The stroke width S provided between the writing pressure detecting portion45and the flange362ais referred to the description inFIG. 4.

FIG. 6illustrates a non-writing state where the lead is not housed in the lead case37, or even though the lead is housed in the lead case37, the lead does not project from a distal end of the grasping portion360a. In this non-writing state, even though the writing is performed on the paper sheet7illustrated inFIG. 1using the electronic pen4, the handwriting9with the lead does not remain on the paper sheet7, and the writing pressure detecting portion45does not act and the writing pressure is not detected.

That is, as illustrated inFIG. 6, in the non-writing state, the grasping portion360ais in a state approximately housed inside the lip member72. The lip member72is a part that does not move even by receiving an applied pressure. Accordingly, in the non-writing state, the grasping portion360adoes not receive the applied pressure. Accordingly, the lead deliver portion36does not move rearward. Thus, the writing pressure detecting portion45is not pushed by the flange362a. In the non-writing state, even if the grasping portion360ais slightly projecting from the lip member72and the rearward movement of the lead deliver portion36is permitted by its projecting length, its movement distance is assumed to be a length such that the writing pressure detecting portion45is not pushed by the flange362a.

Meanwhile, as illustrated inFIG. 9, in a writable state where the lead8is projecting from the distal end of the grasping portion360a, the cushion spring38is compressed by receiving the writing pressure applied to the lead8to retreat the lead deliver portion36in the X2 direction. Thus, the writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed by the flange362ato detect the writing pressure.

Subsequently, the electronic eraser5will be described with reference to mainlyFIG. 10toFIG. 12. As illustrated inFIG. 10A, an contour of the electronic eraser5is configured including a pipe-shaped main body50, an eraser51such as a rubber eraser inserted from the front (X1 side) of the main body50to be held in a state partially projecting from the front (X1 side) of the main body50, and a tail plug52as a lid material of the rear (X2 side) of the main body50. Accordingly, as illustrated inFIG. 1, the handwriting9written on the paper sheet7can be erased using the electronic eraser5.

As illustrated inFIG. 10B, the main body50is configured internally including an eraser receptacle53positioned on the rear end side (X2 side) of the eraser51to hold the eraser51, an erasing pressure detecting portion54held onto the distal end side of the tail plug52, a cushion spring55coupled between the eraser receptacle53and the tail plug52, and a second resonance circuit56configured including a coil57, a capacitor58, and a ferrite core59. A tubular portion53aprojecting forward (X1 direction) is disposed on the eraser receptacle53. The eraser51is pressed in and held into the tubular portion53a.

The coil57is wound around the outer periphery of the approximately cylindrically-shaped ferrite core59. The coil57and the ferrite core59are arranged in a clearance between the main body50and the tail plug52and between the main body50and the eraser receptacle53. The capacitor58is, for example, held into an internal space of the tail plug52.

In the configuration illustrated inFIG. 10B, the eraser51, together with the eraser receptacle53, is supported movably in the axial direction O (X1-X2). Accordingly, the eraser receptacle53retreats in the X2 direction together with the eraser51by receiving the pressing force in the X2 direction to press the erasing pressure detecting portion54. Thus, an erasing pressure can be detected.

An electronic eraser5illustrated inFIG. 11is different from that inFIG. 10only in a rear end side shape of the eraser51and a shape of a holding member of the eraser51, and other constituting members are identical to those inFIG. 10.

As illustrated inFIG. 11B, the eraser51has a depressed portion51aon the rear end side. A tubular portion61aprojecting forward (X1 direction) of an eraser pedestal61is pressed in this depressed portion51a. Thus, the eraser51is held onto the eraser pedestal61.

The electronic erasers5illustrated inFIG. 10andFIG. 11each have a structure where the approximately cylindrically-shaped ferrite core59and the coil57are arranged on the outer peripheral side of the eraser51. In contrast, an electronic eraser5illustrated inFIG. 12, unlike the structures illustrated inFIG. 10andFIG. 11, has a structure where the eraser51is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the coil57wound around the outer periphery of the rod-shaped ferrite core59. In the electronic eraser5inFIG. 12, parts having reference numerals identical to those inFIG. 10andFIG. 11indicate members identical to those inFIG. 10andFIG. 11.

As illustrated inFIG. 12B, a depressed portion60ais formed inside an eraser pedestal60forward from the rear end side. The ferrite core59and the coil57are disposed inside the depressed portion60a. The rear end side of the ferrite core59is covered with a pedestal tail plug60c. A projecting protrusion60bis disposed on the front of the eraser pedestal60. The protrusion60bis pressed in a depressed portion formed on the rear end side of the eraser51. Thus, the eraser51is held onto the eraser pedestal60.

As illustrated inFIG. 10,FIG. 11, andFIG. 12, the erasing pressure detecting portion54is disposed on the electronic eraser5. The erasing pressure detecting portion54, which is, for example, a pressure-sensitive sensor, receives the pressing force to change the resistance value and the capacitance. The erasing pressure detecting portion54is incorporated as a resistor or a variable capacitor in the second resonance circuit56. The resonance characteristic of the second resonance circuit56changes by receiving the erasing pressure. The controller2bof the coordinate input device2is configured to detect the erasing pressure. For example, the antenna coil generates the induced voltage with the signal (radio wave) transmitted from the electronic eraser5on the coordinate input device2side. The coordinate value of the electronic eraser5is calculated based on the level of the voltage value of the induced voltage. The controller2bis configured to detect the erasing pressure based on the signal (radio wave) transmitted from the electronic eraser5and the signal level corresponding to the phase difference with the received radio wave.

Conventionally, a content written with the electronic pen is necessary to be confirmed by display it on, for example, an external display or a personal computer. However, the embodiment can easily obtain hand-written data without connection to the external display or the like, using the paper sheet7in place of the display.

First Embodiment

The handwriting input device1in a first embodiment is a handwriting input device configured to obtain the hand-written data of the electronic pen3,4on the coordinate detection surface2aof the coordinate input device2by the electromagnetic induction effect between the coordinate input device2and the electronic pen3,4. The electronic pen3,4includes the resonance circuit (the first resonance circuit40) including the coil41, the capacitor42, and the core (the ferrite core43), the mechanical pencil unit34configured to perform the writing on the paper sheet7placed on the coordinate detection surface2a, and the writing pressure detecting portion45configured to detect the writing pressure such that a part of the mechanical pencil unit34is pushed by receiving the writing pressure applied to the lead8projecting from the distal end of the mechanical pencil unit34. Then, the detection of the writing pressure causes the coordinate input device2to obtain the hand-written data corresponding to the handwriting on the paper sheet7while the writing is performed on the paper sheet7with the electronic pen3,4. In the first embodiment, the coordinate input device2and the electronic pen3are required constituting members, but the electronic eraser5is selectable and may be absent.

That is, in the first embodiment, in order to reduce the incorrect input such that the hand-written data is obtained on the coordinate input device2side though the writing is not performed on the paper sheet7, the writing pressure applied to the lead8is detected, and the coordinate input device2obtains the hand-written data (the coordinate data) of the electronic pen3when the writing pressure is detected. Meanwhile, the hand-written data is not obtained when the writing pressure is not detected.

The embodiment does not have a configuration where the whole mechanical pencil unit34is pushed by receiving the writing pressure. The whole mechanical pencil unit34is a unit including all from the nib from which the lead8is delivered outside (the distal end portion32aof the cap32inFIG. 3andFIG. 4, and the grasping portion360aof the chuck360and the lip member72inFIG. 5andFIG. 6) to the click portion33. In the case of the configuration where the whole mechanical pencil unit34is pushed by receiving the writing pressure, the writing pressure is detected when the nib is pushed. Thus, the writing pressure is detected even in a state where the lead8does not project from the distal end. Precisely, the inventions described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 have a configuration where the whole writing unit is pushed by receiving the writing pressure, thus detecting the writing pressure even in the state where the lead8does not project from the distal end.

In contrast, the embodiment has a configuration where only a part of the mechanical pencil unit34moves when receiving the writing pressure applied to the lead8, not the whole mechanical pencil unit34. That is, the distal end portion32a(seeFIG. 3andFIG. 4) of the cap32or the lip member72(seeFIG. 5andFIG. 6) that constitutes the mechanical pencil unit34does not move even by being pushed, and the lead deliver portion36positioned inside the electronic pen3,4moves. Accordingly, inFIG. 4AorFIG. 6where the lead does not project from the distal end of the cap32or the lip member72, even if the distal end portion32aor the lip member72is pressed, the lead deliver portion36does not retreat or has a small amount of retreat. Thus, the writing pressure detecting portion45is not pushed by the flange362a. Accordingly, the writing pressure detecting portion45does not act and does not detect the writing pressure.

Meanwhile, as inFIG. 4B, in the state where the lead8is projecting from the distal end portion32a, the lead deliver portion36grasping the lead8retreats by receiving the writing pressure applied to the lead8, and the writing pressure detecting portion45acts such that the writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed by the flange362a.FIG. 4Billustrates the state where the writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed such that the lead deliver portion36retreats. Also in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6, in the state where the lead is projecting from the distal end of the grasping portion360a, the lead deliver portion36retreats by receiving the writing pressure applied to the lead8, and the writing pressure detecting portion45acts such that the writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed by the flange362a(seeFIG. 9).

As illustrated inFIG. 4A, in the configuration having the predetermined stroke width S between the flange362aand the writing pressure detecting portion45, for example, after the flange362acontacts the writing pressure detecting portion45, the writing pressure detecting portion45can be put in action, but may be put in action in the middle of the stroke. It is also possible to have a configuration where, making a state where the flange362aconstantly contacts the writing pressure detecting portion45, the writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed after the writing pressure detecting portion45is put in action. InFIG. 4, the writing pressure detecting portion45is arranged on the distal end surface30a1of the front shaft30a. However, the writing pressure detecting portion45may be arranged on a rear end surface of the flange362aopposed to the distal end surface30a1of the front shaft30a. The stroke width S and the arrangement of the writing pressure detecting portion45are also applicable to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5andFIG. 6.

Thus, in the embodiment, when the writing pressure applied to the lead8is detected, the coordinate input device2obtains the hand-written data of the electronic pen3,4. Thus, the hand-written data corresponding to the handwriting can be obtained simultaneously with the writing on the paper sheet7with the electronic pen3,4. In view of this, the embodiment can obtain paper data and the hand-written data obtained by the coordinate input device2simultaneously and having a good consistency.

As described above, the first embodiment has the configuration where, when the lead8projecting from the distal end of the mechanical pencil unit34is pressed with the writing pressure, a part of the mechanical pencil unit34, together with the lead8, receives the pressing force, and the writing pressure detecting portion45detects the writing pressure. Thus, a part of the mechanical pencil unit34receives the pressing force while the lead8is projecting from the distal end. In the state where the lead8does not project from the distal end, a part of the mechanical pencil unit34does not receive the pressing force. Thus, the writing pressure is not detected. Accordingly, the first embodiment can reduce the incorrect input such that the hand-written data is obtained on the coordinate input device2side though the writing is not performed on the paper sheet to improve the consistency between the handwriting written on the paper sheet and the hand-written data obtained by the coordinate input device2.

The embodiment may have a configuration to perform only detection of presence/absence of the writing pressure. When it is a configuration configured to detect a magnitude of the writing pressure, magnitude information of the writing pressure is also taken in the hand-written data to ensure a process to thicken a line displayed on the display device6when the writing pressure is large, thus ensuring record of the hand-written data closer to the handwriting.

The embodiment preferably has a configuration where the writing pressure detection is performed on a front part of the mechanical pencil unit34. This can satisfy responsiveness in the writing pressure detection.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3andFIG. 4, the lead deliver portion36positioned at the rear of the distal end portion32ais disposed capable of advancing and retreating inside the electronic pen3independently from the distal end portion32a. The lead deliver portion36, when receiving the writing pressure in the state where the lead8is projecting from the distal end of the mechanical pencil unit34, retreats in the axial direction O together with the lead8. Then, the writing pressure detecting portion45acts in response to the movement of the lead deliver portion36with the writing pressure. This causes the lead deliver portion36not to move inside the electronic pen3even by receiving the writing pressure in the state where the lead8does not project from the distal end portion32aof the cap32. Accordingly, the writing pressure is not detected in the state where the lead8does not project, thus ensuring preventing the coordinate input device2from obtaining the hand-written data. Meanwhile, in the state where the lead8is projecting from the distal end portion32aof the mechanical pencil unit34, the lead deliver portion36can move inside the electronic pen3by receiving the writing pressure. This can cause the writing pressure detecting portion45to act to appropriately obtain the hand-written data while the writing is performed on the paper sheet7.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5andFIG. 6, the lead deliver portion36capable of advancing and retreating is arranged inside the lip member72. In the writing state where the lead is projecting from the grasping portion360a, the lead deliver portion36moves to act the writing pressure detecting portion45. Meanwhile, in the non-writing state, the lead deliver portion36does not move inside the electronic pen4even by receiving the writing pressure of the lead. Alternatively, even when the lead deliver portion36moves, its movement amount is considerably small. Thus, in the writing state, the writing pressure detecting portion45can act to appropriately obtain the hand-written data while the writing is performed on the paper sheet7. Meanwhile, in the non-writing state, the writing pressure is not detected, thus ensuring preventing the coordinate input device2from obtaining the hand-written data.

The pipe-shaped shaft tube30is fixedly arranged inside the electronic pen3. As illustrated inFIG. 4, a part of the lead deliver portion36is inserted into the distal end side of the front shaft30athat constitutes the shaft tube30. The flange362aopposed to the distal end surface30a1is disposed ahead of the distal end surface30a1of the front shaft30aon the lead deliver portion36. The writing pressure detecting portion45is disposed on one of the flange362aand the distal end surface30a1. The writing pressure detecting portion45is pushed by the distal end surface30a1or the flange362ato detect the writing pressure. This ensures the writing pressure detection with the lead deliver portion36, using the shaft tube30fixed inside the electronic pen3, accurately and with a simple configuration. The same applies to the electronic pen4in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6.

A buffer is preferably arranged on a part of a peripheral area of the lead deliver portion36. For example, the buffer can be interposed into a clearance between the lead deliver portion36and the front shaft30aand a space A between the flange362aand the cap32illustrated inFIG. 4B. As the buffer, for example, grease can be exemplified. Alternatively, the buffer may be one including a mechanical damper mechanism. Also in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6, the buffer can be interposed into, for example, a clearance between the flange362aand the lip member72.

The arrangement of the buffer can reduce occurrence of abnormal noise based on the advancing and retreating movement of the lead deliver portion36. The arrangement of the buffer also can have a slight resistance so that the lead deliver portion36does not rapidly advance and retreat depending on the presence/absence of the writing pressure. This can make the writing with the electronic pen3,4comfortable.

The movement amount (the stroke width S illustrated inFIG. 4AandFIG. 6) of the lead deliver portion36with the writing pressure is preferably 0 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less. Thus, shortening the movement amount can make the writing with the electronic pen3,4comfortable. A low writing pressure can be also detected.

In the embodiment, the writing pressure detecting portion45can be configured from a pressure-sensitive sensor. Thus, the use of the pressure-sensitive sensor can configure a thin-type sensor to be appropriately arranged inside the electronic pen3,4. The use of the pressure-sensitive sensor can enhance a pressure sensitivity to detect the writing pressure with high accuracy.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, in the coordinate input device2, a sensor (not illustrated) configured to detect the presence/absence of the paper sheet7is mounted on a fixing portion (for example, paper holder)10that fixes the paper sheet7onto the coordinate detection surface2a. In view of this, when it is detected that the paper sheet7is not set on the coordinate detection surface2aat the fixing portion10, the coordinate input device2can control not to obtain the hand-written data of the electronic pen3,4. Thus, even if the writing is performed in the state where the paper sheet7is not set on the coordinate detection surface2a, obtaining the hand-written data of the electronic pen3,4is stopped. Thus, the state without the paper sheet7can be appropriately reduced as the incorrect input.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, positional-deviation detecting portions11that detect whether the paper sheet7has been arranged at a predetermined position on the coordinate detection surface2aor not are disposed on the coordinate input device2. When the positional-deviation detecting portion11determines that the paper sheet7is not arranged at the predetermined position, obtaining the hand-written data of the electronic pen3,4is stopped. Installation positions and the number of the positional-deviation detecting portions11are not limited, but a plurality of positional-deviation detecting portions11are preferably arranged at corners of the coordinate detection surface2a. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 1, the positional-deviation detecting portions11are arranged at four corners of the coordinate detection surface2a. This enables the positional-deviation detecting portion11to determine that the positional deviation has occurred when the position of the paper sheet7is arranged displaced off the coordinate detection surface2aand the paper sheet7does not overlap at least one positional-deviation detecting portion11among the plurality of positional-deviation detecting portions11. Thus, even if the writing is made in the state where the positional deviation of the paper sheet7has occurred, obtaining the hand-written data of the electronic pen3,4is stopped. Thus, the state where the positional deviation of the paper sheet7has occurred can be appropriately reduced as the incorrect input.

As the sensor arranged on the fixing portion10and the positional-deviation detecting portion11, an infrared sensor, an illuminance sensor, a touch sensor, and the like can be selected. It is also possible to have a configuration configured to notify the user with sound, light, and the like in the case without the paper sheet7and when the positional deviation of the paper sheet7has occurred.

Second Embodiment

In a second embodiment, the handwriting input device1has a configuration including further the electronic eraser5besides the coordinate input device2and the electronic pen3,4.

Here, conventionally, when the handwriting written on the paper sheet is erased with the rubber eraser, the hand-written data of the electronic pen remains in the coordinate input device. Accordingly, the hand-written data in the coordinate input device has to be differently deleted. When only a part of the handwriting on the paper sheet is erased, the hand-written data cannot be deleted in accordance with it. Thus, it is impossible to simultaneously perform the erasure of the handwriting on the paper sheet and the deletion of the hand-written data corresponding to it. The inventions described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 do not disclose a deleting method of the handwriting written on the paper sheet and the hand-written data of the electronic pen corresponding to it.

The second embodiment has been made in consideration of such a problem, and one of its objectives is to provide a handwriting input device that can simultaneously perform erasure of handwriting written on a paper sheet and deletion control of hand-written data.

That is, the handwriting input device in the second embodiment includes the electronic pen3,4, the electronic eraser5, and the coordinate input device2. The electronic pen3,4includes the mechanical pencil unit34that ensures the writing on the paper sheet7, and the first resonance circuit40including the coil41, the capacitor42, and the core (ferrite core43). The electronic eraser5includes the eraser51configured to erase the handwriting written on the paper sheet7and the second resonance circuit56including the coil57, the capacitor58, and the core (ferrite core59). The coordinate input device2includes the coordinate detection surface2aon which the paper sheet7can be placed. The coordinate input device2is configured to identify the electronic pen3,4and the electronic eraser5on the coordinate detection surface2aby the electromagnetic induction effect. The coordinate input device2obtains the hand-written data corresponding to the handwriting written on the paper sheet7with the electronic pen3,4. And, while the electronic eraser5erases the handwriting written on the paper sheet7, the hand-written data corresponding to the erased handwriting is controlled to be deleted.

At this time, it is possible to differentiate a resonance frequency by an electromagnetic induction acting between the electronic pen3,4including the first resonance circuit40and the coordinate input device2from a resonance frequency by an electromagnetic induction acting between the electronic eraser5including the second resonance circuit56and the coordinate input device2. Accordingly, it is possible to appropriately identify respective coordinate data of the electronic pen3,4and the electronic eraser5on the coordinate detection surface2a.

The electronic eraser5in the embodiment includes the eraser51configured to erase the handwriting9written on the paper sheet7. Accordingly, as illustrated inFIG. 1, it is possible, at the same time when the electronic eraser5erases the handwriting9on the paper sheet7, to control deleting the hand-written data recorded in the recorder2ccorresponding to the erased handwriting9based on the coordinate data (deletion data) of the electronic eraser5obtained by the coordinate input device2.

This simultaneously ensures the erasure of the handwriting9written on the paper sheet7and the deletion control of the hand-written data corresponding to it. Here, “the deletion control of the hand-written data” includes, when the controller2bobtains the hand-written data with the electronic pen3,4and the deletion data with the electronic eraser5, to delete data overlapping the deletion data from the hand-written data recorded in the recorder2cfor rerecording and, for example, to record the hand-written data and the deletion data divided into hierarchies to make a state where the transmitter2dcan transmit the respective hand-written data and deletion data. That is, a state where the hand-written data is not deleted as data to be left so as to correspond to the erased handwriting9when display it on the display device6is also included in the state where the deletion control has been performed on the hand-written data.

In the embodiment, the electronic eraser5internally includes the erasing pressure detecting portion54configured to detect the erasing pressure. In the configurations inFIG. 10,FIG. 11, andFIG. 12, when the eraser51is pushed, the eraser51retreats to act the erasing pressure detecting portion54, thus detecting the erasing pressure. Then, in the embodiment, the detection of the erasing pressure can control to delete the hand-written data recorded in the recorder2c. The handwriting9written on the paper sheet cannot be appropriately erased without a certain amount of erasing pressure. In view of this, the control to delete the hand-written data when the erasing pressure is detected enables the erasure of the handwriting9written on the paper sheet7to match the deletion of the hand-written data corresponding to it more.

In the embodiment, the erasing pressure detecting portion54may control to perform only the detection of the presence/absence of the erasing pressure. However, in a configuration configured to detect the magnitude of the erasing pressure, taking in the magnitude information of the erasing pressure ensures data processing such that an erasing width relative to the handwriting increases when the erasing pressure is large.

In the embodiment, the erasing pressure detecting portion54can be configured from a pressure-sensitive sensor. The use of the pressure-sensitive sensor can configure a thin-type sensor to be appropriately arranged inside the electronic eraser5. The use of the pressure-sensitive sensor can enhance the pressure sensitivity to detect the erasing pressure with high accuracy.

In a positional relationship between the eraser51, and the coil57and the ferrite core59inside the electronic eraser5, as illustrated inFIG. 10andFIG. 11, the coil57and the ferrite core59may be arranged on the outer periphery on the rear end side of the eraser51, or as illustrated inFIG. 12, the eraser51may be arranged from the outer peripheries on the front end sides of the coil57and the ferrite core59to the front of the coil57and the ferrite core59. This can compactly arrange the coil57and the ferrite core59, and the eraser51inside the electronic eraser5in a simple configuration. In the embodiment, the coil57and the eraser51can be closely arranged to minimally reduce the positional deviation between the coil57and the eraser51. Accordingly, this can decrease the deviation between the data on an erasing position obtained on the coordinate input device2side and an erased position by the eraser51on the paper sheet7. In view of this, it is possible to more improve the consistency between the erasure of the handwriting9written on the paper sheet7and the deletion of the hand-written data corresponding to it.

In the embodiment, the eraser51has a diameter that is preferably 5 mm or less. When the eraser51has a shape other than the circular shape, the diameter of the eraser51means the largest diameter. Setting the diameter of the eraser51to 5 mm or less can more decrease the positional deviation between the coil57and the eraser51. Accordingly, it is possible to more improve the consistency between the erasure of the handwriting9written on the paper sheet7and the deletion of the hand-written data corresponding to it.

The erasers51illustrated inFIG. 10,FIG. 11, andFIG. 12each have a configuration held onto the eraser receptacle53and the eraser pedestals60and61by press-in, and the erasers51can be exchanged as necessary. Thus, the electronic eraser5can be used by exchanging only the part of the eraser51, thus being economical. Shape deformation of the eraser51by the use may change the resonance characteristic by the electromagnetic induction with the coordinate input device2. Accordingly, exchanging the eraser51as necessary can improve the consistency between the erasure of the paper data and the deletion of the hand-written data.

In the embodiment, the eraser51is preferably formed of a material that keeps the distance with the coil57approximately constant. For example, an absorbent porous body such as a basic calcium carbonate porous body can be selected as the material of the eraser51. This can surely erase the handwriting9with the lead8of the mechanical pencil unit34and can ensure the eraser51without eraser shavings (without weight change). Thus, the erasing work with the eraser51can also keep the shape of the eraser51approximately constant. Thus, the distance with the coil57can be kept approximately constant. In view of this, without the change of the resonance characteristic by the electromagnetic induction with the coordinate input device2, the consistency between the paper data and the hand-written data can be more improved.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be implemented with various changes. In the above-described embodiments, the size, the shape, and the like illustrated in the attached drawings are not limited to them and can be changed as necessary in a range to provide the effects of invention. Additionally, present invention can be implemented with changes as necessary without departing from a range of the object of the present invention.

For example, the electronic pen3,4and the electronic eraser5can be simultaneously used. For example, it is possible to exemplify a way to use that a certain user performs the writing on the paper sheet with the electronic pen3,4, while another user erases the handwriting9written on the paper sheet with the electronic eraser5. For example, the electronic pen3,4and the electronic eraser5may be integrated such that the electronic eraser5is disposed on a tail portion of the electronic pen3,4.

For example, the recorder2ccan make a record by adding time information such that a clock portion is disposed on the coordinate input device2in the block diagram illustrated inFIG. 2. For example, fine data save is ensured such that the hand-written data and the deletion data of the electronic eraser5are recorded hierarchically divided into times.

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-171892 filed on 2 Sep. 2016, Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-171893 filed on 2 Sep. 2016, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-246405 filed on 20 Dec. 2016. All the contents are included therein.