JP2005135876A - Touch input device and control method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a touch input device capable of obtaining an operation feeling similar to a mechanical input button.
A conductive polymer layer 4 is connected to a conductor pattern 2, an electrolyte layer 3 is disposed adjacent to the conductive polymer layer 4, and a lower electrode 5 is disposed adjacent to the lower surface of the electrolyte layer 3 for switching. A DC voltage for expanding or contracting the conductive polymer layer 4 is applied between the conductor pattern 2 and the lower electrode 5 by the switch 7.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a touch input device such as a keyboard, switch, touch panel or the like having a flat input portion, and more particularly to a touch input device capable of obtaining an operation feeling similar to that of a mechanical input button.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a concavo-convex panel capable of raising an input operation area corresponding to a mechanical input button and an input device using the same are known (see Patent Document 1 below).

  The concavo-convex panel includes a substrate, a plurality of concavo-convex forming X-axis electrodes, a swelling liquid holding layer, a plurality of detecting X-axis directional electrodes, a ground electrode, a polymer gel layer, and a plurality of concavo-convex forming and detecting Y-axes. It has a direction electrode and a surface protective layer.

  The substrate is flat. Each of the plurality of concave and convex forming X-axis direction electrodes has a strip shape, is arranged in parallel on the upper surface of the substrate, and extends in the X-axis direction. The swelling liquid holding layer is laminated on the plurality of unevenness forming X-axis direction electrodes. Each of the plurality of detection X-axis direction electrodes has a strip shape, is arranged in parallel with the upper surface of the swelling liquid holding layer, and extends in the X-axis direction. The ground electrode has a sheet shape, is embedded in the polymer gel layer, and faces the detection X-axis direction electrode. The polymer gel layer is laminated on the plurality of detection X-axis direction electrodes. The plurality of concave / convex forming and detecting Y-axis direction electrodes are each band-shaped, arranged in parallel to the upper surface of the polymer gel layer, and extend in the Y-axis direction. The surface protective layer is laminated on a plurality of concave / convex forming and detecting Y-axis electrodes.

When a voltage is applied to a specific concavo-convex-forming X-axis electrode and concavo-convex-forming / detecting Y-axis electrode of the concavo-convex-forming panel, the concavo-convex-forming X-axis electrode and concavo-convex-forming / detecting Y-axis electrode Electrical stimulation is given to the polymer gel layer at the point where and intersect. As a result, a part of the polymer gel layer absorbs the swelling liquid around the intersection and swells to rise like a dot. Thus, by projecting a specific range of the polymer gel layer, a convex portion resembling a mechanical input button appears. When this convex portion is pushed, a potential or current is generated by the piezoelectricity of the polymer gel in this portion. The control unit of the input device determines which convex portion is pressed by detecting this potential or current through the detection X-axis direction electrode and the concave-convex forming and detection Y-axis direction electrode, and the signal that the convex portion takes charge of Is output.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-203025 (see paragraphs 0041-0045 and FIG. 2)

  As described above, in the conventional touch input device, the convex portion corresponding to the input button is formed by raising a specific region of the polymer gel layer, and thus the convex portion is soft.

  As a method of generating a good operational feeling like a mechanical switch, it is conceivable to control the convex part to be retracted when the convex part is pushed with the fingertip. Even if the convex part is retracted when it is pressed, the operation feeling like a mechanical switch is not obtained.

  Also, because the convex part is soft, it is difficult to recognize the contour of the convex part with the tactile sensation of the fingertip, it is difficult to input by blind touch, and when trying to press a specific convex part, The other convex part adjacent to a specific convex part may be pushed simultaneously, and favorable operativity cannot be obtained.

  Furthermore, in order to obtain a deformation amount that can be identified with a fingertip, it is necessary to have sufficient force to sufficiently deform the surface protection material indispensable for preventing the polymer gel layer from drying, but the polymer gel that acts on the surface protection material. However, it is difficult to sufficiently deform the surface protective material, and good operability and operational feeling cannot be obtained.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and a problem thereof is to provide a touch-type input device capable of obtaining a good operational feeling and operability.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a touch input device according to the first aspect of the present invention is provided with a first electrode, a conductive polymer layer connected to the first electrode, and adjacent to the conductive polymer layer. An electrolyte layer; a second electrode disposed adjacent to the surface of the electrolyte layer opposite to the surface in contact with the conductive polymer layer; and a first electrode that expands or contracts the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes. And a first voltage applying means for applying a voltage.

  As described above, when the first voltage is applied between the first and second electrodes by the first voltage applying means, ions are transferred between the conductive polymer layer and the electrolyte layer. The polymer layer expands or contracts. The conductive polymer layer is much harder than the polymer gel layer, and the reaction force acting on the finger when pressed with a finger or the like is much greater when the conductive polymer layer is pressed. Therefore, by utilizing this property, a good operational feeling and operability can be obtained.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the touch input device according to the first aspect, further comprising second voltage applying means for applying a second voltage for vibrating the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes. It is characterized by.

  As described above, when the second voltage is applied between both electrodes, the conductive polymer layer vibrates, so that the operator can easily distinguish between the input operation region and the other region through the sense of touch.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the touch input device according to the first or second aspect, the third electrode is disposed on the surface of the conductive polymer layer opposite to the surface in contact with the electrolyte layer via an insulator layer. And a third voltage applying means for applying a third voltage for detecting a change in conductivity of the conductive polymer layer between the first and third electrodes. .

  When the third voltage is applied between the first and third electrodes as described above, when a pressure such as a finger acts on the conductive polymer layer, the conductive polymer is selected according to the magnitude of the pressure. The conductivity of the layer changes. Therefore, by detecting the change in conductivity, it is possible to detect the magnitude of pressure of a finger or the like acting on the conductive polymer layer.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a touch input device comprising: a first electrode; a first conductive polymer layer connected to the first electrode; an electrolyte layer disposed adjacent to the conductive polymer layer; A second conductive high electrode disposed adjacent to a surface of the electrolyte layer opposite to the surface in contact with the first conductive polymer layer and doped with an ionic species different from the ionic species doped in the first conductive polymer layer; A molecular layer, a second electrode connected to the second conductive polymer layer, and a first voltage for applying a first voltage for expanding or contracting both the conductive polymer layers between the first and second electrodes. 1 voltage applying means.

  As described above, when the first voltage is applied between the first and second electrodes, ions are transferred between the first and second conductive polymer layers and the electrolyte layer. Both of the two conductive polymer layers expand or contract. Therefore, by utilizing this property, a good operational feeling and operability can be obtained.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the touch input device according to the fourth aspect, further comprising second voltage applying means for applying a second voltage for vibrating the both conductive polymer layers between the electrodes. It is characterized by that.

  As described above, when the second voltage is applied between both electrodes, the conductive polymer layer vibrates, so that the operator can easily distinguish between the input operation region and the other region through the sense of touch.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the touch input device according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the first or second conductive polymer layer is disposed on the surface opposite to the surface in contact with the electrolyte layer via an insulator layer. In order to detect a change in the conductivity of the conductive polymer layer disposed adjacent to the insulator layer between the third electrode, one of the first and second electrodes, and the third electrode And a third voltage applying means for applying the third voltage.

  When a third voltage is applied between one of the first and second electrodes and the third electrode as described above, when pressure such as a finger acts on the conductive polymer layer, the magnitude of the pressure is increased. Accordingly, the conductivity of the conductive polymer layer changes. Therefore, by detecting the change in conductivity, it is possible to detect the magnitude of pressure of a finger or the like acting on the conductive polymer layer.

  The touch input device of the invention of claim 7 includes a first electrode, a conductive polymer layer connected to the first electrode, and an electrolyte layer accommodated in a hole formed in the conductive polymer layer. And a second electrode disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer, and a first voltage applying means for applying a first voltage for expanding or contracting the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes. Features.

  As described above, when the first voltage is applied between the first and second electrodes, ions are transferred between the conductive polymer layer and the electrolyte layer, so that the conductive polymer layer expands or contracts. To do. Therefore, by utilizing this property, a good operational feeling and operability can be obtained.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the touch input device according to the seventh aspect, a second voltage applying means for applying a second voltage for vibrating the conductive polymer layer is provided between the electrodes. It is characterized by.

  As described above, when the second voltage is applied between both electrodes, the conductive polymer layer vibrates, so that the operator can easily distinguish between the input operation region and the other region through the sense of touch.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the touch input device according to the seventh or eighth aspect, the third electrode disposed on the other surface of the conductive polymer layer via an insulator layer, the first, first And a third voltage applying means for applying a third voltage for detecting a change in conductivity of the conductive polymer layer between the three electrodes.

  When the third voltage is applied between the first and third electrodes as described above, when a pressure such as a finger acts on the conductive polymer layer, the conductive polymer is selected according to the magnitude of the pressure. The conductivity of the layer changes. Therefore, by detecting the change in conductivity, it is possible to detect the magnitude of pressure of a finger or the like acting on the conductive polymer layer.

  A tenth aspect of the present invention is the touch input device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the thickness of the layer changes based on the pressure when the conductive polymer layer is pressed. Control means for controlling the first voltage applying means is provided.

  As described above, since the first voltage applying means is controlled so that the thickness of the layer changes based on the pressure when the conductive polymer layer is pushed by the control means, the thickness of the conductive polymer layer is Change is perceived by an operator's finger or the like. Therefore, a good operational feeling can be obtained.

  The touch input device control method according to an eleventh aspect of the invention includes a first step of detecting a pressure when a conductive polymer layer disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer is pressed, and a detected pressure level. And applying a voltage having a polarity that changes the thickness of the polymer layer between the first electrode connected to the conductive polymer layer and the second electrode disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer. And a process.

  As described above, the pressure when the conductive polymer layer disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer is pressed with a finger or the like is detected, and based on the detected pressure level, the conductive polymer layer is connected to the conductive polymer layer. Since a voltage having a polarity that changes the thickness of the polymer layer is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer, the change in the thickness of the conductive polymer layer is controlled by Perceived by a person's finger. Therefore, by utilizing this property, a good operational feeling and operability can be obtained.

  As described above, according to the touch input device of the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain a good operational feeling and operability.

  According to the touch type input device of the second aspect of the present invention, the input operation area and the other area can be easily identified through the sense of touch.

  According to the touch type input device of the invention of claim 3, since the magnitude of the pressure of the finger or the like acting on the conductive polymer layer can be detected, dedicated detection means for detecting whether or not an input operation has been performed Need not be used.

  According to the touch input device of the fourth aspect of the invention, it is possible to obtain a good operational feeling and operability.

  According to the touch input device of the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily identify the input operation area and the other area through the sense of touch.

  According to the touch type input device of the sixth aspect of the invention, the magnitude of pressure of a finger or the like acting on the conductive polymer layer can be detected, so that the dedicated detection means for detecting whether or not an input operation has been performed Need not be used.

  According to the touch input device of the seventh aspect of the invention, a good operational feeling and operability can be obtained.

  According to the touch input device of the eighth aspect of the present invention, the input operation area and the other area can be easily identified through the sense of touch.

  According to the touch type input device of the ninth aspect of the invention, the magnitude of the pressure of the finger or the like acting on the conductive polymer layer can be detected, so that the dedicated detection means for detecting whether or not an input operation has been performed Need not be used.

  According to the touch input device of the tenth aspect of the present invention, a good operational feeling can be obtained when an input operation is performed with a finger or the like.

  According to the control method of the touch input device of the eleventh aspect, it is possible to obtain a good operational feeling and operability.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  1 is an exploded perspective view of a touch input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is an electrolyte of the touch input device shown in FIG. 4 is a plan view of the surface protective material of the touch input device shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram of the touch input device shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 6 is a touch input shown in FIG. It is a conceptual diagram of the switch of an apparatus.

  This touch-type input device is suitable as an input device for a digital video camera (not shown), for example, and is provided in a recess formed on the side surface of the video camera main body in order to accommodate a viewer (liquid crystal monitor).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the touch input device includes a plurality of conductor patterns (first electrodes) 2, a plurality of electrolyte layers 3, a plurality of conductive polymer layers 4, a lower electrode (second electrode) 5, and a changeover switch. (First voltage applying means) 7 (see FIG. 5).

  The conductor pattern 2 is formed on the upper surface of the electrolyte holding layer 11. As shown in FIG. 3, the electrolyte holding layer 11 has a plurality of holes 11a. The electrolyte holding layer 11 has a plurality of conductive polymer forming areas 11b. The hole 11a is located in the conductive polymer formation area 11b. One end of the conductor pattern 2 enters the conductive polymer forming area 11b (see FIG. 3). As the electrolyte holding layer 11, an insulating plastic sheet such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), polyimide, or polycarbonate can be used. The electrolyte holding layer 11 can also be formed using various inks. The electrolyte holding layer 11 is attached to the lower electrode 5 with an adhesive material 12. The adhesive material 12 has a hole 12a corresponding to the hole 11a (see FIG. 2).

  The electrolyte layer 3 is formed on the lower electrode 5 and is accommodated in the holes 11a and 12a. Although various electrolytes can be used as the electrolyte layer 3, it is desirable to use a polymer solid electrolyte that is easy to handle in the manufacturing process and exhibits high ionic conductivity even at room temperature.

  As the polymer solid electrolyte, for example, a polymer composed of a host polymer, a low molecular organic plasticizer, and an electrolyte salt can be used.

  Examples of the host polymer that can be used include polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, polyacrylonitrile, and polypinylideneolide.

  As the low molecular organic plasticizer, ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, tetrahydrofuran, dimethoxyethane and the like can be used.

  As the electrolyte salt, LiClO4, LiBF4, LiPF6, LiAsF6, LiCF3SO3, LiN (CF3SO2) 2 or the like can be used.

  The conductive polymer layer 4 is provided in the conductive polymer formation area 11 b on the upper surface of the electrolyte holding layer 11. Therefore, a part of the conductive polymer layer 4 overlaps one end of the conductor pattern 2 and is connected to the conductor pattern 2.

  A conductive polymer can be obtained by doping a polymer with a dopant having the function of depriving or giving electrons.

  As main polymers used for the conductive polymer, polypyrrole, polyaniline, polythiophene, derivatives obtained by modifying these main chains with alkyl groups, polyacetylene, polyparaphenylene vinylidene, and the like are known.

  As main dopants used for the conductive polymer, alkali metals such as lithium, halogens such as bromine, proton acids such as hydrochloric acid, surfactants such as alkylbenzene sulfonate, and the like are known.

  The conductive polymer constituting the conductive polymer layer 4 of the first embodiment is a dopant that gives electrons to a polymer having a repeating structure of conjugated double bonds in which single bonds and double bonds appear alternately. It is doped and has pi electrons that can move freely.

  Incidentally, it is known that a conductive polymer expands and contracts by an electrochemical redox reaction.

  This phenomenon is caused when the conductive polymer undergoes an oxidation-reduction reaction in an environment where there is an electrolyte serving as an ion source around the conductive polymer, and the ions in the electrolyte are absorbed or discharged by the conductive polymer. For example, it is caused by a change in the volume of the conductive polymer by the ionic volume, or by a change in the conformation of polymers or an electrostatic repulsion between molecules / molecules.

  The expansion and contraction motion of the conductive polymer occurs at a low voltage of several volts. Even at a low voltage, a stress of about 220 kg / cm 2 is generated, and the thickness of the conductive polymer can be increased by about 15%.

  In addition, when pressure is applied to the conductive polymer, the distance and interaction between the fibrils in the conductive polymer change, and the distance between the main chains and the interaction also change, and the conductivity of the conductive polymer changes. Changes. Using this property, it is possible to detect whether and how much pressure is applied to the conductive polymer.

  The lower electrode 5 is formed on the entire upper surface of the substrate 13. As the substrate 13, a thin plate such as PET, acrylic, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin), glass or the like can be used.

  A surface protective material 15 is attached to the upper surfaces of the electrolyte holding layer 11 and the conductive polymer layer 4 via an adhesive material 14. As shown in FIG. 4, the surface protection member 15 has a display 15a representing the function of each conductive polymer layer 4 as an input button. As the surface protection material 15, an elastomer sheet such as natural rubber, polyurethane, urethane foam, thin PET, thin polycarbonate, thin polyimide, or the like can be used.

  A detection panel 17 is attached to the lower surface of the base material 13 via an adhesive material 16. The detection panel 17 detects which conductive polymer layer 4 is pressed. As the detection panel 17, a resistance film type, a pressure sensitive type touch panel using pressure sensitive rubber, a membrane switch, or the like can be used.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the changeover switch 7 has a first fixed contact 7a, a second fixed contact 7b, and a movable contact 7c. The first fixed contact 7 a is connected to the negative terminal 21 b of the first DC power supply 21. The anode side terminal 21 a of the first DC power supply 21 is connected to the lower electrode 5. The second fixed contact 7 b is connected to the anode side terminal 22 a of the second DC power supply 22. A cathode side terminal 22 b of the second DC power supply 22 is connected to the lower electrode 5. The change-over switch 7 has three modes in which the movable contact 7c is in contact with the first fixed contact 7a, the second fixed contact 7b, or no fixed contact 7a, 7b. Switches 18 and 18 'are connected in parallel to the movable contact 7c. The switch 18 is connected to the conductive polymer layers 4-1 to 8 in the left two rows of FIG. The switch 18 ′ is connected to the two conductive polymer layers 4-9 to 16-16 on the right side of FIG. 5 through the conductor pattern 2. As shown in FIG. 6, the switch 18 has a plurality of fixed contacts 18a and a plurality of movable contacts 18b. The number of the fixed contacts 18a is the same as the number of the conductive polymer layers 4 in the left two rows in FIG. These fixed contacts 18a are connected in parallel to the movable contact 7c. The number of movable contacts 18b is the same as the number of fixed contacts 18a. The switch 18 has two modes in which the movable contact 18b contacts or does not contact the fixed contact 18a. The switch 18 ′ has the same configuration as the switch 18.

  Next, the assembly procedure of this touch type input device will be described.

First, a conductive pattern 2 is formed by printing a conductive paste such as a silver paste or a carbon paste on the upper surface of the electrolyte holding layer 11 in which the holes 11a are formed. In addition to this method, masking is performed except for the portion where the conductive pattern 2 of the electrolyte holding layer 11 is formed, and then ITO (Indium
The conductor pattern 2 can also be formed by depositing Tin Oxide) or the like on the electrolyte holding layer 11.

  Further, the lower electrode 5 is formed by printing a conductive paste such as a silver paste or a carbon paste on the entire upper surface of the substrate 13. In addition to this method, the lower electrode 5 can also be formed by depositing ITO or the like on the upper surface of the substrate 13.

  Next, the adhesive material 12 is printed on the lower surface of the electrolyte holding layer 11. At this time, the hole 12a is formed. The electrolyte holding layer 11 is stuck on the lower electrode 5 by the adhesive material 12 printed on the lower surface of the electrolyte holding layer 11.

  Thereafter, a mixture of the host polymer, the low molecular organic plastic material and the electrolyte salt is filled into the holes 11a and 12a by using a printing technique. Then, this mixture is heated to form the solid polymer electrolyte layer 3.

  Next, the upper surface of the electrolyte holding layer 11 was masked except for the conductive polymer formation area 11b, and polypyrrole was formed as the conductive polymer layer 4 on the conductive polymer formation area 11b. The dopant of this polypyrrole was dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid.

  Thereafter, the mask on the electrolyte holding layer 11 is removed, the adhesive material 14 is printed on the upper surfaces of the electrolyte holding layer 11 and the conductive polymer layer 4, and the surface protective material 15 is adhered thereon.

  Finally, the laminate obtained by the above-described process is attached to the detection panel 17 via the adhesive material 16.

  The touch input device of the first embodiment is assembled by the above steps.

  7 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7A is a perspective view in an initial state, FIG. 7B is a perspective view in an input standby state, and FIG. 7D is a perspective view in a reset state, FIG. 7E is a perspective view in a limited input standby state, FIG. 7F is a perspective view in a state where a stop button is pressed, FIG. 7G is a perspective view in a reset state, and FIG. Is a perspective view in an input standby state, and FIG. 7I is a perspective view in an initial state.

  When a viewer is opened on a digital video camera, a number of operation buttons appear in the viewer compartment, allowing you to perform operations such as playback, slow playback, fast forward, rewind, stop, pause, and various settings for recorded images. There is something.

  For example, after performing a fast-forward operation, it is highly likely that the next operation will be a play, slow play, rewind, stop or pause operation button, and the possibility of operating the setting operation button is extremely high The operation button for setting is an obstacle to the blind touch operation.

  The basic operation of the touch input device according to the first embodiment will be described below.

  When the viewer of the digital video camera is not open, the input surface 1a of the touch input device 1 is flat as shown in FIG. 7A.

  When the viewer is opened, all the conductive polymer layers 4-1 to 16-16 (see FIG. 5) are expanded, and as shown in FIG. The corresponding relationship with the conductive polymer layers 4-1 to 16) is raised.

  When the operation button (play button) 10-2 is pressed, the conductive polymer layer 4-2 corresponding to the play button 10-2 contracts, and the play button 10-2 is retracted as shown in FIG. 7C.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 7D, all the operation buttons 10-1 to 10-16 are temporarily retracted, and immediately, as shown in FIG. 7E, the operation buttons 10-1, 3-8 closely related to the reproduction button 10-2. Rises.

  When the operation button (stop button) 10-6 is pressed, the conductive polymer layer 4-6 corresponding to the stop button 10-6 contracts, and the stop button 10-6 is retracted as shown in FIG. 7F.

  Since all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16-16 may be operated after the stop button 10-6 is operated, as shown in FIG. 7G, all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16-16 are temporarily retracted and immediately As shown in FIG. 7H, all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16-16 are raised.

  When the viewer is closed, all the conductive polymer layers 4-1 to 16-16 contract and all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16-16 retract as shown in FIG. 7I.

  8 is a block diagram showing a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch input device shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 9A is a sectional view in an initial state. 9B is a cross-sectional view in a convex formation state, FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view in a convex holding state, FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view in a convex release state, and FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional view in an initial state.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the touch input device according to the first embodiment includes a control unit 20, a changeover switch 7, switches 18 and 18 ′, a detection panel 17, and a detection switch 23.

  When the viewer is opened and then the digital video camera is turned on, or when the viewer is opened with the power turned on, the detection switch 23 detects that the viewer is opened, and sends the detection signal SG1 to the control unit 20. At this time, the changeover switch 7 is in the state shown in FIG. 9A.

  Upon receiving this detection signal SG1, the control unit 20 sends a control signal SG2 that closes all the movable contacts 18b (see FIG. 6) so that all the conductive polymer layers 4 can be energized to the switches 18, 18 ′. .

  At the same time, the control unit 20 sets the movable contact 7 c to the changeover switch 7 so as to connect the conductive polymer layer 4 to the cathode of the first DC power supply 21 and the lower electrode 5 to the anode of the first DC power supply 21. A control signal SG3 for switching is sent. As a result, the movable contact 7c is in the state shown in FIG. 9B. Thereby, the cation in the electrolyte layer 3 is doped into the conductive polymer layer 4 and the volume of the conductive polymer layer 4 is increased. As a result, a part of the surface protection material 15 rises in a convex shape, and the operation button 10 appears.

  After a predetermined time (time required for the conductive polymer layer 4 to expand) has elapsed since the movable contact 7c of the changeover switch 7 is in the state of FIG. 9B, the control unit 20 sets the movable contact 7c to the changeover switch 7. Send control signal SG4 to open. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 9C is obtained. In this state, the expansion of the conductive polymer layer 4 stops, and the conductive polymer layer 4 maintains the shape as it is. Therefore, the operation button 10 formed on the surface protection member 15 maintains the convex state. No electric power is required to maintain the convex state. The state of FIG. 9C is an input standby state of the operation button 10.

  When the operator presses the playback button 10-2, the detection panel 17 detects that the playback button 10-2 has been pressed, and sends a detection signal SG5 to the control unit 20.

  When the control unit 20 receives the detection signal SG5, the control unit 20 performs a process of playing back the video.

  At the same time, the control unit 20 sends a control signal SG6 for switching the movable contact 18b to the switches 18, 18 'so that only the conductive polymer layer 4-2 corresponding to the reproduction button 10-2 can be energized.

  Further, the control unit 20 controls the changeover switch 7 to switch the movable contact 7 c so that the conductive polymer layer 4 is connected to the anode of the second DC power supply 22 and the lower electrode 5 is connected to the cathode of the second DC power supply 22. Send signal SG7. Thereby, the cation doped in the conductive polymer layer 4 is dedoped, the volume of the conductive polymer layer 4 is reduced, and the state shown in FIG. 9D is obtained.

  As a result, only the reproduction button 10-2 is retracted, and the other operation buttons 10-1, 3 to 16 are kept in a convex state (the state shown in FIG. 7C).

  After a predetermined time (time required for the conductive polymer layer 4 to contract) has elapsed since the movable contact 7c of the changeover switch 7 is in the state of FIG. 9D, the control unit 20 sets the movable contact 7c to the changeover switch 7. Send control signal SG8 to open. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 9E is obtained.

  When a predetermined time elapses after the playback button 10-2 is pressed (for example, a short time within 1 second is desirable), the control unit 20 causes the conductive polymer corresponding to the playback button 10-2 to the switches 18, 18 '. A control signal for switching the movable contact 18b is sent so that all the conductive polymer layers 4-1 and 3-16 other than the layer 4-2 can be energized.

  At the same time, the control unit 20 sets the movable contact 7 c to the changeover switch 7 so as to connect the conductive polymer layer 4 to the anode of the second DC power supply 22 and the lower electrode 5 to the cathode of the second DC power supply 22. A control signal for switching is sent (state shown in FIG. 9D). Thereby, the volume of all the conductive polymer layers 4 decreases. As a result, all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16-16 are retracted (state shown in FIG. 7D).

  After a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 7c of the changeover switch 7 is in the state of FIG. 9D, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for opening the movable contact 7c to the changeover switch 7 (state of FIG. 9A).

  Immediately thereafter, the control unit 20 energizes only the conductive polymer layers 4-1, 3-8 that form the operation buttons 10-1, 3-8 related to the playback button 10-2 with respect to the switches 18, 18 '. A control signal for switching the movable contact 18b is sent so as to be able to.

  Further, the control unit 20 controls the changeover switch 7 to switch the movable contact 7 c so that the conductive polymer layer 4 is connected to the cathode of the first DC power supply 21 and the lower electrode 5 is connected to the anode of the first DC power supply 21. Send a signal (state of FIG. 9B). As a result, only the operation buttons 10-1, 3-8 related to the reproduction button 10-2 appear (the state of FIG. 7E).

  After a predetermined time elapses after the control unit 20 outputs a control signal for switching the movable contact 7c, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for opening the movable contact 7c to the changeover switch 7 (state shown in FIG. 9C).

  When the operator presses the stop button 10-6, the detection panel 17 detects that the stop button 10-6 has been pressed and sends a detection signal to the control unit 20.

  When the control unit 20 receives this detection signal, the control unit 20 performs processing for stopping the video.

  In parallel with this, the control unit 20 performs the same control as that when the reproduction button 10-2 is pressed, and retracts the stop button 10-6 (state of FIG. 7F).

  After the stop button 10-6 is operated, all the operation buttons 10-1 to 10-16 are to be operated. Therefore, after the control unit 20 performs the stop process, all the operation buttons 10 that are once convex. -1 to 16 are retracted (state shown in FIG. 7G), and all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16 are made to appear (state shown in FIG. 7H).

  The control for retracting all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16-16 having a convex shape is a control for retracting all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16 having a convex shape after pressing the reproduction button 10-2. It is the same.

  Further, the control for causing all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16 to appear is the same as the control for causing all the operation buttons 10-1 to 16 to appear when the viewer is opened.

  When the viewer is closed, the detection switch 23 detects that the viewer is closed and sends a detection signal to the control unit 20.

  Upon receiving this detection signal, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for closing all the movable contacts 18b to the switches 18, 18 'so that all the conductive polymer layers 4 can be energized.

  Further, the control unit 20 controls the changeover switch 7 to switch the movable contact 7 c so that the conductive polymer layer 4 is connected to the anode of the second DC power supply 22 and the lower electrode 5 is connected to the cathode of the second DC power supply 22. Send a signal. As a result, the volume of all the conductive polymer layers 4 is reduced, and all the operation buttons 10 are retracted (state shown in FIG. 9D).

  Then, the control part 20 sends the control signal which opens the movable contact 7c with respect to the changeover switch 7 (state of FIG. 9E). As a result, the touch input device 1 returns to the initial state (the state shown in FIG. 9A).

  Next, the operational feeling of the touch input device according to the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a graph showing the reaction force applied to the operator's finger that changes with time during the operation of the touch input device and the height of the operation button that changes with time.

  In FIG. 10, the origin 0 at time t is when the operator starts to press the operation button 10 from the input standby state. The change in the height x of the operation button 10 was a change from the input standby state.

  In the stage (1) shown in FIG. 10, the changeover switch 7 is turned off, and the operation button 10 keeps the convex state. For this reason, even if the operation button 10 is pressed, the height x of the operation button 10 does not change, and the reaction force F applied to the finger increases monotonously.

  In the step (2) shown in FIG. 10, the detection panel 17 detects that the operation button 10 has been pressed, and the control unit 20 uses the conductive polymer layer 4 as the anode of the second DC power source 22 and the lower electrode 5 as shown in FIG. This is a stage in which the changeover switch 7 is controlled to be connected to the cathode of the second DC power supply 22. At this stage, the height x of the operation button 10 suddenly decreases, and the reaction force F applied to the finger decreases.

  Since the changeover switch 7 is turned off at the stage (3) shown in FIG. 10, the operation button 10 maintains the initial state (the height x of the operation button 10 is 0), and the reaction force F applied to the finger is Monotonically increasing.

  The Ft characteristic shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the Ft characteristic indicating the operation feeling of a general push button, and it can be seen that the same operation feeling as that of a general mechanical push button switch can be obtained.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the basic operation of the touch input device shown in FIG.

  A process until the touch-type input device 1 gives a feeling of operation to the operator will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, when the operation button 10 is raised to a predetermined height, the control unit 20 stops energizing the conductive polymer layer 4 and the lower electrode 5 (step S1). Thereafter, the convex state of the operation button 10 is maintained, and the operation button 10 enters an input standby state.

  Next, the operation button 10 is pressed to input (pressurize) (step S2; the state of steps S1 to S2 is the stage (1) in FIG. 10).

  The detection panel 17 detects which operation button 10 has been pressed, and sends a detection signal to the control unit 20 (step S3).

  When the control unit 20 receives this detection signal, the control unit 20 energizes the conductive polymer layer 4 and the lower electrode 5 so as to contract the conductive polymer layer 4 that forms the pressed operation button 10 (step S4). ).

  As a result, the operation button 10 is retracted. At this time, an operational feeling is obtained through the fingertip (step S5; steps S3 to S5 are the stage (2) in FIG. 10).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the operator can obtain the same operational feeling as when pressing a mechanical push button and can improve operability.

  Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a modification of the first embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a graph showing a change in height of the operation button when AC power is applied to the conductor pattern and the lower electrode. .

  Since this modified example has almost the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted. Only the components having different configurations will be described.

  The changeover switch (also serving as the first voltage application unit and the second voltage application unit) 107 of the touch input device according to this modification has a third fixed contact 107d. The third fixed contact 107d is connected to the lower electrode 5 through an AC power supply 124. The change-over switch 107 includes a movable contact 7c that contacts the first fixed contact 7a, a second fixed contact point 7b, a third fixed contact 107d, or any fixed contact 7a, 7b, There are four modes of not touching 107d.

  When the movable contact 7 c comes into contact with the third fixed contact 107 d, an AC voltage is applied between the conductor pattern 2 and the lower electrode 5. As a result, the conductive polymer layer 4 repeatedly expands and contracts, so that the height x of the operation button 10 changes as shown in FIG. That is, the operation button 10 vibrates.

  According to the modification of the first embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained, and the input operation area and the other areas can be easily identified by vibrating the operation button 10. Can do.

  14 is an exploded perspective view of the touch input device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along XV-XV in FIG. 14, and FIG. 16 is an electrolyte holding device of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a circuit diagram of the touch-type input device shown in FIG.

  Since the second embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the first embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted. explain.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, in the touch input device 201 of the second embodiment, an upper electrode (third electrode) 225 is formed on the lower surface of the surface protective layer 15.

  In the second embodiment, the detection panel 17 employed in the first embodiment is deleted.

  As shown in FIG. 17, in the second embodiment, the changeover switch 207 (which serves as both the first voltage application unit and the third voltage application unit) has a third fixed contact 207e. The third fixed contact 207 e is connected to the upper electrode 225 via the AC power source 226. The changeover switch 207 includes a movable contact 7c that contacts the first fixed contact 7a, a second fixed contact point 7b, a third fixed contact 207e, or any fixed contact 7a, 7b, There are four modes of not touching 207e.

  18 is an equivalent circuit diagram of the upper layer portion of the touch input device shown in FIG. 14, FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. 14, and FIG. 20 is an operation of the touch input device shown in FIG. 20A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 20B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, FIG. 20C is a sectional view in a convex holding state, and FIG. 20D is a sectional view in a convex release state. 20E is a sectional view of the initial state.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the touch input device according to the second embodiment includes a control unit 20, a changeover switch 207, switches 18 and 18 ′, a detection unit 227, and a detection switch 23.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the detection unit 227 is an ammeter that measures the value of the alternating current flowing between the conductor pattern 2 and the upper electrode 225 and outputs a detection signal.

  The control of the second embodiment is almost the same as the control of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, which operation button 10 is pressed using a dedicated detection panel 17 such as a touch panel. In the second embodiment, the pressed operation button 10 is detected by detecting the conductivity of the conductive polymer layer 4 forming the pressed operation button 10.

  The operation of the touch input device according to the second embodiment will be specifically described below.

  Until the viewer opens and the operation button 10 appears, that is, the control from FIGS. 20A to 20B is the same as the control from FIGS. 9A to 9B.

  After a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 7c of the changeover switch 207 is in the state shown in FIG. 20B, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for bringing the movable contact 7c into contact with the third fixed contact 207e. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 20C is obtained. In this state, no voltage is applied between the conductive polymer layer 4 and the lower electrode 5. Therefore, since no ions are exchanged between the conductive polymer layer 4 and the electrolyte layer 3, the operation button 10 maintains a convex state without vibrating. The state of FIG. 20C is an input standby state of the operation button 10.

  When the operator presses the operation button 10, the conductivity of the conductive polymer layer 4 that forms the pressed operation button 10 changes, and the value of the current flowing between the conductor pattern 2 and the upper electrode 225 changes. The detection unit (ammeter) 227 connected to the conductive polymer layer 4 whose conductivity has changed detects a change in current value and sends this detection signal to the control unit 20.

  When the control unit 20 receives this detection signal, the control unit 20 connects the conductive polymer layer 4 to the anode of the second DC power source 22 and the lower electrode 5 to the cathode of the second DC power source 22 with respect to the changeover switch 207. A control signal for switching the movable contact 7c is sent. Thereby, the volume of the conductive polymer layer 4 is reduced, and the pressed operation button 10 is retracted, and the state shown in FIG. 20D is obtained.

  After a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 7c of the changeover switch 7 is in the state shown in FIG. 20D, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for opening the movable contact 7c to the changeover switch 207. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 20E is obtained.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control unit of the touch input device.

  As shown in FIG. 21, when the operation button 10 is raised to a predetermined height, the control unit 20 stops energizing the conductive polymer layer 4 and the lower electrode 5 (step S1).

  Next, the control unit 20 applies an AC voltage between the conductive polymer layer 4 and the upper electrode 225 (step S2). Thereafter, the convex state of the operation button 10 is maintained, and the operation button 10 enters an input standby state.

  Next, the operation button 10 is pressed to perform an input (pressurization) operation (step S3).

  At this time, the conductivity of the conductive polymer layer 4 that forms the pressed operation button 10 changes (step S4). The detection unit 227 connected to the conductive polymer layer 4 detects a change in current value and sends a detection signal to the control unit 20 (step S5). The control unit 20 detects from which detection unit 227 the detection signal is sent (step S6). Thereafter, the control unit 20 energizes the conductive polymer layer 4 and the lower electrode 5 so as to contract the conductive polymer layer 4 forming the pressed operation button 10 (step S7).

  As a result, the operation button 10 is retracted. At this time, an operational feeling is obtained (step S8).

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, not only the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained, but also the dedicated detection panel 17 can be deleted.

  FIG. 22 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a modification of the second embodiment.

  A change-over switch (also serving as a first voltage application unit, a second voltage application unit, and a third voltage application unit) 207 ′ of the touch input device 201 ′ according to this modification includes a fourth fixed contact 207d. The fourth fixed contact 207d is connected to the lower electrode 5 via the AC power source 224. Whether the movable contact 7c is in contact with the first fixed contact 7a, the second fixed contact point 7b, or the third fixed contact 207e and the fourth fixed contact 207d alternately Alternatively, there are four modes of not contacting any of the fixed contacts 7a, 7b, 207e, and 207d.

  When an operation button (not shown) of the touch input device 201 ′ is in an input standby state, the control unit (not shown) alternately brings the movable contact 7c into contact with the third fixed contact 207e and the fourth fixed contact 207d. . Therefore, the input standby state is maintained while the operation button vibrates. Both the time for which the movable contact 7c is in contact with the third fixed contact 207e and the time for which the movable contact 7c is in contact with the fourth fixed contact 207d are extremely short, but the movable contact 7c is in contact with the fourth fixed contact. The time in which the movable contact 7c is in contact with 207d is longer than the time in which the movable contact 7c is in contact with the third fixed contact 207e. Therefore, the uncomfortable feeling caused by the intermittent vibration state can be alleviated.

  According to this modification, the effects of the second embodiment can be obtained, and the input operation area and other areas can be easily identified by the operation button vibrating.

  23 is an exploded perspective view of the touch input device according to the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 23, and FIG. 25 is a sheet of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 26 is a circuit diagram of the touch input device shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the touch input device 301 of the third embodiment includes a first conductor pattern (first electrode) 302, a plurality of electrolyte layers 303, a plurality of first conductive polymer layers 304, and Two conductive patterns (second electrodes) 305, a plurality of second conductive polymer layers 306, and a changeover switch (first voltage applying means) 307 (see FIG. 26).

  The first conductor pattern 302 is formed on the upper surface of the sheet 331. As shown in FIG. 25, the sheet 331 has a plurality of conductive polymer formation areas 331b. One end portion of the conductor pattern 302 enters the conductive polymer forming area 331b. The sheet 331 may be an insulator, and a plastic film such as PET, polycarbonate, or polyimide can be used.

  The first conductive polymer layer 304 is provided in the conductive polymer formation area 331 b on the upper surface of the sheet 331. Therefore, a part of the first conductive polymer layer 304 overlaps with one end portion of the first conductor pattern 302 and is connected to the first conductor pattern 302.

  The first conductive polymer layer 304 preferably has a relatively large anion (anion) such as dodecylbenzenesulfonate ion or anionic polymer as a dopant. In the third embodiment, polypyrrole having dodecylbenzenesulfonate ion as a dopant is used as the first conductive polymer layer 304.

  The electrolyte layer 303 is formed on the first conductive polymer layer 304. As the electrolyte layer 303, the same layer as the electrolyte layer 3 of the first embodiment can be used.

  The second conductor pattern 305 is formed on the lower surface of the surface protection material 315. As the surface protective material 315, the same material as the surface protective material 15 of the first embodiment can be used.

  The second conductive polymer layer 306 is provided on the lower surface of the surface protective material 315. A part of the second conductive polymer layer 306 overlaps with one end portion of the second conductor pattern 305 and is connected to the second conductor pattern 305.

  The second conductive polymer layer 306 preferably has a relatively small anion (anion) such as a chloride ion as a dopant. In the third embodiment, polypyrrole having a chloride ion as a dopant is used as the second conductive polymer layer 306.

  An adhesive material 332 is printed on the upper surface of the sheet 331. As shown in FIG. 24, when the adhesive 332 is printed, a hole 332a for accommodating the first and second conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 and the electrolyte layer 303 is formed. A surface protective material 315 on which the second conductive polymer layer 306 and the conductor pattern 305 are formed is attached to the sheet 331 by the adhesive material 332.

  The detection panel 17 is attached to the lower surface of the sheet 331 through an adhesive material 333.

  As shown in FIG. 26, the changeover switch 307 has a first fixed contact 307a, a second fixed contact 307b, and a movable contact 307c. The first fixed contact 307 a is connected to the cathode side terminal 321 b of the first DC power supply 321. The anode terminal 321a of the first DC power supply 321 is connected in parallel to the switches 19 and 19 ′. The switches 19 and 19 ′ are connected to the second conductive polymer layer 306 through the second conductor pattern 305. The second fixed contact 307 b is connected to the anode side terminal 322 a of the second DC power supply 322. The cathode side terminal 322b of the second DC power source 322 is connected in parallel to the switches 19 and 19 '. The changeover switch 307 has three modes in which the movable contact 307c contacts the first fixed contact 307a, the second fixed contact 307b, or does not contact any of the fixed contacts 307a and 307b. Switches 18 and 18 'are connected in parallel to the movable contact 307c.

  Next, the assembly procedure of this touch type input device will be described.

  First, the first conductor pattern 302 is formed of silver, carbon, ITO, conductive rubber or the like on the upper surface of the sheet 331, and then a portion outside the conductive polymer formation area 331b is masked to form a conductive polymer formation area 331b. A polypyrrole is formed inside, and this is used as the first conductive polymer layer 304. Dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid was used as a dopant contained in the first conductive polymer layer 304.

  Next, the electrolyte layer 303 is formed over the first conductive polymer layer 304. The method for forming the electrolyte layer 303 is the same as the method for forming the electrolyte layer 3 of the first embodiment.

  Thereafter, a second conductor pattern 305 and a second conductive polymer layer 306 are formed on the lower surface of the surface protection member 315. These forming methods are the same as the forming method of the first conductor pattern 302 and the first conductive polymer layer 304. However, chloride ions were used as a dopant contained in the second conductive polymer layer 306.

  Next, after masking the adhesive material 332 so as not to be formed around the first and second conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 and the electrolyte layer 303, the adhesive material 332 is applied onto the sheet 331.

  Thereafter, a surface protective material 315 is stretched on the adhesive material 332. When the surface protective material 315 is pressurized, the second conductive polymer layer 306 and the electrolyte layer 303 are joined.

  Finally, the laminate formed on the sheet 331 by the above-described process is attached to the upper surface of the detection panel 17 via the adhesive material 333.

  The touch input device of the third embodiment is assembled by the above steps.

  27 is a block diagram of a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. 23, FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch input device shown in FIG. 23, and FIG. 28A is a sectional view in an initial state, 28B is a cross-sectional view in the convex formation state, FIG. 28C is a cross-sectional view in the convex holding state, FIG. 28D is a cross-sectional view in the convex release state, and FIG. 28E is a cross-sectional view in the initial state.

  As shown in FIG. 27, the touch-type input device of the third embodiment includes a control unit 20, a changeover switch 307, switches 18, 18 ′, 19, 19 ′, a detection panel 17, and a detection switch 23.

  In the first embodiment, a voltage is applied between the conductive polymer layer 4 connected to the conductor pattern 2 and the lower electrode 5, whereas in the third embodiment, the first conductor pattern 302 and A voltage is applied between the first conductive polymer layer 304 and the second conductive polymer layer 306 through the second conductor pattern 305.

  In the first embodiment, two switches 18, 18 'are provided. In the third embodiment, four switches 18, 18', 19, 19 'are provided. This difference is due to the fact that the conductive polymer layer 3 of the first embodiment is a single layer, whereas the conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 of the third embodiment are two layers. In the third embodiment, in order to control the conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 of each layer, it is necessary to provide switches 18, 18 ′, 19 and 19 ′ in each layer. However, the switches 19 and 19 ′ have the same configuration as the switches 18 and 18 ′, and the switch 19 can operate in the same manner as the switch 18, and the switch 19 ′ can operate in the same manner as the switch 18 ′.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the touch input device according to the third embodiment will be described.

  Until the viewer opens and the operation button 10 appears, that is, the control from FIGS. 28A to 28B is the same as the control from FIGS. 9A to 9B.

  As shown in FIG. 28B, the changeover switch is connected so that the first conductive polymer layer 304 is connected to the cathode of the first DC power supply 321 and the second conductive polymer layer 306 is connected to the anode of the first DC power supply 321. When 307 is switched, the first conductive polymer layer 304 is doped with cations in the electrolyte layer 303 to increase the volume of the first conductive polymer layer 304, and the second conductive polymer layer 304 The volume of the second conductive polymer layer 306 increases due to the anion of the electrolyte layer 303 being doped into the layer 306.

  The control unit 20 sends a control signal for opening the movable contact 307c to the changeover switch 307 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 307c of the changeover switch 307 entered the state of FIG. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 28C is obtained. In this state, no voltage is applied between the first conductive polymer layer 304 and the second conductive polymer layer electrolyte layer 306. Accordingly, since no ions are exchanged between the first and second conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 and the electrolyte layer 303, the operation button 10 maintains a convex state.

  When the operator presses the operation button 10, the detection panel 17 detects which operation button 10 is pressed, and sends this detection signal to the control unit 20.

  When the control unit 20 receives this detection signal, the control unit 20 sets the first conductive polymer layer 304 to the anode of the second DC power source 322 and the second conductive polymer layer 306 to the changeover switch 307. A control signal for switching the movable contact 307c is sent so as to be the cathode of the second DC power supply 322. As a result, the cation doped in the first conductive polymer layer 304 is dedoped to reduce the volume of the first conductive polymer layer 304, and in the second conductive polymer layer 306. The doped anion is dedoped and the volume of the second conductive polymer layer 306 is also reduced. As a result, the first and second conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 contract, and the pressed operation button 10 retracts, resulting in the state shown in FIG. 28D.

  The control unit 20 sends a control signal for opening the movable contact 307c to the changeover switch 307 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 307c of the changeover switch 307 is in the state of FIG. 28D. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 28E is obtained.

  According to the third embodiment, since the two conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 are used as well as the effects of the first embodiment, the deformation as a whole is more than when one conductive polymer layer is used. The amount can be increased, and a better operational feeling can be obtained. Further, since the response speed of deformation does not decrease compared to the method of increasing the amount of deformation by increasing the thickness of one conductive polymer layer, a better operational feeling can be obtained in this respect as well.

  Next, a modification of the third embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 29 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a first modification of the third embodiment.

  Since this modification has almost the same configuration as that of the third embodiment, the same reference numerals as those of the third embodiment are assigned to the same components, and the description thereof is omitted, and only the components having different configurations will be described.

  In the touch input device 301 ′ according to this modification, the detection panel 17 is deleted, and instead, as shown in FIG. 29, a substrate 334 having a lower electrode (third electrode) 335 formed on the lower surface of the sheet 331. (See FIG. 32) is adhered by an adhesive 333.

  In addition, the changeover switch (also serving as the first voltage applying unit and the third voltage applying unit) 307 ′ of the touch input device 301 ′ according to this modification includes a third fixed contact 307e. The third fixed contact 307e is connected to the lower electrode 335 via the AC power source 326.

  30 is a block diagram of a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. 29, FIG. 31 is an equivalent circuit diagram of a lower layer portion of the touch input device shown in FIG. 29, and FIG. 32 is an operation of the touch input device shown in FIG. 32A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 32B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, FIG. 32C is a sectional view in a convex holding state, and FIG. 32D is a sectional view in a convex release state. 32E is a sectional view of the initial state.

  As shown in FIG. 30, the touch input device according to this modification includes a control unit 20, a changeover switch 307 ′, switches 18, 18 ′, 19, 19 ′, a detection unit 327, and a detection switch 23.

  As shown in FIG. 31, the detection unit 327 is an ammeter that measures the value of an alternating current flowing between the lower electrode 335 and the first conductor pattern 302 and outputs a detection signal.

  The control of this modification is almost the same as the control of the third embodiment. The difference is that in the third embodiment, the operation button 10 that is pressed is detected by the detection panel 17 dedicated to detection. In the first modification of the embodiment, the pressed operation button 10 is detected by detecting the change in the conductivity of the first conductive polymer layer 304 forming the pressed operation button 10.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the touch input device of this modification will be specifically described.

  The control from FIG. 32A to FIG. 32B is the same as the control from FIG. 28A to FIG. 28B until the viewer opens and the operation button 10 appears.

  After a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 307c of the changeover switch 307 ′ has reached the state shown in FIG. 32B, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for bringing the movable contact 307c into contact with the third fixed contact 307e to the changeover switch 307 ′. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 32C is obtained. In this state, no voltage is applied between the first conductive polymer layer 304 and the second conductive polymer layer 306. Therefore, ions are not exchanged between the first and second conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 and the electrolyte layer 303, and the operation button 10 maintains a convex state without vibrating. The state shown in FIG. 32C is an input standby state of the operation button 10.

  When the operator presses the operation button 10, the conductivity of the first conductive polymer layer 304 that forms the pressed operation button 10 changes, and the value of the current flowing between the lower electrode 335 and the conductor pattern 302 changes. The detection unit (ammeter) 327 detects a change in current value and sends this detection signal to the control unit 20.

  When the control unit 20 receives this detection signal, the control unit 20 uses the first conductive polymer layer 304 as the anode of the second DC power source 322 and the second conductive polymer layer 306 with respect to the changeover switch 307 ′. Is connected to the cathode of the second DC power source 322, a control signal for switching the movable contact 307c is sent. As a result, the cation doped in the first conductive polymer layer 304 is dedoped, the volume of the first conductive polymer layer 304 is reduced, and the second conductive polymer layer 306 is doped. The volume of the second conductive polymer layer 306 is reduced by dedoping the anions that have been formed. As a result, the first and second conductive polymer layers 304 and 306 contract, and the pressed operation button 10 retracts, resulting in the state shown in FIG. 32D.

  After a predetermined time has elapsed since the movable contact 307c of the changeover switch 307 ′ has reached the state shown in FIG. 32D, the control unit 20 sends a control signal for opening the movable contact 307c to the changeover switch 307 ′. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 32E is obtained.

  As described above, according to the modification of the third embodiment, not only the same effects as those of the third embodiment can be obtained, but also the dedicated detection panel 17 can be deleted.

  FIG. 33 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a second modification of the third embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 33, this modified example has substantially the same configuration as the first modified example, and therefore, the same reference numerals as those in the first modified example are given to the same parts of the configuration, and the description thereof is omitted. Only the differences will be described.

  The changeover switch 307 ″ (also serving as the first voltage application unit, the second voltage application unit, and the third voltage application unit) 307 ″ of the touch input device 301 ″ according to this modification is the fourth fixed contact 307d. Have The fourth fixed contact 307d is connected to the second conductor pattern 305 via the AC power source 324 and the switches 19 and 19 ′.

  According to this modified example, not only the same effect as the first modified example of the third embodiment can be obtained, but also the input operation region and other regions can be easily identified by the vibration of the operation button. can do.

  34 is a cross-sectional view of a touch input device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 35 is a plan view of a conductive polymer layer of the touch input device shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the touch input device 401 of the fourth embodiment includes a conductor pattern (first electrode) 402, a plurality of electrolyte layers 403, a plurality of conductive polymer layers 404, and an upper electrode (second electrode). Electrode) 405 and a changeover switch (first and third voltage applying means) 407 (see FIG. 36).

  The conductor pattern 402 is formed on the upper surface of the sheet 441. The sheet 441 is attached to the lower electrode 443 formed over the entire top surface of the substrate 442 via an adhesive material 444.

  The conductive polymer layer 404 is formed on the sheet 441 and connected to the conductor pattern 402. A plurality of holes 404 a are formed in the conductive polymer layer 404.

  The electrolyte layer 403 includes a plate-like portion 403a, a columnar portion 403b, and a side wall portion 403c. The plate-like portion 403 a is disposed on the upper surface of the conductive polymer layer 404. The columnar portion 403b is accommodated in the hole 404a. The side wall part 403 c is formed at the peripheral edge of the plate-like part 403 a and covers the periphery of the conductive polymer layer 404.

  The upper electrode 405 is formed on the entire lower surface of the surface protective material 15. The upper electrode 405 is attached to the sheet 441 via an adhesive material 445 printed on the sheet 441.

  36 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 34. FIG. 36A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 36B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, and FIG. 36C is a convex holding state. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 36, the changeover switch 407 of the fourth embodiment is the same as the changeover switch 207 of the second embodiment, and includes a first fixed contact 407a, a second fixed contact 407b, and a third fixed contact 407e. And a movable contact 407c. The first fixed contact 407 a is connected to the cathode side terminal 421 b of the first DC power supply 421. The anode side terminal 421 a of the first DC power supply 421 is connected to the upper electrode 405. The second fixed contact 407 b is connected to the anode side terminal 422 a of the second DC power supply 422. The cathode terminal 422b of the second DC power supply 422 is connected to the upper electrode 405. The changeover switch 407 includes a movable contact 407c that contacts the first fixed contact 407a, a second fixed contact 407b, a fixed contact 407e, or any fixed contact 407a, 407b, 407e. There are four modes of not contacting. The movable contact 407c is connected to the conductor pattern 402 via a switch (not shown) similar to the switches 18 and 18 'of the second embodiment.

  Since the operation of the fourth embodiment is almost the same as that of the second embodiment, only the basic operation will be described.

  When the control unit (not shown) switches the changeover switch 407 from the initial state shown in FIG. 36A to bring the movable contact 407c into contact with the first fixed contact 407a, the volume of the conductive polymer layer 404 increases, and FIG. As shown in FIG.

  After a predetermined time has elapsed since the convex formation state shown in FIG. 36B, the control unit (not shown) switches the changeover switch 407 so that the movable contact 407c is brought into contact with the third contact 407e. As a result, the touch input device 401 is in the convex holding state shown in FIG. 36C. This state is an input standby state.

  As described above, the operation from the initial state body to the convex holding state of the fourth embodiment is the same as the operation from the initial state body to the convex holding state of the second embodiment, and the fourth embodiment other than this. The operation of the embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment.

  According to the fourth embodiment, not only can the same effect as the second embodiment be obtained, but even if the thickness of the conductive polymer layer is increased to increase the amount of deformation, the response speed does not decrease. A better operational feeling can be obtained. Moreover, since the number of parts is small compared to the method of increasing the amount of deformation using two conductive polymer layers, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  FIG. 37 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a touch input device according to a modification of the fourth embodiment, in which FIG. 37A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 37B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, FIG. 37C is a cross-sectional view of the convex holding state.

Since this modified example has almost the same configuration as that of the fourth embodiment, the same components as those of the fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the fourth embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted. Only the components having different configurations are described. The changeover switch 407 ′ (also serving as the first voltage application unit, the second voltage application unit, and the third voltage application unit) 407 ′ of the touch input device 401 ′ according to the example has a fourth fixed contact 407 d. The fourth fixed contact 407d is connected to the upper electrode 405 via an AC power source 424.

  According to this modification, the effects of the fourth embodiment can be obtained, and the input operation area and other areas can be easily identified by the operation button vibrating.

  As another modification of the fourth embodiment, the substrate 442 on which the lower electrode 443 is formed may be deleted, and a detection panel may be provided on the lower surface of the sheet 441 instead.

  FIG. 38 is a sectional view of a touch input device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 39 is a plan view of a conductive pattern of the touch input device shown in FIG.

  Since the fifth embodiment has almost the same configuration as the second embodiment, the same components as those of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the second embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted. Only the different components are described. To do.

  As shown in FIGS. 38 and 39, the conductor pattern 502 of the touch input device 501 of the fifth embodiment has a grid-like portion 502a. The lattice portion 502 a is embedded in the lower surface of the conductive polymer layer 4.

  According to the fifth embodiment, not only the same effect as in the second embodiment can be obtained, but also the conduction efficiency to the conductive polymer layer 4 is high, so the expansion and contraction of the conductive polymer layer 4 is efficient. Can be done well.

  FIG. 40 is a sectional view of a touch input device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

  Since the sixth embodiment has substantially the same configuration as that of the second embodiment, the same components as those of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the second embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted. Only the different components are described. To do.

  As shown in FIG. 40, a conductive auxiliary material 60 is disposed on the upper surface of the conductive polymer layer 4 of the touch input device 601 of the sixth embodiment. The conductive auxiliary material 60 is connected to the conductor pattern 2.

  According to the sixth embodiment, not only the same effect as in the second embodiment can be obtained, but also the conduction efficiency to the conductive polymer layer 4 is high, so that the expansion and contraction of the conductive polymer layer 4 is efficient. Can be done well.

  In the above-described embodiment, the operation button 10 is controlled to be retracted when the operation button 10 is pressed. However, the operation button 10 may be controlled to protrude when the operation button 10 is pressed. .

  Moreover, although the case where this invention was applied to the touch-type input device for digital video cameras was described in the above-mentioned embodiment, this invention is not limited to this and can be widely applied to the touch-type input device in general.

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a touch input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the electrolyte holding layer of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the surface protective material of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of a switch of the touch input device shown in FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7A is a perspective view in an initial state, FIG. 7B is a perspective view in an input standby state, and FIG. 7D is a perspective view in a reset state, FIG. 7E is a perspective view in a limited input standby state, FIG. 7F is a perspective view in a state where a stop button is pressed, FIG. 7G is a perspective view in a reset state, and FIG. Is a perspective view in an input standby state, and FIG. 7I is a perspective view in an initial state. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 9A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 9B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, and FIG. 9C is a sectional view in a convex holding state. FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view of the convex release state, and FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional view of the initial state. FIG. 10 is a graph showing the reaction force applied to the operator's finger that changes with time during the operation of the touch input device and the height of the operation button that changes with time. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the basic operation of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a graph showing a change in height of the operation button when an AC power supply is applied to the conductor pattern and the lower electrode. FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a touch input device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along line XV-XV in FIG. FIG. 16 is a plan view of the electrolyte holding layer of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a circuit diagram of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is an equivalent circuit diagram of the upper layer portion of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 14, in which FIG. 20A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 20B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, and FIG. FIG. 20D is a sectional view in a convex release state, and FIG. 20E is a sectional view in an initial state. FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control unit of the touch input device. FIG. 22 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a touch input device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. 24 is a sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 25 is a plan view of the sheet of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 26 is a circuit diagram of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 27 is a block diagram of a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 23. FIG. 28A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 28B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, and FIG. FIG. 28D is a sectional view in a convex release state, and FIG. 28E is a sectional view in an initial state. FIG. 29 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a first modification of the third embodiment. 30 is a block diagram of a control system of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 31 is an equivalent circuit diagram of the lower layer portion of the touch input device shown in FIG. 32 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 29. FIG. 32A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 32B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, and FIG. FIG. 32D is a sectional view in a convex release state, and FIG. 32E is a sectional view in an initial state. FIG. 33 is a circuit diagram of a touch input device according to a second modification of the third embodiment. FIG. 34 is a sectional view of a touch input device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 is a plan view of the conductive polymer layer of the touch input device shown in FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of the touch-type input device shown in FIG. 34. FIG. 36A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 36B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, and FIG. 36C is a convex holding state. FIG. FIG. 37 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a touch input device according to a modification of the fourth embodiment, in which FIG. 37A is a sectional view in an initial state, FIG. 37B is a sectional view in a convex formation state, FIG. 37C is a cross-sectional view of the convex holding state. FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the touch input device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 39 is a plan view of the conductive pattern of the touch input device shown in FIG. FIG. 40 is a sectional view of a touch input device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

2,302,402,502 Conductor pattern (first electrode)
3,303,403 Electrolyte layer 4,404 Conductive polymer layer 304 First conductive polymer layer 404a Hole 5 Lower electrode (second electrode)
405 Upper electrode (second electrode)
306 Second conductive polymer layer 7,307 changeover switch (first voltage applying means)
107 changeover switch (first and second voltage applying means)
207, 307 ', 407 changeover switch (first and third voltage applying means)
307 ″, 407 ′ selector switch (first, second and third voltage applying means)
225 Upper electrode (third electrode)
335 Lower electrode (third electrode)

Claims (11)

A first electrode;
A conductive polymer layer connected to the first electrode;
An electrolyte layer disposed adjacent to the conductive polymer layer;
A second electrode disposed adjacent to the surface of the electrolyte layer opposite to the surface in contact with the conductive polymer layer;
A touch-type input device comprising: a first voltage applying unit that applies a first voltage for expanding or contracting the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes.   The touch-type input device according to claim 1, further comprising a second voltage applying unit that applies a second voltage for vibrating the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes. A third electrode disposed on the surface of the conductive polymer layer opposite to the surface in contact with the electrolyte layer via an insulator layer;
And a third voltage applying means for applying a third voltage for detecting a change in conductivity of the conductive polymer layer between the first and third electrodes. The touch input device according to 1 or 2. A first electrode;
A first conductive polymer layer connected to the first electrode;
An electrolyte layer disposed adjacent to the conductive polymer layer;
The second conductive layer is disposed adjacent to the surface of the electrolyte layer opposite to the surface in contact with the first conductive polymer layer, and is doped with an ion species different from the ion species doped in the first conductive polymer layer. A polymer layer;
A second electrode connected to the second conductive polymer layer;
A touch-type input device comprising: a first voltage applying unit that applies a first voltage for expanding or contracting both the conductive polymer layers between the first and second electrodes.   5. The touch input device according to claim 4, further comprising a second voltage applying unit that applies a second voltage for vibrating the both conductive polymer layers between the electrodes. A third electrode disposed on an opposite surface of the first or second conductive polymer layer to a surface in contact with the electrolyte layer via an insulator layer;
A third voltage for detecting a change in conductivity of the conductive polymer layer disposed adjacent to the insulator layer is applied between one of the first and second electrodes and the third electrode. The touch input device according to claim 4, further comprising: a third voltage applying unit configured to A first electrode;
A conductive polymer layer connected to the first electrode;
An electrolyte layer contained in a hole formed in the conductive polymer layer;
A second electrode disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer;
A touch-type input device comprising: a first voltage applying unit that applies a first voltage for expanding or contracting the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes.   The touch-type input device according to claim 7, further comprising a second voltage applying unit that applies a second voltage for vibrating the conductive polymer layer between the electrodes. A third electrode disposed on the other surface of the conductive polymer layer via an insulator layer;
And a third voltage applying means for applying a third voltage for detecting a change in conductivity of the conductive polymer layer between the first and third electrodes. The touch input device according to 7 or 8.   2. A control means for controlling the first voltage application means so as to change the thickness of the conductive polymer layer based on a pressure when the conductive polymer layer is pressed. 10. The touch input device according to any one of 9 above. A first step of detecting a pressure when the conductive polymer layer disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer is pressed;
Based on the magnitude of the detected pressure, the thickness of the polymer layer changes between the first electrode connected to the conductive polymer layer and the second electrode disposed adjacent to the electrolyte layer. And a second step of applying a polarity voltage. A control method for a touch input device.

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