JP3023293B2 - Display panel with switch - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a display panel with a switch used in, for example, FA (factory automation) equipment, vending machines, vending machines, information equipment, home electric appliances, medical operation equipment, and the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a so-called resistive display panel with a switch, in which a resistive touch panel (which is also called a transparent electrode touch panel) is superposed on a display panel having an information display function, is known as a touch panel. The push-in stroke at the time of the operation is almost 0, so that it is not possible to obtain a feeling that the switch has been pushed, that is, it is not possible to obtain a stroke feeling (this is also referred to as an operation feeling). Has issues.

As a solution to the above-mentioned problem of the contact life, there is a so-called photoelectric display panel with a switch having a structure in which a photoelectric touch panel is superposed on a display panel.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic example thereof. This display panel with a switch has a structure in which a photoelectric touch panel 4 is superimposed on a display panel 2 such as a liquid crystal display, for example. The touch panel 4 includes a plurality of light-emitting elements 6 and light-receiving elements 8 corresponding to the light-emitting elements 6 arranged vertically and horizontally, and a matrix-shaped optical path 10 formed on the front surface of the display panel 2.

When the display panel 2 is touched by a finger, the optical path 10 at that location is blocked, and the location touched can be specified by its coordinates.

[0006]

However, in the above photoelectric display panel with a switch, if a foreign substance (for example, fly or dust) adheres to the touch panel 2, the optical path 10 is interrupted by the foreign substance, thereby causing a malfunction. There's a problem.

[0007] Further, at the time of operation, the user merely touches the display panel 2 with his / her finger, and does not press down something like a push button. Therefore, as in the case of the resistive film type, a problem that a stroke feeling cannot be obtained. Still remains.

Accordingly, the present invention has been made to provide a display panel with a switch which can further improve the photoelectric display panel with a switch as described above, can provide a sense of stroke, and does not cause malfunction due to foreign matter. Aim.

[0009]

One of the display panels with a switch according to the present invention includes a display panel having an information display function, a plurality of operation mechanisms arranged in a matrix on the display panel, and A photoelectric switch whose operation state can be changed by the operation mechanism section, and each operation mechanism section has a square planar shape and is movable up and down, and a transparent push button, and the vicinity of the periphery of this push button A guide member for guiding the vertical movement of the push button, a peripheral portion of the push button or a member connected thereto, and the guide member or a member connected thereto are engaged with each other to prevent the push button from coming off. And a return means provided near the periphery of the push button to apply a return force to the push button, and the photoelectric switch further comprises: A plurality of transparent light guides that are arranged in a matrix near the lower outside of the two orthogonal sides of the button and have breaks corresponding to each push button in the middle, and from the two orthogonal sides of each push button, Two protrusions protruding so as to be located in the cuts of the light guide corresponding to the push buttons, each of which has an opaque part at the top and a transparent part at the bottom, and in accordance with the vertical movement of the push button. A light guide that interrupts the passage of light through a corresponding cut in the light guide, a plurality of light-emitting elements that allow light to enter each of the light guides from one end thereof, and the other end of each of the light guides And a plurality of light receiving elements for receiving the light emitted from the light emitting element and converting the light into an electric signal.

[0010]

According to the above arrangement, when the push button of the operating mechanism is pressed, the push button is guided by the guide member and is pushed down, and accordingly, the protrusion of the push button causes the corresponding light guide body to move. Certain circuits of the photoelectric switch are turned off or on because they block or relay the passage of light through the break.

When the pressing of the push button is stopped, the push button is returned by the return means, and the photoelectric switch is returned accordingly.

As described above, in the display panel with switch according to the present invention, a stroke for pushing the push button can be ensured, so that a clear stroke feeling can be obtained.

In addition, since the operation state of the photoelectric switch is changed by pressing the push button, a malfunction due to foreign matter such as fly or dust does not occur.

[0014]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing an example of a display panel with a switch according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the display panel with switch of FIG. 1 together with a detection circuit.

The display panel with a switch of this embodiment has a display panel 12 having an information display function, a plurality of operation mechanism units 20 arranged on the display panel 12 in a matrix, and is operated by the operation mechanism unit 20. A photoelectric switch 50 whose state can be changed, more specifically, a specific circuit thereof is turned on / off. These are housed in the case 14.

The display panel 12 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, an EL (electroluminescent) display,
Examples include a plasma display and an LED (light emitting diode) array. Alternatively, the display panel 12 may be a combination of a name plate or a liquid crystal shutter for displaying information, and a luminous body or reflector for illuminating the same.

On the display panel 12, a display for displaying the contents selected by the operation of the operation mechanism section 20, for example, the control contents in the FA, the destination in the automatic ticket vending machine, etc., is usually provided below the operation mechanism section 20. Regions 12a are respectively formed. By doing so, the desired operating mechanism 2
Selection and operation of 0 becomes easy.

Referring to FIG. 5, each operation mechanism 20 is
In this example, a transparent push button 22 having a rectangular planar shape and being movable up and down, and an up and down linear push button 22 provided near the periphery of the push button 22 as shown by an arrow A of the push button 22 A guide member 32 for guiding the movement, an engaging portion 30 for preventing the push button 22 from coming off, and a return means 40 provided near the periphery of the push button 22 for applying a return force to the push button 22 are provided. ing.

In this example, the return means 40 includes a fixed-side magnetic body 42 provided above the guide member 32 so as to surround the push button 22, and a peripheral portion of the push button 22 and the fixed-side magnetic body 42. Movable magnetic body 44 provided in a portion located below
And In this specification, a magnetic material is, more strictly, a ferromagnetic material. That is, the fixed side magnetic body 42 and the movable side magnetic body 44 are, for example, Fe,
Ferromagnetic materials such as Co, Ni or alloys thereof, or ferrimagnetic materials such as various ferrites.

In this example, the movable magnetic body 44 is provided on four opposing sides of the push button 22, as shown in FIG. 3, but only two sides may be provided. The movable magnetic body 44
The upper surface has one magnetic pole (for example, N pole) and the lower surface has the other magnetic pole (for example, S pole), and is a permanent magnet magnetized in the thickness direction. The fixed side magnetic body 42 is a magnetic plate such as an iron plate.

In this example, the engaging portion 30 is
A movable side magnetic body 44 provided on the peripheral portion of
The fixed side magnetic body 42 provided on the guide member 32 is engaged with each other to prevent the push button 22 from coming off.

In this example, the guide member 32 and the fixed-side magnetic body 42 thereon are arranged in a vertical and horizontal lattice as shown in FIG.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the photoelectric switches 50 are arranged in a matrix near the lower outer sides of two orthogonal sides of the push button 22 constituting each operating mechanism 20, and each of the photoelectric switches 50 is provided in the middle. A plurality of transparent light guides 52 having cuts 54 corresponding to the push buttons 22, and the light guides 52 are located in the cuts 54 of the light guide 52 corresponding to the push buttons 22 from the two orthogonal surfaces of each push button 22. And two light projections 56 from one end of each light guide 52.
And a plurality of light receiving elements 66 that receive light 64 emitted from the other end of each light guide 52 and convert it into an electric signal.

In this example, each light guide 52 is located within the root of the above-described guide member 32 which divides each operation mechanism section 20 vertically and horizontally, and rises from the display panel 12 by the stroke of the push button 22. Is located. To arrange the light guide 52 in this manner, for example, the guide member 3
For example, the light guide 52 can be formed in the inside 2 by double molding. When the light guide 52 is disposed in the guide member 32, the guide member 32 is also provided with a cutout in the same place as the cutout 54, in which the protrusion 56 enters and allows vertical movement thereof (FIG. 6 and FIG. 6). The same applies to the example shown in FIG. 7).

Each light guide 52 is made of, for example, transparent plastic. The cross-sectional shape of each light guide 52 may be square as shown in FIG. 5 or FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, one light guide 52 is arranged close to one push button 22 in each of the vertical and horizontal directions.
Each of the vertical and horizontal light guides 52 is provided with a cut 54 at which the light guide 52 is interrupted, one for each push button 22.

Each of the push buttons 22 protrudes from two orthogonal side surfaces on which the light guides 52 are arranged close to each other so as to be located in two cuts 54 of the light guide 52 corresponding to the push buttons 22 respectively. Two protrusions 56 are provided, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 4, in the present embodiment, each protruding portion 56 has an opaque portion 58 at its upper portion and a transparent portion 6 at its lower portion.
0. When the push button 22 is up, that is, at all times, the transparent portion 60 is located in the gap 54, and the transparent portion 60 prevents light 64 passing through the light guide 52 from passing through the gap 54. Help, not just tolerate. When the push button 22 is depressed, an opaque portion 58 is located within the cut 54, and this opaque portion 58 blocks light 64 passing through the light guide 52 from passing through the cut 54.

Note that the movable magnetic body 44 may also serve as the opaque portion 58 of the protrusion 56. As can be seen from FIG. 4, this can be easily realized simply by shifting or extending the movable magnetic body 44 to the protruding portion 56 side.

Each light emitting element 62 is, for example, an LED, a semiconductor laser or the like. Each light receiving element 66 is, for example, a photodiode, a phototransistor, or the like. These are connected to both ends of each light guide 52, respectively.

The light 64 output from each light emitting element 62 is preferable because infrared light is invisible to human eyes, but may be visible light. In addition, a method for causing each light emitting element 62 to emit light is as follows.
A method of constantly emitting light or a method of sequentially emitting light using a microcomputer or the like (this is also called a sequential light emitting method or a scanning method) may be used. This microcomputer or the like may also be used, for example, as a component of the detection circuit 68 described below.

In this example, as shown in FIG. 2, in each of the vertical and horizontal light receiving elements 66, the position (coordinate) of the intersection of the light-shielded light guide 52 is detected in response to a signal from each light receiving element 66. , More specifically, a detection circuit 68 for specifying the pressed push button 22 is connected. However, such a detection circuit 68 may use a circuit, a microcomputer, or the like provided in a device to which the display panel with a switch is connected, without being attached to the display panel with a switch.

The operation mechanism 2 arranged in a matrix
0 and the number of light guides 52 are 3 × as in the example shown in FIG.
The number is not limited to 2, but may be any number of m × n (m and n are integers of 1 or more), and may be specifically determined according to the use or the like.

As can be seen with reference to FIG. 3, in FIG. 1, where the cross sections of the left and right movable side magnetic bodies 44 can be seen, the light guide 52 running left and right and the projecting portion 56 therefor appear correctly in the figure. Although not shown, they are illustrated for convenience. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the center push button 22 is pressed by the finger 70.

The operation of the display panel with switch will be described. Normally, the movable-side magnetic body 44, which is a permanent magnet, strongly attracts the fixed-side magnetic body 42, and when the push button 22 is pressed down, it is initially somewhat strong. If the push button 22 is not pushed down, the push button 22 will not go down, but if the push button 22 goes down a little, the force of the movable magnetic body 44 to attract the fixed magnetic body 42 will suddenly weaken, and the push down will suddenly become light. This is also called a snap action or a click feeling, and the operation feeling of the switch is further improved.

When the push button 22 is depressed, the two protrusions 56 of the push button 22 cause the light 64 to pass through the cuts 54 of the two vertical and horizontal light guides 52 corresponding to the push button 22 respectively. Cut off. More specifically, as described above, the opaque portion 58 of each protrusion 56 is
4, and the opaque portions 58 block the light 64 passing therethrough. As a result, the light 64 does not enter the two light receiving elements 66 connected to the light guide 52 where the light 64 is blocked, so that the two circuits are turned off. The combination specifies which push button 22 has been pressed.

When the pressing of the push button 22 is stopped, the force of the movable magnetic body 44 attracting the fixed magnetic body 42 causes
The push button 22 returns. When the push button 22 returns,
The transparent portion 60 constituting the projecting portion 56 of the push button 22 is located in the cut 54 of the light guide 52, and relays the passage of the light 64 therethrough. As a result, the light 64 is incident on the two light receiving elements 66, and the two circuits are turned on and returned.

As described above, in the display panel with switch, a stroke for pushing the push button 22 can be secured, so that a clear sense of stroke is provided unlike the conventional resistance film type or photoelectric type display panel with switch. Obtainable. In addition, a click feeling can be obtained as described above.

Further, since the distance between the push button 22 and the display panel 12 can be reduced (for example, to about 1 to 2 mm), the display contents of the display panel 12 can be displayed immediately near the back of the push button 22. Thus, the display content of the display panel 12 can be clearly recognized without using an image guide or the like that raises the display.

In addition, the operating state of the photoelectric switch 50 is changed by pressing the push button 22, ie, the photoelectric switch 50 is changed.
Is turned on and off, so that even if foreign matter such as fly or dust adheres to the push button 22, no malfunction will occur. Therefore, the reliability is high.

In this display panel with switches, the light 64 emitted from the light emitting element 62 is made to fly through the space, and
The light 64 is guided through the inside of the light guide 52 instead of being incident on the light 6, and the light 6 is
4 is intermittent. When the light 64 travels through the space, since the light 64 diverges in the space and the attenuation of the light 64 before entering the light receiving element 66 is large, a malfunction may occur unless the output of each light emitting element 62 is increased. There is. In addition, light 64 emitted from one light emitting element 62 may enter a light receiving element 66 that is not adjacent to the light receiving element 66 and malfunction. On the other hand, as in this embodiment, the light guide 5
When the light receiving element 2 is provided, the light 64 is guided to the corresponding light receiving element 66 through the inside thereof, so that there is no possibility that the light 64 enters another adjacent light receiving element 66 and malfunctions. Further, the light 6 before entering the light receiving element 66 is different from the case where the light 6
4, the output of each light emitting element 62 can be reduced.

Further, in this display panel with switches, when the light 64 is allowed to pass through, instead of merely inserting and removing the opaque portion 58 into and out of the cut 54 of the light guide 52 and interrupting the passage of the light 64 therethrough. The transparent portion 60 has a structure in which the light 64 is relayed by the transparent portion 60 by inserting the transparent portion 60 into the cut 54. If the transparent part 60 is not inserted into the cut 54, the light 64 goes out into the space at the cut 54 and diverges, so that the light guide 52
The percentage of light 64 that falls within is reduced. That is, the attenuation of the light 64 at the cut 54 is large. In addition, one break 5
It cannot be said that there is no possibility that the light 64 diverged in 4 will enter another break 54 in the vicinity and malfunction. On the other hand, when the transparent portion 60 is inserted, the light 64 passing through the cut 54 is guided inside the transparent portion 60, and the ratio of diverging out of the space becomes very small. That is, the cut 54
Is very small. In addition, there is no possibility that the light guide 52 may enter the other light guide 52 and malfunction.

As described above, the light guide 52 and the transparent portion 60
By adopting both, it is possible to eliminate the possibility of a malfunction and to reduce the output of each light emitting element 62.

In addition, in this display panel with switch,
Since the photoelectric switch is used, there is no problem of contact life unlike the conventional resistive display panel with switch.

Further, in the conventional display panel with a switch of the resistive film type, since the transparent electrodes constituting the touch panel are not completely transparent, the transmittance of light from the display panel is poor and the visibility of the display screen is poor. However, in this display panel with switches, it is not necessary to provide the push button 22 with a component that degrades light transmittance, such as a transparent electrode, so that the visibility of the display screen is excellent.

Next, some other embodiments will be described.

In the case of a system in which the entire push button 22 is pressed down as in the operation mechanism section 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 5,
Since the push button 22 has a certain size, it is not realistic to push the center straight down.
Normally, the push button 22 is tilted and pushed down. Even if the guide member 32 is provided, since the contact area between the guide member 32 and the push button 22 is small, the push button 22 is normally tilted and pushed down.

A detailed view of the situation where the push button 22 is tilted and pushed down will be described in detail. First, the movable side magnetic body 44 and the fixed side magnetic body 42 (for example, the left side in FIG.
The operation of pressing down the push button 22 is a two-step operation, such that the magnetic coupling with the button is released and the side is lowered, and then the magnetic coupling on the opposite side (for example, the right side in the figure) is released and the side is lowered. .

When the push button 22 is operated in two steps as described above, there is a possibility that the operator may feel distrust as to whether the switch is normal or not. Moreover, the feeling (operation feeling) at the time of operation is somewhat poor.

The operation mechanism section 20 shown in FIG. 6 further improves such a point. Explaining mainly the differences from those shown in FIG. 1 and FIG.
Reference numeral 0 denotes a transparent push button 22 which has a fulcrum projection 24 on the lower surface thereof, and which can be turned up and down as shown by arrow B with the fulcrum projection 24 as a fulcrum, and a fulcrum of the push button 22. Return means 40 provided near the end remote from the projection 24 for applying a return force to the push button 22 as described above.
And a support 34 provided near the outside of the end of the push button 22.
And an engaging portion 30 that engages the support 34 or a member connected thereto and an end of the push button 22 or a member connected thereto to prevent the push button 22 from coming off.

In this example, referring to FIG. 7, the fulcrum projection 24 is provided on the lower surface of one side of the push button 22 in a striped shape along the side. However, the fulcrum projection 24 may be other than this example, for example, a plurality of dot-like or short streak-like projections arranged in a line.
However, in any case, of course, the fulcrum projection 24 and the light guide 52 have a positional relationship that does not interfere with each other, as can be seen from FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the light guide 52 constituting the above-mentioned photoelectric switch 50 is disposed in the vicinity of the lower part of two orthogonal side surfaces of the push button 22 away from the fulcrum projection 24. . Also, on the same side surface, the push button 22
The protrusions 56 are provided so as to protrude so as to be located in the two cuts 54 of the light guide 52 corresponding to the above.

In this embodiment, on the upper surface of the push button 22 on the side opposite to the fulcrum projection 24, a single mark projection 26 serving as a mark for the pressing operation is provided. Although the mark projection 26 is not essential, if it is provided, the operation portion of the push button 22 can be easily found, and the pressing operation of the push button 22 becomes easy.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a planar arrangement of the movable magnetic body 44.
Shown in The movable magnetic body 44 may be provided on the entire side opposite to the fulcrum projection 24 as in this example, may be provided on a part near the center of the side, or may be provided on the side. It may be provided near both ends. Either one may be determined according to the attraction force between the movable-side magnetic body 44 and the fixed-side magnetic body 42 and the like. However, in any case, the fixed magnetic body 42 of the other party is provided above the movable magnetic body 44.

In this example, the engaging portion 30 is
And the movable magnetic body 44 provided thereon and the fixed magnetic body 42 on the upper portion of the column 34 are engaged with each other,
The structure is such that the push button 22 is prevented from falling off.

In this example, the support 34 mainly supports the fixed-side magnetic body 42, and may be provided so as to surround the periphery of the push button 22, or may be provided so as to surround the push button 22.
It may be provided only on the two opposing sides, more specifically, on the outer side of the side on the fulcrum projection 24 side and the opposite side.

The operation of the operating mechanism 20 shown in FIG. 6 will be described. Normally, the movable magnetic body 44, which is a permanent magnet, strongly attracts the fixed magnetic body 42.
The operation unit 26 side of the push button 22 is lifted. However, since the engaging portion 30 is provided, the push button 22 does not come out (project).

When the push button 22 is pressed against the attraction force of the movable magnetic body 44, the push button 22 is moved in the direction of arrow B (more specifically, in the counterclockwise direction) with the fulcrum 24 as a fulcrum. )) And the click feeling is obtained at that time.
This is the same as the case of the operation mechanism unit 20 shown in FIGS. The rotation of the push button 22 causes the protrusion 5
6, as in the case of the embodiment shown in FIGS.
The light 64 can be blocked from passing through the cut 54 of the light guide 52 corresponding to the push button 22, and the corresponding circuit of the photoelectric switch 50 can be switched.

When the pressing of the push button 22 is stopped, the push button 22 returns by the force of the movable magnetic body 44 attracting the fixed magnetic body 42. In addition, the photoelectric switch 50 also returns.

As described above, in the operation mechanism section 20, the push button 22 is rotated about the fulcrum projection 24 as a fulcrum, so that the rotation is a one-step operation. Therefore, the operation feeling is good, and the operator does not feel distrust as in the case of the two-stage operation.

Further, since the part where the push button 22 is pressed down is specified, the cut 54 of the light guide 52 is
The operation of interrupting the passage of the push button 22 by the protrusion 56 of the push button 22 is more accurate than the case where the entire push button 22 is slid up and down as in the operation mechanism section 20 shown in FIGS. Can be done.

In the case of the operating mechanism 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, in order to slide the push button 22 up and down in a balanced manner, at least two opposing sides of the push button 22, preferably four sides In this operation mechanism 20, since the push button 22 rotates about the fulcrum projection 24 as a fulcrum, the return mechanism 40 including the movable magnetic body 44 and the like must be provided. The return means 40 may be provided at at least one location near the end of the push button 22 distant from the fulcrum projection 24. Therefore, the number of the return means 40 in one operation mechanism section 20 can be reduced, so that the structure can be further simplified and the number of parts and the number of assembling steps of the movable side magnetic body 44 and the like are reduced, so that the display panel with the switch is provided. Cost can be further reduced.

In any of the above-described operation mechanisms 20, the movable magnetic member 44 may be a magnetic plate such as an iron plate, and the fixed magnetic member 42 may be a permanent magnet. In addition, the two magnetic bodies 42 and 44 may be permanent magnets that are opposite in polarity and attract each other. By doing so, the attraction force is further increased.

Of the movable side magnetic body 44 and the fixed side magnetic body 42, the magnetic body which is a permanent magnet is set such that an N pole and an S pole exist in one surface facing the other magnetic body, May be magnetized in-plane so that no magnetic pole exists in the plane. FIGS. 8 and 9 show examples of how to magnetize the movable magnetic body 44 in the in-plane manner. The movable side magnetic body 44 in FIG. 8 is in-plane magnetized in the length direction on the upper surface thereof as N, S, N. FIG.
The movable side magnetic body 44 has N, N in the width direction on its upper surface.
S and in-plane magnetization.

Assuming that the movable magnetic body 44 is magnetized in such a plane, its north and south poles exist only in the upper surface facing the fixed magnetic body 42 of the other party, and in the lower surface. Since there is no magnetic pole, the magnetic lines of force coming out of the N pole of the movable magnetic body 44 return to the adjacent S pole in the same plane, or pass through the opposed fixed magnetic body 42 in the same plane to be in the same plane. S
Returning to the pole, a small closed loop is drawn, and compared with the case where the movable side magnetic body 44 magnetized in the thickness direction is used as shown in FIGS. Spread is kept very small. In particular, when the movable-side magnetic body 44 is attracting the fixed-side magnetic body 42 of the other party, almost completely closed magnetic path is formed by the attracted fixed-side magnetic body 42, so that the leakage of the magnetic field lines to the space is almost zero. Absent.

As a result, the leakage magnetic field from the operation mechanism section 20 can be kept very small. Therefore, even if a magnetic recording medium such as a magnetic card is brought close to the switch-equipped display panel, there is no possibility that the recorded contents of the magnetic recording medium will be disturbed by the leakage magnetic field from the operation mechanism section 20.

When the fixed magnetic body 42 is a permanent magnet, it may be magnetized in a plane. When both the movable side magnetic body 44 and the fixed side magnetic body 42 are permanent magnets, both may be in-plane magnetized so that their magnetic poles are opposite in polarity.

Fixed magnetic body 42 and movable magnetic body 44
May be a resin magnetic material obtained by mixing magnetic powder in a resin such as nylon. If an iron plate and a mere permanent magnet are used for the fixed-side magnetic body 42 and the movable-side magnetic body 44, respectively, the pressing of the push button 22 is stopped and the push-button 22 is restored, that is, the movable-side magnetic body 44 is an iron plate. When the fixed magnetic body 42 is adsorbed, the two directly contact each other and “click”.
A relatively loud sound is heard. On the other hand, if the fixed side magnetic body 42 and the movable side magnetic body 44 are made of a resin magnetic body, even when the two magnetic bodies 42 and 44 are attracted to each other and come into direct contact with each other when the push button 22 returns, they are configured. Since the resin absorbs the shock, the sound at the time of return can be suppressed to be small. Therefore, the switch-equipped display panel can be used without any problem even in applications where the conditions for sound generation are strict, such as in a studio of a broadcasting station. Further, unlike the case where an elastic material such as rubber is interposed, the number of parts and the number of assembling steps do not increase, so that there is no problem of cost increase.

When the fixed side magnetic body 42 is made of a resin magnetic body, it can be integrally formed with the guide member 32 or the support 34 by the same resin magnetic body. In that case, when the fixed side magnetic body 42 is magnetized in-plane to form a permanent magnet,
It is sufficient to magnetize only a necessary portion facing the movable side magnetic body 44. Thus, the fixed side magnetic body 42 and the guide member 32
Or, when the support 34 is integrally formed, assembling of the operation mechanism unit 20 and thus the display panel with a switch is simplified as compared with a case where both are separated and the fixed magnetic body 42 is assembled.

When the fixed side magnetic body 42 is made of a resin magnetic body, the magnetic powder may be ferrite. In this case, rust from the fixed side magnetic body 42 can be prevented. As a result, peeling of the coating on the surface of the fixed-side magnetic body 42 can be suppressed, and a good appearance can be maintained for a long time. This is because ferrite is MFe ₂
As represented by the structural formula of O ₄ (M is a divalent metal), it is an oxide magnetic material, which is originally oxidized and in a stable state, and is therefore hardly oxidized further, that is, hardly rusted.

Typical examples of the ferrite include nickel ferrite, nickel cobalt ferrite, manganese magnesium ferrite and the like, but are not limited thereto.

When the movable side magnetic body 44 is made of a resin magnetic body, it is optional whether or not the magnetic powder is made of ferrite, but the fixed side magnetic body 42 and the movable side magnetic body 44 are made of the same resin magnetic material. It is more economical to make up the body.

The upper surfaces of the push buttons 22 of the plurality of operation mechanisms 20 may be collectively covered with one flexible transparent sheet. A drip-proof and dust-proof structure can be easily realized.

Instead of the return means 40 as described above, a fixed magnet provided near the lower portion of the guide member 32 or the support post 34, and a peripheral portion of the push button 22, which is located above the fixed magnet. There may be provided a return means including a movable magnet provided on the portion so as to oppose and repel the fixed magnet with the same polarity. In such a return means, only the return force by the repulsive force is applied to the push button 22, so that the above-mentioned click feeling cannot be obtained, but a stroke feeling can be obtained.

The above embodiment is an example in which a plurality of operation mechanism units 20 and light guides 52 are arranged on the display panel 12 in a matrix, so that the display screen of the display panel 12 and the plurality of operation The mechanism unit 20 can be freely combined, and the degree of freedom of the switch configuration and the screen configuration is improved. However, it is not always necessary to form a matrix.

For example, on a display panel as described above,
As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of operation mechanism units 20 are arranged in one direction (for example, in the horizontal direction or the vertical direction), and the light guide 52 and the light emitting element as described above are provided in each operation mechanism unit 20. 6
2 and the photoelectric switch 50 having the light receiving element 66 are respectively associated with each other.
The corresponding protrusion 5 of the push button 22 as described above
6 may be intermittent. If a plurality of operation mechanism units 20 are unnecessary, one such operation mechanism unit 20 and one photoelectric switch 50 may be arranged on the display panel.

In the case where one operating mechanism 20 is provided in one light guide 52, for example, as shown in FIG. 10 without using a matrix arrangement, only when the push button 22 is pressed, Contrary to the embodiment, light may pass through the cut 54 of the light guide 52. In such a case, contrary to the above-described embodiment, the transparent portion 60 may be provided on the upper portion of the projecting portion 56 and the opaque portion 58 may be provided on the lower portion.

[0078]

Since the present invention is configured as described above, it has the following effects.

According to the display panel with the switch of the first aspect, since each operating mechanism is provided with the push button and the return means for giving a return force to the push button, it is possible to secure a stroke for pushing the push button. Stroke feeling can be obtained. As a result,
It gives a clear response that the switch has been pressed, giving a sense of security.

In addition, since the operation state of the photoelectric switch is changed by pressing the push button, even if a foreign substance adheres to the push button, malfunction does not occur due to the foreign matter, and the reliability is high.

When a light guide is employed and light passes through the cut, the light is relayed by a transparent portion provided at the protruding portion of the push button. Therefore, the light is relayed to another adjacent light receiving element. There is no possibility of malfunction due to incident light, and the output of the light emitting element can be reduced because the amount of light attenuation is reduced.

According to the display panel with the switch of the second aspect, the following effect can be further obtained in addition to the effect of the first aspect.

That is, since the operating mechanism and the light guide are arranged in a matrix, the display screen of the display panel can be freely combined with a plurality of operating mechanisms, and the switch configuration and the screen configuration can be freely combined. The degree of freedom is improved.

According to the display panel with the switch of the third aspect, the following further effects can be obtained.

That is, since the return means includes the movable side magnetic body and the fixed side magnetic body as described above, not only a stroke feeling but also a click feeling can be obtained. As a result, the operational feeling of the switch is further improved.

According to the display panel with the switch according to the fourth aspect, each operating mechanism is provided with the push button and the return means for giving a return force to the push button, and the stroke for pushing the push button can be ensured, so that it is clear. Stroke feeling can be obtained. As a result,
It gives a clear response that the switch has been pressed, giving a sense of security.

In addition, since the operation state of the photoelectric switch is changed by pressing the push button, even if a foreign substance adheres to the push button, malfunction does not occur due to the foreign matter, and the reliability is high.

When a light guide is used and light passes through the cut, the light is relayed by a transparent portion provided at the projecting portion of the push button, so that the light is relayed to another adjacent light receiving element. There is no possibility of malfunction due to incident light, and the output of the light emitting element can be reduced because the amount of light attenuation is reduced.

Further, since the push button has an operation mechanism portion which is configured to rotate with the fulcrum for the fulcrum as a fulcrum, the rotation of the push button is a one-step operation, so that the operational feeling is good, and Also, there is no mistrust of the operator.

Further, since the position where the push button is pressed down is specified, the operation of interrupting the passage of light through the cut of the light guide by the protrusion of the push button can be performed more accurately.

Further, since the return means may be provided at at least one location near the end of the push button away from the fulcrum projection, the number of return means in one operating mechanism can be reduced. As a result, the structure can be simplified, the number of parts and the number of assembly steps can be reduced, and the cost of the switch-equipped display panel can be further reduced.

According to the display panel with the switch of the fifth aspect, in addition to the effect of the fourth aspect, the following effect is further obtained.

That is, since the operating mechanism and the light guide are arranged in a matrix, the display screen of the display panel and a plurality of operating mechanisms can be freely combined, and the switch configuration and the screen configuration are realized. The degree of freedom is improved.

According to the display panel with the switch of the sixth aspect, the following further effects can be obtained.

That is, since the return means includes the movable side magnetic body and the fixed side magnetic body as described above, not only a stroke feeling but also a click feeling can be obtained. As a result, the operational feeling of the switch is further improved.

According to the display panel with switch of the seventh aspect, the following further effects can be obtained.

That is, at least one of the fixed side magnetic body and the movable side magnetic body constituting the return means has an N pole and an S pole in one surface facing the other magnetic material, and the opposite surface Since it is a permanent magnet that is magnetized in-plane so that no magnetic poles are present in it, the spread of the lines of magnetic force from the magnetic material that is the permanent magnet to the space can be suppressed very small,
As a result, the leakage magnetic field from the operation mechanism can be extremely reduced.

According to the display panel with the switch of the eighth aspect, the following further effects can be obtained.

That is, since the fixed-side magnetic body and the movable-side magnetic body are resin magnetic bodies in which magnetic powder is mixed into resin, even when both magnetic bodies are attracted to each other and come into direct contact with each other when the push button returns. The resin constituting them acts to absorb the impact, and the sound upon return can be suppressed to a small level. Therefore,
The switch-equipped display panel can be used without any problem even in applications where conditions for generating sound are severe. Further, unlike the case where an elastic material such as rubber is interposed, the number of parts and the number of assembling steps do not increase, so that there is no problem of cost increase.

According to the display panel with switch of the ninth aspect, the following further effects can be obtained.

That is, since the magnetic powder in the resin magnetic material constituting the fixed magnetic material is made of ferrite, rust can be prevented from being generated from the fixed magnetic material. As a result, the surface of the fixed magnetic material can be prevented. Can be prevented from peeling off, so that a good appearance can be maintained for a long period of time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing an example of a display panel with a switch according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the display panel with switch of FIG. 1 together with a detection circuit.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged plan view partially showing a periphery of a push button in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side view showing the periphery of one push button in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a periphery of an operation mechanism in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view showing another example of the operation mechanism.

FIG. 7 is a plan view partially showing the vicinity of the push button in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of a method of in-plane magnetization of a movable magnetic body.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing another example of a method of in-plane magnetization of the movable magnetic body.

FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing another example of the display panel with switch according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a conventional display panel with a switch.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 12 Display panel 20 Operating mechanism part 22 Push button 24 Protrusion for fulcrum 30 Engagement part 32 Guide member 34 Prop 40 Return means 42 Fixed side magnetic body 44 Movable side magnetic body 50 Photoelectric switch 52 Light guide 54 Cut 56 Projection 58 Opaque Part 60 transparent part 62 light emitting element 64 light 66 light receiving element

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of the front page (56) References JP-A-47-28148 (JP, A) JP-A-51-19146 (JP, A) JP-A-54-159127 (JP, A) 110380 (JP, U) Fully open sho 61-39830 (JP, U) Fully open sho 54-147679 (JP, U) Fully open sho 57-97329 (JP, U) (58) Field surveyed (Int. ⁷ , DB name) H01H 13/02 H01H 13/20

Claims (9)

(57) [Claims] 1. A display panel having an information display function, at least one operation mechanism provided on the display panel, and at least one photoelectric switch whose operation state can be changed by each operation mechanism. A transparent push button that is provided and each operating mechanism is movable up and down, a guide member provided near the periphery of the push button to guide the up and down movement of the push button, and the push button A peripheral portion of the push button, a member connected thereto and the guide member or a member connected thereto engage with each other to prevent the push button from coming off, and the push button provided near the peripheral portion of the push button And a return means for applying a return force to the push button. Further, each of the photoelectric switches is provided near the lower outside of the side surface of the push button and has a break in the middle thereof, A protrusion protruding from the push button so as to be located in the cut of the light guide, one of the upper and lower portions being a transparent portion and the other being an opaque portion, and In response to receiving light emitted from one end of the light guide, and a light emitting element for interrupting light passing through a cut in the light guide, and a light emitting element for allowing light to enter the light guide from one end thereof. A display panel with a switch, comprising: a light receiving element that converts the electric signal into an electric signal. 2. A display panel having an information display function, a plurality of operation mechanisms arranged in a matrix on the display panel, and a photoelectric switch whose operation state can be changed by the operation mechanisms. And each of the operation mechanism sections has a rectangular planar shape and is movable up and down and is transparent, and a guide member provided near the periphery of the push button to guide the vertical movement of the push button. An engaging portion that engages the peripheral portion of the push button or a member connected thereto and the guide member or a member connected thereto to prevent the push button from coming off, and is provided near a peripheral portion of the push button. And a return means for applying a return force to the push buttons.The photoelectric switches are arranged in a matrix near the lower outside of two orthogonal sides of each of the push buttons. A plurality of transparent light guides having a cut corresponding to each push button in the middle thereof, and being positioned within the cut of the light guide corresponding to the push button from the two orthogonal side surfaces of each push button. The upper part is an opaque part and the lower part is a transparent part, and the light passes through the cut of the corresponding light guide according to the vertical movement of the push button. Intermittent ones, a plurality of light emitting elements that respectively enter light into the respective light guides from one end thereof, and a plurality of light emitting elements that respectively receive light emitted from the other end of the respective light guides and convert it into an electric signal. A display panel with a switch, comprising: 3. The fixed-side magnetic body provided on the upper part of the guide member, and a fixed-side magnetic body provided on a peripheral portion of the push button and located below the fixed-side magnetic body. A movable magnetic body provided so as to face the body, and at least one of the fixed magnetic body and the movable magnetic body is a permanent magnet that attracts the magnetic body of the other party. Or a display panel with a switch according to 2. 4. A display panel having an information display function, at least one operation mechanism provided on the display panel, and at least one photoelectric switch whose operation state can be changed by each operation mechanism. A transparent push button that has a fulcrum projection on the lower surface thereof, and is rotatable up and down with the fulcrum projection as a fulcrum; and a fulcrum projection for the fulcrum of the push button. Return means provided near the end remote from the main body to apply a return force to the push button;
A post provided near the outside of the end of the push button, and an engaging portion for engaging the post or a member connected thereto with an end of the push button or a member connected thereto to prevent the push button from coming off. And each of the photoelectric switches is provided near the lower outside of the side surface of the push button and has a transparent light guide having a cut in the middle thereof, and a portion separated from a fulcrum projection of the push button. From the light guide, and one of the upper part and the lower part is a transparent part and the other is an opaque part, and the light is guided in accordance with the vertical movement of the push button. A light-emitting element that intermits the passage of light through a break in the light body, a light-emitting element that causes light to enter the light guide from one end thereof, and a light-emitting element that receives light emitted from the other end of the light guide and converts the light into electricity. A light receiving element for converting to a signal. Switch with a display panel according to claim. 5. A display panel having an information display function, a plurality of operation mechanisms arranged in a matrix on the display panel, and a photoelectric switch whose operation state can be changed by the operation mechanisms. A transparent push button which has a fulcrum projection on its lower surface, and which can be turned up and down with the fulcrum projection as a fulcrum; A return means provided near an end remote from the fulcrum projection to apply a restoring force to the push button, a support provided near the end of the push button, a support connected to the support or a member connected thereto, and An end portion of the push button or a member connected to the push button is engaged with each other to prevent the push button from coming off, and the photoelectric switch is further separated from the fulcrum projection for each of the push buttons. Place A plurality of transparent light guides that are arranged in a matrix near the lower outside of the two orthogonal side surfaces and have breaks corresponding to each push button in the middle, and the push button from the orthogonal two side surfaces of each push button The two protrusions protrude so as to be located in the gap of the light guide corresponding to the above, each of which has an opaque part at the top and a transparent part at the bottom, and corresponds to the up and down movement of the push button. And a plurality of light emitting elements for allowing light to enter each of the light guides from one end thereof, and exiting from the other end of each of the light guides. A display panel with a switch, comprising: a plurality of light receiving elements for receiving light and converting it to an electric signal. 6. The fixed-side magnetic body provided at an upper portion of the column, and a fixed-side magnetic body provided at an end of the push button and located below the fixed-side magnetic body. And a movable-side magnetic body provided so as to oppose the magnetic body, and at least one of the fixed-side magnetic body and the movable-side magnetic body is a permanent magnet that attracts the magnetic body on the other side. A display panel with a switch according to 5. 7. The magnetic body, which is a permanent magnet, has an N-pole and an S-pole on one surface facing the magnetic material on the other side, and has no magnetic pole on the opposite surface. 7. The display panel with a switch according to claim 3, wherein the display panel is magnetized. 8. The display panel with a switch according to claim 3, wherein the fixed-side magnetic body and the movable-side magnetic body are resin magnetic bodies obtained by mixing magnetic powder in a resin. 9. The display panel with a switch according to claim 8, wherein the magnetic powder in the resin magnetic material constituting the fixed magnetic material is made of ferrite.