MULTI-DIRECTIONAL INPUT DEVICE
An object is to provide a multi-directional input device mainly used for operations of various electronic devices, the multi-directional input device being capable of performing various reliable operations. A movable electrode installed on a lower surface of a sliding body which is engaged with a lower end of an operation body is connected to a ground, and a plurality of fixed electrodes arranged so as to face the movable electrode with a predetermined gap is arranged at predetermined intervals. Thereby, the plurality of fixed electrodes facing the movable electrode can be formed in a large shape, so that a change in a capacitance due to operations of the operation body can be increased. As a result, not only the operating direction but also an operation amount can be precisely detected. Thus, the multi-directional input device capable of performing various reliable operations can be obtained.
1 . A multi-directional input device, comprising:
a case formed in a substantially box shape;
an operation body installed in the case so as to be operable in multiple directions;
a sliding body engaged with a lower end of the operation body;
a movable electrode installed on a lower surface of the sliding body and connected to a ground; and
a plurality of fixed electrodes separated from each other and arranged so as to be separated from and face the movable electrode.
2 . The multi-directional input device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of fixed electrodes are four fixed electrodes.
3 . The multi-directional input device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of fixed electrodes is formed in a substantially fan shape.
4 . The multi-directional input device according to clam 1 , wherein the plurality of fixed electrodes are made of a copper alloy.
5 . The multi-directional input device according to claim 1 , further comprising:
a sheet provided between the plurality of fixed electrodes and the movable electrode.
6 . The multi-directional input device according to claim 5 , wherein a thickness of the sheet is 10 μm to 50 μm.
7 . The multi-directional input device according to claim 5 , wherein the sheet contains polyethylene or Teflon.