JP7320082B2 - electrostatic input device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to electrostatic input devices.

For example, in Patent Document 1 below, for the purpose of hygienic operation without contacting a remote controller, when an operator performs a holding operation, an illuminance sensor detects a change in illuminance to detect a switch. A remote control for a toilet seat apparatus is disclosed that enables operation.

JP 2013-130051 A

However, in the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, when a configuration is adopted in which a plurality of switches using an illuminance sensor are arranged closely and side by side, the illuminance of the switch unintended by the operator may change. , there is a risk of erroneously detecting a switch operation on the switch.

An electrostatic input device according to one embodiment includes a plurality of first operation items arranged side by side in a first direction on an operation surface, and a plurality of second operation items arranged to overlap each of the plurality of first operation items. one electrode group, and a control device capable of detecting a proximity operation by an operating body for each of a plurality of first operation items based on a change in capacitance of each of the plurality of first electrode groups, Each of the plurality of first electrode groups has a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes arranged side by side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

According to one embodiment, even when a configuration in which a plurality of operation items are arranged close to each other is adopted, a gesture operation for each operation item can be detected with high accuracy.

1 is a plan view of an electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 1 is a plan view of an electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the device configuration of an electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 shows a hardware configuration of a control device according to one embodiment; 1 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of a control device according to an embodiment; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a non-display state of the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an initial display state of the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a gesture operation on the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a touch operation on an electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example during functional operation by the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of gesture operations on the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a mode switching operation on the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example of a setting change item selection screen by the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an operation for selecting a setting change item for the electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a setting change operation for an electrostatic input device according to one embodiment; A plan view of an electrostatic input device according to a modified example

An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(Overview of electrostatic input device 100)
1 and 2 are plan views of an electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 shows the positional relationship between the icons 111-116 and the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A-120M by showing the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A-120M with dashed lines.

The electrostatic input device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is installed on a wall surface in the vicinity of a warm-water washing toilet seat in a toilet. The electrostatic input device 100 detects an operator's proximity operation (touch operation and gesture operation) and transmits a control signal corresponding to the proximity operation to the warm water washing toilet seat, thereby controlling the operation of the warm water washing toilet seat.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, electrostatic input device 100 includes case 110, icons 111-116, and electrostatic detection electrodes 120A-120M.

The case 110 is a box-shaped member made of resin. Various components are housed inside the case 110 . In the example shown in FIG. 1, the case 110 has a cuboid shape. However, the case 110 may have a shape other than the rectangular parallelepiped shape. The surface of the case 110 (surface on the front side (Y-axis positive side)) is an operation surface 110A on which an operator performs a proximity operation. In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, the X-axis direction in the drawing is defined as the horizontal direction of the case 110 (an example of a “first direction”), and the Z-axis direction in the drawing is defined as the vertical direction of the case 110 (an example of a “second direction”). ), and the Y-axis direction in the drawing is the front-rear direction of the case 110 .

Icons 111 to 116 are provided on an operation surface 110A of case 110. As shown in FIG. Each of the icons 111-116 presents to the operator the features of the warm water bidet that are available to the operator. Each of the icons 111 to 116 is capable of both touch operation and gesture operation by the operator. Each of the icons 111 to 116 has an arrow indicating the direction of the gesture operation.

Icons 111, 112, and 113 are examples of "first operation items." Icons 111, 112, and 113 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction at the center of the operation surface 110A in the vertical direction. Icons 111, 112, and 113 have an oblong shape with the vertical direction as the longitudinal direction. Icons 111, 112, and 113 have the same shape and size. The icon 111 is used when activating the toilet bowl cleaning function of the warm water washing toilet seat. The icon 112 is used when operating the bottom washing function of the warm water washing toilet seat. The icon 113 is used when activating the bidet washing function of the warm water washing toilet seat. Each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 has a downward arrow indicating the direction of the gesture operation. Further, each of icons 111, 112, and 113 has a display figure having an annular outer peripheral portion displayed on operation surface 110A. The peripheral portions of the display figures of the icons 111, 112, and 113 have substantially the same vertical width and horizontal width as the outer shape formed by the first electrode group 121 provided overlapping the display figures. have

The icons 114 and 115 are examples of the "third operation item". The icon 114 is provided in the lower left portion of the operation surface 110A. Icon 115 is provided in the lower right portion of operation surface 110A. Icons 114 and 115 have an oblong shape with the left-right direction as the longitudinal direction. Icons 114 and 115 are used to adjust water volume, water temperature, and toilet seat temperature. The icon 114 has a leftward arrow indicating the direction of the gesture operation. The icon 115 has a rightward arrow indicating the direction of the gesture operation. Further, each of icons 114 and 115 has a display figure having an annular outer peripheral portion displayed on operation surface 110A. The peripheral portions of the display graphics of the icons 114 and 115 have vertical and horizontal widths substantially identical to the vertical and horizontal widths of the external shape formed by the third electrode group 123 provided overlapping the display graphics. .

The icon 116 is an example of a "second operation item". Icon 116 is provided in the upper right portion of operation surface 110A. The icon 116 has an oblong shape with the left-right direction as the longitudinal direction. The icon 116 is used when switching the electrostatic input device 100 between the "use mode" and the "setting mode." The icon 116 has an upward arrow indicating the direction of the gesture operation. Further, icon 116 has a display figure having an annular outer peripheral portion displayed on operation surface 110A. The peripheral portion of the display figure of the icon 116 has substantially the same vertical width and lateral width as the outer shape formed by the second electrode group 122 provided overlapping the display figure.

A plurality of LEDs 130 (an example of a “light source”) are provided behind each of the icons 111 to 116 . Each of icons 111 to 116 is visibly displayed on operation surface 110A by partially transmitting light emitted from LED 130 provided on the back side. 1 and 2 show examples in which all the icons 111 to 116 are displayed.

Lighting and extinguishing of the plurality of LEDs 130 are controlled by a control device 140 (see FIG. 3). Control device 140 can switch display and non-display of each of icons 111 to 116 by controlling lighting and extinguishing of LEDs 130 .

When a plurality of functions are assigned to one icon, the control device 140 is provided on the back side of the patterns representing available functions among the plurality of LEDs 130 provided on the back side of the one icon. By lighting the LED 130, it is possible to display patterns representing available functions and present the available functions to the operator.

One or more electrostatic detection electrodes 120 are provided on the back side of each of the icons 111-116. In the electrostatic input device 100, when any one of the icons 111 to 116 is approached, the electrostatic input device 100 detects the static electricity generated by one or a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 provided on the back side of the icon. By detecting a change in the capacitance value, it is possible to detect a proximity operation to the one icon.

For example, on the back side of the icon 111, electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C are arranged vertically. Each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C constitute a first electrode group 121A having an overall vertically long rectangular shape (substantially the same shape as the icon 111). The electrostatic input device 100 can detect a proximity operation to the icon 111 by detecting changes in capacitance values of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C.

Also, for example, on the back side of the icon 112, electrostatic detection electrodes 120D, 120E, and 120F are arranged vertically. Each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120D, 120E, and 120F has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The electrostatic detection electrodes 120D, 120E, and 120F constitute a first electrode group 121B having an overall vertically long rectangular shape (substantially the same shape as the icon 112). The electrostatic input device 100 can detect a proximity operation to the icon 112 by detecting changes in capacitance values in each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120D, 120E, and 120F.

Further, for example, on the back side of the icon 113, electrostatic detection electrodes 120G, 120H, and 120I are arranged vertically. Each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120G, 120H, and 120I has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The electrostatic detection electrodes 120G, 120H, and 120I constitute a first electrode group 121C having an overall vertically long rectangular shape (substantially the same shape as the icon 113). The electrostatic input device 100 can detect a proximity operation to the icon 113 by detecting changes in capacitance values in each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120G, 120H, and 120I.

In this embodiment, as an example, each of the first electrode groups 121A, 121B, and 121C has three electrostatic detection electrodes 120, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, each of the first electrode groups 121A, 121B, 121C may have two or four or more electrostatic detection electrodes 120. FIG.

Also, for example, an electrostatic detection electrode 120J is provided on the back side of the icon 114 . The electrostatic detection electrode 120J has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The electrostatic detection electrode 120J constitutes a third electrode group 123A having an overall horizontally long rectangular shape (substantially the same shape as the icon 114). The electrostatic input device 100 can detect a proximity operation to the icon 114 by detecting a change in the capacitance value of the electrostatic detection electrode 120J. Note that a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 forming the “third electrode group 123A” may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction on the back side of the icon 114 .

Also, for example, an electrostatic detection electrode 120K is provided on the back side of the icon 115 . The electrostatic detection electrode 120K has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The electrostatic detection electrode 120K constitutes a third electrode group 123B having an overall horizontally long rectangular shape (substantially the same shape as the icon 115). The electrostatic input device 100 can detect a proximity operation to the icon 115 by detecting a change in the electrostatic capacitance value of the electrostatic detection electrode 120K. Note that a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 forming the “third electrode group 123B” may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction on the back side of the icon 115 .

Also, for example, electrostatic detection electrodes 120L and 120M are provided on the back side of the icon 116 . Both of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120L and 120M have a horizontally long rectangular shape. The electrostatic detection electrodes 120L and 120M constitute a second electrode group 122 having an overall horizontally long rectangular shape (substantially the same shape as the icon 116). The electrostatic input device 100 can detect a proximity operation to the icon 116 by detecting changes in capacitance values at the electrostatic detection electrodes 120L and 120M.

Each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A to 120M is formed using a metal film (eg, copper film), ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), or other conductive material.

Also, each of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A-120M has a plurality of openings for passing light emitted from the LED 130 provided on the back side.

(Device configuration of electrostatic input device 100)
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the device configuration of the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the electrostatic input device 100 includes a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 (the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A-120M shown in FIG. 2), a plurality of LEDs 130, and a controller 140. As shown in FIG.

The control device 140 controls the entire electrostatic input device 100 . For example, control device 140 controls the display and non-display of each of icons 111 to 116 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) by controlling lighting and extinguishing of each of LEDs 130 . Also, for example, the control device 140 detects the capacitance value of each of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 by driving each of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 . As a result, control device 140 detects a proximity operation (touch operation and gesture operation) to any one of icons 111 to 116, and performs control (icon display control, warm water washing toilet seat control) in accordance with the proximity operation. control, etc.). For example, a microcomputer or the like is used as the control device 140 .

(Hardware configuration of control device 140)
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the control device 140 according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4 , the control device 140 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 141 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 142 , a RAM (Random Access Memory) 143 and an external I/F (Interface) 145 . Each piece of hardware is interconnected via a bus 146 .

The CPU 141 controls the operation of the control device 140 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 142 . ROM 142 is a non-volatile memory. For example, the ROM 142 stores programs executed by the CPU 141, data necessary for the CPU 141 to execute the programs, and the like. The RAM 143 is a main storage device such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). For example, the RAM 143 functions as a work area used when the CPU 141 executes programs. The external I/F 145 controls wireless transmission of control signals to the warm water washing toilet seat.

(Functional configuration of control device 140)
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device 140 according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5 , the control device 140 includes a detection signal acquisition section 501 , an operation detection section 502 , a display control section 503 and an execution section 504 .

Each function of the control device 140 shown in FIG. 5 is realized, for example, by the CPU 141 executing a program stored in the ROM 142 in the control device 140 . This program may be provided in a state of being installed in control device 140 in advance, or may be provided from the outside and installed in control device 140 . In the latter case, the program may be provided by an external storage medium (e.g., USB memory, memory card, CD-ROM, etc.) or provided by downloading from a server on a network (e.g., Internet, etc.). You may do so.

The detection signal acquisition unit 501 continuously acquires capacitance detection signals from each of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 at predetermined time intervals.

Based on the capacitance detection signal (that is, the change in the capacitance value of each of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120) acquired by the detection signal acquisition unit 501, the operation detection unit 502 detects the movement of the operation body with respect to the operation surface 110A. The proximity of (for example, the operator's hand 10) and the proximity operation of the operating body to the icons 111 to 116 are detected. Here, the operation detection unit 502 detects touch operations on the icons 111 to 116 based on the magnitude of the capacitance of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120, the distribution of the capacitance, and the like, by using a known technique. and a hover operation (gesture operation) on the icons 111 to 116 can be detected separately.

The display control unit 503 controls display contents to be displayed on the operation surface 110A according to the detection result of the proximity operation by the operation detection unit 502 . Specifically, the display control unit 503 determines an icon to be displayed according to the detected proximity operation, and turns on the LED 130 provided on the back side of the icon to be displayed. The icon is displayed on the operation surface 110A. Here, the display control unit 503 lights or extinguishes some of the LEDs 130 provided on the back side of the icon to be displayed according to the operation mode or the like, thereby displaying part of the pattern of the icon to be displayed. or can be hidden.

When the operation detection unit 502 detects a proximity operation (touch operation or gesture operation) to any one of the icons 111 to 116, the execution unit 504 detects a function (for example, hot water) corresponding to the one icon. operation of the washing toilet seat, switching of operation modes, change of settings, etc.). For example, when the execution unit 504 operates the function of the warm-water-cleaning toilet seat (toilet-cleaning function, bottom-cleaning function, or bidet-cleaning function), the execution unit 504, via the external I/F 145 (see FIG. 4), By outputting a control signal, the warm-water washing toilet seat is caused to operate the function.

(Example of initial display by electrostatic input device 100)
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a non-display state of the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an initial display state of the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 6, the electrostatic input device 100 does not display anything on the operation surface 110A in a standby state in which the operator's hand 10 is not close to the operation surface 110A. Here, the electrostatic input device 100 has a decorative sheet 118 attached to the operation surface 110A. The decorative sheet 118 is a film-like sheet on which a wood grain pattern (an example of a “specific pattern”) is formed by printing. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 6, the operation surface 110A presents the wood grain pattern of the decorative sheet 118 as a whole. Each of the icons 111 to 116 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) is formed on the decorative sheet 118 so that the design portion of the icons 111 to 116 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) is light transmissive and the other portion is not light transmissive. formed. However, as shown in FIG. 6, when the icons 111 to 116 are hidden, the icons 111 to 116 formed on the decorative sheet 118 are almost invisible to the operator. The surfaces of the operation surface 110A and the decorative sheet 118 are smooth surfaces. Therefore, even if dirt or the like adheres to the operation surface 110A, the electrostatic input device 100 can easily wipe off the dirt or the like. Further, the "specific pattern" formed on the operation surface 110A by the decorative sheet 118 is not limited to the wood grain pattern, and may be other patterns (for example, "metallic pattern" or the like).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7 , when the operator's hand 10 approaches the operation surface 110A, the electrostatic input device 100 detects this proximity by at least one of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 . Then, the electrostatic input device 100 corresponds to the "usage mode" for operating each function of the warm-water bidet toilet seat (toilet cleaning function, bottom cleaning function, and bidet cleaning function) as initial display contents on the operation surface 110A. Icons 111, 112, 113, and 116 are displayed. Specifically, the electrostatic input device 100 turns on the plurality of LEDs 130 provided on the back side of the icons 111, 112, 113, and 116, and the light emitted from the plurality of LEDs 130 spreads over the decorative sheet 118. The icons 111, 112, 113, and 116 are displayed on the operation surface 110A by making them partially transparent.

However, as shown in FIG. 7, in the initial display state, the electrostatic input device 100 displays some patterns corresponding to the "use mode" for each of the icons 111, 112, 113, and 116. , the amount of water in the warm water washing toilet seat, the temperature of the toilet seat, and some of the patterns corresponding to the "setting mode" for setting the water temperature are not displayed.

(Example of gesture operation)
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a gesture operation on the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment.

When the electrostatic input device 100 is in the initial display state shown in FIG. 7 (that is, when it is in the "use mode"), the operator selects any one of the icons 111, 112, and 113 with his/her hand 10. By performing a gesture operation on the icon, it is possible to activate the function of the warm-water bidet toilet seat (toilet bowl cleaning function, bottom cleaning function, or bidet cleaning function) corresponding to the one icon.

For example, when operating the toilet bowl cleaning function, the operator, as shown in FIG. Perform a gesture operation to move in the arrow direction).

At this time, the controller 140 controls the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C (see FIG. 2), which are arranged vertically on the back side of the icon 111, in order of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C. Alternatively, when a change in capacitance is detected in the order of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A and 120C, the gesture operation on the icon 111 is confirmed, and the toilet cleaning function is activated.

Similarly, the operator performs a gesture operation on the icon 112 or the icon 113 to move the hand 10 downward (in the direction of the arrow indicated by the icons 112 and 113), thereby performing the buttocks washing function corresponding to the icon 112. Alternatively, the bidet cleaning function corresponding to icon 113 can be activated.

(Example of touch operation)
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a touch operation on the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment.

When the electrostatic input device 100 is in the initial display state shown in FIG. 7 (that is, when it is in the "use mode"), the operator selects any one of the icons 111, 112, and 113 with his/her hand 10. By performing a touch operation on an icon, the function of the warm-water bidet toilet seat (toilet cleaning function, bottom cleaning function, or bidet cleaning function) corresponding to the one icon can be operated.

For example, when operating the toilet cleaning function, the operator performs a touch operation of touching the icon 111 with the hand 10 as shown in FIG.

At this time, the control device 140 controls at least one of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120A, 120B, and 120C, which are arranged vertically on the back side of the icon 111, to change the capacitance according to the contact of the hand 10. When a change is detected, the touch operation on the icon 111 is confirmed, and the toilet cleaning function is activated.

(Display example during functional operation by the electrostatic input device 100)
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example during functional operation of the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 shows a display example of the electrostatic input device 100 during operation of the rear cleaning function. When the icon 112 is gesture-operated or touch-operated, the electrostatic input device 100 activates the bottom washing function and enters the display state shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, the electrostatic input device 100 displays icons 112, 114, and 115 on the operation surface 110A during operation of the bottom washing function. However, for each of the icons 112, 114, and 115, the electrostatic input device 100 displays a pattern related to the bottom washing function and does not display other patterns. Specifically, for the icon 112, the electrostatic input device 100 displays a pattern for stopping the operation of the bottom washing function. Further, the electrostatic input device 100 displays patterns for adjusting the amount of water for the bottom washing function for the icons 114 and 115 . Thereby, the electrostatic input device 100 can clearly indicate the functions that can be used during the operation of the bottom washing function.

(Another example of gesture operation)
11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating another example of a gesture operation on the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG.

When the electrostatic input device 100 is operating the rear cleaning function (that is, when the electrostatic input device 100 is in the display state shown in FIG. 10), the operator, as shown in FIG. By performing a downward gesture operation or a touch operation on the icon 112, the operation of the bottom washing function can be stopped.

At this time, the control device 140 controls the electrostatic detection electrodes 120D, 120E, and 120F (see FIG. 2), which are arranged vertically on the back side of the icon 112, in order of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120D, 120E, and 120F. Alternatively, when a change in capacitance is detected in the order of the electrostatic detection electrodes 120D and 120F, the gesture operation on the icon 112 is confirmed, and the operation of the bottom washing function is stopped.

Further, when the electrostatic input device 100 is operating the bottom cleaning function, the operator performs a left gesture operation on the icon 114 and the icon 115 with his/her hand 10 as shown in FIG. By performing a touch operation on 114, the amount of water for the bottom washing function can be reduced.

At this time, control device 140 detects a change in the capacitance of electrostatic detection electrode 120K (see FIG. 2) provided on the back side of icon 115, and then controls the electrostatic detection electrode 120K (see FIG. 2) provided on the back side of icon 114. When a change in the capacitance of the charge detection electrode 120J (see FIG. 2) is detected, the gesture operation to the left on the icons 115 and 114 is confirmed, and the amount of water for the bottom washing function is decreased.

Further, when the electrostatic input device 100 is operating the rear cleaning function, the operator performs a right gesture operation on the icon 114 and the icon 115 with his/her hand 10 as shown in FIG. By performing a touch operation on 115, the amount of water for the bottom washing function can be increased.

At this time, control device 140 detects a change in the capacitance of electrostatic detection electrode 120J (see FIG. 2) provided on the back side of icon 114, and then controls the electrostatic detection electrode 120J (see FIG. 2) provided on the back side of icon 115. When a change in the capacitance of the charge detection electrode 120K (see FIG. 2) is detected, the gesture operation to the right on the icon 114 and the icon 115 is confirmed to increase the amount of water for the bottom washing function.

(Example of mode switching operation)
12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating an example of a mode switching operation on the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of a setting change item selection screen by the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12 , when the “use mode” selection screen is displayed on the electrostatic input device 100 , the operator performs an upward gesture operation or touch operation on the icon 116 with his/her own hand 10 . Thereby, the operation mode of the electrostatic input device 100 can be switched from the "use mode" to the "setting mode".

At this time, the controller 140 controls the electrostatic detection electrodes 120L and 120M (see FIG. 2) arranged vertically on the back side of the icon 116 so that the electrostatic detection electrodes 120M and 120L are arranged in this order. When a change is detected, the gesture operation on the icon 116 is confirmed, and the operation mode of the electrostatic input device 100 is switched from "use mode" to "setting mode."

Then, as shown in FIG. 13, control device 140 displays icons 111, 112, 113, and 116 on operation surface 110A as a setting change item selection screen. Specifically, the electrostatic input device 100 turns on the plurality of LEDs 130 provided on the back side of the icons 111, 112, 113, and 116, and the light emitted from the plurality of LEDs 130 spreads over the decorative sheet 118. The icons 111, 112, 113, and 116 are displayed on the operation surface 110A by making them partially transparent.

However, as shown in FIG. 13, the electrostatic input device 100 displays some patterns corresponding to the "setting mode" for each of the icons 111, 112, 113, and 116 on the setting change item selection screen. On the other hand, some patterns corresponding to the "use mode" are not displayed.

(Example of selection operation of setting change item)
14A and 14B are diagrams illustrating an example of a setting change item selection operation for the electrostatic input device 100 according to an embodiment.

The operator performs a gesture operation on any one of the icons 111, 112, and 113 with his/her hand 10 on the setting change item selection screen shown in FIG. An item setting change screen can be displayed on the electrostatic input device 100 .

For example, on the setting change item selection screen shown in FIG. 14, the operator can make the water temperature setting change screen shown in FIG. It can be displayed on the electrical input device 100 .

Further, for example, on the setting change item selection screen shown in FIG. 14, the operator performs a downward gesture operation or touch operation on the icon 111 with his/her own hand 10, thereby electrostatically inputting the water amount setting change screen. It can be displayed on the device 100 .

Further, for example, on the setting change item selection screen shown in FIG. It can be displayed on the input device 100 .

Further, for example, on the setting change item selection screen shown in FIG. , can be switched from "configuration mode" to "usage mode".

(Example of setting change operation)
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting change operation for the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, when the water temperature setting change screen is displayed on the electrostatic input device 100, the operator performs a leftward gesture operation on the icon 114 and the icon 115 with his/her hand 10 (see FIG. 11). (gesture operation described in (1) above) or a touch operation on the icon 114 can change the setting for lowering the water temperature.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15, when the water temperature setting change screen is displayed on the electrostatic input device 100, the operator performs a rightward gesture operation on the icon 114 and the icon 115 ( By performing the gesture operation described in FIG. 11) or the touch operation on the icon 115, it is possible to change the setting for increasing the water temperature.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15 , when the water temperature setting change screen is displayed on the electrostatic input device 100 , the operator performs an upward gesture operation or touch operation on the icon 116 with his/her own hand 10 . Accordingly, the setting change item selection screen shown in FIG. 14 can be displayed on the electrostatic input device 100 .

As described above, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment includes the icons 111, 112, and 113 arranged side by side in the horizontal direction on the operation surface 110A, and the icons 111, 112, and 113 that overlap each of the icons 111, 112, and 113. Based on the change in capacitance of each of the first electrode groups 121A, 121B, and 121C and the first electrode groups 121A, 121B, and 121C, a proximity operation by the operating body to each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 is performed. Each of the first electrode groups 121A, 121B, 121C has a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 arranged vertically.

Accordingly, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the direction in which the icons 111, 112, and 113 are arranged (horizontal direction) is different from the direction in which gesture operations are performed on each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 (vertical direction). Therefore, even when the icons 111, 112, and 113 are arranged close to each other, when the operator performs a gesture operation on one icon, the gesture operation is erroneously detected by the other icons. You can prevent it from happening. That is, according to the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, it is possible to suppress erroneous detection of a gesture operation on an icon not intended by the operator.

In addition, since the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment can bring the icons 111, 112, and 113 close to each other, the icons 111, 112, and 113 (and The size of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120) can be maximized. Therefore, according to the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, it is possible to further improve the detection accuracy of gesture manipulations for each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 .

Further, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the direction of the gesture operation for each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 is the downward direction in which the operator can easily move his or her hand. Operability can be improved.

In the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, each of the plurality of first electrode groups 121A, 121B, and 121C includes a plurality of rectangular electrostatic detection electrodes 120 whose longitudinal direction is the horizontal direction. It has a rectangular outer shape as a whole by arranging it side by side in the vertical direction.

As a result, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment detects a gesture operation in the vertical direction on each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 through a plurality of electrostatic detection devices provided on the back side of each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 . It can be detected with relatively high accuracy by the electrode 120 .

Further, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 140 controls the upper electrostatic detection electrode in the first electrode group 121 corresponding to any one of the icons 111, 112, and 113. When a change in capacitance is detected in the order from 120 to the lower electrostatic detection electrode 120, the operation for the one icon is confirmed.

As a result, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment detects a gesture operation in the vertical direction on each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 through a plurality of electrostatic detection devices provided on the back side of each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 . It can be detected with relatively high accuracy by the electrode 120 .

In addition, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 140 controls, for any one of the icons 111, 112, and 113, a plurality of electrostatic detection signals superimposed on the icon. When at least one of the electrodes 120 detects the contact of the operating body, the operation for the one icon is confirmed.

Thereby, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment performs a gesture operation on each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 using the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 provided on the back side of each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 . and touch operations can be detected. Therefore, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment operates each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 by the operator's touch operation even if the operator does not know that the gesture operation is possible. be able to.

Further, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment includes an icon 116 provided above the icons 111, 112, and 113 on the operation surface 110A, and a second electrode group 122 provided overlapping the icon 116. , the second electrode group 122 has a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 arranged in a vertical direction, and the control device 140 controls the second electrode group 122 so that the lower electrostatic detection electrode 120 , the operation on the icon 116 is determined when a change in capacitance is detected in the order of the upper electrostatic detection electrode 120 from .

Accordingly, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the direction of the gesture operation on the icon 116 (upward) is opposite to the direction of the gesture operation on each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 (downward). Therefore, erroneous detection of gesture operations on icons 111, 112, 113, and icon 116 can be suppressed.

Further, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment includes icons 114 and 115 provided below the icons 111, 112 and 113 on the operation surface 110A, and third icons 114 and 115 provided overlapping the icons 114 and 115. The third electrode group 123A, 123B has a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, and the control device 140 controls the third electrode group 123A, 123B. In 123B, the capacitance changes in the order from the left electrostatic detection electrode 120 to the right electrostatic detection electrode 120, or from the right electrostatic detection electrode 120 to the left electrostatic detection electrode 120. is detected, the operation on the icons 114 and 115 may be determined.

As a result, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the direction of the gesture operation on the icons 114 and 115 (horizontal direction) is orthogonal to the direction of the gesture operation on each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 (downward direction). Therefore, erroneous detection of gesture operations on icons 111, 112, 113 and icons 114, 115 can be suppressed.

In addition, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment includes a pair of left and right icons 114 and 115, and has a configuration in which a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 are arranged in the horizontal direction on the back side of each of the icons 114 and 115. In this case, when control device 140 detects a change in capacitance in order from left electrostatic detection electrode 120 to right electrostatic detection electrode 120 in icon 115, control device 140 confirms the increase operation, and icon At 114, if a change in capacitance is detected in order from the right electrostatic detection electrode 120 to the left electrostatic detection electrode 120, the decrease operation may be confirmed.

As a result, the electrostatic input device 100 according to an embodiment differs in the gesture operation direction (left direction) with respect to the icon 114 from the gesture operation direction (right direction) with respect to the icon 115, Since the direction of the gesture operation (horizontal direction) is orthogonal to the direction of the gesture operation (downward direction) for each of the icons 111, 112, and 113, erroneous detection of the gesture operation on the icons 111, 112, and 113 and the icons 114 and 115. can be suppressed.

Further, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, when a configuration is adopted in which a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 are arranged in the horizontal direction on the back side of each of the icons 114 and 115, the control device 140 controls the icon 115 to , when at least one of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 superimposed on the icon 115 detects the contact of the operating body, the increase operation is confirmed, and the icon 114 When at least one of the plurality of superimposed electrostatic detection electrodes 120 detects the contact of the operating body, the other weight reduction operation may be confirmed.

As a result, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment can perform a gesture operation and a touch operation on each of the icons 114 and 115 by the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 provided on the back side of each of the icons 114 and 115. Both can be detected. For this reason, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment allows the icons 114 and 115 to be touched by the touch operation by the operator even when the operator does not know that the gesture operation on each of the icons 114 and 115 is possible. Each operation (increase operation and decrease operation) can be performed.

Further, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 has a display figure having an annular outer periphery displayed on the operation surface 110A, and the annular outer periphery It has substantially the same vertical width and horizontal width as the vertical width and horizontal width of the external shape formed by the first electrode group 121 provided to overlap with the display graphic.

As a result, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment allows the operator to easily visually grasp the operation range of the gesture operation of each of the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 .

Further, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment further includes a plurality of LEDs 130 provided on the back side of each of the icons 111, 112, and 113, and a portion of the operation surface 110A where the annular display figure is formed , has light transmittance, and a portion of the operation surface 110A where the annular display figure is not formed does not have light transmittance, and each of the first electrode groups 121A, 121B, and 121C includes a plurality of electrostatic electrodes. The detection electrodes 120 have openings at positions overlapping with the respective LEDs 130 .

Accordingly, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment can light only the icons 111, 112, and 113 on the operation surface 110A by lighting the plurality of LEDs 130, thereby allowing the icons 111, 112, The visual effect of each of 113 can be enhanced.

In addition, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 140 lights at least one of the plurality of LEDs 130 when detecting the proximity of the operating body to the operating surface 110A.

Accordingly, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment can allow the operator to easily recognize that the gesture operation on each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 is enabled.

Further, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the display graphics of each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 include a plurality of patterns corresponding to a plurality of functions, and the control device 140 is provided behind the display graphics. Among the plurality of LEDs 130 provided, the LEDs 130 for displaying patterns corresponding to available functions are lit.

Thereby, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment can allow the operator to easily grasp the functions that can be used by operating the icons 111 , 112 , and 113 .

Further, in the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment, the operation surface 110A has a specific pattern formed on the entire surface.

As a result, the electrostatic input device 100 according to one embodiment can be used when each of the icons 111, 112, and 113 is not displayed on the operation surface 110A (that is, when the operation tool is not close to the operation surface 110A). , the design of the operation surface 110A can be improved.

(Modification)
FIG. 16 is a plan view of an electrostatic input device 100A according to one modification. An electrostatic input device 100A shown in FIG. 16 is obtained by modifying the electrostatic input device 100 described in the embodiment for controlling a faucet used in a kitchen, washroom, or the like. The electrostatic input device 100A differs from the electrostatic input device 100 in having icons 111A and 113A (another example of the “first operation item”) instead of the icons 111-112.

The icon 111A is used when opening and closing the faucet in the "use mode". At this time, the operator can open and close the faucet by performing a downward gesture operation or a touch operation on the icon 111A.

Further, the icon 111A is used when selecting a setting change of the water volume of the faucet on the setting change item selection screen of the "setting mode". At this time, the operator can select to change the setting of the water volume of the faucet by performing a downward gesture operation or a touch operation on the icon 111A.

The icon 113A is used when selecting a setting change of the water temperature of the faucet on the setting change item selection screen of the "setting mode". At this time, the operator can select to change the setting of the water temperature of the faucet by performing a downward gesture operation or a touch operation on the icon 113A.

Similar to the icons 111 and 113 included in the electrostatic input device 100, a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120 are vertically arranged on the back side of the icons 111A and 113A. The electrostatic input device 100A can detect gesture operations and touch operations on the icons 111A and 113A using the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes 120. FIG.

In the electrostatic input device 100A, the icons 114 and 115 are used in the "use mode" and the "setting mode" in the same manner as in the electrostatic input device 100A when adjusting the amount of water and the temperature of the water.

In addition, in the electrostatic input device 100A, the icon 116 is used when switching the electrostatic input device 100A between the "use mode" and the "setting mode", similarly to the electrostatic input device 100. FIG.

Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or Change is possible.

For example, gesture operations in mutually different directions may be detected for two icons adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction. For example, for two icons adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction, an upward gesture operation may be detected for one icon, and a downward gesture operation may be detected for the other icon.

For example, gesture operations in a plurality of different directions may be detected for one icon, and a different function may be assigned to each gesture operation direction. For example, in the electrostatic input device 100A, when a downward gesture operation on the icon 111A is detected, the faucet is opened, and when an upward gesture operation on the icon 111A is detected, the faucet is closed. You may do so.

This international application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-012938 filed on January 29, 2020, and the entire contents of this application are incorporated into this international application.

10 hand (operator)
100, 100A electrostatic input device 110 case 110A operation surface 111, 112, 113 icon (first operation item)
111A, 113A icons (first operation item)
114, 115 icon (third operation item)
116 icon (second operation item)
118 decorative sheet 120, 120A to 120M electrostatic detection electrodes 121A, 121B, 121C first electrode group 122 second electrode group 123A, 123B third electrode group 130 LED (light source)
140 control device 141 CPU
142 ROMs
143 RAM
145 External I/F
146 bus 501 detection signal acquisition unit 502 operation detection unit 503 display control unit 504 execution unit

Claims (9)

a plurality of first operation items arranged side by side in the horizontal direction on the operation surface;
a plurality of first electrode groups provided to overlap each of the plurality of first operation items;
a control device capable of detecting a proximity operation by an operating body for each of the plurality of first operation items based on a change in capacitance of each of the plurality of first electrode groups;
Each of the plurality of first electrode groups,
By arranging a plurality of rectangular electrostatic detection electrodes each having a longitudinal direction in the left-right direction and arranging them in the vertical direction, it has a rectangular outer shape with the longitudinal direction as a whole,
The control device is
In a first electrode group corresponding to one of the plurality of first operation items, the capacitance changes in order from the upper electrostatic detection electrode to the lower electrostatic detection electrode. is detected, confirming the operation for the first operation item,
The control device is
In any one of the first operation items, at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided over the first operation item detects contact of the operating body. , confirming the operation for the first operation item,
each of the plurality of first operation items has a display figure having an elliptical outer periphery displayed on the operation surface;
The elliptical outer peripheral portion is
having a vertical width and a horizontal width substantially the same as the vertical width and the horizontal width of the external shape formed by the first electrode group provided overlapping the display graphic,
Four corners of the first electrode group are located outside the display figure.
An electrostatic input device characterized by: a second operation item provided above or below the plurality of first operation items on the operation surface;
a second electrode group provided over the second operation item;
further comprising
The second electrode group is
having a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes arranged vertically,
The control device is
confirming an operation for the second operation item when a change in capacitance is detected in order from the lower electrostatic detection electrode to the upper electrostatic detection electrode in the second electrode group;
The control device is
In the second operation item, when at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided over the second operation item detects the contact of the operating body, the second operation item is Confirming the operation for the operation item
The electrostatic input device according to claim 1, characterized by: a pair of left and right third operation items provided above or below the plurality of first operation items on the operation surface;
a third electrode group provided over the third operation item;
further comprising
The third electrode group is
Having a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes arranged side by side in the horizontal direction,
The control device is
In one third operation item of the pair of left and right third operation items, when a change in capacitance is detected in order from the left electrostatic detection electrode to the right electrostatic detection electrode, the amount is increased. confirm one of the operation and the weight reduction operation,
In the other third operation item of the pair of left and right third operation items, when a change in capacitance is detected in order from the right electrostatic detection electrode to the left electrostatic detection electrode, the amount is increased. confirming the other of the operation and the weight loss operation,
The control device is
In the one third operation item, when at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided over the one third operation item detects the contact of the operating body, Confirm one of the increase operation and decrease operation,
In the other third operation item, when at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided to overlap the other third operation item detects the contact of the operation body, Confirm the other of the increase and decrease operation
3. The electrostatic input device according to claim 1, wherein: further comprising a plurality of light sources provided on the back side of each of the plurality of first operation items;
a portion of the operation surface on which the display figure is formed has a light transmissive property,
A portion of the operation surface on which the display figure is not formed does not have optical transparency,
each of the plurality of first electrode groups has an opening at a position overlapping the light source of each of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes;
The display figure is
Including multiple patterns corresponding to multiple functions,
The control device is
Among the plurality of light sources provided on the back side of the display graphics, light sources for displaying patterns corresponding to available functions are lit.
The electrostatic input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: a plurality of first operation items arranged side by side in the horizontal direction on the operation surface;
a plurality of first electrode groups provided to overlap each of the plurality of first operation items;
a control device capable of detecting a proximity operation by an operating body for each of the plurality of first operation items based on a change in capacitance of each of the plurality of first electrode groups;
with
Each of the plurality of first electrode groups,
By arranging a plurality of rectangular electrostatic detection electrodes each having a longitudinal direction in the left-right direction and arranging them in the vertical direction, it has a rectangular outer shape with the longitudinal direction as a whole,
The control device is
In a first electrode group corresponding to one of the plurality of first operation items, the capacitance changes in order from the upper electrostatic detection electrode to the lower electrostatic detection electrode. is detected, confirming the operation for the first operation item,
The control device is
In any one of the first operation items, at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided over the first operation item detects contact of the operating body. , confirming the operation for the first operation item,
a second operation item provided above or below the plurality of first operation items on the operation surface;
a second electrode group provided over the second operation item;
further comprising
The second electrode group is
having a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes arranged vertically,
The control device is
confirming an operation for the second operation item when a change in capacitance is detected in order from the lower electrostatic detection electrode to the upper electrostatic detection electrode in the second electrode group;
The control device is
In the second operation item, when at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided over the second operation item detects the contact of the operating body, the second operation item is Confirm the operation for the operation item,
a pair of left and right third operation items provided above or below the plurality of first operation items on the operation surface;
a third electrode group provided over the third operation item;
further comprising
The third electrode group is
Having a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes arranged side by side in the horizontal direction,
The control device is
In one third operation item of the pair of left and right third operation items, when a change in capacitance is detected in order from the left electrostatic detection electrode to the right electrostatic detection electrode, the amount is increased. confirm one of the operation and the weight reduction operation,
In the other third operation item of the pair of left and right third operation items, when a change in capacitance is detected in order from the right electrostatic detection electrode to the left electrostatic detection electrode, the amount is increased. confirming the other of the operation and the weight loss operation,
The control device is
In the one third operation item, when at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided over the one third operation item detects the contact of the operating body, Confirm one of the increase operation and decrease operation,
In the other third operation item, when at least one of a plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes provided to overlap the other third operation item detects the contact of the operation body, Confirm the other of the increase operation and the decrease operation,
the second operation item is switching between a use mode and a setting mode;
the first operation item in the setting mode is a selection operation of a setting change item;
The selected setting change item is increased or decreased by the third operation item.
An electrostatic input device characterized by: each of the plurality of first operation items has a display figure having an elliptical outer periphery displayed on the operation surface;
The elliptical outer peripheral portion is
having a vertical width and a horizontal width substantially the same as the vertical width and the horizontal width of the external shape formed by the first electrode group provided overlapping the display graphic,
Four corners of the first electrode group are positioned outside the display figure,
further comprising a plurality of light sources provided on the back side of each of the plurality of first operation items;
a portion of the operation surface on which the display figure is formed has a light transmissive property,
A portion of the operation surface on which the display figure is not formed does not have optical transparency,
each of the plurality of first electrode groups has an opening at a position overlapping the light source of each of the plurality of electrostatic detection electrodes;
The display figure is
Including multiple patterns corresponding to multiple functions,
The control device is
Among the plurality of light sources provided on the back side of the display graphics, light sources for displaying patterns corresponding to available functions are lit.
6. The electrostatic input device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The control device is
lighting at least one of the plurality of light sources when proximity of the operating body to the operating surface is detected;
The operation surface is
It has a specific pattern all over it.
The electrostatic input device according to claim 6, characterized in that: Used to control warm-water washing toilet seats
The electrostatic input device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: Used for faucet control
The electrostatic input device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that:

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