BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a lever switch device for activating switches by
tilting an operating lever, and particularly to a multi-direction switch device that
may be utilized as a so-called joystick or the like having a lever tiltable in multiple
directions.
[0002] A switch device of such a type is used in, for example, a controller of a car navigation
system. For example, the device is used in such a manner that a display state is changed
by tilting a lever to the right side to scroll a map displayed on a monitor screen
in the right direction, and by tilting the lever to the upper side to scroll the map
in the upper direction.
[0003] In the switch device, a lever tiltable in multiple directions is provided, and a
plurality of switches are arranged at regular intervals around the lever. When the
lever is tilted, it presses and activates one of the switches.
[0004] Japanese Utility Model Publication (Kokai) No. Sho-61-201244/(1986), for example,
discloses a lever switch device of the sort mentioned above. As shown in Fig. 1, the
lever switch device is provided with an operating lever 72 comprising a substantially
hemispherical rotor 73 which slidably contacts a hemispherical guide face 71 of an
upper hollow portion of a housing 70 so as to be rotatably guided, the rotor 73 including
a sliding rod 74 which is slidably fitted into the rotor 73 and passed therethrough.
[0005] When the operating lever 72 is tilted from the neutral state, the sliding rod 74
and the rotor 73 are rotated an integral unit so that an operating pin 78 is pressed
down by the outer peripheral edge of the lower face of the rotor 73. When the outer
peripheral edge of the lower face of the rotor 73 is displaced by a predetermined
operating stroke, a switch 79 arranged under the operating pin 78 is activated and
when the operating lever 72 is released, it is restored to the neutral state by a
return spring 81.
[0006] Assuming that the operating pin 78 and the switch 79 are disposed at, for example,
right angles in four places: left, right, back and this sides, only the operating
pin 78 placed in the right-hand position is pressed down when the operating lever
72 is tilted to the right in Fig. 1. When the outer peripheral edge of the underside
of the rotor 73 is displaced by the predetermined operating stroke, only the switch
79 corresponding to the displacement is activated. When, however, the operating lever
79 is tilted in the direction between the right and back positions, the right operating
pin 78 and the back operating pin (not shown) are simultaneously pressed down. Which
one of both the operating pins causes the switch to be activated is determined by
the direction in which the operating lever 72 is tilted. In other words, the operating
lever 72 is tilted closer to the right position than what is at 45 degrees between
the right and back positions so as to activate and validate the switch at the right
position first on condition that the position-to-position operating strokes are equalized.
On the other hand, the operating lever 72 is tilted closer to the back position than
what is at 45 degrees therebetween to activate and validate the switch at the back
position first. Since the position-to-position operating strokes have conventionally
been made equal, the operating strokes capable of activating the switches by tilting
the operating lever are equalized at every position.
[0007] However, the actual situation is that when the position-to-position frequencies of
operation differ, it is desirable to set a wide operating range at a position where
the operation is frequently performed. Notwithstanding, the conventional arrangement
is unable to deal with such a situation as the operating range at each position is
uniform.
[0008] In order to obviate an unstable operation at the time two switches adjacent to each
other are simultaneously activated, there may be provided a circuit configuration
for regarding one of the switches as what has been activated when the two switches
are simultaneously activated. In a case where such a circuit configuration is furnished
in the conventional arrangement, the operating range for one switch becomes wider
than that of the other switch because the one switch is regarded as what has been
pressed if the operating lever is tilted in the intermediate direction between the
two switches adjacent to each other. Conversely, it is impossible to deal with the
desire for uniformizing operating ranges at every position.
[0009] Furthermore, in the above mentioned lever switch device, the plurality of switches
are interconnected into a matrix form as shown in Fig. 2 so as to constitute a switch
matrix circuit, and the switch matrix circuit is connected to input terminals R1
∼ R5 of a well-known remote control IC 1.
[0010] The remote control IC 1 has two output terminals T1, T2 through which timing signals
are applied to the switch matrix circuit, and functions as what converts parallel
signals applied to the data input terminals R1
∼ R5 in response to timing signals t1, t2 into serial signals which are then output
from a transmitting terminal (not shown). The switch matrix circuit applies parallel
data to the data input terminals R1
∼ R5 of the remote control IC 1 in accordance with the switch thus held ON when the
timing signal t1, t2 are received. The relationship between a pressed switch and data
bits is defined, for example, as shown in Table 1.
(Table 1)
State of SW |
t1 |
t2 |
d1 |
d2 |
d3 |
d4 |
d5 |
Upper is ON |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Right is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Lower is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
Left is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
Upper left is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
Lower left is ON |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
Lower right is ON |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
Upper right is ON |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
[0011] Table 1 shows that, in the case where the lever is tilted to the upper side and hence
the switch positioned on the upper side is pressed, the switch matrix circuit outputs
data "10000" to the input terminals R1
∼ R5 of the remote control IC 1 when the timing signal t1 is output from the timing
signal output terminal T1.
[0012] In a switch device of the sort mentioned above, because the lever can be tilted in
multiple directions, switches adjacent to each other may simultaneously be activated
according to some tilt directions of the lever.
[0013] In the conventional switch matrix circuit, the relationship between the group of
switches that are held ON and digital data applied to the remote control IC 1 is preset
as shown in Table 1. Accordingly, for example, where the switch on the upper side
and the switch on the upper left side are simultaneously pressed, the switch matrix
circuit outputs data "10001" when the timing signal t1 is output from the output terminal
T1. As seen from Table 1, however, data is not previously defined. Consequently, the
data code which is output through the transmitting terminal cannot be recognized and
there occurs a phenomenon in which the map is not scrolled in any direction.
[0014] Where the switch on the upper side and the switch on the upper right side are simultaneously
pressed, data "10000" is output when the timing signal t1 is output, whereas data
"00001" is output when the timing signal t2 is output. Since the data codes each indicating
that the switch on the upper side has been pressed and that the switch on the upper
right side has been pressed are output then, it is impossible to determine which one
of the switches has been pressed. Hence, the scroll direction remains undecided.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] An object of the present invention made in view of the foregoing problems is to provide
a lever switch device offering excellent operability by differentiating operating
ranges at every position as desired.
[0016] Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a multidirectional
lever switch device in which even when switches adjacent to each other are simultaneously
pressed, either of the switches can be determined to be operated and which ensures
excellent lever operability at the same time.
[0017] In order to accomplish the object above, a lever switch device according to the present
invention comprises an operating lever which can be operated in tilting directions,
a plurality of switch elements surrounding the operating lever, and operating units
whose displacement is interlocked with the operating lever, the operating unit activating
any one of the switches when displaced by a predetermined operating stroke in response
to the tilting of the operating lever, wherein the operating stroke of each operating
unit for activating the switch element is set different for some of the switch elements
other than the remaining ones.
[0018] An image on a display unit is scrolled in conformity with the tilting of the operating
lever, and one operating stroke for activating the switch element in a tilting direction
in which the image is scrolled up and down thereon is set shorter than what is set
therefor in another direction.
[0019] The operating lever is fitted in a longitudinal case, and an operating stroke for
activating the switch element in a slantwise tilting direction with respect to the
side of the case in the longitudinal direction is set shorter than what is set therefor
in another direction.
[0020] A multidirectional switch device comprises a lever tiltable in multiple directions,
a plurality of switches so located as to surround the lever, operating units, each
of which is displaced in interaction with the lever to operate any one of the switches
when it is displaced by a predetermined operating stroke in accordance with the tilting
of the lever, and a switch matrix circuit with a plurality of switches interconnected
into a matrix form, the switch matrix circuit being adapted for outputting digital
data indicating which one of the switches has been activated in conformity with the
direction in which the lever has been tilted. The operating stroke of a switch corresponding
to one tilting direction is set longer than those of both switches adjacent to the
one tilting direction. The digital data which is output from the switch matrix circuit
when a switch corresponding to any one of the tilting directions is activated is set
to conform to the logical sum of the digital data that are output when switches corresponding
to both tilting directions adjacent to one tilting direction are activated.
[0021] According to the invention, the operating unit whose displacement is interlocked
with the operating lever is capable of varying the operating stroke for activating
the corresponding switch, switch element by switch element. If the operating stroke
is shortened, the operating range where the switch element is activated is widened
by tilting the operating lever and if it is lengthened, the operating range is narrowed
thereby. Consequently, by varying the operating stroke, switch element by switch element,
the operating range can be varied, switch element by switch element. It is therefore
possible to vary the operating range for each switch element, depending on the frequency
of activating the switch element. In order to obviate an indefinite range when two
switches adjacent to each other are simultaneously pressed, the operating ranges for
the switch elements adjacent to each other can be equalized by making the operating
stroke for one switch element longer even when there is provided a circuit configuration
for always regarding the one switch element as what has been pressed.
[0022] The lever switch device according to the invention is employed for scrolling an image
on a display unit of a car navigation system, for example. Since the operating stroke
for the switch element for scrolling such an image in the vertical direction is set
shorter than another operating stroke in this case, the operating range of the operating
lever capable of scrolling the image in the vertical direction is set wider than another.
In other words, the operating range of the operating lever for a switch whose frequency
of operation is high becomes wide.
[0023] Further, according to the invention, the operating stroke for the switch element
in a slantwise tilting direction, that is, in the direction in which the operating
lever is not readily tilted with respect to the side of the case is set shorter than
what is set therefor in another direction, whereby the operating range of the operating
lever in the direction in which it is not readily tilted is made wider than another.
[0024] Moreover, according to the invention, when the lever is tilted in any one of the
directions to activate one switch corresponding thereto, output is digital data which
is the logical sum of the digital data that are output when switches corresponding
to both tilting directions adjacent to the one tilting direction are activated.
[0025] Assuming the tilting directions of the lever and the digital data from the switch
matrix circuit are set as shown in Table 2, for example, the following is output:
"1100" is output when the switch located on the upper side is activated; "1000" when
the switch located on the upper left side; and "0100" when the switch located on the
upper right side.
(Table 2)
State of SW |
t1 |
d1 |
d2 |
d3 |
d4 |
Upper is ON |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
Upper left is ON |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Left is ON |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
Lower left is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
Lower is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
Lower right is ON |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
Right is ON |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
Upper right is ON |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
[0026] In this case, the left and right upper directions are so related as to be adjacent
to the upper direction, and the data "1100" assigned to the upper direction is the
OR of the data "1000" assigned to the upper left direction and the data "0100" assigned
to the upper right direction.
[0027] On the assumption that the switches located on the upper and upper left sides are
simultaneously activated as the lever is tilted in the intermediate direction between
the upper and upper left directions, the data "1100" output when the upper switch
is pressed and the data "1000" output when the upper left switch is pressed are simultaneously
output. After all, however, the data "1100" is still output from the switch matrix
circuit since the d1 bits are the same. Even when the upper and upper left switches
are simultaneously pressed, the upper switch is regarded as what has been pressed
and no irregular operation will therefore ensue. When the lever is tilted in the intermediate
direction between the upper and upper right directions, the upper switch is also regarded
as what has been pressed and the switch device will be set free from such an irregular
operation as well.
[0028] Incidentally, the logical sum (OR) according to the present invention means the logical
sum OR in a broad sense, though it is synonymous with OR in a narrow sense in positive
logic and synonymous with AND in a narrow sense in negative logic. For example, the
data which is output when the upper switch is pressed may be "1011" as the narrow-sense
AND of the data above on condition that the data output resulting from pressing the
upper left switch is "0111" in negative logic and that the data output resulting from
pressing the upper right switch is "1011".
[0029] With the arrangement of the invention, the operating stroke with the respect to the
switch which has been set so that the OR of the output signals of the switches adjacent
to what has been mentioned previously is set longer than the operating strokes of
the switches adjacent thereto, whereby the tendency of making the operating range
for the switch corresponding to the preferential tilting direction is offset.
[0030] According to the invention, although it has been arranged that the digital data which
is output simultaneously with the activation of one switch corresponding to one tilting
direction is the OR of the digital data output when the switches adjacent to the one
switch are pressed, the operating ranges for every switch can be equalized by setting
longer the operating stroke of the one switch corresponding to the one tilting direction
than the operating strokes of the switches adjacent to the switches. Therefore, the
switches whose frequencies of operation are equal can be operated without spoiling
the operating feeling.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031]
Fig. 1 shows a vertical sectional view of a conventional lever switch;
Fig. 2 shows a circuit diagram showing a conventional switch matrix circuit;
Fig. 3 shows an exploded perspective overall view of a embodiment of the invention
of the present invention;
Fig. 4 shows a vertical sectional view of "upper right" and "lower left select switches
in the embodiment of Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 shows a vertical sectional view of "upper" and "lower" select switches in the
embodiment of Fig. 3;
Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a tilting holder 13 viewed from below in the embodiment
of Fig. 3;
Fig. 7 shows a vertical sectional view of select switches adjacent to each other in
the embodiment of Fig. 3;
Fig. 8 shows a vertical sectional view illustrating the operating state of the "upper
right" select switch in the embodiment of Fig. 1;
Fig. 9 shows a diagram illustrating an operating range for each select switch in the
embodiment of Fig. 1;
Fig. 10 shows a top view of a board indicating each stationary contact in the present
invention;
Fig. 11 shows a circuit diagram indicating a switch matrix circuit in the present
invention;
Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of the underside of a tilting holder in a second
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 13 shows a vertical sectional view of select switches adjacent to each other
in the present invention;
Fig. 14 shows an elevational view of an operating range in the second embodiment of
the present invention;
Fig. 15 shows a vertical sectional view of select switches adjacent to each other
with operating pins different in length;
Fig. 16 shows a vertical sectional view of select switches adjacent to each other
with the undersides of head portions of switch operating units different in thickness;
Fig. 17 shows a vertical sectional view of select switches adjacent to each other
with the head portions of switch operating units different in thickness; and
Fig. 18 shows a top view of the other embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
First Embodiment:
[0032] Referring Figs. 3 through 9 inclusive, a description will subsequently be given of
an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a lever switch device which
is applied to an operating panel in a vehicular navigation system.
[0033] As shown in Fig. 3, a printed board 2 is securely furnished in a shallow tray-like
square case 1, the printed board 2 having circuit components such as ICs, transistors,
resistors, capacitors and the like (not shown) fitted to its underside. On the surface
of the printed board 2, a pair of stationary contacts 3a for a set switch are disposed,
and eight pairs of stationary contacts 4a for select switches are arranged at regular
angular intervals of 45 degrees in a circle centering on the stationary contacts 3a
for the set switch.
[0034] A rubber switch cover 5 having electric insulating properties and elasticity is secured
to the surface of the printed board 2. The switch cover 5 as a whole is in the shape
of a square thin plate covering the entire face of the printed board 2. Switch operating
units 6 are formed at a total of nine positions each corresponding to the pair of
stationary contacts 3a for the set switch and the eight pairs of stationary contacts
4a for the select switches and protrude in such a way that they are usually separated
from the surface of the printed board 2.
[0035] As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, each operating unit 6 is uprightly tapered from the surface
of the switch cover 5 in such a way to surround the stationary contact 3a, 4a. A disk-like
movable short-circuit conductor 3b, 4b made of an electrically conductive rubber material
is secured to the back of a head portion 6a. The operating unit 6 is in the non-operating
state in which the movable short-circuit conductor 3b, 4b is separated from the stationary
contact 3a, 4a. When the head portion 6a is pressed down, there ensues its elastic
deformation, thus causing the movable short-circuit conductors 3b, 4b to contact both
the respective stationary contacts 3a, 4a, so that electrical continuity is established
between the stationary contacts 3a, 4a. When the head portion 6a is released from
the pressure applied thereto, moreover, the movable short-circuit conductor 3b, 4b
is separated from the stationary contact 3a, 4a due to the elastic restoring force
so as to restore the original non-operating state. Consequently, switch elements,
that is, the stationary contact 3a and the movable short-circuit conductor 3b constitute
one set switch 3, whereas the stationary contacts 3a and the movable short-circuit
conductors 4b form eight select switches 4.
[0036] Of the eight select switches 4 around the set switch 3 as viewed from above the case
1 in Fig. 3, what is positioned on the upper side is called a "upper" select switch
4; what is positioned on the lower side a "lower" select switch 4; what is positioned
on the right-hand side a "right" select switch 4; and what is positioned on the left-hand
side a "left" select switch 4. Further, what is positioned between the upper and right-hand
sides is called a "upper right" select switch 4; what is positioned between the upper
and left-hand sides a "upper left" select switch 4; what is positioned between the
lower and right-hand sides a "lower right" select switch 4; and what is positioned
between the lower and left-hand sides a "lower left" select switch 4, the same applying
to the following. When the "upper" select switch 4 is activated, the image displayed
on a display unit of a navigation system (not shown) is scrolled upward and when another
select switch 4 is activated likewise, the image is scrolled in the direction in which
the select switch 4 is positioned.
[0037] On the switch cover 5 is a base 7 concentric with a circle in which eight pairs of
select switches 4 around the set switch 3 are arranged, the base 7 being fixed in
such a state that its peripheral edge portion is positioned by a cover 17, which will
be described later. A cylindrical regulating upright portion 9 is integrally formed
on the surface side of a bottom plate 8 on the base 7, the diameter of the cylindrical
regulating upright portion 9 being slight larger than that of the circle in which
the select switches are arranged.
[0038] In the bottom plate 8 of the base 7 are relief portions 8a formed by recessing the
back of the bottom plate 8 so as to prevent the interference with the respective switch
operating units 6, the relief portions 8a at eight positions each corresponding to
the select switches 4. Further, guide holes 8b each communicating with the relief
portions 8a up to the surface of the bottom plate 8 are formed in the upper relief
portions 8a. An operating pin 10 having a presser portion 10a at its lower end is
inserted into the relief portion 8a in such a state that the upper end of the operating
pin 10 has been projected from the guide hole 8b toward the surface side of the bottom
plate 8, whereby the presser portion 10a is allowed to move within the relief portion
8a in a direction perpendicular to the printed board 2. Incidentally, the operating
pin 10 is normally pushed up because of the elastic restoring force of the operating
unit 6 and the presser portion 10a is held on the ceiling of the relief portion 8a.
[0039] In the center of the bottom plate 8, a square through-hole 8c is opened so as to
surround the set switch 3, and support shafts 11 are each provided at a pair of hole
edges of the through-hole 8c out of those facing each other. The axial line of the
support shafts 11 are passed through the center of the circle in which the eight pairs
of select switches 4 are arranged on the printed board 2.
[0040] A square cylinder-like bearing bracket 12 is provided for the base 7, and bearing
holes 12a, 12b are formed in the opposite sides of the bearing bracket 12. The support
shafts 11 are fitted into the bearing holes 12a, and a rotary shaft 13a projecting
from the lower end of a tilting holder 13 is fitted into the bearing holes 12b, whereby
the tilting holder 13 is passed through the center of the circle in which the eight
pairs of select switches 4 are disposed and rotatably supported with intersecting
two axes. Further, the tilting holder 13 is made tiltable in any direction around
the center of the circle in which the eight pairs of select switches 4 are arranged
with the neutral posture perpendicular to the printed board 2 as a core.
[0041] A flange 14 is, as shown in Fig. 6, formed on the outer periphery of the tilting
holder 13. In the underside of the flange 14, there are formed recess portions 14a
each corresponding to the "upper right," "lower right," "upper left" and "lower left"
select switches 4 out of the eight pairs of them. In the neutral state of the tilting
holder 13 set perpendicular to the printed board 2, the upper ends of the "upper,"
"lower," "left" and "right" operating pins 10 out of eight of them fitted into the
tilting holder 13 each abut against non-recessed portions on the underside of the
flange 14, whereas the upper ends of the "upper right," "lower right," "upper left"
and "lower left" select switches 10 each have gaps with the underside of the flange
14 (see Fig. 7). As shown in Fig. 3, moreover, the tilting holder 13 is provided with
a support hole 13b in cruciform section passing therethrough and ranging from the
upper edge face up to the lower one along the direction of length thereof. A notch
13c is formed at the lower end of the tilting holder 13, and allowed to engage with
a retaining portion 15a of an operating lever 15, which will be described later.
[0042] An operating lever 15 is provided up the tilting holder 13 and has a leg portion
15b in cruciform section and an umbrella-like knob portion 15c formed at its upper
end. The leg portion 15b is fitted into the support hole 13b and consequently the
operating lever 15 is made not only vertically movable but also, together with the
tilting holder 13, tiltable. A compression coil spring as a return spring 16 fitted
to the leg 15b of the operating lever 15. The return spring 16 urges the operating
lever 15 upward and makes she retaining portion 15a formed at the lower end of the
leg portion 15b fit into the notch 13c to render the operating lever 15 in the non-operating
state. As a result, a predetermined gap is provided between the lower edge face of
the leg portion 15b and the head portion 6a of the operating unit 6 of the set switch
3. The outer peripheral edge of the knob 15c of the operating lever 15 is substantially
equal in diameter to the regulating upright portion 9 of the base 7, so that a predetermined
gap is provided between the outer peripheral edge thereof and the regulating upright
portion 9. When the knob portion 15c is tilted and moved down, the outer peripheral
edge of the knob portion 15c abuts against the upper end of the regulating upright
portion 9, whereby the movement of the knob portion 15c is controlled.
[0043] The case 1 is securely covered with a cover 17 in such a manner as to cover each
component member, and a circular window hole 17a whose diameter is greater than that
of the knob portion 15c of the operating lever 15 is formed in the front of the cover
17, the window hole 17a and the base 7 being concentric. The knob portion 15c is exposed
through the window hole 23a.
[0044] The functions of the this embodiment of the invention will be described. The operating
lever 15 is normally kept in the neutral state, and the one set switch 3 and the eight
select switches are in the non-operating state. In order to activate the set switch
3 from this state, it is only needed to press the knob portion 15c of the operating
lever 15. Then the lower edge face of the leg portion 15b of the operating lever 15
causes elastic deformation to the operating unit 6 and makes the movable short-circuit
conductor 3a contact the stationary contact 3a for the set switch, so that the electrical
continuity of the stationary contact 3a for the set switch is established. When the
operating lever 15 is released from the pressure applied thereto to restor the original
non-operating state, it is restored by the return spring 16 to the non-operating state,
and the movable short-circuit conductor 3b is separated from the stationary contact
3a.
[0045] In order to activate the select switch 4, the knob portion 15c of the operating lever
15 needs tilting in any one of the eight directions. When the knob portion 15c of
the operating lever 15 is tilted in the "upper" direction, for example, the tilting
holder 13 tilts in the "upper" likewise in according with the tilting of the operating
lever 15. Then the operating pin 10 of the "upper" select switch 4 is pressed against
the printed board 2 and the switch operating unit 6 undergoes elastic deformation
so as to make the movable short-circuit conductor 4b contact the stationary contact
4a. Consequently, the electrical continuity of the stationary contact 4a is established.
When the operating lever 15 is released from the tilting operation to restore its
original non-operating state, the operating lever 15 is restored to the original non-operating
state due to the elasticity of the switch operating unit 6.
[0046] A description will subsequently be given of a case where the knob portion 15c of
the operating lever 15 is tilted in the "upper right" direction. When the knob portion
15c of the operating lever 15 is tilted, the tilting holder 13 also tilts in this
case in response to the tilting of the operating lever 15. Unlike the case where the
operating lever 15 is tilted in the "upper" direction, the operating pin 10 is not
instantly pressed by the flange 14 since a slight gap is provided between the underside
of the flange 14 and the operating pin 10 of the "upper right" select switch 4 but
pressed by the operating pin 10 after the tilting holder 13 makes a predetermined
tilting angle. As the operating lever 15 is tilted further, the operating pin 10 presses
down the head portion 6a of the switch operating unit 6 to cause its elastic deformation
and moves down, so that the movable short-circuit conductor 4b contacts the stationary
contact 4a (see Fig. 8). As a result, the stationary contact 4a conducts. Then the
operating lever 15 is released from the tilting operation so as to restore its original
non-operating state.
[0047] The observation made on the operating stroke for the select switch 4 at the flange
14 until the movable short-circuit conductor 4b contacts the stationary contact 4a
after the operating lever 15 is tilted from the neutral state reveals the fact that
the operating stroke in the case where the operating lever 15 is tilted in the "upper
right" direction is longer than the case where it is tilted in the "upper" direction.
This is because the operating pin 10 of the "upper" select switch 4 is pressed simultaneously
with the tilting of the tilting holder 13, whereas the operating pin 10 of the "upper
right" select switch 4 is pressed after the tilting holder 13 is tilted in the "upper
right" direction by the gap resulting from the recess portion 14a.
[0048] Assuming that the operating lever 15 is tilted in the intermediate direction substantially
between, for example, the "upper" and "upper right" select switches 4 adjacent to
each other, the "upper" operating pin 10 is first pressed by the flange 14 and the
"upper right" operating pin 10 is pressed. The "upper" operating pin 10 causes the
elastic deformation of the switch operating unit 6 so as to make the movable short-circuit
conductor 4b contact the stationary contact 4a, whereas the "upper right" operating
pin 10 causes the switch operating unit 6 to undergo only slight elastic deformation.
The movable short-circuit conductor 4a will never contact the stationary contact 4a
as the movement of the former is controlled by the operating pin 10 that has been
pressed first. In other words, when the operating lever 15 is tilted in the intermediate
direction substantially between the "upper" and "upper right" select switches 4, the
"upper" select switch 4 is activated, whereas the "upper right" select switch 4 is
not. As shown in Fig. 9, the operating range A for the "upper" select switch 4 becomes
wider than the operating range B for the "upper right" select switch 4.
[0049] By forming the recess portion 14a in the flange 14 of the tilting holder 13 according
to this embodiment of the invention, the operating ranges for the "upper," "lower,"
"left" and "right" select switches 4 can be set wider than those for the "upper right,"
"lower right," "upper left" and "lower left" select switches 4. Since an image is
more frequently scrolled in the upper, lower, left and right directions than upper
right, lower right, upper left and lower left directions in a car navigation system,
the operating range for the select switch 4 frequently activated is widened, whereas
the operating range for the select switch 4 less frequently activated, whereby the
operability of the lever switch device is improved.
Second Embodiment:
[0050] A description will subsequently be given of a layout pattern of the stationary contacts
in reference to the select switches 4 (Fig. 10). In the group of eight select switches
4 arranged at regular angular intervals, the select switches 119s each corresponding
to four directions: the upper, lower, left and right directions (which refer to the
tilting directions of the operating lever 15, the same applying to the following),
each including three stationary contacts 119a, 119b, 119c shaped by dividing a circle
into three equal parts. The two stationary contacts 119a, 119b are disposed symmetrically
on both sides of a line connecting the select switches 119, 3. The remaining stationary
switch 119c is located on the outer peripheral side with respect to the stationary
contacts 119a, 119b. These stationary contacts 119a, 119b, 119c together with the
short-circuit conductor constitute a 2-circuit 3-contact switch with the stationary
contact 119c used as a common line. Moreover, four select switches 120 each positioned
between the four select switches 119 correspond to the four oblique directions: the
upper right, lower right, lower left and upper left directions. Each stationary contact
120 includes two stationary contacts 120a, 120b, which together with the short-circuit
conductor constitute a 1-circuit 2-contact switch.
[0051] Subsequently, an electric arrangement will be described. As shown in Fig. 11, the
eight select switches 119, 120 are interconnected into a matrix form to constitute
a switch matrix circuit 121 which is connected to the IC 105.
[0052] The IC 105 is equipped with 6-bit input terminals K1
∼ K6 (K1
∼ K4 are used in this embodiment of the invention) capable of receiving parallel digital
data. Digital data input therethrough are converted into a serial data code by a converter
(not shown) in the remote control IC 105, and the serial data code is output through
a transmitting terminal Tx. Moreover, output terminals T1
∼ T3 (T1 is used in this embodiment of the invention) are provided so as to indicate
that the input terminals K1
∼ K6 are allowed to receive digital data. At predetermined timing, timing signals t1
∼ t3 (t1 is used in this embodiment of the invention) having a logical value of "1"
are each output from the output terminals T1
∼ T3. Further, a clock generator (not shown) is provided in the IC 105 to time the
inner circuits, and is externally connected to a ceramic oscillator 122.
[0053] The switch matrix circuit 121 will subsequently be described. The one stationary
contact 119a positioned on the inner peripheral side of the upper select switch 119
together with the stationary contact 120a of the upper left select switch is connected
to the data input terminal K1. The other stationary contact 19b together with the
stationary contact 120a of the upper right select switch 120 is connected to the data
input terminal K2. In addition, the stationary contact 119c positioned on the outer
peripheral side, together with the other stationary contacts 120b, 120b of the upper
left and upper right select switches, is connected to the output terminal T1 of the
remote control IC 105. Consequently, the switch circuits of the select switch 119
positioned on the upper side are connected in parallel to the switch circuits of the
select switches 120 situated on both sides. Similarly, the remaining lower left and
right select switches 119 are connected so that their switch circuits are in parallel
to those of the select switches 120 positioned on both sides.
[0054] The functions of this embodiment of the invention will be described. When the knob
portion 15c of the operating lever 15 in the neutral state is tilted upward, the operating
lever 15 and the tilting holder 13 are tilted. The operating pin 10 positioned in
the tilting direction is then pressed in by the flange 14 of the tilting holder 13,
and the switch operating unit is pressed by the operating pin 10 and elastically deformed.
As shown in Fig. 8, the short-circuit conductor 4b of the deformed switch operating
unit contacts the stationary contacts 119a, 119b, 119c of the upper select switch
119. Consequently, the two stationary contacts 119a, 119b positioned on the outer
peripheral side are short-circuited so as to establish electric continuity therebetween,
whereby the respective switch circuits are activated.
[0055] When the timing signal t1 ("1") is output from the terminal T1 of the IC 105, the
logical value "1" is output from the stationary contacts 119a, 119b of the upper select
switch 119, and is then given to the input terminals K1, K2 of the IC 105. At this
time, the input terminals K3, K4 at which no logical value has been applied are pulled
down by resistors and therefore they have a value of "0", and the digital data "1100"
is supplied to the input terminals K1
∼ K4 of the IC 105. Then the data supplied to the IC 105 is converted into a serial
data code for indicating that the upper select switch 119 has been pressed, and the
data code is output from the transmitting terminal Tx before being transmitted Via
a buffer 124. In the same way, digital data are each output from the other select
switches 119, 120 when these switches are pressed and the relationship between the
former and the latter are shown in Table 2.
[0056] Since the operating lever 15 is tiltable in any desired direction, the adjacent select
switches 119, 120 may simultaneously be pressed. When the upper select switch 119
and the upper left select switch 120 are simultaneously pressed, for example, the
digital data "1100" is output in the former case, and the digital data "1000" in the
latter case. Since both the d1 bits are "1" in this case, the digital data "1100"
indicating the upper select switch 119 thus pressed is output from the switch matrix
circuit 121. When the upper select switch 119 and the upper left select switch 20
are simultaneously pressed, the two switches are not regarded as those which have
simultaneously been pressed but the upper select switch 119 is regarded as what has
been pressed and no irregular operation will therefore ensue. When the operating lever
15 is tilted in a direction between the upper and upper right directions to press
the upper and upper right select switches simultaneously, the digital data "1100"
is output likewise and as the upper select switch 119 is regarded as what has been
pressed, no irregular operation will ensue.
[0057] In order to obviate an indefinite range when two switches adjacent to each other
are simultaneously pressed, there may be arranged a circuit configuration for always
regarding one switch element as what has been pressed when the switch elements adjacent
to each other are simultaneously pressed. If such a circuit configuration is added
to the conventional arrangement, one switch will be always regarded as what has been
pressed when an operating lever is tilted in the intermediate direction between select
switches adjacent to each other and the operating range for the one switch will become
wider than what is intended for the other. The operating ranges for the select switches
adjacent to each other are equalized by making longer the operating stroke for one
select switch so as to narrow the enlarged operating range on condition that the operating
strokes for the select switches can be set equal as in the case of this embodiment
of the invention. Therefore, the circuit configuration like this can deal with a case
where operating ranges for all select switches are required to be uniformized, so
that a lever switch device offering excellent operability is provided.
[0058] Referring to Figs. 12 through 14, a second embodiment of the present invention will
subsequently be described in detail.
[0059] In the underside of the flange 114 of a tilting holder 113, there are formed, as
shown in Fig. 12, recess portions 114a in positions each corresponding to "upper,"
"lower," "left" and "right" select switches 133. While the tilting holder 113 remains
in the neutral state, a fixed gap is, as shown in Fig. 13, provided between the upper
end of the operating pin 134 of, for example, the "upper" select switch 133 (on the
right-hand side of Fig. 13) and the flange 114. Moreover, the upper end of the operating
pin 110 of the "upper right" select switch 135 (on the left-hand side of Fig. 13)
abuts against the underside of the flange 114 as in the case of the first embodiment
of the invention.
[0060] Now when the operating lever is tilted in the "upper right" direction from the neutral
state, the operating pin 110 is pressed down by the flange 114 of the tilting holder
113 immediately after the operating lever is tilted; this is because the upper end
of the operating pin 110 abuts against the underside of the flange 114. When the operating
lever is tilted further, a switch operating unit 106 undergoes elastic deformation
so as to cause a short-circuit conductor 104b to contact a stationary contact 104a.
[0061] When the operating lever is subsequently tilted in the "upper" direction, the tilting
holder 113 tilts likewise. Since the fixed gap is provided between the operating pin
110 and the flange 114, however, the operating pin 110 is not immediately pressed
by the flange 114 as the operating lever tilts but pressed after the operating lever
is tilted to predetermined angles. When the operating lever is tilted further, the
switch operating unit 106 undergoes elastic deformation so as to cause the short-circuit
conductor to contact, so that the stationary contact conducts.
[0062] The observation made on the operating stroke at the flange 114 until the short-circuit
conductor 104b contacts the stationary contact 104a after the operating lever is tilted
from the neutral state reveals the fact that the operating stroke in the case where
the operating lever is tilted in the "upper" direction is longer than the case where
it is tilted in the "upper right" direction. This is because the operating pin 110
of the "upper right" select switch is pressed simultaneously with the tilting of the
tilting holder 113, whereas the pressing of the operating pin 110 of the "upper" select
switch 133 is delayed by the gap resulting from the recess portion 114a.
[0063] Assuming that the operating lever is tilted in the intermediate direction substantially
between, for example, the "upper" and "upper right" select switches, the "upper right"
operating pin 110 is first pressed by the flange 114 and the "upper" operating pin
110 is pressed. Then the "upper right" operating pin 110 makes the switch operating
unit 106 undergoes elastic deformation to cause the short-circuit conductor 104b to
contact the stationary contact 104a. On the other hand, the "upper" operating pin
110 makes the switch operating unit 106 undergo slight elastic deformation, the short-circuit
conductor 104b whose movement is controlled by the operating pin 110 is restrained
from contacting the stationary contact 104a.
[0064] When the lever is tilted in the intermediate direction substantially between the
"upper" and "upper right" select switches 133, 135, the "upper right" select switch
135 is activated, whereas the "upper" select switch 133 is not. As shown in Fig. 14,
the operating range A for the "upper" select switch 133 becomes narrower than the
operating range B for the "upper right" select switch 135 accordingly.
[0065] An indefinite range C (the range of hatching) exists in the vicinity of the boundary
between the operating ranges A, B, and the select switches 133, 135 adjacent to each
other may simultaneously be activated. In the indefinite range C, the digital data
output when the "upper" select switch 133 is pressed is the logical sum of the digital
data output when the "upper right" and "upper left" select switches 135. Therefore,
the "upper" select switch 133 is always regarded as what has preferentially been activated.
[0066] The select switch corresponding to one preferential tilting direction is always regarded
as what has been pressed even though both the select switches are simultaneously pressed
by tilting the operating lever is tilted in the intermediate direction between the
two select switches. Although this means to ensure a stable operation as noted previously
with reference to the first embodiment of the invention, the operating range for the
select switch corresponding to the preferential tilting direction increases, whereas
the operating range for those each corresponding to the other tilting directions proportionally
decreases to that extent. When the operating characteristics like this are applied
to a select switch whose operating frequency differs, depending on the direction,
an operating range which becomes wider in the direction in which the operating frequency
is high may advantageously be assigned to such a select switch. In the absence of
the situation above, however, there may arise inconvenience in a case where the whole
operating range is desired to be equally assigned to every direction.
[0067] The operating stroke of the "upper" select switch 133 corresponding to the preferential
tilting direction is set longer than that of the "upper right" select switch 135 adjacent
to the former, whereby the operating range for the "upper" select switch 133 becomes
narrow, whereas that of the "upper right" select switch 135 becomes wide. Consequently,
the operating range for the "upper" select switch 133 corresponding to the preferential
tilting direction is restrained from increasing.
[0068] In order to assure the stable operation in the indefinite range, the operating ranges
for the respective select switches 133, 135 can be uniformized even though the digital
data which is output simultaneously with the activation of the select switch 133 corresponding
to one tilting direction is the OR of the digital data output when the select switches
135 adjacent to the one switch 133 are pressed. Consequently, the operating feeling
is set free from being impaired when the select switches 133, 135 are activated with
the same frequency.
[0069] The present invention is however not limited to the embodiments of the present invention
set forth above but may be modified as follows, for example, and the following are
also technically within the scope of the present invention: In this case, like reference
characters designate like component parts and the description thereof will be omitted.
(i) The recess portions 14a are formed in the underside of the flange 14 of the tilting
holder 13 so as to make the operating strokes for the "upper," "lower," "left" and
"right" select switches 4, and the "upper right," "lower right," "upper left" and
"lower left" select switches 4 different from each other in the above embodiment of
the invention. However, the following alternatives are also possible.
a) As shown in Fig. 15, the operating pins 22 of "upper right," "lower right," "upper
left" and "lower left" select switches 21 (on the right-hand side of Fig. 15) are
set shorter than the operating pins 24 of "upper," "lower," "left" and "right" select
switches 23 (on the left-hand side of Fig. 15). Consequently, there is provided a
fixed gap between the upper end of the "upper right" operating pin 22 and the underside
of a flange 25. In a case where the operating lever is tilted in the "upper right"
direction, for example, the operating pin 22 is not pressed by the flange 25 immediately
after the operating lever is tilted but pressed after it is slightly tilted. Accordingly,
the operating stroke for the "upper right" select switch 21 is made longer than that
of the "upper" select switch 23, for example, whose operating pin 24 is pressed immediately
after the operating lever is tilted as in the case of the embodiment of the invention
above.
b) As shown in Fig. 16, in reference to "upper," "lower," "left" and "right" select
switches 31 (on the left-hand side of Fig. 16), the underside 32a of the head portion
of each switch operating unit 32 is made thicker than the underside 34a of the head
portion of the switch operating unit 34 of an "upper right," "lower right," "upper
left" or "lower right" select switch 33 (on the right-hand side of Fig. 16). Consequently,
the distance between the movable short-circuit conductor 35 and a stationary contact
36 is set shorter than the distance between the movable short-circuit conductor 35
of a select switch 33 and a stationary contact 36. When the operating pin is tilted
in the "upper" direction, for example, an operating pin 37 is pressed by a flange
38. As the movable short-circuit conductor 35 is allowed to contact the stationary
contact 36 by slightly pressing, the operating stroke becomes shorter than a case
where the operating lever is tilted in the "upper right" direction.
c) As shown in Fig. 17, in reference to "upper right," "lower right," "upper left"
and "lower left" select switches 41 (on the right-hand side of Fig. 17), the head
portion 42a of each switch operating unit 42 is made thinner than the head portion
46a of the switch operating unit 46 of an "upper," "lower," "left" or "right" select
switch 63 (on the left-hand side of Fig. 17) so as to provide a gap between an operating
pin 43 and a flange 44. When the lever is tilted in the "upper right," for example,
the operating pin 43 is not immediately pressed by the flange 44 but pressed after
it is slightly tilted. Consequently, the operating stroke becomes longer than that
of the "upper" select switch 45 in which the operating pin 45 is pressed immediately
after the lever is tilted.
(ii) In a case where a lever switch device comprises a longitudinal case, as shown
in Fig. 18, select switches furnished therein and the like other than the above embodiment
of the invention, the operating stroke of a select switch 53 obliquely positioned
with respect of the side 52a of the longitudinally-long case 52 in the longitudinal
direction may be set shorter than that of the remaining select switch 54.
As a result, the operating range of the operating lever 51 for the select switch 53
becomes wider than that of the select switch 54. When the operating lever 51 is operated
while the case 52 is held, the operating range of the select switch 53 in the direction
in which the operating lever 51 is not readily tilted remains wide, so that the operating
lever can be operated without incongruity in any direction as operating feeling in
every direction is generally well-balanced.
(iii) The switches 3, 4 to be activated by the pressing or tilting operation of the
operating lever in the above embodiment of the invention are not limited to the switching
means stated above but may include any other switching means such as a tact switch
and the like.
(iv) Although a description has been given of the case where the number of select
switches arranged in the annular range is eight in the embodiments of the present
invention above, the invention is applicable to a case where the number of switches
is other than eight.
[0070] Further, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments thereof described
above and illustrated in the drawings but may be modified in various manners without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.