CN203629199U - Operating device and cold storage freezer - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an operation device and a refrigerator-freezer. An operation device according to an embodiment includes at least: a layer having a plurality of recording parts for recording information for operation in the shape of at least one of a transmissive part and a non-transmissive part; member; and a plurality of light sources, at least one is provided for each of the recording parts, configured so that the optical axis is substantially parallel to the layer, light is incident on the light emitting member, at least a part of the multiple recording parts is formed into at least 3 segments in a row, and In the case of drawing a figure with the minimum circumference length including the three segments, the figure is formed such that the width dimension in the direction perpendicular to the column direction is smaller than the width dimension in the direction parallel to the column direction, and is at least as large as the central segment. The light sources corresponding to one recording portion are arranged such that their optical axes are substantially perpendicular to the column direction. The technical problem to be solved by an embodiment is how to reduce the reading difficulty of the displayed elements. One use according to one embodiment is to reduce the difficulty of reading the displayed elements.

Description

Operating devices and refrigerator-freezers

technical field

The utility model relates to an operating device and a refrigerator and freezer loaded with the operating device. the

Background technique

Among conventional refrigerators and freezers, refrigerators and freezers having a plurality of chambers in different temperature zones have become mainstream in order to cope with diversification of eating habits. the

In addition, in such a refrigerator-freezer, the user can freely set functions, for example, can freely set functions such as changing the temperature and performance of each chamber. For example, the user can set the function of lowering or raising the temperature of each chamber, the function of temporarily changing the performance to the quick freezing mode for improving the cooling capacity, and the function of changing the performance to the power saving mode for suppressing power consumption. . Also, for example, in a refrigerator-freezer having a temperature switching chamber, the user can freely set a function to change the performance to a refrigeration mode in which the temperature of the compartment is above freezing or a freezing mode in which the temperature of the compartment is below freezing. the

In addition, in such a freezer-refrigerator, an operating device is provided on the surface of the door, and the user can select and set a function or set a selected function in more detail by operating the operating device. the

The operating device has: a surface member provided with a layer having a recording portion on which display elements such as patterns and characters are described by printing, for example; a display unit arranged on the back side of the surface member and lighting a light-emitting diode (LED), etc. The light source displays the display elements in the surface components; and the input unit such as buttons, for the user to select or set the function, the setting of the chamber where the selected function works, and the setting of the temperature of the selected function change etc. (For example, refer to patent document 1). the

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2011-47550 (paragraphs [0021]-[0023], Figure 3)

Utility model content

In conventional operating devices for refrigerators and freezers, the light source is arranged so that the optical axis faces the user's line of sight. Therefore, there is a problem that the light emitting part of the light source enters the user's field of vision, and it is difficult for the user to read the display of graphics, characters, etc. elements. the

In addition, even if the light source is arranged so that the optical axis does not face the user's line of sight, that is, the optical axis is parallel to the surface of the surface member, the light emitted from the light source has a divergence angle centered on the optical axis, so the following problems still exist: The light-emitting part of the light source enters the field of view of the user, making it difficult for the user to read display elements such as patterns and characters. the

This invention was made in order to solve the above-mentioned subject, and it aims at obtaining the operating device which reduces the reading difficulty of a display element, and the refrigerator-freezer which mounted this operating device. the

According to one embodiment, the operating device of the present invention includes at least: a layer having a plurality of recording parts, and the recording part records information for operation by the shape of at least one of the transmissive part and the non-transmissive part; , disposed on the back side of the layer, having a surface opposite to the recording portion, from which the incident light is emitted; and a plurality of light sources, at least one provided for each of the recording portions, configured Light is incident on the light-emitting member so that the optical axis is substantially parallel to the layer, wherein at least a part of the plurality of recording parts forms at least 3 segments, and the 3 segments are formed in a row. Regarding the 3 segments, and in the case of drawing a figure containing the three segments and having the minimum circumference length, the figure is formed such that the width dimension in the direction perpendicular to the column direction of the column is smaller than that of the column The width dimension in the direction parallel to the column direction, the light source provided corresponding to at least one of the recording parts forming the central section among the three sections, is arranged so that the optical axis is parallel to the column The column direction is roughly vertical. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, the writing parts provided corresponding to at least one of the three segments that form the segment that exists outside the central segment The light source is arranged so that its optical axis is substantially parallel to the row direction of the row, and light enters the light emitting member from a side closer to the central segment. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, at least: a layer having a plurality of recording parts, the recording part records information for operation by the shape of at least any one of the transmissive part and the non-transmissive part; a light emitting member provided on the back side of the layer, having a surface opposite to the recording portion, from which incident light is emitted; and a plurality of light sources, at least one provided for each of the recording portions, arranged so that the optical axis is substantially parallel to the layer, and light is incident on the light emitting member, at least a part of the plurality of recording parts forms at least 3 segments, the 3 segments are formed in a row, and the 3 segments are formed in a row. segments, and in the case of drawing a figure containing the three segments and having the minimum circumference length, the figure is formed such that the width dimension in the direction perpendicular to the column direction of the column is smaller than that of the column The width dimension in the direction parallel to the column direction, the light source provided corresponding to at least one of the recording parts that form a block that exists outside the central block among the three blocks, is It is arranged so that the optical axis is substantially parallel to the row direction of the rows, and light enters the light emitting member from a side closer to the central segment. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, at least a description part in which information for explaining a function is described is included among the description parts forming the section located in the center. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, in the description part forming a segment existing outside the central segment, at least a description part containing information for selecting a function is included. The description part forming another block existing outside the central block includes at least a description part in which information for setting a function is described. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, the three sections are formed continuously. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, the layer is provided on a transmissive member, the light-emitting member is a light guide plate, and the light guide plate is integrated with the back side of the transmissive member . the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, the layer is arranged on a member with transmittance, and a light-scattering pattern is formed in the member with transmittance, and the light emitting member is the member with transmittance . the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, the astigmatism pattern is formed such that the density of the pattern increases as the distance from the light source becomes longer. the

According to one embodiment, in the operating device of the present invention, an input unit is provided on the back side of the light emitting member, and the input unit is an electrode of a capacitive touch sensor. the

According to one embodiment, in the refrigerator-freezer of the present invention, at least any one of the above-mentioned operating devices is provided. the

According to one embodiment, in the refrigerator-freezer of the present invention, the three sections are formed in a vertical row. the

According to one embodiment, in the refrigerator-freezer of the present invention, the section located in the center is formed at a height substantially identical to the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height stands and looks straight. the

According to a technical effect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the operating device of the present invention, at least a part of the plurality of recording parts forms at least 3 sections in a row, and forms the middle one of the 3 sections. The light source provided corresponding to at least one description part of the segment is arranged so that the optical axis is substantially perpendicular to the row direction of the column, thereby reducing the possibility that the light emitting part of the light source enters the user's field of vision when the direction of the user's line of sight changes. frequency, thus reducing the difficulty of reading the displayed elements. the

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator-freezer equipped with an operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

2 is a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are displayed. the

3 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of the operation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention and a display unit that does not have a display element that functions as an input unit. the

4 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention and a display unit having a display element functioning as an input unit. the

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a display unit for displaying icons for selecting functions set by touch by a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

6 is a front view of a state in which a first layer of a display unit displaying an icon for selecting a function set by touching and setting by the user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is removed. the

7 is a front view of a state in which there is a first layer of a display unit displaying an icon for selecting a function to be set by touching and setting by the user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

8 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are displayed. the

9 is a diagram showing an example of changes in display states of display elements when a function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is selected and set. the

10 is a diagram showing an example of changes in display states of display elements when a function of the operation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is selected and the setting is canceled. the

11 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the display state of a display element when the setting or canceling of the function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is stopped midway. the

12 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device of Comparative Example 1 visually recognizes display elements from the front. the

13 is a diagram showing a display state of display elements when a first light source of the operating device of Comparative Example 1 is turned on. the

14 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device of Comparative Example 2 visually recognizes a display element displayed above from below. the

15 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device of Comparative Example 2 visually recognizes a display element displayed below from above. the

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a sequence of visual recognition by a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

17 is a diagram showing a modified example of a display state of a function selection section of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a modified example of a display state of a function selection section of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

19 is a diagram showing a modified example of a function setting section of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

20 is a diagram showing a modified example of an icon for canceling setting or canceling of a function of the operation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. the

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention when a light guide plate is integrated. the

22 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention are displayed. the

23 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention visually recognizes a display element displayed above from below. the

24 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention visually recognizes a display element displayed below from above. the

25 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention are displayed. the

26 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention are displayed. the

27 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of an operation device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention and a display unit not having a display element that functions as an input unit. the

28 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of an operation device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention and a display unit having a display element functioning as an input unit. the

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a surface member of an operation device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. the

Explanation of reference signs

1: refrigerator-freezer; 2: refrigerator; 2a, 2b: door; 3: ice-making room; 4: temperature switching room; 5: freezer; 6: vegetable room; 7: operating device; 8: surface parts; 8a : 1st layer; 8b: 2nd layer; 8c: transmissive component; 9: display element; 10: function selection section; 10a: icon; 10b: icon; 11: function description section; 11a: text; 11b: pattern; 12: function setting section; 12a: icon; 12b: text; 12c: icon; 13: display unit; 14: printed substrate; 15: first light source; 16: light guide plate; 17: shielding wall; 18: input unit; 19: second light source; 20: mark; A: area; B: groove or hole; C: convex; D: astigmatism pattern. the

Detailed ways

The operating device of the present utility model will be described below using the accompanying drawings. the

In addition, in the description of the embodiment, an example in which the operating device is installed in a refrigerator-freezer was described, but the operating device of the present invention includes an operating device installed in a refrigerator-freezer having a structure different from that of the refrigerator-freezer described, or other equipment. . In addition, in the description of the embodiments, terms indicating directions (for example, "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", etc.) Terms to define the utility model. In addition, in each figure, the same member or the same part is attached|subjected with the same code|symbol. In addition, the illustrations are appropriately simplified or omitted for minute structures. In addition, repeated descriptions are appropriately simplified or omitted. the

Embodiment 1. the

Next, the operating device of Embodiment 1 will be described. the

(Structure of the freezer)

First, the structure of the refrigerator-freezer equipped with the operating device of Embodiment 1 is demonstrated. the

Fig. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator-freezer in which an operating device according to Embodiment 1 is mounted. As shown in FIG. 1 , refrigerator-freezer 1 has refrigerator compartment 2 , ice making compartment 3 , temperature switching compartment 4 , freezer compartment 5 , and vegetable compartment 6 . The refrigerator compartment 2 is provided with doors 2a and 2b. The doors 2a and 2b can be opened and closed by rotating around the hinges. The ice making room 3 has an ice storage box inside, and the water supplied to the tank provided in the refrigerating room 2 is automatically made into ice and stored. The temperature switching chamber 4 is switchable between a refrigeration mode and a freezing mode, and can be set to an arbitrary temperature. The operation device 7 is provided on the surface of the door 2a provided in the refrigerator compartment 2. As shown in FIG. In addition, in description of embodiment, the front direction of refrigerator-freezer 1 is described as "front side", and the back direction is described as "back side". the

(Structure of operating device)

Next, the configuration of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. the

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which all display elements of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 are displayed. As shown in FIG. 2 , a surface member 8 is provided on the surface of the operating device 7 . A plurality of display elements 9 are displayed on the surface member 8 . Display elements 9 are displayed by turning on a light source of a display unit provided on the back side of surface member 8 by a control unit (not shown). Information necessary for operation is described in each of the display elements 9 . A display unit is provided in each of the display elements 9 . the

At least a part of the display element 9 is summarized according to each use of the information recorded, forming a function selection section 10 (in addition, the function selection section 10 is equivalent to including at least "information for selecting a function" in the present invention. The "segment" formed by the "recording part" of the "recording part".), the function description segment 11 (in addition, the function description segment 11 is equivalent to including at least the "information used to describe the function" in the present invention The "section" formed by the "recording section" of the "recording section".), and the function setting section 12 (in addition, the function setting section 12 is equivalent to including at least the "recording for setting The "section" formed by the "record part" of the "record part" of the information of the specified function.). The function selection section 10 , the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a row. In addition, in this example, a case where each section is arranged in a vertical row is shown, but it may be arranged in a horizontal row, or may be arranged in a row in other directions. the

Displayed in the function selection section 10 are, for example: an icon 10a for the user to touch to start the action of setting a function; Icon 10b. the

Displayed in the function description section 11 are, for example: text 11a for explaining the function corresponding to the icon 10b selected by the user and asking whether to set the function; and for explaining the function corresponding to the icon 10b selected by the user. Pattern 11b of the chamber to be used. the

In the function setting area 12, for example, an icon 12a for setting or canceling the function selected by the user's touch and a character 12b for notifying the user that the function is set or canceled are displayed. the

Each display element 9 can also be displayed at a different position within the segment. For example, in FIG. 2, the character 11a is displayed above the pattern 11b in the function description section 11, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the pattern 11b may be displayed above the character 11a. When the character 11a is displayed on the upper side of the pattern 11b, the relationship between the icon 10b and the character 11a is emphasized. In addition, when the pattern 11b is provided above the characters 11a, the relationship between the icon 10b and the pattern 11b is emphasized. the

The display elements 9 other than the display elements 9 forming the function selection section 10 , the function description section 11 , and the function setting section 12 may or may not be displayed on the surface member 8 . In this example, a display unit, an input unit, and the like for setting functions other than the function corresponding to the icon 10 b or setting a selected function in more detail are provided on the lower side of the function setting section 12 . These display units and input units can be arranged on the upper side of the function selection section 10 , between each section, or at a position separated from the section. the

The icon 10a is provided in the center of the function selection area 10, is always displayed, and is always visible. The icon 10a functions as an input unit that the user touches first when setting a function. the

The icon 10b also functions as an input unit in the same manner. The user selects the set function by touching the icon 10b. The icon 10b describes the function itself set when the icon 10b is selected, or a pattern that associates the scene where the function is used. the

One character 11a is prepared for each icon 10b. When the user selects the icon 10b, a character corresponding to the selected icon 10b is displayed. the

The pattern 11b shows the compartment in which the function corresponding to the icon 10b selected by the user works, for the user to identify. the

In this way, since the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b is explained by the characters 11a and the pattern 11b, the user can recognize the function when the function is set without reading an operation manual or the like. In addition, the characters 11a and the pattern 11b may function as input means as needed. the

Symbols (words) such as "Yes" and "No" are described in the icon 12a. The icon 12a functions as an input unit, and the user responds to the character 11a by selecting and touching symbols (words) such as "yes" and "no", thereby setting or canceling the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b. the

When the icon 12a is selected, a character to inform the user that the function is set or canceled is written in the character 12b. By displaying the characters 12b, the user can recognize the completion of the operation. In addition, in FIG. 2, the case where the character which the notification function is set is described is shown. A character whose notification function is canceled may be described, or both a character whose notification function is set and a character whose notification function is disabled may be described. Moreover, the character 12b may not be displayed as needed, and the operation device of this invention also includes the operation device which does not display the character 12b. In addition, the character 12b may also function as an input means as needed. the

(Structure of Surface Parts and Display Units)

Next, configurations of the surface member and the display unit of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. the

First, the configuration of a surface member and a display unit that does not function as an input unit for displaying display elements will be described using FIG. 3 . the

3 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 and a display unit having no display element functioning as an input unit. As shown in FIG. 3 , the display unit 13 is provided between the surface member 8 and the printed substrate 14 . the

The surface member 8 is provided with a first layer 8a on which the basic colors and patterns of the operating device 7 are described, and a second layer 8b on which the display elements 9 are described. The first layer 8a is provided on the outermost side of the surface member 8, and the second layer 8b is provided on the back side of the first layer 8a. A transmissive part is formed in the second layer 8b, and each display element 9 is described by the shape of the transmissive part (in addition, the second layer 8b is equivalent to a "layer" in the present invention. In addition, the display element 9 is described in the second layer 8b Each area corresponds to the "recording part" in the present invention.). The first layer 8a and the second layer 8b are integrally molded with a transmissive member 8c such as resin. In addition, the transmissive member 8 c may be glass, for example, as long as it has transmissivity. In addition, only one surface member 8 may be provided for all the display elements 9 , or, for example, the surface member 8 may be provided for each area and each form of the display element 9 . In addition, the second layer 8 b may describe each display element 9 by the shape of the non-transmitting portion, or may describe each display element 9 by properly using the shapes of the transmissive portion and the non-transmitting portion. In addition, a high-transmittance transmission part and a low-transmission transmission part may be formed, and each display element 9 is described by the shape of the high-transmission transmission part and the low-transmission transmission part. the

The display unit 13 has a first light source 15, a light guide plate 16, and a shielding wall 17 (in addition, the light guide plate 16 corresponds to a "light emitting member" in the present invention.). One display unit 13 is provided for each display element 9 of the second layer 8 b of the surface member 8 . One or more first light sources 15 are provided for each display unit 13 , and the optical axes of the first light sources 15 are set parallel to the surface of the surface member 8 . In addition, the light guide plate 16 bends the light from the first light source 15 provided on the side by 90° by reflection, and emits planar light toward the surface member 8 side. The surface member 8 has a certain thickness, for example, 2 mm or more due to restrictions on molding. The surface member 8 may be integrated with the light guide plate 16 provided on the back side. The surface member 8 functions as a light guide layer together with the light guide plate 16 . In addition, the first light source 15 can be turned on with varying brightness. the

When the first light source 15 is turned off, the display element 9 written on the second layer 8b is hidden by the first layer 8a, and the user cannot visually recognize the display element 9 . On the other hand, when the first light source 15 is turned on, the light transmits through the transmissive portion of the second layer 8b, and the display elements 9 written on the second layer 8b float to the surface of the first layer 8a. Moreover, the shielding wall 17 is provided between each display unit 13, and the display element 9 can be displayed individually. In addition, part of the light passing through the transmissive member 8c also reaches the area between the display elements 9 of the second layer 8b. However, when each display element 9 is described by the shape of the transmissive part, the light in the second layer 8b The region between the display elements 9 forms a non-transmitting portion, so that only the display elements 9 provided with the first light source 15 that is lit can be more clearly displayed. the

Next, the structure of the display means which displays the display element 9 which functions as an input means is demonstrated using FIG. 4. FIG. In addition, the structure of the display means for displaying the icon 10b, ie, the icon for selecting the function which the user touched and set will be mentioned later. the

4 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 and a display unit having a display element functioning as an input unit. As shown in FIG. 4 , the display unit 13 has a first light source 15 , a light guide plate 16 , a shielding wall 17 , and an input unit 18 . the

The input unit 18 is an electrode of a capacitive touch sensor. The input unit 18 is mounted on the surface of the printed substrate 14 . The input unit 18 is provided on the rear side of the light guide plate 16 provided for each display element 9 . The input unit 18 detects the change of the electrostatic capacitance value through the surface member 8 and the light guide plate 16 when the user touches the area of the surface member 8 where the display element 9 is displayed, and sends a signal to the control unit (not shown). the

Next, the configuration of a display unit for displaying an icon 10 b , that is, an icon for selecting a function that the user touches and sets will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7 . the

5 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration of a display unit for displaying icons for selecting functions set by touch by a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a front view of the first embodiment in which a display unit displaying an icon for selecting a function touched and set by a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is removed. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the display unit 13 for displaying the icon 10b includes a second light source 19 in addition to the first light source 15 , the light guide plate 16 , the shielding wall 17 , and the input unit 18 . The second light source 19 is turned on when the function corresponding to the icon 10b provided with the second light source 19 is in the setting state. The second light source 19 emits light of a color different from that of the first light source 15 . The second light source 19 is provided on the upper left of the light guide plate 16 such that its optical axis is perpendicular to the surface of the surface member 8 . the

7 is a front view of a state in which there is a first layer of a display unit displaying an icon for selecting a function set by touching and setting by the user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, the light emitted from the light source of the second light source 19 passes through the transmissive portion of the second layer 8b, so that the mark 20 floats to the first layer 8a. A control unit (not shown) turns on the second light source 19 when the function corresponding to the icon 10 b is set when the first light source 15 is turned on to display the icon 10 b. In addition, the control unit (not shown) does not turn on the second light source 19 when the setting of the function is cancelled. the

(Configuration of the first light source)

Next, the arrangement of the first light source of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. the

8 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 1 are displayed. As shown in Figure 8, in the surface part 8, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a vertical row, and the first light source 15 is from the direction perpendicular to the column direction, in the In this example, light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 in the left and right directions. In addition, when the segments are arranged in a horizontal row, the first light source 15 emits light to the light guide plate 16 from the vertical direction. the

(action of operating device)

Next, the operation of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. the

First, the operation when selecting and setting the function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display state transition of display elements when a function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is selected and set. the

Step 901 is the state before operation. A control unit (not shown) always lights up the first light source 15 provided on the icon 10a so that the icon 10a can always be visually recognized. A control unit (not shown) turns off the first light sources 15 provided on the display elements 9 other than the icon 10a to make them invisible. By performing such an operation, power consumption during standby can be suppressed. When the user touches the icon 10a, go to step 902. the

In step 902, the control unit (not shown) turns on all the first light sources 15 provided on the icons 10b other than the icon 10a located in the function selection section 10, so that all the icons 10b can be recognized visually. When the user touches the icon 10b, go to step 903. the

In step 903, a control unit (not shown) turns on the first light source 15 provided on the character 11a corresponding to the selected icon 10b so that the character 11a can be visually recognized. In addition, at the same time, when it is necessary to display the chamber in which the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b functions, all the first light sources 15 provided on the pattern 11b are turned on. At this time, the control unit (not shown) controls the brightness of the first light source 15 so that the area of the pattern 11b corresponding to the chamber where the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b works is brightly displayed, which is different from that of other icons 10b. The regions of the pattern 11b corresponding to the chambers are shown darkened. In addition, at the same time, the first light source 15 provided on the icon 12a is turned on so that the icon 12a can be visually recognized. When the user touches the icon 12a marked as "Yes", go to step 904 . In this way, by providing a step of checking whether to set after selecting the icon 10b, the user can decide whether to set the function while operating. the

In addition, in FIG. 9 , a case where the control unit (not shown) turns off the first light source 15 provided on an icon 10b other than the selected icon 10b is shown, but it is not limited thereto. The icon 10b other than the selected icon 10b is in a state where the first light source 15 is turned on. In addition, the control unit (not shown) controls the brightness of the first light source 15 so that the area of the pattern 11b corresponding to the chamber other than the chamber in which the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b functions is displayed darkly. In this case, for example, the first light source 15 may be controlled so that the area of the pattern 11b corresponding to the chamber other than the chamber in which the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b functions is not displayed. the

In step 904, a control unit (not shown) turns on the first light source 15 provided on the characters 12b so that the characters 12b can be visually recognized. The control unit (not shown) maintains this state for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and proceeds to step 905 . In addition, in FIG. 9, the control unit (not shown) controls the brightness of the first light source 15 so that the entire area of the pattern 11b is brightly displayed, but it is not limited to this case. For example, the brightness of the first light source 15 may also be controlled so that The pattern 11 b maintains the state of step 903 . In addition, the brightness of the first light source 15 may be controlled so that the pattern 11b is not displayed. the

In step 905, the control unit (not shown) turns on the first light source 15 and the second light source 19 provided on the icon 10b corresponding to the set function, so that the icon 10b and the mark 20 can be visually recognized. When a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without the user touching any of the display elements 9 thereafter, the process returns to step 901 . In addition, in FIG. 9 , the control unit (not shown) shows the case where the first light sources 15 installed on all the icons 10b are turned on, but it is not limited to this case. The first light sources 15 of the icons 10b other than the icon 10b are turned off. the

In addition, the order in which the function selection section 10, the function description section 11, and the function setting section 12 are arranged may be changed as appropriate. In addition, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11, and the function setting section 12 may not be arranged consecutively. In this way, when the function selection section 10, the function description section 11, and the function setting section 12 are continuously arranged in the order of the function selection section 10, the function description section 11, and the function setting section 12, the sections are arranged in the order that the user can visually recognize them during operation, and the user can naturally Operate while confirming the contents of the function. In addition, the user will not be confused about which display element 9 to touch next, and will not feel nervous. the

Next, the operation when the function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is selected and the setting is canceled will be described. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display state change of display elements when a function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is selected and the setting is canceled. In addition, the description of the operation overlapping with that of selecting a function to set is appropriately simplified or omitted. the

In step 1001, when the user touches the icon 10a, go to step 1002. the

In step 1002, the control unit (not shown) turns on the second light source 19 provided on the icon 10b whose function is set, in addition to the first light source 15 provided on all the icons 10b. The process proceeds to step 1003 when the user touches the icon 10b for which the function has been set. the

In step 1003, a control unit (not shown) turns on the first light source 15 provided on the character 11a corresponding to the selected icon 10b to make the character 11a visible, similarly to step 903 . In addition, when it is necessary to simultaneously display the compartments in which the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b functions, all the first light sources 15 provided on the pattern 11b are turned on. In addition, at the same time, the first light source 15 provided on the icon 12a is turned on so that the icon 12a can be visually recognized. When the user touches the icon 12a written as "No", go to step 1004 . In addition, when the user touches the icon 12a described as "Yes", the process proceeds to step 904 . the

In step 1004, a control unit (not shown) turns off the second light source 19 provided on the icon 10b whose function has been canceled. The control unit (not shown) maintains this state for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and proceeds to step 1005. In addition, in FIG. 10, the case where the control unit (not shown) does not turn on the first light source 15 provided in the character 12b is shown, but it is not limited to this case, and it may be as follows: for example, in the character 12b, " In the case of the character "setting cancelled", the first light source 15 provided in the character 12b is turned on so that the character "setting cancelled" can be visually recognized. the

In step 1005, the control unit (not shown) turns on the first light sources 15 provided on all the icons 10b so that all the icons 10b can be visually recognized. When a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without the user touching any of the display elements 9 thereafter, the process returns to step 1001 . the

Next, the operation when the setting or canceling of the function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is suspended midway will be described. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the display state of a display element when the setting or canceling of the function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is stopped midway. In addition, descriptions overlapping with operations when a function is selected and set and operations when a function is selected and set are canceled are appropriately simplified or omitted. the

In step 1101, when the user touches the icon 10a, go to step 1102. the

In step 1102, when the user touches the icon 10b that wants to set or cancel the function, enter step 1103. In addition, FIG. 11 shows a case in which the user touches the icon 10b for which the function is to be canceled. the

In step 1103 , a control unit (not shown) controls the first light source 15 and the second light source 19 in the same manner as step 903 or step 1003 . The user touches the icon 10a when visually recognizing the characters 11a and the pattern 11b, realizing a mistake in function selection, etc., and thinking of canceling or canceling the setting of the function. When the control unit (not shown) recognizes that the icon 10 a has been touched, the process proceeds to step 1104 . By preparing icons for canceling setting or canceling in this way, the user can decide whether to perform setting or canceling of the function while operating. the

In step 1104 , the control unit (not shown) restores the display state of the display element 9 to the display state of step 1102 . When a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without the user touching any of the display elements 9 thereafter, the process returns to step 1101 . the

(The role of the operating device)

First, comparative example 1 and comparative example 2 are shown as conventional operating devices, and the operation of each comparative example will be described. the

First, comparative example 1 will be described using FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 . 12 is a diagram illustrating a state where a user of the operating device of Comparative Example 1 visually recognizes display elements from the front. 13 is a diagram showing a display state of display elements when a first light source of the operating device of Comparative Example 1 is turned on. As shown in FIG. 12 , in the operating device of Comparative Example 1, the first light source 15 is provided so that the optical axis is perpendicular to the surface of the surface member 8 . Therefore, when the user visually recognizes the display element 9 from the front, the user's line of sight is opposite to the optical axis of the first light source 15, resulting in the appearance of the ball of the light emitting part of the first light source 15 as shown in FIG. There is a problem that display element 9 is difficult to read. the

Next, Comparative Example 2 will be described using FIGS. 14 and 15 . 14 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device of Comparative Example 2 visually recognizes a display element displayed above from below. 15 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device of Comparative Example 2 visually recognizes a display element displayed below from above. The operating device of Comparative Example 2 is different from the operating device of Comparative Example 1 in that the first light source 15 is provided so that the optical axis is parallel to the surface of the surface member 8 . Therefore, when the user visually recognizes the display element 9 from the front, the user's line of sight will not be opposite to the optical axis of the first light source 15, and the ball appearance phenomenon as shown in FIG. 13 will not occur. However, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, when the first light source 15 of the display element 9 arranged above is arranged on the upper side of the light guide plate 16, the first light source 15 of the display element 9 arranged below is arranged on the upper side of the light guide plate 16. In the case of the lower side of the light plate 16, the light emitted from the first light source 15 has a divergence angle centered on the optical axis, so the user's line of sight faces part of the diffused light. In this case, although the ball appearance phenomenon as shown in FIG. 13 is alleviated, the light emitting part of the first light source 15 still enters the user's field of vision, and there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to read the display element 9 . the

Next, the operation of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. the

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a sequence of visual recognition by a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. In addition, in FIG. 16, both the case where the character 11a is displayed on the upper side of the pattern 11b, and the case where the pattern 11b is displayed on the upper side of the character 11a are shown. As shown in FIG. 16 , in the operating device according to Embodiment 1, the function selection section 10 , the function description section 11 , and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a row in order of visual recognition by the user. That is, when setting a function, the user moves his/her gaze in the order of the function selection section 10 , the function description section 11 , and the function setting section 12 . the

The function description section 11 is provided at a height that substantially coincides with the line-of-sight height of a user of standard height standing and looking straight ahead. Therefore, the user's line of sight is directed upward when viewing the function selection section 10 , and the user's line of sight is directed downward when viewing the function setting section 12 . With such a configuration, the user can visually recognize the characters 11a and the pattern 11b displayed on the function explanation section 11 from approximately the front, and can confirm the explanation of the functions with a preferred posture. In addition, the substantially centers in the height direction of the three segments substantially coincide with the height of the line of sight when the user stands and looks straight, so that the vertical movement of the line of sight can be substantially equalized. In addition, the standard height referred to here means the average height of women (the average height of women aged 20 to 60 after subtracting the upper and lower 5%), for example, it is about 160 cm in Japan. Therefore, the height of the function explaining section 11 from the installation surface may be approximately 130 to 150 cm in Japan, for example, so as to substantially match the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height stands and looks straight. the

And, unlike the operating device of Comparative Example 1 and the operating device of Comparative Example 2, in the operating device of Embodiment 1, as shown in FIG. 8 , the optical axis of the first light source 15 is parallel to the surface of the surface member 8, and the In the direction perpendicular to the column direction of the blocks, in this example, the left-right direction. the

With such a configuration, the user's line of sight does not face the optical axis of the first light source 15, and the appearance of a ball as shown in FIGS. the

In addition, in the case of three blocks, when a figure including the three blocks is drawn and a figure having the minimum circumference length is drawn, the figure is formed such that the width dimension in the left-right direction is smaller than the width dimension in the up-down direction, that is, In this example, it is formed to be vertically long, and the user's line of sight moves more in the up-down direction than in the left-right direction. That is, it is easier for the light emitting part of the first light source 15 to enter the user's field of vision when moving up and down than when moving in the left and right directions. Therefore, by arranging the optical axis of the first light source 15 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the up-down direction, movement in the up-down direction in which the light-emitting part of the first light source 15 easily enters the user's field of vision can be prevented, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 14 . As a result of the ball appearance phenomenon shown in FIG. 15 , the frequency at which the light emitting part of the first light source 15 enters the user's field of vision is reduced, and the difficulty of reading the display element 9 is reduced. the

In addition, the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is installed in, for example, low-profile equipment, freely movable equipment, and other equipment in which the user can freely change the relative relationship between the position of the function explanation section 11 and the position of the user's line of sight when looking straight ahead. In this case, the user changes the standing position and posture in order to visually recognize all of the function selection section 10, function explanation section 11, and function setting section 12 so that the section arranged in the center, That is, it is the function description section 11 in this example. Therefore, even if the function description section 11 is not set at a height substantially consistent with the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height stands and looks straight, the user faces upward when visually recognizing the function selection section 10, and visually recognizes the function setting area. When the segment 12 faces downward, the direction of the line of sight is changed, and the optical axis of the first light source 15 is set in a direction substantially perpendicular to the up-down direction, thereby preventing movement in the up-down direction as described above, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 . Such a ball appears phenomenon. the

Also, in the case where the blocks are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction, the user changes the standing position and posture so as to face the block arranged in the center. Therefore, the user changes the direction of the line of sight so that the direction of the line of sight is turned to the right when visually recognizing the segment on the right and to the left when visually recognizing the segment on the left, and the optical axis of the first light source 15 is set in a direction substantially perpendicular to the left-right direction. Accordingly, similarly to the above, it is possible to prevent the ball appearing phenomenon as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 with respect to the movement in the left and right directions. In addition, when each segment is provided at a height that substantially coincides with the height of the line of sight of a user of standard height standing and looking straight ahead, the user can visually recognize each segment in a preferred posture. the

In addition, in the operating device according to Embodiment 1, the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 are arranged in the left-right direction, but only some of the first light sources 15 of the display elements 9 may be arranged in the left-right direction. When the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 are arranged in the left-right direction, the frequency of the ball appearance phenomenon can be further reduced. the

(Modification)

In the operation device of Embodiment 1, in step 902 of FIG. 9 , step 1002 of FIG. 10 , step 1102 of FIG. The first light source 15 is turned on, but it is not limited to this case. the

17 and 18 are diagrams showing modified examples of the display state of the function selection section of the operating device according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, when there is a function that cannot be set depending on the operating state of the freezer-refrigerator, the first light source 15 provided on the icon 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set may be turned off. With such a configuration, it is possible for the user to recognize which function cannot be set. the

In addition, as shown in FIG. 17, when the first light source 15 provided on the icon 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set is turned off, there is a fear that the user may mistakenly recognize that the first light source 15 is faulty. As shown in FIG. 18, the first light source 15 provided on the icon 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set is dimly lit. With such a configuration, it is possible for the user to distinguish and visually recognize the icons 10b corresponding to the functions that can be set and the icons 10b corresponding to the functions that cannot be set. the

In the operating device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2 , the icon 12 a is displayed on the lower side of the characters 12 b in the function setting area 12 , but the present invention is not limited to this case. the

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a modified example of a function setting section of the operating device according to Embodiment 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, the icon 12a may be displayed on the upper side of the character 12b. Also, in this case, even if the character 12b is displayed when the user touches the icon 12a, the character 12b is hidden due to the hand touching the icon 12a, and the user cannot recognize that the function is set. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2, when the icon 12a is displayed below the characters 12b, the characters 12b will not be hidden by the hand, and the user can more reliably recognize that the function is set. the

In the operation device according to Embodiment 1, as shown in FIG. 11 , the icon 10 a is used as an icon for setting or canceling the suspension function, but the present invention is not limited to this case. the

20 is a diagram showing a modified example of an icon for canceling setting or canceling of a function of the operating device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, an icon 12c may be added for its exclusive use. A display unit 13 having an input unit 18 is provided on the icon 12c. Symbols (words) such as "return" and "cancel" are described in the icon 12c. With such a configuration, the user can easily recognize the icon for setting or canceling the suspension function, and the operability of the operation device 7 is further improved. In addition, an icon other than the icon 10 a may be used as an icon for setting or canceling the suspension function. the

In the operating device according to Embodiment 1, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 , the first layer 8a and the second layer 8b are provided on the surface of the transmissive member 8c. A layer is provided on the surface of the transmissive member 8c. In addition, other layers and other members may be provided on the surface side of the first layer 8a. Alternatively, the first layer 8 a and the second layer 8 b may be provided on a member different from the transmissive member 8 c, and the different member may be provided on the front side or the back side of the surface member 8 . In this case, it is also possible to integrate the surface part 8 with this different component. the

In the operating device according to Embodiment 1, the light guide plate 16 is provided for each display element 9 , but each light guide plate 16 may be integrated. With such a configuration, it is not necessary to attach the light guide plates 16 one by one, and the assembly work becomes easier. For example, all the light guide plates 16 may be integrated into one component, or may be integrated for each segment or each form of the display element 9 . FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a case where the light guide plate of the operating device according to Embodiment 1 is integrated. For example, when the light guide plate 16 provided in the character 11a is integrated, what is necessary is just to set it as the shape as shown in FIG. 21. In addition, in this example, the first light source 15 is arranged in an area A provided on the outside of the light guide plate 16 in the left-right direction. In addition, in this example, the shielding wall 17 is arranged in the groove portion or the hole portion B provided in parallel to the left-right direction of the light guide plate 16 . the

In the operating device according to Embodiment 1, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the input unit 18 is composed of electrodes of a capacitive touch sensor incorporated in the display unit 13, but it is not limited to this case. For example, it may also be as follows: The input unit 18 is constituted by a switch such as a button, and the switch is provided in the vicinity of the display unit 13 in the up, down, left, and right directions, or another housing capable of communicating with the operation device 7 . When the input unit 18 is composed of electrodes of a capacitive touch sensor incorporated in the display unit 13 like the operation device of Embodiment 1, since there is no movable part unlike the switch, durability can be improved. In addition, unlike switches, there is no groove through which moisture or the like enters, so waterproofness can be improved. In addition, static electricity does not accumulate in the tank where moisture or the like enters, and the user does not feel nervous during operation. the

Embodiment 2. the

The operating device of Embodiment 2 differs from the operating device of Embodiment 1 in the arrangement of the first light sources. the

Next, an operation device according to Embodiment 2 will be described. the

First, the configuration of the operating device according to Embodiment 2 will be described. In addition, descriptions overlapping with those of the operating device in Embodiment 1 are appropriately simplified or omitted. the

22 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 2 are displayed. As shown in FIG. 22, a function selection section 10, a function description section 11, and a function setting section 12 are set in a row in the surface member 8 vertically, and the first light source 15 is illuminated from a direction parallel to the column direction, in this example. In the middle, light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 from up and down. the

Display elements 9 , in this example icons 10 a , 10 b , and characters 11 a , which are located above the approximate center in the height direction of the function description section 11 , are arranged below the light guide plate 16 . In addition, the first light source 15 of the display element 9 located below the approximate center in the height direction of the function explanation section 11, in this example, the pattern 11b, the icon 12a, and the character 12b, is disposed on the light guide plate 16. side. In addition, when the sections are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 located on the right side of the approximate center of the function explanation section 11 in the horizontal direction is arranged on the left side of the light guide plate 16. In addition, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 located on the left side of the approximate center in the horizontal direction of the function explanation section 11 is arranged on the right side of the light guide plate 16 . the

Next, the operation of the operating device according to Embodiment 2 will be described. the

The function description section 11 is set so that the height of the approximate center in the height direction is approximately the same as the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height stands and looks straight. Therefore, in this example, the user's line of sight is directed upward when viewing the icon 10a, the icon 10b, and the characters 11a, and the user's line of sight is directed downward when viewing the pattern 11b, the icon 12a, and the text 12b. the

23 is a diagram illustrating a state where a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 2 visually recognizes a display element displayed above from below. 24 is a diagram showing a state where a user of the operating device according to Embodiment 2 visually recognizes a display element displayed below from above. Unlike the operating device of Comparative Example 1 and the operating device of Comparative Example 2, in the operating device of Embodiment 2, as shown in FIG. 23 and 24, even if the user's line of sight moves between sections, that is, upward in this example , downward, the light-emitting part of the first light source 15 will not enter the user's field of vision to produce the phenomenon of ball appearance as shown in Figure 14 and Figure 15, which reduces the difficulty of reading the display element 9. the

In addition, in the operating device according to the second embodiment, the function description section 11 is set at the approximate center in the height direction, that is, the height of the area between the area where the characters 11a are displayed and the area where the pattern 11b is displayed, and the standard height are used. The height of the line of sight when the patient stands and looks squarely is roughly the same. However, the height of the user varies, and the height of the line of sight of a user who is not of standard height when standing and looking straight up matches the height of the portion except the area between the area where the characters 11a are displayed and the area where the pattern 11b is displayed. Therefore, it is necessary to consider providing a space for absorbing the height variation of the user between the area where the characters 11a are displayed and the area where the pattern 11b is displayed. the

When the operating device according to Embodiment 2 is installed in, for example, low-profile equipment, freely movable equipment, or other equipment in which the user can freely change the relative relationship between the position of the function description section 11 and the position of the user's line of sight when looking straight ahead , there is no need to consider the height deviation of the user. the

In addition, even if the height variation of the user is not taken into consideration, the display elements displayed between the approximate center in the height direction of the function explanation block 11 and the height approximately coincident with the height of the user's line of sight when standing and looking straight are For the display elements 9 other than 9, since the ball appearance phenomenon as shown in Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 is prevented, the reading difficulty of the display elements 9 is greatly reduced. the

In addition, in the operating device according to Embodiment 2, the height of the approximate center in the height direction of the function explaining section 11 is made to be approximately the same as the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height stands and looks straight ahead, but other heights of the surface member 8 may also be adjusted. The height of the part is approximately the same as the line of sight height when a user of standard height stands and looks straight. That is, it only needs to be as follows: the first light source 15 of the display element 9 provided above the portion at a height substantially coincident with the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height is standing and looking straight ahead is arranged on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, The first light source 15 of the display element 9 is arranged above the light guide plate 16 , which is located below a portion at a height approximately equal to the height of the line of sight when a user of a standard height stands and looks straight. Like the operation device of Embodiment 2, when the height of the approximate center in the height direction of the function explanation section 11 is made approximately the same as the height of the line of sight when a user of standard height stands and looks straight, the line of sight can be moved up and down. Roughly equal up and down. the

In addition, in the operating device according to Embodiment 2, the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 displayed above are arranged on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, and the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 displayed below are arranged on the lower side of the light guide plate 16. On the upper side of the light panel 16, only a part of the first light sources 15 of the display elements 9 may be arranged in this way. When the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 are arranged in this way, the frequency of the ball appearance phenomenon can be further reduced. the

Embodiment 3. the

The operating device of Embodiment 3 is different from the operating devices of Embodiments 1 and 2 in the arrangement of the first light source. the

Next, an operating device according to Embodiment 3 will be described. the

First, the configuration of the operating device according to Embodiment 3 will be described. In addition, descriptions that overlap with those of the operating devices of Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 are appropriately simplified or omitted. the

25 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operation device according to Embodiment 3 are displayed. As shown in FIG. 25 , a function selection section 10 , a function explanation section 11 , and a function setting section 12 are arranged in a row in the vertical direction on the surface member 8 . the

The first light source 15 installed in the display element 9 displayed in the function explanation section 11, in this example, the characters 11a and the pattern 11b, emits light to the light guide plate 16 from a direction perpendicular to the row direction of the section, that is, from the left and right directions. . In addition, when the segments are arranged in a row in the lateral direction, light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 from the vertical direction. In addition, the first light source 15 provided in the display element 9 displayed in the function selection section 10 and the function setting section 12, in this example, an icon 10a, an icon 10b, an icon 12a, and a character 12b, follows the row of the sections. The light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 in a direction parallel to the direction, that is, from an up and down direction. In addition, when the segments are arranged in a row in the lateral direction, light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 from the left and right directions. the

The first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed on the function selection area 10 , in this example, an icon 10 a and an icon 10 b , is disposed below the light guide plate 16 . In addition, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed on the function setting area 12 , in this example, an icon 12 a and a character 12 b is arranged above the light guide plate 16 . Also, when the sections are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction, the first light source 15 provided in the display element 9 displayed in the section located on the right side of the function explanation section 11 is arranged on the left side of the light guide plate 16 . In addition, the first light source 15 provided in the display element 9 displayed on the left side of the function description section 11 is arranged on the right side of the light guide plate 16 . the

Next, the operation of the operating device according to Embodiment 3 will be described. the

The function description section 11 is set at a height roughly consistent with the height of the line of sight when a user of a standard height stands and looks squarely. The user's line of sight is facing downward. the

Similar to the operating device of Embodiment 1 and the operating device of Embodiment 2, in the operating device of Embodiment 3, the optical axis of the first light source 15 does not face the line of sight of the user, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 . The ball presents itself as shown, thus reducing the difficulty of reading the display element 9 . the

In addition, similarly to the operating device of Embodiment 1 and the operating device of Embodiment 2, in the operating device of Embodiment 3, when the user's line of sight moves, the occurrence of the light-emitting part of the first light source 15 entering the user's field of view is reduced. The frequency of appearance of the ball as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 reduces the difficulty of reading the display element 9 . the

In addition, in the operating device of Embodiment 3, the first light source 15 provided on the display elements 9 displayed in the function selection section 10 and the function setting section 12 irradiates light to the light guide plate 16 from the up and down direction, which is similar to that of the embodiment. 1, it is possible to further reduce the frequency of the appearance of the ball when visually recognizing the display elements 9 displayed in the function selection section 10 and the function setting section 12. the

In addition, in the operating device of Embodiment 3, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed in the function description section 11 emits light to the light guide plate 16 from the left and right directions. Therefore, like the operating device of Embodiment 2, There is no need to provide a space or the like between the area where the characters 11a are displayed and the area where the pattern 11b is displayed in consideration of the height variation of the user. the

In addition, in the operating device of Embodiment 3, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed in the function description section 11 emits light to the light guide plate 16 from the left and right directions. Therefore, like the operating device of Embodiment 2, It is not necessary to provide the first light source 15 between the display elements 9 of the characters 11a and the pattern 11b displayed in the function description section 11, so the display elements 9 of the characters 11a and the pattern 11b can be arranged at narrower intervals, and the The operating device 7 is miniaturized. the

26 is a diagram in which a first light source is superimposed on a diagram showing a state where all display elements of the operating device according to Embodiment 3 are displayed. In addition, in the operating device according to Embodiment 3, the first light source 15 provided on the characters 12b displayed in the function setting section 12 emits light to the light guide plate 16 from a direction parallel to the column direction of the section, that is, from an up-down direction. , however, as shown in FIG. 26 , light may be emitted to the light guide plate 16 from a direction perpendicular to the row direction of the segments, that is, from the left and right directions. With this configuration, the direction of the optical axis of the first light source 15 provided on the horizontally wide display element 9 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the display element 9 , and the display element 9 can be displayed more uniformly with fewer first light sources 15 . the

In addition, in the operating device according to Embodiment 3, the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 displayed in the function description section 11 are arranged in the left and right directions of the light guide plate 16, and all the display elements 9 displayed in the function selection section 10 The first light source 15 of 9 is arranged on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, and the first light source 15 of all display elements 9 displayed in the function setting section 12 is arranged on the upper side of the light guide plate 16, but only a part of the display elements can also be arranged. The first light source 15 of 9 is arranged like this. When the first light sources 15 of all the display elements 9 are arranged in this way, the frequency of the ball appearance phenomenon can be further reduced. the

Embodiment 4. the

The operation device of Embodiment 4 differs from the operation devices of Embodiments 1 to 3 in the configurations of the surface member and the display unit. the

Next, configurations of the surface member and the display unit of the operating device according to Embodiment 4 will be described. In addition, descriptions overlapping with those of the operating devices of Embodiments 1 to 3 are appropriately simplified or omitted. the

First, the configuration of the surface member of the operation device according to Embodiment 4 and the display unit for displaying display elements that do not function as input means will be described with reference to FIG. 27 . the

27 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of an operating device according to Embodiment 4 and a display unit having no display element functioning as an input unit. As shown in FIG. 27 , the display unit 13 is provided between the surface member 8 and the printed substrate 14 . the

The display unit 13 has a first light source 15 and a shielding wall 17 . On the transmissive member 8 c of the surface member 8 , a convex portion C is formed in a region where display elements are described, and the convex portion C protrudes between the shielding walls 17 . In addition, the diffusion pattern D is formed on the surface of the transmissive member 8 c that faces the printed circuit board 14 . When the surface component 8 is incident on light from the first light source 15 arranged on the side, it emits planar light according to the diffusion effect of the astigmatism pattern D (the transmissive member 8c having formed the astigmatism pattern D is the same as that in the present invention) The "glow widget" quite.). In addition, the astigmatism pattern D may also be formed on a member different from the transmissive member 8c, and the different member is provided on the back side of the surface member 8 (the different member forming the astigmatism pattern D is the same as " Luminous components" quite.). In this case, it is also possible to integrate the surface part 8 with the different member. the

Next, the configuration of the surface member of the operation device according to Embodiment 4 and the display unit having display elements functioning as input means will be described with reference to FIG. 28 . In addition, a display unit for displaying an icon 10b, that is, an icon for selecting a function that the user touches and sets, has a second light source 19 similarly to the operating device in the first embodiment. the

28 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a surface member of an operation device according to Embodiment 4 and a display unit having a display element functioning as an input unit. As shown in FIG. 28 , display unit 13 has first light source 15 , shielding wall 17 , and input unit 18 . the

The input unit 18 is an electrode of a capacitive touch sensor. The input unit 18 is mounted on the surface of the printed circuit board 14 . The input unit 18 is provided on the rear side of the diffusion pattern D. As shown in FIG. The input unit 18 detects a change in capacitance value via the surface member 8 when the user touches the area of the surface member 8 where the display elements 9 are displayed, and sends a signal to a control unit (not shown). the

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a surface member of an operation device according to Embodiment 4. FIG. For example, what is necessary is just to make the surface material 8 into the shape as shown in FIG. 29, when displaying the character 11a on one surface material 8. FIG. In this example, the first light source 15 is arranged in an area A provided outside the surface member 8 in the left-right direction. The shielding wall 17 is provided between the protrusions C. As shown in FIG. The diffuse pattern D is formed on the back surface of the surface member 8 . The astigmatism pattern D is formed such that the pattern density increases as the distance from the first light source 15 increases. With such a configuration, the display state of the display elements 9 can be made more uniform. the

In addition, in the operating device according to Embodiment 4, the light-scattering pattern D is formed on the surface member 8 , but it is also possible to provide a light guide plate 16 on the back side of the surface member 8 as in the operating device of Embodiment 1, and to form a light-scattering pattern D on the light guide plate 16 . Pattern D. the

As mentioned above, although Embodiment 1 - Embodiment 4 were demonstrated, this invention is not limited to description of each embodiment. For example, it is also possible to combine each embodiment and each modification. the

Claims (13)

1. an operating means, is characterized in that, at least possesses:

Layer, has multiple record portion, and this record portion records the information for operating by the shape of at least one party in transmissive portions and non-transmissive portion;

Illuminated component, is arranged on the rear side of described layer, has and opposed of described record portion, from the light of described surface launching institute incident; And

Multiple light sources, at least arrange one for each of described record portion, are configured to optical axis and described layer almost parallel, to described illuminated component incident light,

At least a portion of described multiple record portion is formed with at least 3 sections,

Described 3 sections are formed as row,

About described 3 sections, in the case of depicting as the figure that comprises these 3 sections and being the figure of all-round length minimum, the width dimensions that this figure is formed as the direction vertical with the column direction of described row is less than the width dimensions of the direction parallel with the column direction of described row

The described light source that arranges is configured to optical axis substantially vertical with the column direction of described row with forming that the record portion described at least one of central section of being positioned in described 3 sections is corresponding.

2. operating means according to claim 1, is characterized in that,

With form at least one of sections in described 3 sections, that be present in the outside of the section that is positioned at described central authorities described in the corresponding and described light source that arranges of record portion, be configured to the column direction almost parallel of optical axis and described row, and from offing normal in the near side of the section of described central authorities to described illuminated component incident light.

3. an operating means, is characterized in that, at least possesses:

Layer, has multiple record portion, and this record portion records the information for operating by the shape of at least one party in transmissive portions and non-transmissive portion;

Illuminated component, is arranged on the rear side of described layer, has and opposed of described record portion, from the light of described surface launching institute incident; And

Multiple light sources, at least arrange one for each of described record portion, are configured to optical axis and described layer almost parallel, to described illuminated component incident light,

At least a portion of described multiple record portion is formed with at least 3 sections,

Described 3 sections are formed as row,

About described 3 sections, in the case of depicting as the figure that comprises these 3 sections and being the figure of all-round length minimum, the width dimensions that this figure is formed as the direction vertical with the column direction of described row is less than the width dimensions of the direction parallel with the column direction of described row

With form at least one of sections in described 3 sections, that be present in the outside that is positioned at central section described in the corresponding and described light source that arranges of record portion, be configured to the column direction almost parallel of optical axis and described row, and from offing normal in the near side of the section of described central authorities to described illuminated component incident light.

4. according to the operating means described in any one in claim 1～3, it is characterized in that,

Be arranged in the record portion of the section of described central authorities in formation, at least comprise the record portion recording for the information of functions.

5. operating means according to claim 4, is characterized in that,

Be present in the record portion of a section in the outside of the section that is arranged in described central authorities in formation, at least comprise the record portion recording for the information of selection function,

Be present in the record portion of another section in the outside of the section that is arranged in described central authorities in formation, at least comprise the record portion recording for the information of set-up function.

6. according to the operating means described in any one in claim 1～3, it is characterized in that,

Described 3 sections form continuously.

7. according to the operating means described in any one in claim 1～3, it is characterized in that,

Described layer is arranged at has radioparent member,

Described illuminated component is LGP,

Described LGP with described in to have the rear side of radioparent member integrated.

8. according to the operating means described in any one in claim 1～3, it is characterized in that,

Described layer is arranged at has radioparent member,

Form astigmatic pattern described in thering is radioparent member,

Described illuminated component has radioparent member described in being.

9. operating means according to claim 8, is characterized in that,

Described astigmatic pattern is formed as along with the density increase of pattern away from the distance change from described light source.

10. according to the operating means described in any one in claim 1～3, it is characterized in that,

Rear side at described illuminated component is provided with input block,

Described input block is the electrode of electrostatic capacity type touch sensor.

11. 1 kinds of refrigerating storehouses, is characterized in that,

At least possesses the operating means described in any one in claim 1～10.

12. refrigerating according to claim 11 storehouses, is characterized in that,

Described 3 sections are formed as longitudinal row.

13. according to the refrigerating storehouse described in claim 11 or 12, it is characterized in that,

The section that is positioned at described central authorities is formed on stands with the user of standard heights and roughly consistent height of the height of the sight line of positive apparent time.

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