JP2008165608A - Electronic equipment with auxiliary selection part - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide electronic equipment having a function for performing, in selection from selection object candidates on a display, including selection of a conversion character candidate phrase in character input, stepwise selection from the candidates displayed in matrix, thereby enabling a user to perform efficient selection, by providing an auxiliary selection means for performing visually recognizable display such as display associated with a positional relation with a keyboard. <P>SOLUTION: The electronic equipment having a selecting function for selecting an object from a plurality of selection object candidates displayed on the display comprises the auxiliary selection part for selecting a part of the selection object candidates for narrowing prior to selection of the object from the selection object candidates displayed on the display. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic apparatus having a selection function for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on a display.

With the widespread use of personal computers and mobile terminals such as mobile phones, the opportunity to enter characters from the keyboard has been increasing for a long time. At that time, the optimal word / phrase is selected and input from a plurality of conversion character candidate words / phrases displayed on the screen. In recent years, the number of character conversion candidate words / phrases has increased due to the enhancement of the dictionary for character conversion. ing. Similarly, there are increasing opportunities to select an icon corresponding to a function or information desired by the user from a plurality of icons displayed on the screen using a mouse or the like. Accordingly, the number of icons that are candidates for selection is also increasing.
With the increase of selection target candidates including such conversion character candidate phrases, contrivances for efficient selection have been made, and various techniques have been disclosed. For example, in Patent Document 1, the candidate reading length of a candidate to be converted is selected and designated, and kanji conversion candidates having the specified reading length are displayed in a matrix form on the screen, thereby facilitating selection of the candidate kanji to be converted. Patent Document 2 proposes a conversion candidate phrase selection method for selecting a character by associating one key with each conversion candidate phrase displayed in a matrix, and for conversion phrase search and selection. We are trying to improve efficiency.
JP-A-1-158560 JP-A-3-141460

However, from the user's point of view, as the number of candidate phrases increases, it takes time and effort to move the cursor to select the phrase that you really want to select, making it easier to select candidate phrases A method is desired.
However, in the conventional method, there is one cursor for selecting a character from candidate characters, and selection is made from candidate characters by moving the cursor. In this method, it is necessary to move the cursor to the candidate character, and as the number of choices increases, the probability that the phrase to be selected is located far from the initial position of the cursor increases. For this reason, it has been troublesome to select a word / phrase to be selected from many options to be selected.
In this regard, in Patent Document 2, conversion candidate characters are displayed in a matrix, and each character corresponds to one key so that the conversion character can be selected. Similarly, in Patent Document 2, when a plurality of conversion candidates are assigned to one key, selection can be made according to the number of times the corresponding key is pressed. However, in this method, when one candidate word / phrase is assigned to one key, the number of conversion candidate words / phrases that can be displayed is limited, and when a plurality of candidate words / phrases are assigned to one key, conversion is performed. There was a problem that the number of candidate words increased, making it difficult to see and difficult to select.

  Therefore, the problem to be solved by the present invention is that, when selecting a selection target candidate on the display including selection of a conversion character candidate word / phrase when inputting characters, the positional relationship with the keyboard is displayed in association with each other. By providing auxiliary selection means that can be visually recognized, an electronic device having a function that allows a user to make a selection in a stepwise manner from among the candidates displayed in a matrix and that can be efficiently selected by the user. It is to provide.

  In order to solve the above problems, among the present inventions, the invention described in claim 1 is an electronic device having a selection function for selecting a target from a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on a display. An electronic device having an auxiliary selection unit for selecting a part of selection target candidates for narrowing down before selecting a target from selection target candidates displayed on a display is provided. Further, the invention according to claim 2 has a key input unit, and some selection target candidates selected by the auxiliary selection unit have an arrangement corresponding to the key arrangement of the key input unit on the display. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1 is provided. According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the electronic apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is an M × M array that is a key array of the key input unit, where M is a natural number. . In the invention according to claim 4, the plurality of selection target candidates displayed on the display is an N × N array where N is a natural number, and the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is M (M <N). The electronic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein M is an M × M array, which is a key array of a key input unit, with a natural number as According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the auxiliary selection unit displays a selection range graphic for displaying a selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidates on the display, and the display of the selection range graphic. 4. An electronic apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a selection range graphic display position moving means for moving the position within the display. In the invention according to claim 6, the auxiliary selection unit can be distinguished from the selection target candidate form that does not attempt to select the graphic form of the selection target candidate to be selected in order to select a part of the selection target candidate. 4. A selection graphic form display means for displaying on a display, and a selection target candidate specifying means for simultaneously specifying a plurality of selection target candidates to be selected according to a predetermined arrangement rule. 5. The electronic device described in 1. is provided. According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the auxiliary selection unit selects a selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidates and a predetermined target among the plurality of selection target candidates specified by the selection range graphic. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a second selection range graphic display means for displaying a main cursor in a temporarily selected state on a display. According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the electronic device according to the second or third aspect, wherein the key input unit has a key layout for ten-key input. Further, in the invention described in claim 9, the key input unit further includes switching means for switching between a character input mode and a mode for selecting an object from a plurality of selection target candidates. The electronic device described in 1. is provided. The invention according to claim 10 is a method for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on a display of an electronic device, and is a selection target candidate displayed on the display. A method is provided that includes an auxiliary selection step for selecting a part of selection target candidates for narrowing down before selecting an object.

  According to the present invention, when selecting a candidate for selection on a display, such as selection of a conversion character candidate word / phrase when inputting characters, a visually recognizable assist such as displaying a positional relationship with the keyboard in association with each other By providing the selection means, it becomes possible to provide an electronic device having a function that allows the user to select in a step-by-step manner from among the candidates displayed in a matrix so that the user can select efficiently. .

  Examples of the present invention will be described below. The relationship between the embodiments and the claims is as follows. Example 1 mainly relates to claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, etc., Example 2 mainly relates to claims 5, 6, etc., and Example 3 mainly With respect to claim 7 and the like, Example 4 mainly relates to claims 8 and 9. In addition, this invention is not limited to these Examples at all, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof.

<Overview>
The electronic device of the present embodiment is an electronic device having a selection function for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on the display, and is selected from the selection target candidates displayed on the display. An electronic apparatus having means for selecting a part of selection target candidates for narrowing down before selecting a target.
In addition, the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment has a key input unit, and some selection target candidates selected by the auxiliary selection unit are selected so as to have an arrangement corresponding to the key arrangement of the key input unit on the display. It may be done.
That is, in the electronic device of this embodiment, a part of the selection target candidates narrowed down from the selection target candidates are associated with a key for selecting a final target from the selection target candidates, and the selection target By making it possible to change a part of the candidate by operating the cursor keys, etc., the final selection target can be selected after being included in a part of the selection target candidate, thereby making it easy to select the final selection target. It is characterized in that In order to realize such processing, the electronic device of the present embodiment does not select the final selection target in a single selection from the selection target candidates, but first narrows down to a part and then further narrows down the selection. It is configured to perform a stepwise selection of selecting a final selection target from the target candidates.

<Configuration>
(General)
FIG. 1 shows an example of functional blocks of the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the “electronic device” 0100 has an “auxiliary selection unit” 0110.
The “electronic device” in the present invention has a display capable of displaying characters, images, and the like, and is required to be a device capable of operating a screen using an interface such as a keyboard and a mouse. As long as it has a function, the kind will not be ask | required. For example, a personal computer (including a notebook personal computer), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a mobile phone, a PHS (Personal Handyphone System), an electronic dictionary, a game machine, a digital camera, and the like are applicable.
The “auxiliary selection unit” is for selecting a part of the selection target candidates for selection before selecting a target from the selection target candidates displayed on the display. As described above, the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment is characterized in that it has means for narrowing down that performs stepwise selection.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment including the auxiliary selection unit. As shown in this figure, the “electronic device” 0200 of this example includes a “display signal output unit” 0220, a “GUI interface” 0230, a “selection candidate display unit” 0250, and an “auxiliary selection unit” 0210. , “Selection unit” 0240 and “selection target candidate data holding unit” 0260.
Each configuration will be briefly described below.
The “display signal output unit” constitutes a signal to be output to the display. The signal output to the display is synthesized based on data received from the selection target candidate display unit and the GUI interface. Specifically, the display signal output unit is configured to form a composite image in the video memory in accordance with this composition rule.
The “GUI interface” outputs, to the display signal output unit, graphic data that allows a user of the electronic device to visually execute a selection operation. Specifically, based on an operation signal input from the user to the auxiliary selection unit, a selection range graphic (such as an auxiliary cursor) is displayed, the selection range graphic is moved within the screen, or the selection range graphic is displayed. The selection target candidates selected by the auxiliary selection unit are displayed in an easy-to-understand manner for the user by changing the color of the selected group of selection target candidates. Here, the “selection range graphic” refers to a form for visually displaying a part of selection target candidates to be selected by the auxiliary selection unit for narrowing down, and the auxiliary cursor is representative. However, in addition to this, it may be distinguished by a shape / pattern including font, color, size, and the like. Further, the GUI interface changes the color of the selection target candidate selected according to the selection operation from the user input to the selection unit or changes the thickness of the character to select the selection target candidate finally selected by the user. Or display it in an easy-to-understand manner. Therefore, the GUI interface generates display data to be output to the display signal output unit in response to a user operation signal received from the auxiliary selection unit and a user operation signal received from the selection unit.
The “selection target candidate display unit” has a function of passing a group of data selected by a user input or the like to the display signal output unit as data for displaying on the display.
The data to be passed to the display signal output unit by the selection target candidate display unit is, for example, a character group corresponding to the Roman character reading based on the Roman character input of the user's word processor.
For example, if “JI” is entered as a roman character, “痔”, “road”, “thing”, “di”, “self”, “next”, etc. are front-ends not shown in the figure as candidates for selection. The selection target candidate display unit receives character data to be displayed as a selection target candidate, such as a character code, from the selection target candidate data holding unit, which is selected by a processor or the like. The selection target candidate display unit passes data for displaying the selection target candidate on the display to the display signal output unit. In addition, the display data received by the selection target candidate display unit is associated with the position coordinates of the virtual region on the display received from the selection target candidate data holding unit or the position of the virtual area that protrudes from the display for each selection target candidate character. ing. Therefore, the display signal output unit determines the position to be displayed on the display using the position coordinates. In addition, when the selection candidates cannot be accommodated within one screen of the display, a screen scroll command input from a controller outside the figure is received from the user, and this is interpreted and selected to be displayed at the screen scroll position. The target candidate is determined according to the position coordinates associated with the selection target candidate, and the selection target candidate is passed to the display signal output unit.

  The “auxiliary selection unit” is selected by a cursor or the like in order to output a cursor movement command to the GUI interface in response to the user's auxiliary selection operation, or to make it easy for the user to grasp the auxiliary selected data. Information for changing the color of the selection target candidate in the selected area or changing the size of the character is output. An input from a user uses an arrow key or a cross key. The auxiliary selection unit outputs information on how the auxiliary cursor has moved in response to a movement command such as an auxiliary cursor from the user to the selection target candidate data holding unit. The movement information such as the auxiliary cursor is for clearly transmitting the auxiliary selection candidate to be selected to the selection target candidate data holding unit, and the selection target candidate data holding unit according to the movement information such as the auxiliary cursor. Thus, it is specified which selection target candidate is in the auxiliary selected state. For example, if the auxiliary selection is made for 9 characters of 3 × 3, the auxiliary selected character is specified, and the position information in the display of the auxiliary selected character is also specified accordingly. The In some cases, based on the position information, the relative position within the 3 × 3 block, that is, the selection target candidate positioned at the upper left of the 3 × 3 block, or the selection target candidate positioned at the upper right The selection target candidate data holding unit may function so as to identify what the character is. That is, the auxiliary selection unit outputs a signal indicating which selection target candidate should be expressed on the display to the display signal output unit to the GUI interface, and which selection target as a result of the auxiliary selection Whether the candidate is actually in an auxiliary selection state is output as information directed to the selection target candidate data holding unit.

The “selection unit” accepts an input of a command from the user for selecting a target to be finally selected from the selection target candidates selected by the auxiliary selection unit, and the received command is input to the GUI interface. The received command is transmitted to the selection target candidate data holding unit. The input operation of the selection unit is performed using, for example, a numeric keypad for turning a dial of a mobile phone. For example, in the case where the auxiliary selection in the auxiliary selection unit is performed in a 3 × 3 rectangular shape, when any key of the numeric keypad is pressed, the auxiliary selection selection target candidate is arranged at that position. The selection target candidate is identified as the finally selected target. For example, in the case where the letter “Lite” is shown as a candidate for selection on the upper left of the 3 × 3 block, the “Lite” is finally selected by pressing “1” on the numeric keypad. Identified as However, this specification is not performed in the selection unit, but information indicating which key is pressed is passed to the selection target candidate data holding unit, and the coordinate data held in association with the character by the selection target candidate data holding unit Or it specifies based on the data which show a relative position. In addition, information indicating the coordinates or relative position of the key pressed by the user is also passed to the GUI interface, and the GUI interface is a graphic arranged at that position among the selection candidates on the display. By generating data for changing the color of the image to be selected or changing the color and passing the generated data to the display signal output unit, a process for displaying the selection to the user is performed.
The “selection target candidate data holding unit” has a function of holding selection target candidate data. “Hold selection target candidate data” means not only holding a selection target candidate such as a character code, icon identification information, etc., but also position information on these displays, or in an auxiliary selected area It is said to hold relative position information. Then, it has a function of receiving position information indicating the auxiliary selection region, position information indicating the selected portion, and the like from the auxiliary selection unit and the selection unit, and specifying the selected character code that is the entity.

(Auxiliary selection part)
The “auxiliary selection unit” is for selecting (auxiliary selection) a part of the selection target candidates for narrowing down before selecting a target from the selection target candidates displayed on the display. First, the basic concept of the selection method based on such narrowing will be described.
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the characteristics of the selection method according to the present invention. This figure shows a state in which all candidates including the object to be finally selected are displayed on the display. In the present invention, all of these candidates are referred to as “selection target candidates”. In this figure, 25 “selection target candidates” 0301 from “A” to “Y” are shown.
Next, a first stage selection (auxiliary selection) is performed. Specifically, an operation of narrowing down candidates to some of the “selection target candidates” is performed. What is obtained as a result of this narrowing down is a “part of selection candidate”. In the example of this figure, nine “selection target candidates” of “G”, “H”, “I”, “L”, “M”, “N”, “Q”, “R”, “S” are displayed. A state of narrowing down is shown in “Partial” 0302 (indicated by light ink). In this figure, an example is shown in which some of the selection target candidates are arranged adjacent to each other. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. It may be disjointed. In short, it is only necessary that which and which are selected as part of the selection target candidates are displayed on the screen in an identifiable manner.
Next, the second stage selection (target selection) is performed. Specifically, the final selection target is selected by further selecting from the “part of selection target candidates” narrowed down by the selection in the first stage. In the present invention, this finally selected one is called a “target”. This figure shows a state in which one “target” 0303 (indicated by a thick frame) “N” is finally selected from the nine selection target candidates. .

As described above, the present invention is characterized in that some of the displayed candidates (A to Y) (9 such as G) are visually identified, and the target is selected after narrowing down the candidates. is there.
Although FIG. 3 shows an example in which the selection is performed in two stages of auxiliary selection and target selection, the number of stages may be three or more. When there are N stages (N is a natural number of 3 or more), there are (N-1) stages of auxiliary selection for narrowing down. In this case, the (N− 2) “Partial selection candidates” obtained as a result of the auxiliary selection for narrowing down in each stage up to the stage become “selection candidate” in each next stage, and further narrowing down from there (Only in the last Nth stage, selection of a target is performed from a part of selection target candidates).

  The most typical candidate for selection displayed on the display is a converted character candidate word / phrase when inputting characters. However, the selection target candidates are not limited to this, and may be, for example, a plurality of icons, thumbnail images, maps, dialog boxes, windows, selection buttons, etc. In short, a plurality of candidates are specified from among them. Any object can be used as long as it can be displayed on the display in such a manner that the target can be selected. Specifically, in the case of icons, for example, in order to play back recorded content, a plurality of icons including characters indicating recording titles are displayed on the display as a recording list, and narrowed down step by step. In other words, the final content to be played can be selected.

  Hereinafter, the function of the auxiliary selection unit that selects a part of the selection target candidates for selection before selecting the target from the selection target candidates will be described using a specific example. In this case, a typical example of selecting a converted character candidate word / phrase for character input will be described.

FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C are diagrams for explaining the point of selecting a part of the converted character candidate word / phrase that is the candidate for selection.
In the example of this figure, in the process of entering the word “ji” after entering the word “opening”, the key word on the keyboard is used to enter the reading of the word “ji” and convert it to “ji”. In order to do this, a case where selection is made step by step from among conversion character candidate words will be shown. In this case, first, in FIG. 4A, by inputting “ji” on the character input screen 0421 on the display 0420, a box for displaying converted character candidate words is opened on the display, and 25 (vertical) This shows a state in which converted character candidate phrases 0401 (5 rows, 5 columns) are displayed.
In addition, in this drawing, a state in which nine converted character candidate words located in the upper left of these 25 converted character candidate words are included in the range of the auxiliary cursor (palette) 0402 is also shown. The nine characters included in the auxiliary cursor range have a one-to-one correspondence with the key layout of the numeric keypad 0405 on the keyboard 0404. Specifically, the conversion character candidate phrase “痔” corresponds to “1” of the numeric keypad, “road” corresponds to “2”, “thing” corresponds to “3”, and so on. Then, by pressing any one of the numeric keys, the corresponding conversion character candidate word / phrase is selected as the final selection target. For example, if the numeric keypad “8” is pressed in this state, the corresponding “hour” is selected.
The auxiliary cursor can be moved up, down, left and right on the display by operating a cursor key 0407 on the keyboard. FIG. 4B shows a state in which one auxiliary cursor is moved to the right by pressing the right cursor key 0408 of the cursor keys once. Accordingly, in this state, the conversion character candidate words corresponding to the key layout of the numeric keypad also change one-to-one, for example, the “character” of the conversion character candidate word corresponds to “1” of the numeric keypad, and “thing” is “2”. And “di” corresponds to “3” and so on. Accordingly, when the numeric keypad “6” 0406 is pressed in this state, “ji” is selected as the final selection target, and the character inputted as “ji” is converted into “ji”. . FIG. 4C shows a state in which input conversion has been performed as a result of the selection of “description” because the numeric key “6” has been pressed.

  As described above, in the example of this figure, the cursor key is operated to move the auxiliary cursor to a predetermined position (a position where the character ("ji") to be selected as a target is included in the range of the auxiliary cursor). The movement operation corresponds to the above-described first-stage selection (auxiliary selection), and a character ("description") that has been included in the range of the auxiliary cursor by the operation is displayed on the numeric keypad ("6" The operation selected by pressing “)” corresponds to the above-described second-stage selection (target selection). In other words, from the 25 conversion character candidate words / phrases that are candidates for selection displayed on the display, first, the nine conversion character candidate words / phrases (part of the selection object candidates) shown in FIG. 4B are narrowed down. After that, one character that is the final target is selected and converted. Moreover, in the example of this figure, selection (auxiliary selection) for narrowing down performed by the auxiliary selection unit is performed using an auxiliary cursor.

  In the above example, the conversion character candidate phrases (selection target candidates) displayed on the display are 5 rows and 5 columns, and the conversion character candidate phrases (selection targets) included in the range of the auxiliary cursor. Part of the candidate) is 3 rows and 3 columns horizontally, and the corresponding keyboard keys are ten keys arranged in the same 3 rows and 3 columns. As shown in this example, the plurality of selection target candidates displayed on the display has an N × N array where N is a natural number, and the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is a key input using M (M <N) as a natural number. However, the arrangement of candidates for selection in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the conversion character candidate word / phrase (a part of the selection target candidate) included in the range of the auxiliary cursor and the keyboard key layout corresponding to the conversion character candidate word / phrase are arranged by the auxiliary selection unit such as three rows vertically and four columns horizontally The selected array may be an array of M × m (M and m are both natural numbers and M ≠ m), which is a key array of the key input unit, where M is a natural number. Similarly, with regard to the arrangement of conversion character candidate phrases (selection target candidates) displayed on the display, a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on the display, such as 5 rows and 7 columns, has N as a natural number. An array of N × n (N and n are both natural numbers and N ≠ n) may be used. Furthermore, in the first place, the array selected for a part of the selection target candidates by the auxiliary selection unit and the key array of the key input unit may not be the same. For example, the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is 3 rows and 3 columns as in the above example, but the key array of the key input unit is 9 keys arranged in a row. Also good. However, from the viewpoint of facilitating visual identification and selection by the user, the array selected for a part of the selection target candidates by the auxiliary selection section and the key layout of the key input section as shown in the figure. It can be said that the same arrangement is desirable.

In the above example, the keyboard key corresponding to the array selected for a part of the selection target candidates by the auxiliary selection unit is the numeric keypad. However, this is not limited, and other types of keys such as alpha numeric keys are used. Or a function key.
FIG. 5 shows an example in which the keyboard key corresponding to the array selected for a part of the selection target candidates by the auxiliary selection unit is an alphanumeric key. In this figure, the keys 0509 of the keyboard 0504 corresponding to the arrangement included in the auxiliary cursor range 0502 arranged in three vertical rows and three horizontal columns as in FIG. 4 are arranged in three vertical rows and three horizontal columns. Alpha numeric key 0509 (specifically, nine keys “Q”, “W”, “E”, “A”, “S”, “D”, “Z”, “X”, “C”) ) Is shown.
In the example of this figure, each conversion candidate displays only one character. However, in a device with a function such as predictive conversion, for example, “when” is displayed in the column for displaying the conversion candidate. Conversion candidates with different numbers of characters, such as “time”, “Toki”, and “shoku”, may be displayed.
In order to realize the configuration as described above, it is desirable that the electronic apparatus of this embodiment has a “key input unit” (not shown) for performing key input. In this case, as shown above, the plurality of selection target candidates displayed on the display is an N × N array where N is a natural number, and the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is M (M <N). In an example of an M × M arrangement that is a key arrangement of the key input unit as a natural number, some selection target candidates selected by the auxiliary selection unit are arranged corresponding to the key arrangement of the key input unit on the display. It is desirable to be selected as follows.

(Another example)
In the above, in order to select the final selection target from the auxiliary selection means selected by the auxiliary selection unit for a part of the selection target candidates, a key such as a numeric keypad corresponding to each of the selection target candidates included in the selection range graphic ( The case where it is determined by pressing a key (preferably arranged at the same position) has been described. However, the method of selecting a target is not limited to this.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of another object selection method, in which a main cursor pointing to one of the auxiliary cursors is provided. In the example of this figure, the main cursor is placed on the central word / phrase among the nine converted character candidate words / phrases (part of the selection target candidates) included in the range of the auxiliary cursor. Therefore, a selection key (decision key, Enter key, etc.) is pressed to select the final selection target. That is, in the case of this method, it is possible to select an object specified by placing the main cursor on the screen instead of pressing a different key corresponding to the selection object, using the same key. Different from the example. In this case, the main cursor may be moved within the range of the auxiliary cursor without moving the auxiliary cursor, or the position of the main cursor in the auxiliary cursor may be fixed (for example, fixed at the center position). In the latter case, the operation for placing the main cursor on the target to be selected is performed by moving the auxiliary cursor. Details of this embodiment will be described later.

In the above, the example in which the main cursor is moved in conjunction with the movement of the auxiliary cursor has been described. On the other hand, the auxiliary cursor may be moved in conjunction with the main cursor by moving the main cursor.
An example of a specific moving procedure in this case will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, a cursor key 0606 is for moving the main cursor 0603. For example, when the right cursor key is pressed once, the main cursor moves to the right by one. And when the main cursor is moved one to the right, the auxiliary cursor is always moved by the same amount in the same direction in conjunction with the movement of the main cursor. Yes. As a result, the relative position of the main cursor in the auxiliary cursor is fixed at one place. In the example of this figure, the main cursor is always located at the center of the auxiliary cursor.
Or, it is the same as above in that the auxiliary cursor moves in conjunction with the movement of the main cursor, but unlike this, the auxiliary cursor moves even if the main cursor is moved while the main cursor is in the auxiliary cursor. Instead, when the main cursor moves to a position that protrudes outside the auxiliary cursor, the main cursor may move in conjunction with the movement of the main cursor so as to remain within the auxiliary cursor. This will also be described in detail with reference to FIG. It is assumed that the main cursor 0603 at the “ground” position is moved to the right “child” position. In this case, since the position of “child” is still within the auxiliary cursor, the auxiliary cursor does not move. Next, it is assumed that the main cursor is further moved to the position of “R” on the right. In this case, since the position of the “letter” is outside the auxiliary cursor, the auxiliary cursor is also moved to the right so that the main cursor remains in the auxiliary cursor. That is, in this case, the two move together so that the relative positions of the main cursor before and after the movement in the auxiliary cursor are the same (in this example, the “right middle” position).
Furthermore, although all the examples described so far have been described with the movement of the auxiliary cursor and the main cursor performed by a numeric keypad or other key input operation, these movements may be performed by a method other than key input. For example, the auxiliary cursor may be moved by dragging with the mouse, or the same operation may be performed by directly touching the auxiliary cursor on the screen with a touch pen or a finger.

(Hardware configuration)
Next, the hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described. Here, an example in which the converted character candidate word / phrase for character input of the same “letter” as used above is selected will be described.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment. In this example, the electronic device also includes a display signal output unit, a GUI interface, a selection unit, a selection target candidate display unit, and a selection target candidate data holding unit as shown in FIG. 2 in addition to the auxiliary selection unit. explain.
As shown in the figure, the auxiliary selection unit and selection unit of the electronic apparatus of this embodiment are “storage device (recording medium)” 0701, “main memory” 0702, “CPU” 0703, and “I / O”. 0704 and the like. Each of the GUI interface and the selection target candidate display unit includes a “storage device (recording medium)”, “main memory”, “CPU”, “I / O”, “video memory” 0705, and the like. The selection target candidate data holding unit includes a “storage device (recording medium)”, a “main memory”, a “CPU”, and the like. Further, the display signal output unit includes “storage device (recording medium)”, “main memory”, “CPU”, “I / O”, “display” 0706, and the like. These are connected to each other by a data communication path such as “system bus” 0707, and perform transmission / reception and processing of information. The storage device stores various programs executed by the CPU. The main memory provides a work area which is a work area when the program is executed by the CPU. A plurality of memory addresses are assigned to the main memory and the storage device, respectively, and a program executed by the CPU performs processing by exchanging data with each other by specifying and accessing the memory address. It is possible. In this example, an auxiliary selection program, a GUI interface program, a selection candidate display program, and a selection program are stored in the storage device. These programs are automatically read from the storage device when the power is turned on, for example, and reside in the main memory. To do.

In the storage device, the contents of the conversion character candidate words and phrases that are candidates for selection and the display position on the display are stored in association with the reading of the input characters. These contents are preferably stored as one table (selection target candidate association table). In this case, there are as many selection target candidate association tables as the number of input characters read.
FIG. 8 shows an example of the selection target candidate association table. In the selection target candidate association table 0801 of this example, 25 conversion character candidate words / phrases are stored in association with each display position information as selection target candidates (conversion character candidate words / phrases) corresponding to the reading “ji”. Yes. The display position in this example is indicated by coordinates indicating columns and rows. For example, the converted character candidate phrase “痔” is associated with “(1, 1)” which is a coordinate indicating the position in order to be displayed in the first column and first row (upper left). Alternatively, unlike the example of this figure, this display position information may be information indicating the display position on the display screen in units of pixels.

Further, the storage device stores a range (vertical, horizontal rows, number of columns, etc.) occupied by the auxiliary cursor and an initial display position as data related to the auxiliary cursor which is the selection range graphic. The initial display position is indicated by associating the section of the auxiliary cursor with the coordinate position of the conversion character candidate word / phrase. This makes it possible to indicate the positional relationship between the auxiliary cursor and the converted character candidate word (which range of the converted character candidate word includes the auxiliary cursor). It is desirable that this data and the contents of association are also stored as a table (selection range graphic association table).
FIG. 9 shows an example of the selection range graphic association table. This will be described below using the auxiliary selection scene shown in FIG. 4A. In FIG. 4A, a total of 25 conversion character candidate words that are candidates for selection from “痔” in the upper left of the screen to “忸” in the lower right of the screen are displayed. The selection range graphic (auxiliary cursor) identifies and displays nine characters included in the rectangular area from “痔” in the upper left to “indication” in the center of the screen among these 25 characters. The selection range graphic (auxiliary cursor) that identifies and displays these nine characters is displayed by the information shown in the selection range graphic association table 0901. In this example, the auxiliary cursor occupies a range of nine conversion character candidate words, and nine sections including each of the nine conversion character candidate words have their respective positions such as “upper left” and “middle upper”. It has an identification code for identification. Further, in order to determine the display position of the auxiliary cursor, the identification codes indicating the respective sections are associated with the coordinates of the converted character candidate words on a one-to-one basis. In this example, “upper left” of the auxiliary cursor corresponds to “(1,1)” of the conversion character candidate phrase, and similarly “middle upper” corresponds to “(2,1)”, and “upper right” Corresponding to “(3, 1)”. With this association, when displaying a converted character candidate word when a character reading ("ji") is input, the initial display range and position of the auxiliary cursor is the range of the nine converted character candidate words in the upper left. Will be included.
FIG. 34 shows the correspondence between the display position of the auxiliary cursor and the converted character candidate word / phrase on the display. In this figure, for example, “upper left” of the auxiliary cursor and “(1, 1)” of the conversion character candidate word correspond to each other and are displayed at the same position in the initial display state.
Therefore, when a character reading (“ji”) is input by a user key operation or the like, the CPU accepts the input and associates a selection target candidate corresponding to the character reading “ji” included in the signal. The table is read from the storage device and expanded in the main memory. The CPU also reads out the selection range graphic association table from the storage device and develops it in the main memory.

Next, the CPU executes the GUI interface program, refers to the selection target candidate association table, and displays the selection target candidate display for displaying the converted character candidate words included therein on the display according to the coordinate position indicated there. In addition to generating data, selection range graphic display data for initially displaying the auxiliary cursor according to the coordinate position of the selection target candidate associated therewith is generated with reference to the selection range graphic association table. The generated selection target candidate display data and selection range graphic display data are stored in the video memory.
Next, the CPU executes the selection target candidate display program and displays the data content stored in the video memory on the display via the I / O. An example of the display on the display is as shown in FIG. 4A. Although not shown in the figure, these data may be stored in the storage device in association with the character reading “ji”. In this case, the character reading “ji” is input from the next time. In this case, the selection target candidate display data and the selection range graphic display data are read from the storage device, and the contents of the data can be immediately displayed on the display.

Next, a keyboard input operation for moving the auxiliary cursor in order to select a desired character by looking at the contents displayed on the display (for example, pressing the right cursor key once to move one to the right) When the operation is performed, the CPU receives an input signal based on the operation and reads the selection range graphic association table. Then, the CPU executes the auxiliary selection program and, based on the movement information (information that moves one to the right) included in the received input signal, the auxiliary cursor section and the conversion character candidate in the selection range graphic association table Rewrite the association of coordinate positions of words. Specifically, in this example, since the movement information is information that “the auxiliary cursor is moved to the right by one”, the auxiliary cursor section “upper left” is the coordinate position of the converted character candidate word that originally overlapped. It can be seen that it overlaps with the coordinate position “(2, 1)” which is one right from “(1, 1)”. Therefore, in response to this, the CPU rewrites the section “upper left” of the auxiliary cursor in the selection range graphic association table and the coordinate position “(2, 1)” of the conversion character candidate word / phrase. Similarly, the other auxiliary cursor sections are rewritten so as to move one by one to the right.
FIG. 10 shows an example of rewriting the selection range graphic association table. Among these, the table 1001 shown in (a) shows the association before rewriting, and the table 1002 shown in (b) shows the association after rewriting. As shown in the figure, before the rewriting, the auxiliary cursor section “upper left” was associated with the conversion character candidate word “(1, 1)”, but after the rewriting, the auxiliary cursor section. “Upper left” is associated with “(2, 1)” of the conversion character candidate word. Similarly, it is shown that other sections of the auxiliary cursor and other coordinate positions of the conversion character candidate word are rewritten so as to move to the right one by one.

  Next, the CPU generates selection range graphic display data for displaying the auxiliary cursor in accordance with the coordinate position of the corresponding conversion character candidate word indicated therein by referring to the rewritten selection range graphic association table. (The new selection range graphic display data is shown as “selection range graphic display data 2” in FIG. 7 for convenience). The display data generation procedure is the same as the initial display data generation procedure described above. The new selection range graphic display data is also displayed on the display in the same manner as the original display data.

On the other hand, each section of the auxiliary cursor is associated one-to-one with each key of the numeric keypad of the keyboard. For this reason, it is desirable that the electronic device has a selection range graphic / tenkey association table for performing such association. In this example, as shown in the example of the selection range graphic / tenkey association table shown in FIG. 11, the auxiliary cursor section “upper left” is the numeric keypad “1”, and the auxiliary cursor section “middle upper” is the numeric keypad “2”. Are associated with each other in the same arrangement.
In this state, when the CPU accepts an input signal by pressing the numeric keypad “6” on the keyboard via the I / O, the CPU executes the selection program and selects the selection stored in the storage device. The range graphic / tenkey association table is read into the main memory, the section “right middle” of the auxiliary cursor associated with the numeric keypad “6” is read with reference to this table, and the selected range graphic association table after rewriting is referenced. Then, the coordinate position “(4, 2)” of the conversion character candidate word / phrase associated with the section “right middle” of the auxiliary cursor is read out. Further, the CPU refers to the selection target candidate association table, and selects “a word” that is a converted character candidate phrase having the coordinate position “(4, 2)” as a final selection target. This completes the process of converting “ji” into “ji”.

<Process flow>
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the processing flow in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment (the parentheses are specific examples based on the above).
As shown in the figure, first, in the determination step S1201 of whether or not there is an input signal related to character reading (“ji”) based on the user's keyboard operation, in the case of a determination result that there is an input signal, In the input receiving step S1202, the electronic device receives a character reading input (input of “ji”) made using a keyboard or the like.
Next, in the selection target candidate association table reading step S1203, the electronic device reads the selection target candidate association table.
Next, in the selection range graphic association table reading step S1204, the electronic device reads the selection range graphic association table.
Next, in generation step S1205 of selection target candidate display data, the electronic device refers to the selection target candidate association table read out in step S1203, and displays the converted character candidate phrase included therein in the coordinate position indicated therein. The selection target candidate display data to be displayed on the display is generated according to the above.
Next, in the selection range graphic display data generation step S1206, the electronic device refers to the selection range graphic association table read out in step S1204, and moves the auxiliary cursor to the corresponding converted character candidate phrase indicated there. Selection range graphic display data for initial display is generated in accordance with the coordinate position of.
Next, in step S1207 for displaying the selection target candidate and the selection range graphic, the electronic device displays the selection target candidate (25 converted character candidate words) on the display as the display data content generated in step S1205. The selection range graphic for auxiliary selection is displayed at a predetermined position including the position of the selection target candidate as the display data content generated in step S1206 (the position where the auxiliary cursor overlaps the upper left nine of the converted character candidate words) To display).

Next, a keyboard operation for moving the auxiliary cursor to select a desired character by looking at the contents displayed on the display (for example, pressing the right cursor key once to move one to the right) In step S1208, whether or not there is an input signal based on the operation), the electronic device determines whether or not there is such a selection range graphic movement input signal. In the graphic movement input receiving step S1209, the input signal is received. If it is determined in step S1208 that there is no input signal, there is a possibility that selection will be made immediately. Therefore, the process proceeds to determination step S1214 as to whether there is a numeric keypad input signal, which will be described later.
Next, in the selection range graphic association table reading step S1210, the electronic device reads the selection range graphic association table.
Next, in the selection range graphic association table rewriting step S1211, the electronic device performs the above in step S1210 based on the movement information (information that moves one to the right) included in the input signal received in step S1209. The association between the auxiliary cursor section and the coordinate position of the conversion character candidate word / phrase in the read selection range graphic association table is rewritten.
Next, in the generation step S1212 of the selection range graphic display data 2, the electronic device refers to the selection range graphic association table rewritten in the step S1211 and corresponds to the corresponding conversion character indicated in the auxiliary cursor there. Selection range graphic display data (data to be displayed at a position moved to the right by one from the initial position) for generation according to the coordinate position of the candidate word is generated.
Next, in step S1213 of displaying the selection target candidate and the selection range graphic 2, the electronic device selects a selection range for auxiliary selection at a predetermined position including the position of the selection target candidate as the display data content generated in step S1212. The graphic is displayed (the auxiliary cursor is displayed at a position moved to the right by one from the position at which it initially overlaps nine at the upper left of the conversion character candidate word).

Next, in step S1214 for determining whether or not there is a numeric keypad input signal, the electronic device determines whether or not there is an input signal when the numeric keypad (“6”) on the keyboard is pressed. In the case of the determination result, in the numeric keypad accepting step S1215, the electronic device accepts the numeric keypad input. If it is determined in step S1214 that there is no input signal, there is a possibility that the auxiliary cursor may be further moved. Therefore, the process returns to determination step S1208 as to whether or not there is a selection range graphic movement input signal. To make this decision.
In step S1216, the electronic device reads the selection range graphic / tenkey association table reading step S1216.
Next, in selection step S1217, the electronic device refers to the selection range graphic / tenkey association table read out in step S1216, and selects a selection range graphic section ("middle right") corresponding to the coordinate position of the key. The converted character candidate phrase (“Lite”) having the coordinate position (“(4,2)”) corresponding to the section of the selection range graphic with reference to the selection target candidate association table rewritten in Step S1211. Is selected as the final selection target.

<Effect>
According to the invention of the present embodiment, when selecting a candidate for selection on the display including selection of a conversion character candidate word / phrase when inputting characters, the positional relationship with the keyboard is selected from the candidates displayed in a matrix. It is possible to provide an electronic device capable of improving the convenience of the user by providing auxiliary selection means that can be visually recognized and providing a display that can be easily selected by the user.

<Overview>
The electronic apparatus of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the auxiliary selection unit displays a selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidates on the display, and means for moving the display position of the selection range graphic in the display. It is characterized by having
Alternatively, or in addition to this, the graphic form of the selection target candidate to be selected to select a part of the selection target candidates is identified on the display so as to be distinguishable from the selection target candidate form that does not attempt to select. An electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a display unit and a unit for simultaneously specifying a plurality of selection target candidates to be selected according to a predetermined arrangement rule.

<Configuration>
(General)
FIG. 13 shows an example of functional blocks of the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the “electronic device” 1300 of the present embodiment has an “auxiliary selection unit” 1310, which includes “first selection range graphic display means” 1311 and “selection unit”. Range graphic display position moving means "1312.
Moreover, FIG. 14 is a figure which shows another example of the functional block of the electronic device of a present Example. The electronic device of this embodiment is basically the same as the electronic device of the first embodiment. However, the “auxiliary selection unit” 1410 of the “electronic device” 1400 of the present embodiment includes a “selected graphic form display unit” 1413 and a “selection target candidate specifying unit” 1414. Although not shown in the figure, the auxiliary selection unit of the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment may further include a first selection range graphic display unit and a selection range graphic display position moving unit, Hereinafter, this example will be described.

(First selection range graphic display means)
The “first selection range graphic display means” is configured to display a selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidates on the display.
As described above, the “selection range graphic” is a form for visually displaying a part of selection target candidates to be selected by the auxiliary selection unit for narrowing down, and the auxiliary cursor is representative. . However, in addition to this, it may be distinguished by a shape / pattern including font, color, size, and the like.
In what form the selection range graphic is displayed is predetermined. For this reason, the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment holds selection range graphic form data. For example, the data includes contents such as enclosing a range included in the selection range graphic with a frame or displaying individual selection target candidates included in the selection range graphic in a specific font, color, or the like. In this case, since the range / position included in the selection range graphic is defined in the selection range graphic association table as described above, the electronic device displays the selection range graphic on the display. In the case of display, the contents of the selected range graphic form data are displayed in a range / position according to this table.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the selection range graphic on the display, and shows an example of the case where the selection range graphic is displayed while being distinguished by fonts. In this example, an example is shown in which the typeface of nine converted character candidate words 1502 (enclosed by a thick broken line circle) included in the range of the selection range graphic displayed on the display 1520 is displayed in a thick Gothic font. Has been.
Note that there are a plurality of selection range graphic form data (for example, the range included in the selection range graphic is surrounded by a frame, and the individual selection target candidates included in the selection range graphic are specific fonts). In this case, the electronic device has a selection means, and selects specific data each time, or continues to select until a new selection change is made, and the data The contents may be displayed.

(Selected graphic form display means)
Next, the “selected graphic form display means” does not attempt to select (auxiliary selection) the graphic form of the selection target candidate to be selected (auxiliary selection) in order to select (auxiliary selection) a part of the selection target candidates. It is comprised so that it may display on a display so that it can identify with the form of a candidate for selection. “Part of selection target candidates” refers to a part of selection target candidates that are selected when the auxiliary selection unit performs auxiliary selection for narrowing down before selecting a target. In short, it refers to the portion of the selection target candidate that is left as a candidate for the next selection by narrowing down. On the other hand, a selection target candidate that is not intended to be selected means a selection target candidate that is not selected when performing selection for narrowing down before the auxiliary selection unit selects a target. In short, it refers to a selection target candidate that is excluded by narrowing down and is no longer a candidate for the next selection.
In addition, the “graphic form” here is synonymous with the graphic form described above for the selection range graphic. That is, in the present embodiment, “selection candidate to be selected” and “selection candidate not to be selected” are distinguished from each other by graphic form. For example, a range including a selection target candidate to be selected is surrounded by a frame, or each of the selection target candidates to be selected is displayed in a specific font, color, or the like. The display examples shown in FIGS. 4 and 14 are just such examples.

(Selection candidate identification means)
The “selection target candidate specifying means” is for specifying a plurality of selection target candidates to be selected simultaneously according to a predetermined arrangement rule. There is no particular limitation on the “predetermined arrangement rule”, and any arrangement may be used as long as it can be displayed on the display so as to be distinguishable from the selection target candidates that are not intended to be selected. The examples used in the description so far, that is, they are arranged in a group such as 3 rows and 3 columns, and M × M or M × m (M and m are both natural numbers, and M ≠ m) is a typical example of what is enclosed in a rectangle, but in addition to this, for example, it is a united arrangement adjacent to each other, but other than a rectangle or separated from each other Also good.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a method of arranging a part of selection target candidates to be selected (that is, a range included in the selection range graphic), and the arrangement is adjacent to each other as described above. An example of a part 1601a to 1601d of selection target candidates that are arranged in a manner other than that surrounded by a rectangle is shown. The rules for determining the arrangement are defined by, for example, associating individual sections of the selection target candidates with the coordinate positions of the selection target candidates in the same selection range graphic association table as shown in the first embodiment.

(Selection graphic display position moving means)
The “selection range graphic display position moving means” is for moving the display position of the selection range graphic within the display. For example, for this movement, if the cursor key is used and the right arrow key is pressed once, the range included in the selection range graphic is moved to the right one by one, and if the down arrow key is pressed once, the selection range graphic is displayed. This is done in such a way that the range included in is moved down by one.

(Hardware configuration)
Next, the hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment. The hardware configuration of the electronic device according to the present embodiment is basically the same as the hardware configuration of the electronic device according to the first embodiment. Here, the first selection range graphic display means, the selection graphic form display means, the selection target candidate specifying means, and the selection range graphic display position moving means of the auxiliary selection unit, which are the characteristics of the electronic device of the present embodiment, are described. The description will focus on the hardware configuration. Since the rest of the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.
The auxiliary selection unit including the first selection range graphic display means, the selection graphic form display means, the selection target candidate specifying means, and the selection range graphic display position moving means includes “storage device (recording medium)” 1701 and “main memory”. "1702", "CPU" 1703, "I / O" 1704, and the like. These are also connected to each other via a data communication path such as a “system bus” 1707 to perform transmission / reception and processing of information.
In this case, with the configuration described in the first embodiment, when the CPU reads the selection range graphic association table, the CPU also reads selection range graphic form data stored in advance in the storage device. Then, selection range graphic display data for initially displaying the selection range graphic is generated in accordance with the form indicated in the selection range graphic form data and in accordance with the range / position indicated in the selection range graphic association table. This data is temporarily stored in the main memory. Note that the data may be stored in a storage device in association with the reading of characters (for example, “ji”).

Next, the CPU displays the contents of the generated selection range graphic display data on the display. In this case, in the present embodiment, in the selected range graphic display data, in addition to the display position of the selected range graphic to be displayed, the display form (the range is surrounded by a frame like an auxiliary cursor or each individual included in the range is displayed. Specific data relating to the shape / pattern including the font of the conversion character candidate word / phrase, color, size, etc.) is included, and display is performed according to the data contents.
FIG. 18 shows an example of selection range graphic display data for displaying a selection range graphic. In the selection range graphic display data 1801 shown in this figure, the fonts of individual conversion character candidate words included in the range of the selection range graphic are different from the fonts of other conversion character candidate words (assumed separately). It is an example in the case of displaying with distinction. A display example of the selection range graphic based on the selection range graphic display data is as shown in FIG.

Next, again with the configuration described in the first embodiment, an input for moving the selection range graphic to the right, for example, by the user's key operation or the like is received, and the selection range graphic association table is rewritten accordingly. The CPU newly generates selection range graphic display data (also referred to as “selection range graphic display data 2” for convenience here) according to the table after rewriting, and displays the data content on the display. This generation / display configuration is the same as that described above for generating the initial selection range graphic display data and displaying the data contents, and in accordance with the format shown in the selection range graphic format data. Is generated and the contents of the data are displayed.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of selection range graphic display data and display on the display in such a case, and FIG. 19A shows a case where an input for moving the selection range graphic to the right by one is accepted. 6 shows an example of “selection range graphic display data 2” 1901 newly generated, and (b) shows an example of display of the selection range graphic 1902 (indicated by a thick broken line circle) on the display.

<Process flow>
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment. The processing flow in the electronic apparatus of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the electronic device reads the selection range graphic association table in the selection range graphic association table reading step S2004, and also reads the selection range graphic configuration data in the selection range graphic form data reading step S2005. In the display data generation step S2007, selection range graphic display data is generated based on the selection range graphic association table read in step S2004 and the selection range graphic form data read in step S2005.
Similarly, when an input for moving the selection range graphic is received by a user's key operation or the like (step S2010), the electronic device reads the selection range graphic association table in step S2011. In addition, the selection range graphic association table is rewritten in the selection range graphic association table rewriting step S2012, and in the generation step S2013 of the selection range graphic display data 2, the data is generated based on the selection range graphic association table rewritten in the step S2012. To do. In addition, the selection range graphic form data is read in the selection range graphic form data reading step S2014, and the selection object is selected based on the selection range graphic display data 2 generated in step S2013 and the selection range graphic form data read in step S2014. The candidate and selection range graphic 2 is displayed (step S2015).

  Since the remaining processing flow is the same as the processing flow in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

<Effect>
According to the invention of the present embodiment, the display of the visually recognizable selection range graphic used when selecting the selection target candidate on the display and the display accompanying the movement thereof are performed in a form that is easy for the user to select. It is possible to provide an electronic device that can improve the performance.

<Overview>
The electronic device of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment. However, the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment temporarily selects a selection range graphic for selecting (auxiliary selection) a part of the selection target candidates and a predetermined target among a plurality of selection target candidates specified by the selection range graphic. It has a feature in that it has means for displaying on the display the main cursor to be selected.

<Configuration>
(General)
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment. The electronic device of the present embodiment is basically in common with the electronic device of the first embodiment. However, the “auxiliary selection unit” 2110 of the “electronic device” 2100 of the present embodiment includes a “second selection range graphic display unit” 2115.

(Second selection range graphic display means)
The “second selection range graphic display means” is a selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidate (auxiliary selection) and a predetermined target among a plurality of selection target candidates specified by the selection range graphic. The main cursor to be temporarily selected is configured to be displayed on the display.
An example of the display mode of the present embodiment is as shown in FIG. That is, this figure is an example in which a target is selected by using an auxiliary cursor from among converted character candidate phrases corresponding to the reading of the character “ji” as in FIG.

When a final selection target is selected in such a display, a selection key (decision key, Enter key, etc.) is pressed to select the final selection target. That is, in this method, instead of pressing a different numeric keypad corresponding to the arrangement of the selection target as described in the first embodiment, the target specified by placing the main cursor on the screen is the same key. This is different from the first embodiment and the like in that it can be selected. In this case, the main cursor may be moved within the range of the auxiliary cursor without moving the auxiliary cursor, or the position of the main cursor in the auxiliary cursor may be fixed (for example, fixed at the center position).
FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the former example of the display modes of the present embodiment, that is, an example in which the main cursor can be moved within the range of the auxiliary cursor without moving the auxiliary cursor. Among these, (a) shows the same state as FIG. 6, but in this example, the main cursor can be moved within the range of the auxiliary cursor, so as shown in (b), By moving the main cursor to the position of the selection target candidate to be selected and pressing the selection key, the selection target candidate can be selected as a target.
On the other hand, FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the latter example of the display modes of the present embodiment, that is, an example in which the position of the main cursor in the auxiliary cursor is fixed at the center position. Among these, (a) shows the same state as FIG. 22, but in this example, the position of the main cursor in the auxiliary cursor is fixed at the center position, so as shown in (b) In order to place the main cursor on the position of the selection target candidate that you want to select, select the selection target candidate by moving the auxiliary cursor so that the main cursor is at this position and then pressing the selection key. can do.

The configuration of the present embodiment is not different from that of the first embodiment or the like in terms of providing an electronic device having a function that can be efficiently selected by the user. Such an object can be achieved by the configuration.
FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B are diagrams for explaining the effect of the configuration of the present embodiment, which is compared with the conventional method. In this example as well, an explanation will be given using an example of selecting the same “Lite” as in FIG. First, FIG. 24A shows a conventional method. In the initial display state shown in FIG. 24A, the main cursor is positioned at “痔” 2403. To select “description” 2403, as shown in FIG. It is necessary to press the right arrow key of the cursor key 2407 three times and the downward arrow key once to perform the movements shown in (1) to (4) and then press the selection key 2411 as shown in (5). There was a total of 5 actions.
On the other hand, FIG. 24B shows the method of this embodiment. According to this method, the auxiliary cursor 2402 is moved from the initial display state shown in FIG. If the right arrow key of the cursor key 2407 is pressed twice as shown in (b) and the movement shown in (1) and (2) is performed, the main cursor will be in the state where the “curse” is hit. In this state, by pressing the selection key 2411 as shown in (3), the selection can be completed in a total of three operations.
Of course, the number of operations required for selection may vary depending on the initial positions of the auxiliary cursor and the main cursor. However, in the conventional method, the number of operations required is five times. In the case of the method, the initial position of the auxiliary cursor or the main cursor can be devised, so that the selection can be performed with a smaller number of operations, and the user can efficiently perform the selection.

(Hardware configuration)
Next, the hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment. The hardware configuration of the electronic device according to the present embodiment is basically the same as the hardware configuration of the electronic device according to the first embodiment. Here, the hardware configuration of the second selection range graphic display means included in the auxiliary selection unit, which is a feature of the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment, will be mainly described. Since the rest of the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.
The auxiliary selection unit including the second selection range graphic display means includes “storage device (recording medium)” 2501, “main memory” 2502, “CPU” 2503, “I / O” 2504, and the like. These are also connected to each other through a data communication path such as a “system bus” 2507 to perform transmission / reception and processing of information.

In the storage device, a selection range graphic association table is stored. In the table of this embodiment, a portion of the selection range graphic that constitutes a specific section is specified as a section on which the main cursor is hit.
FIG. 26 shows an example of such a selection range graphic association table. In the table shown in this figure, in addition to the table shown in FIG. 9 for the first embodiment, a “medium / middle” section is specified as a section on which the main cursor hits. In addition, the selection range graphic display data is also generated so that the main cursor is placed at the center of the selection range graphic reflecting this. In this case, the display form of the main cursor may be various as in the case of the selection range graphic. For example, the central portion may be surrounded by a frame, or may be distinguished by font or color. Good. A display example of the selection range graphic and the main cursor on the display based on the selection range graphic association table and the selection range graphic display data is as shown in FIG.

Next, when an input for moving the selection range graphic to the right by a user's key operation or the like is received, and the selection range graphic association table is rewritten accordingly, the CPU newly adds a new value according to the rewritten table. Selection range graphic display data is generated and the data content is displayed on the display. This generation / display configuration is the same as described above for the generation of the initial selection range graphic display data and the display of the contents of the data. Range graphic display data 2 ”).
When the main cursor can be moved within the range of the auxiliary cursor, when an input signal for moving the main cursor is received by a user key operation or the like, the main cursor included in the input signal is included. Based on the cursor movement information, the selection range graphic association table is rewritten. For example, in the example of the table of FIG. 26, when a key operation for moving the main cursor down is performed, the coordinates of the section on which the main cursor hits based on the movement information “move down one”. Since the position is “(2, 3)”, which is one lower than “(2, 2)”, rewriting is performed to specify the “middle lower” section corresponding to this coordinate position as the section on which the main cursor hits. It will be.

<Process flow>
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of processing in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment, and illustrates an example of the flow of processing related to the display of the main cursor. The processing flow in the electronic apparatus of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment. However, the selection range graphic association table read in the selection range graphic association table reading step S2704 includes a section on which the main cursor hits. The same applies to the selection range graphic association table reading step S2710.
Further, the key input performed by the user by looking at the selection target candidate and the selection target candidate displayed in the display step S2713 of the new selection range graphic 2 is only to select the selection target candidate on which the main cursor is hit. Unlike the first embodiment, it is a decision key, not a numeric keypad. Therefore, if it is determined in step S2714 whether or not there is a decision key input signal, the electronic device accepts the decision key input in decision key input acceptance step S2715, and this main key in selection step S2716. The selection target candidate on which the cursor is placed is selected as a target.
Note that the flow of processing related to the movement of the main cursor when the main cursor can be moved within the range of the auxiliary cursor is as shown in FIG. That is, first, if it is determined in step S2801 whether or not an input signal for moving the main cursor has been received, in step S2803 of rewriting the selection range graphic association table, the electronic device selects The range graphic association table is rewritten based on the movement information included in the received input signal.
Next, in display step S2804 of the main cursor (after movement), the electronic device displays the main cursor by changing the display position to the display position after rewriting based on the rewritten table.

<Effect>
According to the invention of this embodiment, when selecting a selection target candidate on the display, an auxiliary selection means that can be visually recognized is provided, and by using the main cursor together with the main cursor, an easy-to-select display is provided for the user. It is possible to provide an electronic device that can improve the performance.

<Overview>
The electronic device according to the present embodiment is basically the same as the electronic device according to the first embodiment, but is characterized in that the key input unit has a key arrangement for ten-key input.
Further, the electronic device according to the present embodiment also includes an apparatus in which the key input unit has means for switching between a character input mode and a mode for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates.

<Configuration>
(General)
FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment. The electronic apparatus of this example is basically in common with the apparatus of the first embodiment. However, as shown in this figure, the “key input unit” 2970 of the “electronic device” 2900 of this example has a key layout for numeric keypad input.

(Key input part)
An example of a key arrangement for ten-key input included in the key input unit of this embodiment is as shown in FIG. 4A and the like. However, the arrangement method is not limited to the vertical three rows and horizontal three columns as shown in FIG. In addition, even if there are 3 rows and 3 columns, numbers may be arranged from the top to the bottom as shown in the figure, but on the contrary, numbers are arranged from the bottom to the top. You may do it. Further, the number of numeric keys is not limited to nine as shown in the figure, but may be ten, which is obtained by adding “0” to this, or a larger number.

(Switching means)
Furthermore, the electronic device of the present embodiment may have means for switching between a character input mode and a mode for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates.
FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment, and illustrates an example of an electronic apparatus provided with such switching means. That is, the “key input unit” 3070 of the “electronic device” 3000 according to the present embodiment is a “switching unit” 3071 for switching between a character input mode and a mode for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates. Have
A cellular phone is typically assumed as an electronic device having such switching means. That is, in a small electronic device such as a mobile phone, since the number of keys provided is limited, both a function for inputting characters and numbers and a function for selecting a displayed phrase etc. on one key are provided. In many cases, a plurality of functions are provided. Thus, for example, assuming that the example shown in FIG. 4C is a mobile phone, when the user presses the numeric key “6” in order to select the “remark” displayed on the display, the press is displayed on the display. It is not possible to distinguish whether it is for selecting the “resignation” or for inputting the number “6”, and there is a possibility that processing different from that intended by the user may be performed.
Therefore, the present embodiment aims to clarify which function is selected by providing such switching means and prevent the above trouble. Accordingly, the input target of the “character input mode” here is not limited to characters, but may be numbers or the like.

The switching performed by the switching means is performed, for example, by receiving an input based on a key operation for switching by the user. Alternatively, while the selection target candidate is displayed on the display, the mode may be automatically switched to a mode for selecting the target. Further, in this case, while the selection target candidate is displayed on the display, it may not be possible to switch to the character input mode, but may be switched based on the user's manual operation.
Note that the currently selected function may be displayed on a display, for example, so that the user can know which function is currently selected.

(Hardware configuration)
Next, the hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment. The hardware configuration of the electronic device according to the present embodiment is basically the same as the hardware configuration of the electronic device according to the first embodiment. Here, as a feature of the electronic device of the present embodiment, the key input unit has a key arrangement for ten-key input, and a character input mode and a mode for selecting a target from a plurality of selection target candidates, A hardware configuration in the case of having switching means for switching between the two will be mainly described. Since the rest of the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.
The key input unit including the switching means includes a “storage device (recording medium)” 3101, a “main memory” 3102, a “CPU” 3103, an “I / O” 3104, a “keyboard” 3108, and the like. . These are also connected to each other via a data communication path such as a “system bus” 3107 to transmit / receive information and process information.

In this case, for example, when an input signal from the keyboard based on the user's key operation for switching is received via the I / O, the CPU switches the mode according to the information included in the signal.
Alternatively, as another example, in a configuration in which the selection target candidate is automatically switched while the selection target candidate is displayed, the CPU is stored while the selection target candidate is displayed in the main memory. Whether the ID is stored is searched, and if it is determined that the ID is stored, the mode is switched to a mode for selecting a target.
Specifically, the mode switching in the above case is performed by associating the numeric keypad with one of IDs for identifying each mode (character input mode identification ID and target selection mode identification ID). The procedure of the program is determined so as to indicate that the mode related to the ID is selected, and when the CPU acquires the above input signal or detects the ID related to the selection target candidate, In order to associate the ID for identifying the mode related to the detected signal / ID with the numeric keypad, the ID and the ID for identifying the numeric keypad are stored in the same area of the main memory.

<Process flow>
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment, and shows an example of the flow of processing related to switching between the character input mode and the target selection mode. Since the processing flow in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, description of the remaining processing flow is omitted.
First, in step S3201 for determining whether or not there is a key input signal for mode switching based on the user's key operation for switching, in the case of a determination result that there is a key input signal, in step S3202 for accepting switching input, The electronic device accepts the switching input.
Next, in the determination step S3203 regarding whether the accepted input is the switching to the character input mode or the switching to the object selection mode, if the determination result indicates that the input is the switching to the character input mode, the electronic device goes to the character input mode. In step S3204, switching to the mode is performed. On the other hand, in the case of the determination result that the mode is the switching to the target selection mode, the electronic device switches to the mode in step S3205 for switching to the target selection mode.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing in the electronic apparatus of the present embodiment, and shows another example of the flow of processing related to switching between the character input mode and the target selection mode. This example corresponds to a configuration in which the selection target mode is automatically switched while the selection target candidate is displayed.
In this case, first, in the ID search step S3301, the electronic device searches the main memory for an ID related to the selection target candidate.
Next, in step S3302 for determining whether or not an ID is stored in the main memory, the electronic device determines whether or not an ID related to the selection target candidate is stored in the main memory. If the determination result indicates that the current mode is the character input mode, the process proceeds to step S3303 to determine whether or not the current mode is the character input mode. In step S3304 for switching to the target selection mode, the electronic device switches to the mode.

<Effect>
According to the invention of this embodiment, since the number of keys provided is limited as in the case of a mobile phone, even when a plurality of functions must be assigned to one key, the mode is switched. Therefore, it is possible to provide an electronic device that can display information that can be easily selected by the user and can improve the convenience of the user.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of the electronic device according to the first embodiment. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an overall configuration of an electronic device according to a first embodiment. The conceptual diagram for demonstrating the characteristic of the selection method in this invention The figure for demonstrating the point which selects a part of conversion character candidate word / phrase which is a candidate for selection The figure for demonstrating the point which selects a part of conversion character candidate word / phrase which is a candidate for selection The figure for demonstrating the point which selects a part of conversion character candidate word / phrase which is a candidate for selection The figure which shows an example in case the key of the keyboard corresponding to the arrangement | sequence selected by the auxiliary | assistant selection part is an alphanumeric key The figure for demonstrating an example of another object selection method Schematic which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the electronic device of Example 1. FIG. The figure which shows an example of a selection object candidate correlation table The figure which shows an example of the selection range graphic correlation table The figure which shows an example of rewriting of the selection range graphic correlation table The figure which shows an example of the selection range graphic ten-key association table FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow in the electronic apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of an electronic apparatus according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of functional blocks of the electronic device according to the second embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the display on the display of the selection range graphic The figure which shows the example of how to arrange a part of selection candidate to be selected Schematic which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the electronic device of Example 2. FIG. The figure which shows an example of selection range graphic display data The figure which shows an example of selection range graphic display data and the display on the display FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow in the electronic apparatus according to the second embodiment. Schematic which shows an example of the functional block of the electronic device of Example 3. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display mode in the electronic device of the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a display mode in the electronic apparatus according to the third embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the effect of the structure in Example 3 (conventional method) The figure for demonstrating the effect of the structure in Example 3 (method of Example 3). Schematic which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the electronic device of Example 3. FIG. The figure which shows an example of the selection range graphic correlation table FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow in the electronic apparatus according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow of processing related to the movement of the main cursor in the electronic apparatus according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of an electronic device according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of functional blocks of the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment. Schematic which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the electronic device of Example 4. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow in the electronic device of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a processing flow in the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment. The figure which shows the correspondence of the display position on the display of an auxiliary cursor and a conversion character candidate word / phrase

Explanation of symbols

0100 Electronic device 0110 Auxiliary selection unit 0401 Conversion character candidate word 0402 Auxiliary cursor (palette)
0404 Keyboard 0405 Numeric keypad 0407 Cursor key 0420 Display 0421 Character input screen

Claims (10)

An electronic device having a selection function for selecting a target from a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on a display,
An electronic apparatus having an auxiliary selection unit for selecting a part of selection target candidates for narrowing down before selecting a target from selection target candidates displayed on a display. It has a key input part,
The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein some of the selection target candidates selected by the auxiliary selection unit are selected so as to have an arrangement corresponding to the key arrangement of the key input unit on the display.   The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is an M × M array that is a key array of the key input unit, where M is a natural number.   The plurality of selection target candidates displayed on the display is an N × N array where N is a natural number, and the array selected by the auxiliary selection unit is a key array of the key input unit where M (M <N) is a natural number. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the electronic device has an M × M arrangement. The auxiliary selection part
First selection range graphic display means for displaying a selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidates on the display;
The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising selection range graphic display position moving means for moving the display position of the selection range graphic within the display. The auxiliary selection part
A selection graphic form display means for displaying on the display so as to be distinguishable from the form of the selection target candidate not trying to select the graphic form of the selection target candidate to be selected in order to select a part of the selection target candidates;
Selection target candidate specifying means for simultaneously specifying a plurality of selection target candidates to be selected according to a predetermined arrangement rule;
The electronic device according to claim 1, comprising: The auxiliary selection part
A selection range graphic for selecting a part of the selection target candidates and a main cursor that temporarily selects a predetermined target among a plurality of selection target candidates specified by the selection range graphic are displayed on the display. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising a two-selection range graphic display unit.   The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the key input unit has a key layout for ten-key input.   The electronic device according to claim 8, wherein the key input unit further includes switching means for switching between a character input mode and a mode for selecting a target from among a plurality of selection target candidates. A method for selecting a target from a plurality of selection target candidates displayed on a display of an electronic device,
A method comprising an auxiliary selection step for selecting a part of selection target candidates for narrowing down before selecting a target from among selection target candidates displayed on a display.

Images