JP2009157919A - Input device, control device, control system, and hand-held device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an input device capable of performing easy and intuitive scrolling operation and zooming operation characteristic of a spatially operated type input device. <P>SOLUTION: According to the pressing operation of a button 11 by a user, an MPU 19 switches a first mode of outputting a speed value (a displacement corresponding amount) of a pointer, a second mode of outputting a scroll corresponding amount, and a third mode of outputting a zoom corresponding amount. When the user spatially operates the input device 1 during the second mode, a character 7 in an image 6 is scrolled, and when the user spatially operates the input device 1 during the third mode, characters in the image 6 are enlarged and reduced. The user can thereby perform easy and intuitive scrolling operation and zooming operation. The button 11 exhibits a function equivalent to a determination button in addition to a function equivalent to a mode switching button for switching the first to third modes to the other mode. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a spatial operation type input device for operating a GUI (Graphical User Interface), a control device that controls a GUI according to the operation information, a control system including these devices, and a handheld device.

  Pointing devices such as a mouse and a touch pad are mainly used as a GUI controller that is widely used in PCs (Personal Computers). The GUI is not limited to the conventional HI (Human Interface) of a PC, but has begun to be used as an interface for AV equipment and game machines used in a living room or the like, for example, using a television as an image medium. As such a GUI controller, various pointing devices that can be operated by a user in space have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  Patent Document 1 discloses a biaxial angular velocity gyroscope, that is, an input device including two angular velocity sensors. The user holds this input device in his / her hand and shakes it, for example, up / down / left / right. Then, the angular velocity sensor detects angular velocities about two orthogonal axes, and generates a signal as position information such as a cursor displayed by the display unit according to the angular velocity. This signal is transmitted to the control device, and the control device controls the cursor to move on the screen in accordance with this signal.

JP 2001-56743 A (paragraphs [0030], [0031], FIG. 3) Japanese Patent No. 3264291 (paragraphs [0062] and [0063])

  In addition to the function of moving the cursor on the screen, the spatial operation type pointing device described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 has a function of scrolling an image displayed on the screen and a function of zooming the image. It has been demanded.

  That is, there is a need for a pointing device that can be easily and intuitively scrolled and zoomed, and is unique to a spatially operated pointing device, which is different from a planar operating pointing device represented by a mouse. However, the input devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not describe anything about image scrolling and zooming.

  In view of the circumstances as described above, an object of the present invention is to provide an input device, a control device, a control system including these, and a handheld device capable of easily and intuitively performing an image scrolling operation and an image zooming operation. It is to provide.

In order to achieve the above object, an input device according to an aspect of the present invention is an input device for controlling movement of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes a housing, a detection unit, and an operation unit. And mode switching means.
The detection means detects a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the casing.
The operation unit inputs an operation.
The mode switching means includes a first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, and in accordance with the physical quantity. Then, the third mode in which the image zooms on the screen is switched according to the operation on the operation unit.
In the present invention, the pointer is moved on the screen in accordance with the movement of the casing in the first mode, and the image is scrolled on the screen in accordance with the movement of the casing in the second mode. Further, the image is zoomed on the screen in accordance with the movement of the casing in the third mode. That is, by moving the housing, it is possible to perform a pointer movement operation, an image scroll operation, and an image zoom operation on the screen. Thus, an easy and intuitive image scrolling operation and image zooming operation can be performed.

In the input device, the operation unit may be a single operation unit.
In this case, the input device may further include command output means and control means.
The command output means outputs a determination command according to the operation to the operation unit.
The control means controls the command output means and the mode switching means to execute either the output of the determination command or the mode switching according to the timing of the operation to the operation unit. Control.
In the present invention, one operation unit has a function corresponding to a determination button and a function corresponding to a switching button for switching modes. Accordingly, the user can select, for example, an icon displayed on the screen or switch the first to third modes to another mode by a simple operation of the operation unit.

In the input device, the control unit controls the command output unit to output a determination command when the operation is canceled within a first time after the operation to the operation unit is started. And when the operation is not released within a first time after the operation to the operation unit is started, the mode is changed so that one of the first to third modes is switched to another mode. The mode switching means may be controlled.
In the present invention, when the user releases the operation of the operation unit within the first time, a determination command is output. On the other hand, when the user continues to operate the operation unit for the first time or longer, the first to third modes are switched to other modes. Accordingly, the user can select, for example, an icon displayed on the screen or switch the first to third modes to another mode by a simple operation of the operation unit.

In the input device, the control unit releases the operation within a first time after the operation to the operation unit is started, and starts the operation again within a second time from the release of the operation. If the operation is not canceled within the first time period, the mode switching unit may be controlled to switch any one of the first to third modes to another mode.
Accordingly, the user can select, for example, an icon displayed on the screen or switch the first to third modes to another mode by a simple operation of the operation unit.

In the input device, the control unit may be configured to output the determination command when the operation is canceled within a first time after the operation to the operation unit is started. And when the operation to the operation unit is not released within a first time, the first to third modes are performed every predetermined time after the first time elapses until the operation is released. The mode switching means may be controlled so that any one of the modes is switched to another mode.
Accordingly, the user can select, for example, an icon displayed on the screen or switch the first to third modes to another mode by a simple operation of the operation unit.

The input device may further include a calculation unit and an output unit.
The calculation means calculates a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical amount.
The output means outputs information on the displacement correspondence amount and mode switching information which is information indicating that one of the first to third modes has been switched to another mode.

The input device may further include a calculation unit and an output unit.
The calculation means includes a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical amount, a scroll correspondence amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount, and a zoom amount of the image according to the physical amount. The zoom correspondence amount corresponding to is calculated.
The output means outputs information on the displacement correspondence amount in the first mode, outputs information on the scroll correspondence amount in the second mode, and outputs information on the zoom correspondence amount in the third mode. Output.

  In the input device, the calculation unit may calculate the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount based on the displacement correspondence amount.

In the input device, the calculation unit may calculate the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount by multiplying a displacement correspondence amount by a gain that increases as the displacement correspondence amount increases.
Thus, when the housing is moved at low speed in the space, a small value gain is multiplied by the displacement correspondence amount, and the scroll correspondence amount is calculated, so that a precise scroll operation or zoom operation becomes possible. . On the other hand, when the casing is moved at a high speed, a large value gain is multiplied by the displacement correspondence amount, so that an extremely high speed scroll operation or zoom operation is possible. This facilitates, for example, scrolling long files.

In the input device, the calculation unit may integrate the displacement correspondence amount to calculate the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount.
Thereby, it is possible to perform a steady scroll operation or zoom operation without moving the housing much.

In the input device, the calculation unit calculates a first scroll correspondence amount based on a first displacement correspondence amount corresponding to a displacement amount of the pointer in the first direction on the screen, and The second scroll correspondence amount may be calculated based on the second displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
In this case, the input device may further include output control means.
The output control means is configured to stop the output of the first scroll correspondence amount when the first displacement correspondence amount is smaller than the second displacement correspondence amount in the second mode. Control means.
Thereby, for example, the direction of the scroll operation can be biased in the horizontal axis direction or the vertical direction on the screen. This facilitates the operation of files that are long in the vertical direction and files that are long in the horizontal direction.
Here, the case where the output of the scroll correspondence amount is stopped includes the case where the output corresponding to the scroll correspondence amount being zero is started.

  In the input device, the same value as the displacement correspondence amount may be used as the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount.

In the input device, the mode switching unit may change any one of the first to third modes every predetermined time after the operation to the operation unit is started until the operation is canceled. You may switch to the mode. Alternatively, the mode switching unit may switch one of the first to third modes to another mode each time the operation unit is operated.
Thereby, the user can easily switch the first to third modes to another mode.

The input device according to claim 1,
The operation unit may be a two-stage operation unit capable of two-step switching.
Thereby, the user can easily switch the first to third modes to another mode.

  In the input device, the detection unit may include at least one of a biaxial angular velocity sensor, a biaxial acceleration sensor, and a biaxial angle sensor.

An input device according to another aspect of the present invention is an input device for controlling the movement of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes a housing, a detection unit, one operation unit, and a command output. Means, mode switching means, and control means.
The detection means detects a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the casing.
The operation unit inputs an operation.
The command output means outputs a determination command in response to the operation on the operation unit.
The mode switching means may be a first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, or a physical quantity. Accordingly, the third mode in which the image is zoomed on the screen is switched according to an operation on the operation unit.
The control means controls the command output means and the mode switching means to execute either the output of the determination command or the mode switching according to the timing of the operation to the operation unit. Control.
In the present invention, one operation unit has a function corresponding to a determination button and a function corresponding to a switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode. Alternatively, one operation unit has a function corresponding to a determination button and a function corresponding to a switching button for switching between the first mode and the third mode. As a result, the user can select, for example, an icon displayed on the screen or switch the mode by a simple operation of the operation unit.

A control device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a casing, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity according to the movement of the casing, an operation unit for inputting an operation, and the screen according to the physical quantity. A first mode in which the pointer moves; a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; and a third mode in which the image zooms on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity. Mode switching means for switching according to the operation to the operation unit, calculation means for calculating a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical quantity, information on the displacement correspondence amount, and In response to each information output from an input device having output means for outputting mode switching information, which is information indicating that any one of the first to third modes has been switched to another mode. Te, a control device for controlling the display of the pointer and an image displayed on a screen, comprising a reception means, a calculation means, and display control means.
The reception means receives the information on the displacement correspondence amount and the mode switching information.
The calculation means calculates a scroll correspondence amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image based on the displacement correspondence amount in the second mode, and zooms the image based on the displacement correspondence amount in the third mode. A zoom correspondence amount corresponding to the amount is calculated.
The display control means controls the display of the movement of the pointer by the displacement correspondence amount, controls the display of the scroll of the image by the scroll correspondence amount, and controls the zoom display of the image by the zoom correspondence amount.
In the present invention, the premise part “is a control device for the housing” is described in order to clarify the contents of the present invention, and the present inventors publicly know the premise part. It is not intended as a technology. The same applies hereinafter.

A control device according to another aspect of the present invention is a control device that is output from an input device that includes a housing, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity according to the movement of the housing, and an operation unit for inputting an operation. A control device that receives physical quantity information and operation information and controls display of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes a receiving unit, a calculating unit, and a mode switching unit.
The receiving means receives the physical quantity information and the operation information.
The calculation means includes a displacement corresponding amount corresponding to a pointer displacement amount on the screen according to the physical amount information, a scroll corresponding amount corresponding to a scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount information, and the physical amount. The zoom correspondence amount corresponding to the zoom amount of the image on the screen according to the information is calculated.
The mode switching means includes a first mode for controlling display of the movement of the pointer by the displacement corresponding amount, a second mode for controlling scroll display of the image by the scroll corresponding amount, and the zoom corresponding amount. The third mode for controlling the zoom display of the image is switched in accordance with the operation information.

A control system according to an embodiment of the present invention is a control system that controls display of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes an input device and a control device.
The input device includes a housing, a detection unit, an operation unit, a mode switching unit, a calculation unit, and an output unit.
The detection means detects a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the casing.
The operation unit inputs an operation.
The mode switching means includes a first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, and in accordance with the physical quantity. Then, the third mode in which the image zooms on the screen is switched according to the operation on the operation unit.
The calculation means calculates a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical amount.
The output means outputs information on the displacement correspondence amount and mode switching information which is information indicating that one of the first to third modes has been switched to another mode.
The control device includes a receiving unit, a calculating unit, and a display control unit.
The reception means receives the information on the displacement correspondence amount and the mode switching information.
The calculation means calculates a scroll correspondence amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image based on the displacement correspondence amount in the second mode, and zooms the image based on the displacement correspondence amount in the third mode. A zoom correspondence amount corresponding to the amount is calculated.
The display control means controls the display of the movement of the pointer by the displacement correspondence amount, controls the display of the scroll of the image by the scroll correspondence amount, and controls the zoom display of the image by the zoom correspondence amount.

A control system according to another aspect of the present invention is a control system that controls display of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes an input device and a control device.
The input device includes a housing, a detection unit, an operation unit, a mode switching unit, a calculation unit, and an output unit.
The detection means detects a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the casing.
The operation unit inputs an operation.
The mode switching means includes a first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, and in accordance with the physical quantity. Then, the third mode in which the image zooms on the screen is switched according to the operation on the operation unit.
The calculation means includes a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical amount, a scroll correspondence amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount, and a zoom amount of the image according to the physical amount. The zoom correspondence amount corresponding to is calculated.
The output means outputs information on the displacement correspondence amount in the first mode, outputs information on the scroll correspondence amount in the second mode, and outputs information on the zoom correspondence amount in the third mode. Output.
The control device includes a receiving unit and a display control unit.
The receiving unit receives the displacement correspondence amount information, the scroll correspondence amount information, and the zoom correspondence amount information.
The display control means controls the display of the movement of the pointer by the displacement correspondence amount, controls the display of the scroll of the image by the scroll correspondence amount, and controls the zoom display of the image by the zoom correspondence amount.

A control system according to still another aspect of the present invention is a control system that controls display of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes an input device and a control device.
The input device includes a housing, a detection unit, an operation unit, and an output unit.
The detection means detects a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the casing.
The operation unit inputs an operation.
The output means outputs the physical quantity information and the operation information.
The control means includes receiving means, calculating means, and mode switching means.
The receiving means receives the physical quantity information and the operation information.
The calculating means is a displacement corresponding amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer on the screen, a scroll corresponding amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image, and the image corresponding to the scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount information. A zoom correspondence amount corresponding to the zoom amount is calculated.
The mode switching means includes a first mode for controlling display of the movement of the pointer by the displacement corresponding amount, a second mode for controlling scroll display of the image by the scroll corresponding amount, and the zoom corresponding amount. The third mode for controlling the zoom display of the image is switched in accordance with the operation information.

A handheld device according to an aspect of the present invention is a handheld device that controls movement of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen, and includes a housing, a display unit, a detection unit, an operation unit, and a mode switching unit. And display control means.
The display unit displays the screen.
The detection means detects a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the casing.
The operation unit inputs an operation.
The mode switching means includes a first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, and in accordance with the physical quantity. Then, the third mode in which the image zooms on the screen is switched according to the operation on the operation unit.
The display control means controls display of the movement of the pointer in the first mode, controls display of scrolling of the image in the second mode, and displays zoom of the image in the third mode. To control.

A control method according to an aspect of the present invention includes detecting a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of a housing.
It also includes inputting an operation.
A first mode in which a pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the detected physical quantity; a second mode in which an image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the detected physical quantity; and the detected A third mode in which the image is zoomed on the screen according to a physical quantity is switched according to the operation.

In the above description, the elements described as “to means” may be realized by hardware, or may be realized by both software and hardware. When implemented in both software and hardware, the hardware includes at least a storage device that stores software programs.
Typically, the hardware is a sensor, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable). A gate array (ASIC), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a network interface card (NIC), a wireless NIC (WNIC), a modem, an optical disk, a magnetic disk, and a flash memory are selectively used.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an input device, a control device, a control system including these, and a handheld device that can perform an image scroll operation and an image zoom operation easily and intuitively. Can do.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control system 100 includes a display device 5, a control device 40 and an input device 1.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the input device 1. The input device 1 is large enough to be held by the user. The input device 1 includes a housing 10. In addition, the input device 1 includes an operation unit such as a button 11 provided in the upper center of the housing 10 and a button 12 adjacent to the button 11.

  The buttons 11 and 12 are typically push-type buttons, and push buttons or capacitive touch buttons are used. The operation unit 23 is not limited to a push-type button, and a stick-type operation unit 23 and a slide-type operation unit 23 operated using one end as a fulcrum may be used. The operation unit 23 has a switch (not shown) inside, and this switch detects an operation on the operation unit by the user and outputs an operation signal. As a switch that outputs an operation signal, an optical sensor or a capacitance sensor may be used.

  The button 11 has a function corresponding to a left button of a mouse as an input device used in a PC, for example, and a button 12 adjacent to the button 11 has a function corresponding to a right button of the mouse. For example, an operation for selecting the icon 4 (see FIG. 5) by clicking the button 11 and an operation for opening a file by double-clicking the button 11 may be performed. An icon is an image of the function of a program on a computer, an execution command, or the contents of a file on the screen 3. Details of the functions of the button 11 and the like will be described later.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an internal configuration of the input device 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the input device 1.

  The input device 1 includes a sensor unit 17, a control unit 30, and a battery 14.

  FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the sensor unit 17.

  The sensor unit 17 includes an acceleration sensor unit 16 that detects accelerations along mutually different angles, for example, two orthogonal axes (X ′ axis and Y ′ axis). That is, the acceleration sensor unit 16 includes two sensors: an acceleration sensor 161 in the X′-axis direction and an acceleration sensor 162 in the Y′-axis direction.

  The sensor unit 17 includes an angular velocity sensor unit 15 that detects angular acceleration around the two orthogonal axes. That is, the angular velocity sensor unit 15 includes two sensors, an angular velocity sensor 151 in the yaw direction and an angular velocity sensor 152 in the pitch direction. These acceleration sensor unit 16 and angular velocity sensor unit 15 are packaged and mounted on a circuit board 25.

  As the angular velocity sensors 151 and 152 in the yaw direction and the pitch direction, vibration-type gyro sensors that detect Coriolis force proportional to the angular velocity are used. The acceleration sensors 161 and 162 in the X′-axis direction and the Y′-axis direction may be any type of sensor such as a piezoresistive type, a piezoelectric type, or a capacitance type. The angular velocity sensor 151 or 152 is not limited to the vibration type gyro sensor, and a rotary top gyro sensor, a laser ring gyro sensor, a gas rate gyro sensor, or the like may be used.

  In the description of FIGS. 2 and 3, for convenience, the longitudinal direction of the housing 10 is the Z ′ direction, the thickness direction of the housing 10 is the X ′ direction, and the width direction of the housing 10 is the Y ′ direction. In this case, the sensor unit 17 is built in the housing 10 so that the surface of the circuit board 25 on which the acceleration sensor unit 16 and the angular velocity sensor unit 15 are mounted is substantially parallel to the X′-Y ′ plane. As described above, both sensor units 16 and 15 detect physical quantities related to the two axes of the X ′ axis and the Y ′ axis.

  In the present specification, a coordinate system that moves together with the input device 1, that is, a coordinate system fixed to the input device 1 is represented by an X ′ axis, a Y ′ axis, and a Z ′ axis. On the other hand, a coordinate system stationary on the earth, that is, an inertial coordinate system is represented by an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis. In the following description, regarding the movement of the input device 1, the rotation direction around the X ′ axis is referred to as the pitch direction, the rotation direction around the Y ′ axis is referred to as the yaw direction, and the rotation direction around the Z ′ axis (roll axis). It may also be called the roll direction.

  The control unit 30 includes a main board 18, an MPU 19 (micro processing unit) (or CPU) mounted on the main board 18, a crystal oscillator 20, a transceiver 21, and an antenna 22 printed on the main board 18.

  The MPU 19 incorporates necessary volatile and nonvolatile memories. The MPU 19 inputs a detection signal from the sensor unit 17, an operation signal from the operation unit, and the like, and performs various arithmetic processes in order to generate a predetermined control signal corresponding to these input signals. The memory may be provided separately from the MPU 19.

  Typically, the sensor unit 17 outputs an analog signal. In this case, the MPU 19 includes an A / D (Analog / Digital) converter. However, the sensor unit 17 may be a unit including an A / D converter.

  The transceiver 21 (output means) transmits the control signal generated by the MPU 19 as an RF radio signal to the control device 40 via the antenna 22. The transceiver 21 can also receive various signals transmitted from the control device 40.

  The crystal oscillator 20 generates a clock and supplies it to the MPU 19. As the battery 14, a dry battery or a rechargeable battery is used.

  The control device 40 includes an MPU 35 (or CPU), a RAM 36, a ROM 37, a video RAM 41, a display control unit 42, an antenna 39, a transceiver 38, and the like.

  The transceiver 38 receives the control signal transmitted from the input device 1 via the antenna 39 (receiving means). The transceiver 38 can also transmit predetermined various signals to the input device 1. The MPU 35 analyzes the control signal and performs various arithmetic processes. The display control unit 42 mainly generates screen data to be displayed on the screen 3 of the display device 5 in accordance with the control of the MPU 35. The video RAM 41 serves as a work area for the display control unit 42 and temporarily stores the generated screen data.

  The control device 40 may be a device dedicated to the input device 1, but may be a PC or the like. The control device 40 is not limited to a device dedicated to the input device, and may be a computer integrated with the display device 5, or may be an audio / visual device, a projector, a game device, a car navigation device, or the like. Good.

  Examples of the display device 5 include a liquid crystal display and an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, but are not limited thereto. Alternatively, the display device 5 may be a device integrated with a display capable of receiving a television broadcast or the like, or may be a device integrated with such a display and the control device 40.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the screen 3 displayed on the display device 5. On the screen 3, UIs such as an icon 4 and a pointer 2 are displayed. On the screen 3, for example, an image 6 including a plurality of characters 7 is displayed. The horizontal direction on the screen 3 is the X-axis direction, and the vertical direction is the Y-axis direction.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state where the user holds the input device 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the input device 1 includes, as the operation unit 23, in addition to the buttons 11 and 12, various operation buttons 29 and a power switch 28 that are provided, for example, on a remote controller that operates a television or the like. It may be. In this way, a signal of a command generated by moving the input device 1 in the air or operating the operation unit 23 while the user holds the input device 1 is output to the control device 40. Is controlled.

  Next, a typical example of how to move the input device 1 and the movement of the pointer 2 on the screen 3 due to this will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram thereof.

  As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, in a state where the user holds the input device 1, the side on which the buttons 11 and 12 of the input device 1 are arranged is directed to the display device 5 side. The user holds the input device 1 with the thumb up and the child finger down, in other words, in a state of shaking hands. In this state, the circuit board 25 (see FIG. 8) of the sensor unit 17 is nearly parallel to the screen 3 of the display device 5, and the two axes that are the detection axes of the sensor unit 17 are horizontal axes on the screen 3. It corresponds to the (X axis) and the vertical axis (Y axis). Hereinafter, the posture of the input device 1 shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B is referred to as a basic posture.

As shown in FIG. 7A, in the basic posture, the user swings his / her wrist or arm in the vertical direction, that is, the pitch direction. At this time, the acceleration sensor 162 in the Y ′ axis direction detects the acceleration a _y in the Y ′ axis direction, and the angular velocity sensor 152 in the pitch direction detects an angular velocity ω _θ around the X ′ axis. Based on these physical quantities, the control device 40 controls the display of the pointer 2 so that the pointer 2 moves in the Y-axis direction.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7B, in the basic posture state, the user swings the wrist or arm in the left-right direction, that is, the yaw direction. At this time, the acceleration sensor 161 in the X ′ axis direction detects the acceleration a _x in the X ′ axis direction, and the angular velocity sensor 151 in the yaw direction detects the angular velocity ω _ψ around the Y ′ axis. Based on the physical quantity detected in this way, the control device 40 controls the display of the pointer 2 so that the pointer 2 moves in the X-axis direction.

  Next, the operation of the control system 100 configured as described above will be described. 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing the operation.

  First, the operation of the control system 100 when the operation unit 23 provided in the input device 1 is not operated by the user will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation when the operation unit 23 is not operated.

As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when power is input to the input device 1 by a user pressing the power switch 28, a biaxial angular velocity signal is output from the angular velocity sensor unit. The first angular velocity value ω _ψ and the second angular velocity value ω _θ based on the angular velocity signal are input to the MPU 19 (step 101).

When the input device 1 is turned on, a biaxial acceleration signal is output from the acceleration sensor unit 16. The MPU 19 inputs the first acceleration value a _x and the second acceleration value a _y based on the biaxial acceleration signal (step 102). In FIG. 9, the acceleration signal is acquired by the acceleration sensor unit after the angular velocity signal is acquired by the angular velocity sensor unit. However, the order is not limited to this, and it is possible to obtain an angular velocity signal after obtaining an acceleration signal, or to obtain an acceleration signal and an angular velocity signal in parallel (simultaneously). Is possible.

The MPU 19 obtains speed values (first speed value V _x , second speed value V _y ) by a predetermined calculation based on the acceleration values (a _x , a _y ) and the angular velocity values (ω _ψ , ω _θ ). Calculate (step 103). The first velocity value V _x is a velocity value in the direction along the X ′ axis, and the second velocity value V _y is a velocity value in the direction along the Y ′ axis.

As a method for calculating the velocity values (V _x , V _y ), the MPU 19 obtains a velocity value by integrating, for example, acceleration values (a _x , a _y ), and calculates angular velocity values (ω _ψ , ω _θ ). There is a method used with the aid of integral calculation.

Alternatively, the MPU 19 may obtain the rotational radius (R _ψ , R _θ ) of the movement of the input device 1 by dividing the acceleration value (a _x , a _y ) by the angular acceleration value (Δω _ψ , Δω _θ ). . In this case, velocity values (V _x , V _y ) can be obtained by multiplying the rotational radii (R _ψ , R _θ ) by angular velocity values (ω _ψ , ω _θ ). The turning radius (R _ψ , R _θ ) may be obtained by dividing the acceleration change rate (Δa _x , Δa _y ) by the angular acceleration change rate (Δ (Δω _ψ ), Δ (Δω _θ )). Good.

By calculating the speed value by the above calculation method, the operational feeling of the input device 1 that matches the user's intuition is obtained, and the movement of the pointer 2 on the screen 3 also accurately matches the movement of the input device 1. To do. However, the velocity values (V _x , V _y ) are not necessarily calculated by the above calculation method. For example, the acceleration values (a _x , a _y ) may be simply integrated to calculate the velocity values (V _x , V _y ). Alternatively, the detected angular velocity values (ω _ψ , ω _θ ) may be used as the housing velocity values (V _x , V _y ) as they are. The detected angular velocity values (ω _ψ , ω _θ ) are time differentiated to obtain angular acceleration values (Δω _ψ , Δω _θ ), which can be used as the acceleration values of the housing.

The MPU 19 transmits information on the calculated velocity values (V _x , V _y ) to the control device 40 via the transceiver 21 and the antenna 22 (step 104).

The MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives the velocity value (V _x , V _y ) information via the antenna 39 and the transceiver 38 (step 105). In this case, the input device 1 transmits the speed values (V _x , V _y ) every predetermined clock, that is, every predetermined time, and the control device 40 receives the speed value every predetermined number of clocks.

  When receiving the velocity value, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 adds the velocity value to the coordinate value according to the following formulas (1) and (2), thereby creating new coordinate values (X (t), Y (t)). ) Is generated (step 106). By generating the coordinate value, the MPU 35 controls the display so that the pointer 2 moves on the screen 3 (step 107).

X (t) = X (t-1) + V _x (1)
Y (t) = Y (t-1) + V _y (2)

As shown in the equations (1) and (2), the velocity values (V _x , V _y ) are amounts corresponding to the displacement of the pointer 2 per predetermined time in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction on the screen, that is, the displacement It is a corresponding amount. In the following description, the velocity value calculated by the MPU 19 will be described as the displacement correspondence amount.

  Next, the operation of the input device 1 when the operation unit 23 is operated by the user will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the operation of the input device 1 when the operation unit 23 is operated. In the figure, a case where the button 11 of the operation unit 23 is operated by the user will be described.

  11, 12 and 13 are timing charts for explaining the operation shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a timing chart when the user presses the button 11 and releases the press within the first time, and FIG. 12 shows a case where the user presses the button 11 continuously for the first time or more. It is a timing chart. FIG. 13 is a timing chart in a case where the user starts pressing the button 11 again within the second time after pressing the button 11 within the first time and continues to press the button 11 for the first time or more. It is.

  FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram of the input device 1 for realizing the operation shown in FIG. The frequency divider 91 shown in FIG. 14 generates a clock pulse having a predetermined frequency based on the pulse supplied from the crystal oscillator 20. The counter 92 counts clock pulses generated by the frequency divider 91. In the count value setting unit 93, for example, a predetermined number of count values are set, and the count values are stored. The control unit 94 compares the count value supplied from the counter 92 with the count value supplied from the count value setting unit 93 to determine the elapse of a first time and a second time described later.

  Each block such as the frequency divider 91, the counter 92, the count value setting unit 93, and the control unit 94 is typically included in the MPU 19. In the following description, these blocks are included in the MPU 19, and the processing of the control unit 94 is described as processing of the MPU 19. However, each block is not limited to the MPU 19 and may be included in a DSP, FPGA, or the like.

  The count value setting unit 93 stores in advance a first count value corresponding to the first time and a second count value corresponding to the second time.

  The first time and the second time are typically between 0.2 seconds and 0.4 seconds, but are not limited to this and may be 0.2 seconds or less. However, it may be 0.4 seconds or longer.

  The first time and the second time may be customized by the user. In order to realize customization by the user, the input device 1 may be provided with, for example, a dip switch or a variable resistor. Further, the user may be able to customize by operating the input device 1 and the operation unit 23 and operating the GUI on the screen 3.

  As described above, since the first time and the second time can be customized, the user can arbitrarily set the first time according to his / her feeling of operation. The operational feeling can be improved.

  First, the operation of the input device 1 when the user presses the button 11 and releases the press within the first time will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, in a state where the button 11 is not pressed, the input device 1 is in a state of outputting displacement correspondence amounts (V _x , V _y ) (NO in step 201), and the user inputs For example, the pointer 2 moves on the screen 3 by shaking the device 1 in the yaw direction and the pitch direction. In the following description, the state in which the displacement correspondence amount (speed value) is output or the state in which the displacement correspondence amount can be output is set as the first mode, and the scroll correspondence amount and the zoom correspondence amount described later. The state in which is output or the state in which output is possible will be described as the second mode and the third mode, respectively.

When the user presses the button 11, a switch (not shown) generates an operation signal, and this operation signal is input to the MPU 19 (YES in step 201). When the input of the operation signal from the switch is started, the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 202). Alternatively, the MPU 19 starts output with the displacement correspondence amount set to zero (V _x , V _y ) = (0, 0). Thereby, it is possible to prevent the pointer 2 from moving on the screen 3 due to the case 10 tilting when the user presses the button 11.

  When the input of the operation signal is started, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the operation signal from the switch is canceled within the first time from the start of the input of the operation signal (step 203).

  If the button 11 is released and the input of the operation signal is released within the first time from the start of the input of the operation signal (YES in step 203), that is, if the user performs a click operation, the MPU 19 Outputs a decision code (decision command) as an operation command (step 204).

  This determination code is output from the transceiver 21 as, for example, a pulsed short-time signal (see FIG. 11). When the user releases the press of the button 11 within the first time, as shown in FIG. 11, the mode is not switched, and the scroll correspondence amount and the zoom correspondence amount are not output.

  When the determination code output from the input device 1 is input, the control device 40 executes a predetermined process. For example, in FIG. 5, if the position of the pointer 2 when the button 11 is pressed on the screen 3 is on the icon 4, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 executes processing for selecting the icon 4, An application program corresponding to the icon 4 is started. If the position of the pointer 2 when the button 11 is pressed is not on the icon 4, the control device 40 executes another predetermined process.

  When outputting the determination code, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the operation signal is input again within the second time after the input of the operation signal is canceled (step 205). When the second time has elapsed (NO in step 205), the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 206).

  By the processing shown in Step 201 to Step 206, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to, for example, the left button of the mouse when the pressing is started and the pressing is released within the first time. The user can perform an operation of selecting an icon on the screen 3, for example, by pressing the button 11 and releasing the pressing within the first time (clicking).

  Next, the operation of the input device 1 when the user continuously presses the button 11 for a first time or longer will be described with reference to FIG.

When the button 11 is pressed and the input of the operation signal is started (YES in step 201), the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount (step 202), and within the first time from the start of the input of the operation signal. It is determined whether or not the input of the operation signal is released (step 203). If the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the first time (NO in step 203), that is, if the user continues to press the button 11 for the first time or longer, the MPU 19 switches to the first mode. The mode is switched to the second mode (step 213) (mode switching means), and the output of the scroll correspondence amounts (V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ) is started (step 214) (see FIG. 12).

  When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 inputs the scroll correspondence amount, when the image 6 is in the active state in FIG. 5 or when the pointer 2 is positioned within the image 6 on the screen 3, the scroll correspondence amount is displayed. For example, the display is controlled so that the character 7 scrolls in the image 6 at a speed according to the above. Note that although the scroll target to be scrolled is described as the character 7, the scroll target may be a still image displayed in the image 6, a moving image, or the like. The same applies to the zoom target to be zoomed.

The scroll corresponding amounts (V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ) output in step 214 are typically signals generated based on the displacement corresponding amounts. For example, the MPU 19 superimposes a signal of a predetermined frequency on the signal of the displacement correspondence amount (V _x , V _y ) to generate the scroll correspondence amount (V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ), from the transceiver 21. Output. Thereby, the MPU 35 of the control device recognizes the displacement correspondence amount and the scroll correspondence amount separately, and switches from the display control of the pointer movement to the display control of the scroll of the image 6.

  When the user shakes the input device 1 in the second mode, the character 7 displayed in the image 6 is scrolled at a speed corresponding to the moving speed of the input device. For example, when the user rotates the wrist and shakes the input device 1 upward from the state where the input device 1 is in the basic posture, the character 7 in the image 6 scrolls in the positive direction of the Y axis on the screen 3. Or you may make the control apparatus 40 perform the process which the character 7 scrolls in the negative direction of the Y-axis on the screen 3 according to a user's upward wrist rotation. On the other hand, when the user swings the input device 1 in the yaw direction, the character 7 scrolls in the X-axis direction on the screen 3. As a result, the user can easily and intuitively scroll the image 6.

  When the button 11 continues to be pressed for the first time or longer and the output of the scroll correspondence amount is started (step 214), the MPU 19 releases the pressing of the button 11 and cancels the input of the operation signal from the switch. Is determined (step 215). When the pressing of the button 11 is released and the input of the operation signal is released (YES in Step 215), the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll corresponding amount (Step 216). Then, the MPU 19 switches the second mode for outputting the scroll correspondence amount to the first mode for outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 217), and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 206). When the user continues to press the button 11 for the first time or longer, the determination code is not output (see FIG. 12).

  By the processing shown in Step 201 to Step 203 and Step 213 to Step 217, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to a mode switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode. The user can scroll the character 7 in the image 6 displayed on the screen 3 by spatially operating the input device 1 after pressing the button 11 for the first time or more.

  Next, referring to FIG. 13, after the user releases the pressing of the button 11 within the first time, the user starts pressing the button 11 again within the second time, and presses the button 11 for the first time or more. The operation of the input device 1 when it is continued (hereinafter referred to as a special pressing operation) will be described.

  When the press is released within the first time from the start of pressing the button 11 (YES in step 203), the MPU 19 outputs a determination code (step 204), and after the press is released, the MPU 19 It is determined whether or not the button 11 is pressed again within the time (step 205).

  If the button 11 is pressed again within the second time and an operation signal is input (YES in step 205), the MPU 19 determines whether or not the pressed button 11 is released again within the first time. Is determined (step 207). When the pressing of the button 11 is released within the first time and the input of the operation signal is released (YES in Step 207), the process returns to Step 204 again, and the MPU 19 outputs a determination code. The MPU 35 of the control device 40 may execute a process corresponding to a double click when the determination code is input again within a predetermined time after the determination code is input.

On the other hand, when the pressed button 11 continues to be pressed for the first time or longer (NO in step 207), the MPU 19 switches the first mode for outputting the displacement correspondence amount to the third mode (step 208). ) (Mode switching means), and starts outputting zoom correspondence amounts (V _{x (z)} , V _{y (z)} ) (step 209) (see FIG. 13). That is, after the user releases the press of the button 11 within the first time, the user starts pressing the button 11 again within the second time and continues to press the button 11 for the first time or more (special press operation). , MPU 19 switches the first mode to the third mode.

  When receiving the zoom correspondence amount via the antenna 39 and the transceiver 38, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 controls the character 7 in the image 6 to be enlarged or reduced at a speed corresponding to the zoom correspondence amount.

  The zoom correspondence amount output in the third mode is typically a signal generated based on the displacement correspondence amount, for example, a signal generated by superimposing a signal of a predetermined frequency on the displacement correspondence amount. .

  When the user shakes the input device 1 in the third mode, the character 7 displayed in the image 6 is enlarged or reduced at a speed corresponding to the moving speed of the input device 1. For example, when the user rotates the wrist and shakes the input device 1 upward from the state where the input device 1 is in the basic posture, the character 7 in the image 6 on the screen 3 is enlarged. On the other hand, when the user swings the input device 1 downward from the state where the input device 1 is in the basic posture, the characters 7 in the image 6 are reduced. As a result, the user can easily and intuitively perform the zoom operation on the image 6. Note that the character 7 is also enlarged or reduced when the user swings the input device 1 in the yaw direction. The operation direction of the input device 1 and the relationship between enlargement and reduction are set as appropriate.

  When the MPU 19 starts outputting the zoom correspondence amount (step 209), the MPU 19 determines whether or not the button 11 is released (step 210). When the pressing of the button 11 is released and the input of the operation signal is released (YES in step 210), the output of the zoom correspondence amount is stopped (step 211). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the third mode to the first mode and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 206).

  When the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11 by the processing shown in Step 201 to Step 212, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to a mode switching button for switching between the first mode and the third mode. . The user can enlarge and reduce the character 7 in the image 6 displayed on the screen 3 by spatially operating the input device 1 after the special press of the button 11.

  Through the processing described above, the user can input, for example, selection and execution of the icon 4 (decision operation) by a simple pressing operation of the button 11 and a spatial operation of the input device 1. The character 7 can be scrolled and zoomed.

  In the present embodiment, the user can perform the movement operation of the pointer 2, the scroll operation of the image 6, and the zoom operation of the image 6 by pressing the single operation unit (button 11) and the spatial operation of the input device 1. Therefore, for example, a wheel button does not need to be provided in the input device as a special operation unit for realizing the scroll operation and the zoom operation, and cost reduction can be realized.

  In step 203, when the button 11 is kept pressed for the first time or longer (NO in step 203) and the first mode is switched to the second mode (step 213), the MPU 19 controls the displacement corresponding amount and the control. You may output the signal (scroll display signal) for making the apparatus 40 control scroll display. In this case, it is not necessary to superimpose a signal having a predetermined frequency on the displacement correspondence amount (speed value), and the displacement correspondence amount and the scroll display signal are pressed in parallel after the first time has elapsed. It is output from the input device 1 until release. The control device 40 controls the character 7 in the image 6 to be scrolled when the displacement correspondence amount and the scroll display signal are received in parallel. In this case, since it is the displacement correspondence amount that corresponds to the amount to be scrolled, the scroll correspondence amount is the displacement correspondence amount. In this specification, “output the scroll correspondence amount” includes the case where the displacement correspondence amount and the scroll display signal are output in parallel. Alternatively, when the first mode is switched to the second mode (step 213), the MPU 19 may output a signal (mode switching signal) indicating that the mode has been switched. In this case, when the mode switching signal is received, the control device 40 switches from the display of the pointer movement to the display of the image scroll.

  Similarly, when the first mode is switched to the third mode (step 208), the MPU 19 may output the displacement correspondence amount (speed value) and the zoom display signal in parallel. In this specification, “output the zoom correspondence amount” includes a case where the displacement correspondence amount and the zoom display signal are output in parallel. Alternatively, when the first mode is switched to the third mode (step 208), the MPU 19 may output a signal (mode switching signal) indicating that the mode has been switched. In this case, when the mode switching signal is received, the control device 40 switches from the pointer movement display to the image zoom display.

  In the present embodiment, the input device 1 operates in the first mode when no operation signal is input, and is switched from the first mode to the second mode by pressing the button 11 for a first time or more. The case where the first mode is switched to the third mode by the special pressing operation of the button 11 has been described. However, the input device 1 may be in the second mode or the third mode in a state where no operation signal is input. Moreover, the mode switched by the pressing operation of the button 11 can be changed as appropriate.

  In the above description, the case where the determination code is output immediately after the input of the operation signal is canceled when the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time (step 204, FIG. 11, FIG. 13). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time, the MPU 19 sets the determination code when the operation signal is not input within the second time since the cancellation. It may be output.

  The mode switching process shown in FIG. 10 may be executed by the control device 40. In this case, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives the displacement correspondence amount information output from the input device 1 and receives a press signal (for example, a press code) as the operation information of the button 11. The MPU 35 of the control device 40 moves the pointer 2 on the screen 3 according to the received displacement correspondence amount in a state where no pressing signal is input. The MPU 35 stops the movement of the pointer 2 when the input of the pressing signal is started. When the pressing signal has been input for the first time from the start of the input of the pressing signal, the image 6 is displayed to scroll from the first mode in which the display of the screen 3 is controlled so that the pointer 2 moves. The mode is switched to the second mode for controlling (mode switching means). Then, the display is controlled so that the image 6 is scrolled at the scroll speed value corresponding to the received displacement correspondence amount until the input of the pressing signal is released. Input of the press signal is canceled within the first time from the start of input of the press signal, input of the press signal is started again within the second time, and this press signal is continuously input for the first time or more. In this case, the first mode is switched to the third mode for controlling the display so that the image 6 is zoomed. In the third mode, the MPU 35 controls display so that the image 6 is zoomed at a zoom speed value corresponding to the displacement correspondence amount. Similarly, in the processing of each embodiment described below, the control device 40 may execute the mode switching processing. The displacement correspondence amount (speed value) may be calculated by the control device 40.

  Next, another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described. In the following description, parts having the same configurations and functions as those of the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted or simplified.

  The input device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 14 switches between the first to third modes according to the presence or absence of a pressing operation on the button 11 and the difference in the mode of the pressing operation. However, the input device 1 according to the present embodiment includes a point for sequentially switching the mode every predetermined cycle time when the button 11 is continuously pressed, and an LED display unit for visually indicating the mode state. This is different from the input device 1 shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an LED display unit included in the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. The LED display unit 82 may be disposed anywhere on the housing 10 as long as it is easy for the user to see. The LED display unit 82 includes a first display unit 82a that lights up in the first mode, a second display unit 82b that lights up in the second mode, and a third display unit 82c that lights up in the third mode. Have The LED display unit 82 allows the user to visually recognize the current mode of the input device 1. The housing 10 may not be provided with the LED display unit 82, and a GUI as shown in FIG. 15 may be displayed on the screen 3.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIGS. 17 and 18 are timing charts for explaining the operation shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a timing chart when the pressed button 11 is released within the first time, and FIG. 18 is a timing chart when the button 11 is continuously pressed for the first time or more. .

  In order to realize the operation shown in FIG. 16, for example, a third count value corresponding to the cycle time is stored in the count value setting unit 93 shown in FIG. The third time is typically a time between 0.8 seconds and 1.2 seconds, but is not limited thereto, and may be 0.8 seconds or less, and 1.2 seconds or more. It may be.

  As shown in FIG. 16, when the button 11 is not pressed and no operation signal is input (NO in step 301), the mode is the first mode, and the MPU 19 outputs the displacement correspondence amount. is doing. Further, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the first display unit 82a is lit.

  When the button 11 is pressed and an operation signal is input (YES in step 301), the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount (step 302), and the input operation signal is canceled within the first time. If it is found (YES in step 303), a determination code is output (step 304) (see FIG. 17). That is, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to a determination button when clicked by the user.

  The MPU 19 determines whether or not the first time has elapsed since the input of the operation signal (step 305). When the first time has elapsed (YES in step 305), the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 305). Step 306) (see FIG. 17). In this way, by outputting the displacement correspondence amount after the first time has elapsed from the input of the operation signal, the housing 10 tilts after the button 11 is released, so that the processing unintended by the user is performed on the screen. Can be prevented.

  On the other hand, in step 303, when the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the first time from the start of the input of the operation signal (NO in step 303), that is, the user keeps pressing the button 11 for the first time or more. If so, the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode (step 307). In this case, even if the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode, the MPU 19 does not immediately output the scroll correspondence amount, but remains in a state in which the scroll correspondence amount can be output (see FIG. 18).

  When the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the first display unit 82a is turned off and the second display unit 82b is turned on (step 308).

  The MPU 19 determines whether or not the cycle time has elapsed since the first time after the start of pressing of the button 11, and whether or not the pressing of the button 11 was released within this cycle time and the input of the operation signal was released. It is determined whether or not (step 309).

  If the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the cycle time after the first time has elapsed from the start of the input of the operation signal (NO in step 309), the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the third mode. (Step 307). Also in this case, the MPU 19 does not immediately output the zoom correspondence amount (see FIG. 18).

  When the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the third mode, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the second display unit 82b is turned off and the third display unit 82c is turned on (step 308).

  The MPU 19 determines again whether or not the input of the operation signal is canceled within the cycle time after the elapse of the cycle time (step 309), and further, when the input of the operation signal is not canceled (NO in step 309). The third mode is switched to the first mode (step 307). Then, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the third display unit 82c is turned off and the first display unit 82a is turned on (step 308).

  As described above, when the user continues to press the button 11, the MPU 19 sequentially switches the first, second, and third modes for each cycle time.

  On the other hand, when the pressing of the button 11 is released within the cycle time and the input of the operation signal is released (YES in Step 309), the MPU 19 determines the displacement corresponding amount, the scroll corresponding amount, according to the mode at that time. Alternatively, output of the zoom correspondence amount is started. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 18, since the pressing of the button 11 is released in the second mode, the MPU 19 starts outputting the scroll corresponding amount.

  By the operation shown in FIG. 16, the button 11 has a function corresponding to, for example, the left button (decision button) of the mouse, and mode switching for switching the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode to another mode. It has a function corresponding to a button.

  The user can select, for example, an icon on the screen 3 by releasing the pressed button 11 within the first time, and the first to third modes can be selected by simply pressing the button 11. You can switch to another mode. Further, in the present embodiment, a pointer movement operation, a scroll operation, and a zoom operation are realized by a pressing operation of one operation unit and a space operation of the input device 1, and thus a special operation for realizing scrolling and zooming. For example, a wheel button does not need to be provided in the input device as the operation unit, and the cost can be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the mode is switched in the order of the first mode → the second mode → the third mode → the first mode has been described, but the order in which the mode is switched is the first mode → the second mode. The mode may be 3 mode → second mode → first mode. In the present embodiment, the mode in which no operation signal is input is described as the first mode. However, the mode in which no operation signal is input is the second mode. Alternatively, the third mode may be used.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described.
The input device 1 according to the present embodiment is different from the input device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 18 in that it includes an operation unit having a so-called two-stage switch for mode switching.

  19A to 19C are schematic diagrams illustrating an operation unit included in the input device according to the present embodiment. The operation unit 50 included in the input device 1 according to the present embodiment does not have a function corresponding to a determination button. Therefore, in order to maintain the function as the determination button, which is the original function of the button 11 shown in FIG. 6, the operation unit 50 is typically operated with the thumb on the side of the housing 10 away from the button 11. It is arranged at a possible position (see FIG. 6). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation unit 50 may be disposed at the position of the button 11 or the button 12 illustrated in FIG. 6 or may be disposed at other positions of the housing 10.

  The operation unit 50 is a push-type button and is a button having a two-step action. The operation unit 50 includes, for example, a first button 57, a second button 58 that is physically separated from the first button 57, and the first button 57 and the second button 58. And a surface button 56 that can be pressed. The first button 57 has a switch (first switch) (not shown) inside, and the second button 58 also has a switch (second switch) (not shown) inside. When the first button 57 is pressed and the first switch is turned on, the first switch starts generating the first operation signal and outputs the first operation signal to the MPU 19. On the other hand, when the second button 58 is pressed and the second switch is turned on, the second switch starts generating the second operation signal and outputs the second operation signal to the MPU 19. To do. The switches of the first button 57 and the second button 58 are electrically connected to the main board 18.

  FIG. 19A is a diagram illustrating a state where the operation unit 50 is not pressed by the user. The front button 56 is connected to a shaft 59 provided in the housing 10, and is connected to the housing via the spring 24 at the opposite end. When the surface of the surface button 56 is pressed by the user's finger 34, the surface button 56 rotates against the spring force of the spring 24 about the shaft 59. The first button 57 and the first button 57 are push type buttons. Protrusions 56 a and 56 b that can press the first button 57 and the second button 58 are provided on the back surface of the front button 56.

  The first button 57 and the second button 58 are provided, for example, so as to be exposed from the inside of the housing 10 to the surface of the housing 10. When the front button 56 is pushed by a predetermined distance (first distance) (see FIG. 19B), the first button 57 is pushed by the protrusion 56a, and then the front button 56 is further pushed by a predetermined distance (first). (Distance 2) is pressed (see FIG. 19C), and the second button 58 is pressed by the protrusion 56b. FIG. 19B shows a state where the first button 57 is pressed and the second button 58 is not pressed. FIG. 19C shows a state where both the first button 57 and the second button 58 are pressed.

  When the pressed front button 56 is released, the front button 56 moves in the order of FIG. 19 (C) → FIG. 19 (B) → FIG. 19 (A) by the return force of the spring 24, and the second button 58, In the order of the first buttons 57, the pressed states are released.

  The first distance and the second distance may be the same or different, and can be set as appropriate. Necessary force when shifting from the state shown in FIG. 19A to the state shown in FIG. 19B and necessary when shifting from the state shown in FIG. 19B to the state shown in FIG. 19C. The forces may be the same or different.

  In the operation unit 50 as described above, so-called half-pressing in which the state in which the first button 57 is pressed and the second button 58 is not pressed (FIG. 19B) is also possible.

  Next, the operation of the input device 1 including the operation unit 50 will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the first button 57 is not pressed and the first operation signal is not input to the MPU 19, the mode is the first mode, and the MPU 19 (V _x , V _y ) is output (NO in step 401).

  When the user half-presses the front button 56 (see FIG. 19B), the first button 57 is pressed, and the first operation signal from the first switch is input (YES in step 401). Then, the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 402), and switches the first mode to the second mode (step 403). When the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode, the MPU 19 starts outputting the scroll-corresponding amount (step 404). In other words, in the present embodiment, the first button 57 is a button having a function corresponding to a switching button that can switch between the first mode and the second mode.

  When the user swings the input device 1 while keeping the half-pressed state of the front button 56, the character 7 in the image 6 on the screen 3 scrolls.

When the MPU 19 starts outputting the scroll correspondence amounts (V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ), the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the first operation signal has been canceled (step 405). When the user releases the finger 34 from the front button 56 (see FIG. 19A) and the input of the first operation signal is canceled (YES in Step 405), the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll-corresponding amount ( Step 406).

  Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the first mode (step 407) and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 408).

  On the other hand, when the input of the first operation signal is not canceled in step 405 (NO in step 405), and the second operation signal is input while the first operation signal is input (YES in step 409). ) That is, when the user presses the front button 56 to the second distance, the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll correspondence amount (step 410).

When the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll correspondence amount, the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the third mode (step 411) and starts outputting the zoom correspondence amounts (V _{x (z)} , V _{y (z)} ) ( Step 412). That is, in this embodiment, the second button 58 has a function corresponding to a switching button that can switch between the second mode and the third mode.

  When the user shakes the input device 1 while maintaining the pressing of the front button 56 to the second distance, for example, when the image 6 displayed on the screen 3 is active, the character 7 in the image 6 is changed. Zoom in and out.

  When starting the output of the zoom correspondence amount, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the second operation signal has been canceled (step 413). When the front button 56 is in a half-pressed state (see FIG. 19B) and the input of the second operation signal from the second switch is canceled (YES in step 413), the MPU 19 Is stopped (step 414). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the third mode to the second mode (step 415), starts outputting the scroll-corresponding amount (step 416), and determines whether or not the input of the first operation signal is canceled again. Determination is made (step 405).

  By the processing shown in FIG. 20, the user continuously displays a first button that can switch between the first mode and the second mode, and a second button that can switch between the second mode and the third mode. Can be switched. Thereby, an intuitive operation is possible.

  The mode switched between steps 403 and 407 and the mode switched between steps 411 and 415 can be changed. For example, the mode switched in steps 403 and 407 may be the first mode and the third mode, and the mode switched in steps 411 and 415 may be the first mode and the second mode.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described.
The input device 1 according to the present embodiment is different from the input device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 20 in that it includes an operation unit having a rotation unit (lever) for mode switching.

  FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation unit included in the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 21A is a top view of the operation unit 60, and FIG. 21B is a side view. The operation unit 60 is typically disposed at the position of the button 11 of the housing 10 (see FIG. 6). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation unit 60 may be provided at the position of the button 12 or may be disposed at a position where it can be operated with the thumb on the side surface of the housing 10.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the operation unit 60 is provided so as to surround the push type button 61 positioned at the center of the operation unit 60 and the button 61, and rotates about the axis in the pressing direction of the button 61. And a possible rotation part 62. The rotation unit 62 includes a rotation unit main body 62a and a lever-type rotation operation unit 62b provided so as to extend in a centrifugal direction from the rotation unit. The button 61 has a switch (not shown) inside, and the rotation unit 62 has a rotation switch (not shown) inside.

  When the button 61 is not pressed by the user, the button 61 projects upward from the rotating portion main body 62a, and moves in the vertical direction according to the pressing operation by the user. Similarly, the turning operation part 62b protrudes upward from the turning part main body 62a, and the turning operation with the finger by the user is possible. The rotation unit 62 rotates in three stages according to the rotation operation by the user of the rotation operation unit 62b.

  The button 61 and the rotation operation unit 62b are arranged at a predetermined distance d. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the button 61 from being accidentally pressed during the turning operation of the turning operation unit 62b.

  Next, the operation of the input device 1 including the operation unit 60 shown in FIG. 21 will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an operation when the rotation operation unit 62b is rotated.

When the rotation operation unit 62b is at a position shown in FIG. 21A (hereinafter referred to as a reference position), the mode of the input device 1 is the first mode, and the MPU 19 outputs a displacement corresponding amount. Pivot operation part 62b of the reference position by the user is turning operation by a finger, the pivot operation part 62b is the angle theta ₁ rotates, the rotation switch, and generates a switching signal, and outputs to the MPU 19. When the MPU 19 receives a switching signal from the rotation switch (YES in Step 501), the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount, which is the corresponding amount when the switching signal is input (Step 502). Then, the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode (step 503), and starts outputting the scroll correspondence amount in the switched second mode (step 504).

The pivoted portion 62b by the user is the angle theta ₁ rotates, the rotation operation portion 62b is returned to the reference position, the switching signal to the MPU19 inputted (YES in step 501). When the switching signal is input, the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll correspondence amount (step 502). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the first mode (step 503) and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 504).

Pivot operation part 62b of the reference position is rotated by the user, when the rotation operation portion 62b is the angle theta ₂ rotates, MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount (step 501, step 502). Then, the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the third mode (step 503) and starts outputting the zoom correspondence amount (step 504). The pivoted portion 62b by the user is the angle theta ₂ rotates, the pivot operation part 62b is returned to the reference position, the switching signal to the MPU19 inputted (YES in step 501). When the switching signal is input, the MPU 19 stops outputting the zoom correspondence amount (step 502). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the third mode to the first mode (step 503) and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 504).

  When the user presses the button 61, the switch inside the button 61 generates an operation signal and outputs it to the MPU 19 in response to the press. When the MPU 19 receives an operation signal from the switch, the MPU 19 outputs a determination code. That is, the button 61 has a function corresponding to the determination button.

  Through the processing described above, the user can select, for example, the icon 4 on the screen 3 or switch the first to third modes to another mode with a simple operation using one finger. it can.

MPU19 may a first mode and a third mode of mutually changeable in accordance with the angle theta ₁ of the rotation of the rotation operation portion 62b, a second mode in accordance with the rotation angle theta ₂ and The third mode may be switched to each other. Alternatively, when the rotation operation unit 62b is at the reference position, the second mode or the third mode may be used.

  The MPU 19 may control the output of the corresponding amounts in the first to third modes according to an operation signal input from the switch when the button 61 is pressed. In this case, the MPU 19 outputs the corresponding amounts only when the button 61 is pressed and the operation signal from the switch is input in the first to third modes. Alternatively, the MPU 19 may output the corresponding amounts only when the button 61 is not pressed and the input of the operation signal from the switch is cancelled. As a result of such processing, the button 61 includes a movement control button that controls the start and stop of the movement of the pointer 2, a scroll control button that controls the start and stop of scrolling, and a zoom control button that controls the start and stop of zooming. It will have a function.

  Thereby, the user can control the movement of the pointer, the scroll, and the start and stop of the zoom with a simple pressing operation. Furthermore, the user can easily switch the first to third modes to other modes by releasing the finger that pressed the button 61 and rotating the rotation operation unit 62b.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described.
The input device 1 according to the present embodiment realizes the same function by a sliding operation unit instead of the rotation type operation unit 60 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation unit included in the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 23A is a top view of the operation unit 70, and FIG. 23B is a side view. The operation unit 70 is typically disposed at the position of the button 11 of the housing 10 (see FIG. 6). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation unit 70 may be provided at the position of the button 12 or may be disposed at a position where it can be operated with the thumb on the side surface of the housing 10.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the operation unit 70 has an engagement portion 73 that engages with a groove 74 provided in the housing 10, and can slide and move the groove 74, and a press-type button 71. It is formed with the operation part main body 72 provided in the engaging part 73. The operation unit 70 slides in three stages according to the sliding operation by the user of the operation unit main body 72. A slide switch that generates a switching signal according to the three-stage sliding of the operation unit 70 is provided in the housing 10. The button 71 has a switch inside.

  Next, the operation of the input device 1 including the operation unit 70 shown in FIG. 23 will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an operation when the operation unit main body 72 is slid.

For example, as shown in FIG. 23A, when the operation unit main body 72 is positioned at the center of the operation unit 70 (hereinafter referred to as a reference position), the mode of the input device 1 is the first mode, and the MPU 19 Outputs a displacement correspondence amount. Operation section main body 72 of the reference position by the user is slid by a finger, the operating portion main body 72 is a distance d ₁ slides, slide switch generates a switch signal is output to MPU 19. When the MPU 19 receives the switching signal from the slide switch (YES in Step 601), the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount that is the corresponding amount when the switching signal is input (Step 602). Then, the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode (step 603) and starts outputting the scroll correspondence amount (step 604).

When the user slides the operation unit main body 72 by the distance d _{1 and} returns the operation unit main body 71 to the reference position, a switching signal is input to the MPU 19 (YES in Step 601). When the switching signal is input, the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll correspondence amount (step 602). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the first mode (step 603) and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 604).

Operation section main body 72 of the reference position is slid by a user, the operation section main body 72 is a distance _{d 2} slides, MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount (step 601, 602). Then, the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the third mode (step 603) and starts outputting the zoom correspondence amount (step 604). When the user slides the operation unit main body 72 by the distance d _{2 and} returns the operation unit main body 72 to the reference position, a switching signal is input to the MPU 19 (YES in Step 601). When the switching signal is input, the MPU 19 stops outputting the zoom correspondence amount (step 602). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the third mode to the first mode (step 603) and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 604).

  When the user presses the button 71, the switch inside the button 71 generates an operation signal and outputs it to the MPU 19 in response to the press. When the MPU 19 receives an operation signal from the switch, the MPU 19 outputs a determination code. That is, the button 72 has a function corresponding to the determination button.

  Through the processing described above, the user can select, for example, the icon 4 on the screen 3 or switch the first to third modes to another mode with a simple operation using one finger. it can.

MPU19 may a first mode and a third mode of mutually changeable in accordance with the sliding of the distance d ₁ of the operation portion main body 72, a second mode in response to sliding of the distance d ₂ and the The three modes may be switched to each other. Alternatively, when the operation unit main body 72 is at the basic position, the second mode or the third mode may be used.

  The MPU 19 may control the output of the corresponding amounts in the first to third modes according to an operation signal input from the switch when the button 71 is pressed. In this case, the MPU 19 outputs the corresponding amounts only when the button 71 is pressed and the operation signal from the switch is input in the first to third modes. Alternatively, the MPU 19 may output the corresponding amounts only when the button 71 is not pressed and the input of the operation signal from the switch is cancelled. As a result of such processing, the button 71 includes a movement control button for controlling the start and stop of the movement of the pointer 2, a scroll control button for controlling the start and stop of scrolling, and a zoom control button for controlling the start and stop of zooming. It will have a function.

  Thereby, the user can control the movement of the pointer, the scroll, and the start and stop of the zoom with a simple pressing operation.

  The button 71 having the function of the control button may be separated from the operation unit main body 72 and provided separately in the housing 10.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described.
The input device 1 according to the present embodiment is different from the input device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 24 in that the input device 1 includes a mode-dedicated button that can switch modes for each press.

  FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 25, in this embodiment, in addition to the buttons 11 and 12, a button 81 is provided at a position that can be operated with the thumb on the side surface of the housing 10 (see FIG. 6). However, the button 81 is not limited to this, and may be disposed at another position of the housing 10. The button 81 has a switch (not shown) inside.

  In addition to the button 81, the housing 10 is provided with an LED display unit 82 as shown in FIG. The LED display unit 82 may be disposed anywhere in the housing 10 as long as the user can easily see the LED display unit 82. Alternatively, the housing 10 may not be provided with the LED display unit 82, and a GUI as shown in FIG. 15 may be displayed on the screen 3.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

  For example, when the operation signal is not input (NO in step 701) and in the first mode, the MPU 19 outputs the displacement corresponding amount, and the LED so that the first display unit 82a is lit. The display unit 82 is controlled. When pressing of the button 81 is started and an operation signal is input (YES in step 701), the MPU 19 stops outputting a displacement corresponding amount that is a corresponding amount at the time of inputting the operation signal (step 702), and the first The mode is switched to the second mode (step 703). Then, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the first display unit 82a is turned off and the second display unit 82b is turned on (step 704), and starts outputting the scroll correspondence amount (step 705). ).

  When the operation signal is not input and in the second mode, when the MPU 19 inputs the operation signal (YES in step 701), the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll-corresponding amount (step 702). Is switched to the third mode (step 703). Then, the LED display unit 82 is controlled so that the third display unit 82c is lit (step 704), and output of the zoom correspondence amount is started (step 705).

  Similarly, when the operation signal is not input and in the third mode, when the MPU 19 inputs the operation signal, the MPU 19 switches the third mode to the first mode and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount. (Steps 701 to 705).

  Thus, every time the pressing of the button 81 is started, the MPU 19 switches in the order of the first mode → the second mode → the third mode → the first mode. That is, the button 81 is a dedicated mode switching button for switching modes. Thereby, the user can switch the first to third modes in order by a simple pressing operation of the button 81.

  The MPU 19 may switch modes in the order of the first mode → the third mode → the second mode → the first mode. Alternatively, the MPU 19 may switch the first to third modes to another mode every time the user releases the press of the button 81 and cancels the input of the operation signal.

Next, still another embodiment of the processing of the input device 1 will be described.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26, the input device 1 switches the mode every time the button 81 is pressed. In this embodiment, the input device 1 has the button 81 pressed. When the operation is continued, the mode is sequentially switched every predetermined cycle time. In the present embodiment, the differences from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 25 and 26 will be mainly described.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. In order to realize the operation shown in FIG. 27, for example, a third count value corresponding to the cycle time is stored in the count value setting unit 93 shown in FIG. The third time is typically a time between 0.8 seconds and 1.2 seconds, but is not limited thereto, and may be 0.8 seconds or less, and 1.2 seconds or more. It may be.

  In a state where the button 81 is not pressed and the operation signal from the switch of the button 81 is not input, the mode of the input device 1 is the first mode, and the MPU 19 outputs the displacement corresponding amount. (NO in step 801). Further, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the first display unit 82a is lit.

  When the user presses the button 81 and an operation signal is input (YES in step 801), the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement corresponding amount (step 802) and switches the first mode to the second mode (step 802). Step 803). In this case, the MPU 19 does not start outputting the scroll correspondence amount immediately after switching the mode.

  When switching the mode, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the first display unit 82a is turned off and the second display unit 82b is turned on (step 804).

  The MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the operation signal is canceled within the cycle time from the input of the operation signal (step 805). If the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the cycle time (NO in step 805), that is, if the user continues to press the button 81 for the cycle time or longer, the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the third mode. Switching (step 803). Then, the MPU 19 controls the LED display unit 82 so that the second display unit 82b is turned off and the third display unit 82c is turned on (step 804).

  The MPU 19 determines again whether or not the input of the operation signal is canceled within the cycle time after the elapse of the cycle time (step 805), and when the input of the operation signal is not canceled (NO in step 805). The third mode is switched to the first mode (step 803). Then, the LED display unit 82 is controlled so that the third display unit 82c is turned off and the first display unit 82a is turned on (step 804).

  As described above, when the user continues to press the button 81, the MPU 19 switches in order of the first mode → the second mode → the third mode every cycle time.

  On the other hand, when the button 81 pressed by the user is released and the input of the operation signal from the switch is released (YES in step 805), the MPU 19 responds to the mode when the input of the operation signal is released. Then, output of the displacement correspondence amount, the scroll correspondence amount, or the zoom correspondence amount is started (step 806).

  Thereby, the user can switch the first mode to the third mode to another mode by a simple pressing operation of the button 81.

  The mode that the MPU 19 switches in step 803 may be in the order of the first mode → the third mode → the second mode. The mode of the input device 1 in a state where no operation signal is input may be the second mode or the third mode.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the first to third modes are switched to another mode has been described. In each embodiment described below, a case will be described in which two modes among the first mode to the third mode are switched to another mode. In the present embodiment, the description will be focused on differences from the embodiment shown in FIG.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

  FIG. 30 is a timing chart for explaining the operation shown in FIG. FIG. 30A is a diagram when the user presses the button 11 and releases the press within the first time, and FIG. 30B shows that the user continues the button 11 for the first time or longer. It is a figure at the time of pressing.

In a state where the button 11 is not pressed, the input device 1 is in a state of outputting a displacement corresponding amount (V _x , V _y ) (NO in step 901). When the user presses the button 11, an operation signal is input to the MPU 19, and the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 902). When the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time from the input of the operation signal (YES in step 903), the MPU 19 outputs the determination code (step 904), and the first input from the input of the operation signal It is determined whether or not the elapse of time has elapsed (step 905). When the first time has elapsed (YES in step 905), output of the displacement correspondence amount is started (step 906) (see FIG. 30A). That is, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to a determination button when clicked by the user.

  On the other hand, in step 903, when the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the first time after the input of the operation signal is started (NO in step 903), the MPU 19 changes the first mode to the second mode. (Step 907) (mode switching means), the output of the scroll correspondence amount is started (step 908).

When the press of the button 11 is released and the input of the operation signal from the switch is released (YES in Step 909), the MPU 19 stops outputting the scroll corresponding amount (Step 910). Then, the MPU 19 switches the second mode to the first mode (step 911) and starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 906) (see FIG. 30B). That is, the button 11 continues to be pressed by the user for the first time or longer, thereby exhibiting a function corresponding to a switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode.

  With the processing shown in FIG. 29, the user performs an operation (decision operation) for inputting, for example, selection and execution of an icon by releasing the press within the first time from the start of the press of the button 11. After pressing for a first time or more, the input device 1 can be scrolled by spatially operating the input device 1.

  The input device 1 may be provided with a wheel button 13 as shown in FIG. In this case, a zoom function is assigned to the wheel button 13. When the user rotates the wheel button 13 with the thumb, the character 7 in the image 6 is enlarged or reduced according to the amount of rotation of the wheel button 13 with respect to the housing 10.

  In step 907, the first mode may be switched to the third mode, and in step 911, the third mode may be switched to the first mode. In this case, the wheel button 13 to which the scroll function is assigned may be provided in the input device 1.

  The control device 40 may execute the process illustrated in FIG. In this case, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives the displacement correspondence amount information output from the input device 1 and receives, for example, a press signal as the operation information of the button 11. The MPU 35 of the control device 40 moves the pointer 2 on the screen 3 according to the received displacement correspondence amount in a state where no pressing signal is input. The MPU 35 stops the movement of the pointer 2 when the input of the pressing signal is started, and executes predetermined processing according to the position of the pointer 2 when the input of the pressing signal is canceled within the first time. . On the other hand, when a pressing signal is input for the first time or longer, the second mode controls the display to scroll the image 6 from the first mode in which the display of the screen 3 is controlled so as to move the pointer 2. Switch to mode. The display is controlled so that the image 6 is scrolled at a scroll speed value corresponding to the displacement correspondence amount until the input of the pressing signal is canceled. The displacement correspondence amount (speed value) may be calculated by the control device 40.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described. In the present embodiment, a description will be given focusing on differences from the embodiment shown in FIG.
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1 according to this embodiment, and FIG. 32 is a timing chart for explaining the operation shown in FIG. FIG. 32 shows a timing when the user starts pressing the button 11 again within the second time after releasing the pressing of the button 11 within the first time, and continues to press the button 11 for the first time or more. It is a chart.

  In Steps 1001 to 1006 and Steps 1011 to 1015 shown in FIG. 31, the same processing as Steps 901 to 906 and Steps 907 to 911 shown in FIG. 29 described above is executed. Therefore, when the user presses the button 11 and releases the press within the first time, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to the determination button, and the user continues the button 11 for the first time or more. By pressing the button, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to a mode switching button that switches between the first mode and the second mode.

  In the MPU 19, the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time from the start of the input of the operation signal (YES in Step 1003), and the operation signal is input again within the second time after the cancellation of the input of the operation signal. In the case (YES in Step 1005), it is determined whether or not the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time from the input of the operation signal (Step 1007). When the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the first time (NO in step 1007), the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount and starts outputting the determination code as the operation command (step). 1008).

  That is, the user starts pressing the button 11 again within the second time after releasing the press within the first time, and continues to press the button 11 for the first time or more (special pressing operation). The MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount and the determination code after the first time after the button 11 is pressed again (step 1008) (see FIG. 32). When the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11, the MPU 19 does not switch the mode.

In this case, the control device 40 receives the displacement correspondence amount output from the input device 1 and the determination code in parallel. When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 inputs the displacement correspondence amount and the determination code in parallel (see FIG. 32), the coordinate value (v _x , v _y ) is determined according to the received displacement correspondence amount (v _x , v _y ). X (t), Y (t)) is generated. When the pointer 2 is positioned on the icon 4, the pointer 2 and the icon 4 are controlled to move on the screen 3 according to the coordinate values (X (t), Y (t)). . That is, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 controls the display of the drag operation when the displacement correspondence amount and the determination code are input in parallel.

  When the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount and the determination code, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the operation signal has been canceled (step 1009). If the input of the operation signal has been canceled (YES in step 1009), The output of the decision code is stopped (step 1010).

  When the output of the determination code is stopped in step 1010, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 ends the control of the display of the drag operation on the screen 3, and controls the display so that the pointer 2 moves on the screen 3. .

  With the processing shown in FIG. 31, when the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11, a drag operation is displayed on the screen 3. As a result, the user releases the pressed button 11 within the first time period, for example, an operation for inputting selection or execution of an icon, and the user presses the input device 1 after continuing to press the button 11 for the first time or longer. A scroll operation can be performed by performing a space operation, and a drag operation can be performed by performing a space operation on the input device after a special pressing operation of the button 11.

  In the processing of Step 1011 and Step 1015, the MPU 19 may execute processing for switching between the first mode and the third mode.

Next, still another embodiment of the input device 1 will be described. In the present embodiment, a description will be given focusing on differences from the embodiment shown in FIG.
FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, and FIG. 34 is a timing chart for explaining the operation shown in FIG. FIG. 33 is a timing chart when the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11.

  In Steps 1101 to 1106 and Steps 1112 to 1116 shown in FIG. 33, the same processing as Steps 901 to 906 and Steps 907 to 911 shown in FIG. 29 is executed. Therefore, when the user presses the button 11 and releases the press within the first time, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to the determination button, and the user continues the button 11 for the first time or more. By pressing the button, the button 11 exhibits a function corresponding to a mode switching button that switches between the first mode and the second mode.

  In the processing shown in FIG. 33, in steps 1102 and 1107, the MPU 19 starts outputting the press code in response to the start of the input of the operation signal due to the start of pressing the button 11. In steps 1104, 1111, and 1115, the MPU 19 stops the output of the press code in response to the release of the operation signal input by the release of the button 11. That is, the MPU 19 outputs a pressing code from when the user starts pressing the button 11 until the pressing is released (see FIG. 34).

  In the MPU 19, the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time from the start of the input of the operation signal (YES in Step 1103), and the operation signal is input again within the second time after the cancellation of the input of the operation signal. If so (YES in step 1105), output of the press code is started (step 1107). Then, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the operation signal is canceled within the first time from the input of the operation signal (step 1108), and the input of the operation signal is not canceled within the first time. If so (NO in step 1108), the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 1109).

  That is, when the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11, the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount after the first time has elapsed since the button 11 was pressed again (step 1109) (see FIG. 34). When the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11, the MPU 19 does not switch the mode.

In this case, the control device 40 receives the displacement correspondence amount output from the input device 1 and the pressing code in parallel. When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 inputs the displacement correspondence amount and the pressing code in parallel (see FIG. 34), the coordinate value (X (t (t)) is determined according to the displacement correspondence amount (v _x , v _y ). ), Y (t)). When the pointer 2 is positioned on the icon 4, the pointer 2 and the icon 4 are moved on the screen 3 according to the coordinate value coordinate values (X (t), Y (t)). Control. That is, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 controls the display of the drag operation when the displacement correspondence amount and the pressing code are input in parallel.

  When the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the operation signal has been released (step 1110). Is stopped (step 1111).

  When the output of the press code is stopped in step 1111, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 ends the display control of the drag operation on the screen 3 and controls the display so that the pointer 2 moves on the screen 3. .

  With the processing shown in FIG. 33, when the user performs a special pressing operation on the button 11, a drag operation is displayed on the screen 3. As a result, the user releases the pressed button 11 within the first time period, for example, an operation for inputting selection or execution of an icon, and the user presses the input device 1 after continuing to press the button 11 for the first time or longer. A scroll operation can be performed by performing a space operation, and a drag operation can be performed by performing a space operation on the input device after a special pressing operation of the button 11.

  In the processing of Step 1112 and Step 1116, the MPU 19 may execute processing for switching between the first mode and the third mode.

Next, still another embodiment of the processing of the input device 1 will be described. In the present embodiment, the description will be focused on differences from the embodiment shown in FIG.
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 20, the input device 1 according to the present embodiment is provided with an operation unit 50 having a two-stage action shown in FIG. 19 on the housing 10. In the present embodiment, the operation unit 50 is typically disposed at the position of the button 11 shown in FIG. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation unit 50 may be disposed at the position of the button 12 or may be disposed at a position on the side surface of the housing 10 where the user can operate with the thumb.

As shown in FIG. 35, when the first button 57 is not pressed and the first operation signal is not input to the MPU 19, the mode is the first mode, and the input device 1 is displaced. Corresponding amounts (V _x , V _y ) are output (NO in step 1201). In this case, when the user swings the input device 1 in, for example, the yaw direction and the pitch direction, the pointer 2 moves on the screen 3.

When the user half-presses the front button 56 (see FIG. 19B), the first button 57 is pressed, and the first operation signal from the first switch is input (YES in step 1201). Then, the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 1202). Alternatively, output with the displacement correspondence amount set to zero ((V _x , V _y ) = (0, 0)) is started. Thereby, for example, it is possible to prevent a process unintended by the user from being executed on the screen 3 by tilting the housing 10 after the pressing of the two-stage operation unit 50 is started.

  When the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount, the MPU 19 outputs a determination code (step 1203). When the position of the pointer 2 on the screen 3 when the determination code is output from the input device 1 is, for example, on the icon 4, processing corresponding to the icon 4 is executed on the screen. That is, the first button 57 has a function corresponding to the determination button.

When the MPU 19 outputs the determination code, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the first operation signal has been canceled (step 1204). When the input of the first operation signal from the first switch is canceled (YES in Step 1204), the output of the displacement corresponding amounts (V _x , V _y ) is started (Step 1205).

  On the other hand, when the input of the first operation signal is not canceled (NO in step 1204) and the operation signal from the second switch is input to the MPU 19 (YES in step 1206), the MPU 19 The mode is switched to the second mode (step 1207). That is, when the user presses the front button 56 to the second distance (see FIG. 19C), the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode. In this way, the second button 58 has a function corresponding to a switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode.

When the MPU 19 switches the mode to the second mode, the MPU 19 starts outputting the scroll correspondence amounts (V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ). When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives the scroll correspondence amount, for example, when the image 6 on the screen 3 is in an active state, the character 7 in the image 6 is scrolled at a speed corresponding to the scroll correspondence amount. Control the display. Therefore, when the user shakes the input device 1 while maintaining the pressing of the front button 56 up to the second distance, the character 7 in the image 6 scrolls.

  When the MPU 19 of the input device 1 starts outputting the scroll-corresponding amount, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the second operation signal from the second switch has been canceled (step 1209). When the user returns the front button 56 to the half-pressed state (see FIG. 19B) and the second button 58 is released, the input of the second operation signal is released (YES in Step 1209). ). Then, the MPU 19 stops the output of the scroll correspondence amount (step 1210), and switches the second mode to the first mode (step 1211). Thereafter, the MPU 19 determines again whether or not the input of the first operation signal is canceled (step 1204).

  With the processing shown in FIG. 35, the user continuously switches the first button corresponding to the determination button and the second button corresponding to the switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode. Can do. Thereby, an intuitive operation is possible.

  The input device 1 may be provided with a wheel button 13 as shown in FIG. In this case, a zoom function is assigned to the wheel button 13. When the user rotates the wheel button 13 with the thumb, the characters 7 in the image 6 on the screen 3 are enlarged or reduced according to the amount of rotation of the wheel button 13 relative to the housing 10.

  The MPU 19 may switch the first mode to the third mode in step 1207 and switch the third mode to the first mode in step 1211. In this case, the character 7 in the image 6 is enlarged or reduced by shaking the input device 1 while the user keeps pressing the front button 56 up to the second distance (see FIG. 19C).

Next, still another embodiment of the processing of the input device 1 will be described.
In the present embodiment, a description will be given focusing on differences from the embodiment shown in FIG. The input device 1 is provided with an operation unit 50 having a two-stage action similar to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

  The operation unit 50 of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment does not have a function of a determination button. Accordingly, as in FIG. 19, the operation unit 50 is disposed at a position on the side of the housing 10 where the user can operate with the thumb (see FIG. 6). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation unit 50 may be arranged at the positions of the buttons 11 and 12 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 36, when the first operation signal is not input to the MPU 19 (NO in step 1301), the mode is the first mode, but the displacement correspondence amount is not output (step 1302). ). Therefore, even if the user shakes the input device 1, the pointer 2 does not move on the screen 3.

  When the user half-presses the front button 56 and the first operation signal from the first switch is input (YES in step 1301), the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 1303). When the user shakes the input device 1 while maintaining the half-pressed state of the front button 56, the pointer 2 on the screen 3 moves.

  When the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount, the MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the first operation signal has been canceled (step 1304). For example, when the user releases the finger 34 from the front button 56 and the input of the first operation signal is canceled (YES in step 1304), the MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 1305).

  Through the processing shown in Steps 1301 to 1305, the user can start moving the pointer by half-pressing the front button 56, and stop moving the pointer by releasing the finger 34 from the front button 56. . That is, in the present embodiment, the first button 57 has a function corresponding to a movement control button for controlling the movement and stop of the pointer.

  On the other hand, when the input of the first operation signal is not canceled in step 1304 (NO in step 1304), and the second operation signal is input while the first operation signal is input (YES in step 1306). ), The MPU 19 stops outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 1307). Thereafter, the MPU 19 switches the first mode to the second mode (step 1308), and starts outputting the scroll correspondence amount (step 1309). That is, in the present embodiment, the second button 58 has a function corresponding to a switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode.

  When the user shakes the input device 1 while pressing the front button 56 to the second distance, the character 7 in the image 6 displayed on the screen 3 is scrolled.

  The MPU 19 determines whether or not the input of the second operation signal is cancelled (step 1310). When the input of the second operation signal is cancelled (YES in step 1310), the MPU 19 outputs the scroll corresponding amount. Stop (step 1311) and switch the second mode to the first mode (step 1312). Then, the MPU 19 starts outputting the displacement correspondence amount (step 1313), and determines again whether or not the input of the first operation signal is canceled (step 1304).

  36, the first button 57 having a function of a movement control button and the second button having a function corresponding to a switching button for switching between the first mode and the second mode are continuously displayed. You can switch to Thereby, an intuitive operation is possible.

  The MPU 19 may perform processing so that the second button has a function of a movement control button so that the first button has a function as a switching button capable of switching modes.

  Next, a method for calculating the scroll correspondence amount output by the input device 1 according to each of the above-described embodiments will be described.

  FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating an operation of the input device 1 according to an embodiment of a method for calculating a scroll correspondence amount.

As shown in FIG. 37, when the MPU 19 receives physical quantity signals (ω _ψ , ω _θ , a _x , a _y ) from the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the acceleration sensor unit 16, a displacement corresponding amount ( V _x , V _y ) are calculated (steps 1401 to 1403). The MPU 19 determines whether or not the mode is the second mode (step 1404). If the mode is not the second mode (NO in step 1404), the MPU 19 controls the output according to each mode (step 1407).

On the other hand, when the mode is the second mode (YES in step 1404), the MPU 19 adds a predetermined gain value (K) to the calculated displacement correspondence amount as shown in the following equations (3) and (4). By multiplying _x , _Ky ), a scroll correspondence amount (Vx _(s) , _{Vy (s)} ) is calculated (step 1405).

V _{x (s)} = K _x · V _x (3)
V _{y (s)} = K _y · V _y (4)

  The MPU 19 transmits this scroll correspondence amount to the control device 40 via the transceiver 21 and the antenna 22 (step 1406). When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives the scroll correspondence amount via the antenna 39 and the transceiver 38, the character 7 in the image 6 displayed on the screen 3, for example, is scrolled according to the scroll correspondence amount. Control the display.

FIG. 38A is a graph showing an example of the profile of the gain values K _x and / or K _{y in} the above formula (3) or (4). In FIG. 38 (A), the horizontal axis represents the displacement corresponding amount V _x and / or V _y calculated in step 1403, the vertical axis is the gain value K _x and / or K _y. That is, the gain values K _x and / or K _y are functions of the displacement corresponding amounts V _x and / or V _y , respectively. FIG. 38A shows a profile in which the gain value increases in a linear function in proportion to the displacement correspondence amount.

In the following description, the gain profile as in FIG. 38 (A), the horizontal axis represents the one of the displacement corresponding amount V _x and V _y, the vertical axis also of those displacement corresponding amount V _x and V _y One of the gain values is described as K.

FIG. 38B is a graph showing a profile corresponding to a scroll amount (hereinafter referred to as a scroll profile) obtained by the gain profile shown in FIG. The horizontal axis is the displacement corresponding amount V _x and / or V _y obtained in step 1403, as in FIG. A graph obtained by differentiating the gain profile of FIG. 38A with respect to time is a scroll profile graph of FIG. The gain is a value having the displacement corresponding amount V _x or V _y as input and the scroll corresponding amount (V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ) as output.

The MPU 19 may store a function representing the gain profile in the memory and dynamically calculate the scroll correspondence amount using the function. Alternatively, a lookup table generated based on the gain profile showing the correspondence between the displacement correspondence amount V _x or V _y and the scroll correspondence amount may be stored in the memory in advance.

  By calculating the scroll correspondence amount in step 1405 by such processing, when the user moves the input device 1 in a relatively low speed range, the character 7 in the image 6 scrolls at low speed. Thereby, the user can perform a precise scroll operation. On the other hand, when the user moves the input device at a high speed, the character 7 in the image 6 scrolls at a very high speed because a large gain value is multiplied by the displacement correspondence amount. This makes it easy to operate a file that is long in the Y-axis direction or the X-axis direction of the screen 3, for example.

  In the typical example of FIG. 38A, the gain value increases linearly in proportion to the displacement correspondence amount. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when it is increased by a multi-order function of second order or higher, or when it is increased stepwise, at least two of these, or various other ways of increasing, can be considered. For reference, FIG. 39 shows another example of the scroll profile.

The MPU 19 compares the first displacement corresponding amount V _x and the second displacement corresponding amount V _y (respective absolute values) from YES in step 1404 to step 1405, and the larger displacement of them is compared. The scroll correspondence amount may be calculated based on the correspondence amount. Alternatively, in step 1406, the first scroll correspondence amount V _{x (s)} may be compared with the second scroll correspondence amount V _{y (s),} and the larger scroll correspondence amount may be output. In this case, the MPU 19 controls to stop the smaller one of the first scroll correspondence amount and the second scroll correspondence amount (output control means). Similar processing may also be executed in the operation shown in FIG.

  Thereby, for example, the direction of the scroll operation can be biased in the horizontal axis direction on the screen 3 or in the vertical direction. This makes it easier to operate files that are long in the vertical direction and files that are long in the horizontal direction.

  Next, another embodiment of the method for calculating the scroll correspondence amount will be described. FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an operation of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 40, when the MPU 19 inputs physical quantity signals (ω _ψ , ω _θ , a _x , a _y ) from the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the acceleration sensor unit 16, a displacement corresponding amount ( V _x, V _y) is calculated (step 1501～ step 1503). The MPU 19 determines whether or not the mode is the second mode (step 1504). If the mode is not the second mode (NO in step 1504), the MPU 19 controls the output according to each mode (step 1507).

  On the other hand, when the mode is the second mode (YES in step 1504), the MPU 19 determines the integral value (X ′ (t), Y ′ (t)) is calculated (step 1505). In this case, for example, when the mode is switched to the second mode, the integral calculation of the displacement corresponding amount is started, and when the second mode is switched to another mode, the calculated value of the displacement corresponding amount is Reset to zero.

X ′ (t) = X ′ (t−1) + V _x (5)
Y ′ (t) = Y ′ (t−1) + V _y (6)

  The MPU 19 transmits the integral value of the displacement correspondence amount as the scroll correspondence amount to the control device 40 via the transceiver 21 and the antenna 22 (step 1506). When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives the integral value of the displacement correspondence amount via the antenna 39 and the transmitter / receiver 38, the image 6 displayed on the screen 3, for example, at a speed corresponding to the integral value of the displacement correspondence amount. The display is controlled so that the character 7 in the screen scrolls.

  By such processing, for example, the user swung up the input device 1 in the basic posture state in the pitch direction by using the rotation of the base of the arm, and maintaining the state, the character 7 in the image 6 is moved in the Y-axis direction. Continue to scroll. Alternatively, the user continues to scroll in the X-axis direction by moving the input device 1 in the basic posture state in the yaw direction and maintaining the state. Thus, in the input device according to the present embodiment, the user can perform a steady scroll operation without moving the input device 1 much.

  Next, a method for calculating the zoom correspondence amount output by the input device 1 according to each of the above-described embodiments will be described.

  FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating an operation of the input apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of a method for calculating a zoom correspondence amount.

The MPU 19 inputs a physical quantity signal from the sensor unit 17 and calculates a displacement corresponding quantity according to the physical quantity (steps 1601 to 1603). The MPU 19 determines whether or not the mode is the third mode (step 1604). If the mode is the third mode (YES in step 1604), the MPU 19 zooms by multiplying the calculated displacement correspondence amount by a predetermined gain. Corresponding amounts (V _{x (z)} , V _{y (z)} ) are calculated. The gain to be multiplied is a value that increases in a linear function in proportion to the displacement correspondence amount as shown in FIG. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the gain may be increased by a multi-order function of second order or higher, and may be increased stepwise. Alternatively, the gain may be a value that increases by a combination of at least two of these.

When the zoom correspondence amounts (V _{x (z)} , V _{y (z)} ) are calculated, the MPU 19 outputs the zoom correspondence amounts. When receiving the zoom correspondence amount, the MPU 35 of the control device 40 controls the display so that the character 7 in the image 6 is enlarged or reduced at a speed corresponding to the zoom correspondence amount.

  As a result, a precise zoom operation can be performed by a space operation in the low speed region of the input device 1, and an extremely high speed zoom operation can be performed by a space operation in the high speed region of the input device 1.

In step 1605, the MPU 19 may calculate only one of the first zoom correspondence amount V _{x (z)} and the second zoom correspondence amount V _{y (z)} . Thereby, power consumption can be reduced. For example, when only the second zoom correspondence amount is calculated and only the second zoom correspondence amount is output from the input device 1, the character 7 in the image 6 is enlarged or reduced when the user swings the input device 1 in the pitch direction. However, even if the user swings the input device 1 in the yaw direction, the character 7 in the image 6 is not enlarged or reduced. However, even if the characters 7 in the image 6 are not enlarged or reduced when shaken in the yaw direction, the user's operational feeling is not impaired.

  Next, another embodiment of the method for calculating the zoom correspondence amount will be described. FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

  The MPU 19 inputs a physical quantity signal from the sensor unit 17 and calculates a displacement corresponding quantity according to the physical quantity (steps 1701 to 1703). The MPU 19 determines whether or not the mode is the third mode (step 1704). If the MPU 19 is the third mode (YES in step 1704), the MPU 19 performs an integral operation on the displacement correspondence amount to obtain an integral value (X ′ ( t) and Y ′ (t)) are calculated (step 1705). The MPU 19 outputs the integrated value of this displacement correspondence amount as a zoom correspondence amount (step 1706).

  When the MPU 35 of the control device 40 receives this integral value via the antenna 39 and the transceiver 38, the character 7 in the image 6 displayed on the screen 3, for example, at a speed corresponding to the integral value of the displacement correspondence amount. The display is controlled so that is enlarged or reduced.

  By such processing, the user can perform a steady zoom operation without moving the input device 1 much.

  In step 1705, the MPU 19 may calculate only one of the first integration value X ′ (t) and the second integration value Y ′ (t). Thereby, power consumption can be reduced. It should be noted that such a process does not impair the user's feeling of zoom operation.

  In the description of FIGS. 37 to 42, the case where the process of calculating the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount is executed on the input device 1 side has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control device 40 may execute a process of calculating the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount. In this case, for example, the control device 40 calculates the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount based on the displacement correspondence amount output from the input device 1.

  Embodiments according to the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described above, and other various embodiments are conceivable.

  In the above description, the push type buttons 11, 57, 58, 61, 71, and 81 are exemplified as the operation unit 23. A stick type is also conceivable.

  In the description of FIG. 19, the operation unit having the first button 57, the second button 58, and the front button 56 has been described as an example of the two-stage operation type operation unit. However, the two-stage operation unit is not limited to this. The two-stage type operation unit may have any form as long as two-stage switching is possible.

  In the description of each of the above embodiments, the input device 1 wirelessly transmits input information to the control device 40. However, the input information may be transmitted by wire.

  The present invention may be applied to, for example, a handheld information processing apparatus (handheld apparatus) including a display unit. In this case, the user moves the pointer displayed on the display unit by moving the main body of the handheld device. Alternatively, the user scrolls or zooms the image displayed on the display unit by moving the main body of the handheld device. Examples of the handheld device include a PDA (Personal Digital Assistance), a mobile phone, a portable music player, and a digital camera.

  In each of the above embodiments, the pointer 2 that moves on the screen in accordance with the movement of the input device 1 is represented as an arrow image. However, the image of the pointer 2 is not limited to the arrow, and may be a simple circle, a square, or the like, a character image, or another image.

  In the above embodiment, a biaxial acceleration sensor unit and a biaxial angular velocity sensor unit have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the input device 1 may include, for example, both an orthogonal three-axis acceleration sensor and an orthogonal three-axis angular velocity sensor, or may include only one of them. The processing shown in the embodiment can be realized. Alternatively, the input device 1 (or another input device 91 or the like) may be configured to include a uniaxial acceleration sensor or a uniaxial angular velocity sensor. When a single-axis acceleration sensor or a single-axis angular velocity sensor is provided, a screen is typically considered in which a plurality of UIs that are targets of pointing of the pointer 2 displayed on the screen 3 are arranged on one axis. It is done.

  Alternatively, the input device 1 (or other input device 91 or the like) may include a geomagnetic sensor or an image sensor instead of the acceleration sensor and the angular velocity sensor.

  The detection axes of the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the acceleration sensor unit 16 of the sensor unit 17 do not necessarily have to be orthogonal to each other like the X ′ axis and the Y ′ axis described above. In that case, the respective accelerations projected in the axial directions orthogonal to each other are obtained by calculation using trigonometric functions. Similarly, the angular velocities around the mutually orthogonal axes can be obtained by calculation using trigonometric functions.

  In the sensor unit 17 described in the above embodiments, the X ′ and Y ′ detection axes of the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the X ′ and Y ′ axis detection axes of the acceleration sensor unit 16 coincide with each other. Explained. However, these axes do not necessarily coincide. For example, when the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the acceleration sensor unit 16 are mounted on the substrate, the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the acceleration sensor unit 16 are arranged so that the detection axes of the angular velocity sensor unit 15 and the acceleration sensor unit 16 do not coincide with each other. It may be mounted with a predetermined rotational angle shifted within the main surface of the substrate. In that case, acceleration and angular velocity of each axis can be obtained by calculation using a trigonometric function.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the input device 1 is operated in the air has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the input device may be operated with a part of the housing 10 in contact with, for example, a table.

It is a figure which shows the control system which concerns on one embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows an input device. It is a figure which shows typically the structure inside an input device. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of an input device. It is a figure which shows the example of the screen displayed on a display apparatus. It is a figure which shows a mode that the user grasped the input device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the typical example of how to move an input device, and the movement of the pointer on a screen by this. It is a perspective view which shows a sensor unit. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of an input device when the operation part is not operated. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of an input device when an operation part is operated. It is a timing chart at the time of a user pressing a button and releasing the press within a first time. It is a timing chart when a user continuously presses a button for a first time or more. It is a timing chart when a user starts pressing the button again within the second time after releasing the pressing within the first time, and continues to press the button for the first time or more. It is a functional block diagram of the input device 1 for implement | achieving the operation | movement shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the LED display part with which the input device which concerns on other embodiment is provided. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on other embodiment. It is a timing chart in case the pressed button is cancelled | released within 1st time. It is a timing chart in case a button is continuously pressed more than 1st time. It is a schematic diagram which shows the operation part with which the input device which concerns on another embodiment is provided. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the operation part with which the input device which concerns on another this embodiment is provided. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the operation part with which the input device which concerns on another embodiment is provided. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a perspective view of the input device 1 which concerns on another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. 2 is a diagram illustrating an input device in which a wheel button is provided on a side surface of a housing. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. 30 is a timing chart for explaining the operation shown in FIG. 29. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. FIG. 32 is a timing chart for explaining the operation shown in FIG. 31. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the operation | movement shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on another embodiment. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the input device 1 about one Embodiment of the calculation method of scroll corresponding | compatible amount. Is a graph showing an example of the profile of the gain value K _x, and / or K _y. It is a figure which shows the other example of a scroll profile. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on other embodiment about the calculation method of scroll corresponding | compatible amount. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the input device 1 about one Embodiment of the calculation method of zoom correspondence amount. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the input device which concerns on other embodiment about the calculation method of zoom corresponding | compatible amount.

Explanation of symbols

V _x , V _y ... Displaceable amount (speed value)
V _{x (s)} , V _{y (s)} ... Scroll amount
V _{x (z)} , V _{y (z)} ... zoom correspondence Δω _ψ , Δω _θ … angular velocity value
(X '(t), Y' (t)) ... Integral value
X (t), Y (t) ... coordinate value
K _x , K _y ... Gain value 1 ... Input device 2 ... Pointer 3 ... Screen 6 ... Image 7 ... Character 10 ... Housing 11, 12, 61, 71, 81 ... Button 13 ... Wheel button 15 ... Angular velocity sensor unit 16 ... Acceleration sensor unit 17 ... Sensor unit 19, 35 ... MPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21 ... Crystal oscillator 21 ... Transceiver 22, 39 ... Antenna 23, 50, 60, 70 ... Operation part 38 ... Transceiver 40 ... Control apparatus 57 ... 1st button 58 ... 2nd button 94 ... Control part 92 ... Counter 93 ... Count value setting unit 100 ... Control system 151 ... First angular velocity sensor 152 ... Second angular velocity sensor 161 ... First acceleration sensor 162 ... Second acceleration sensor

Claims (20)

An input device for controlling movement of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen,
A housing,
Detecting means for detecting a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the housing;
An operation unit for inputting operations;
A first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; and the screen on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity. An input device comprising: mode switching means for switching a third mode in which an image is zoomed according to the operation to the operation unit. The input device according to claim 1,
The operation unit is one operation unit,
The input device is:
Command output means for outputting a determination command in response to the operation to the operation unit;
Control means for controlling the command output means and the mode switching means so as to execute either the output of the determination command or the switching of the mode according to the timing of the operation to the operation unit. An input device further comprising: The input device according to claim 2,
The control means controls the command output means to output a determination command when the operation is canceled within a first time after the operation to the operation section is started, and the operation section The mode switching means is controlled to switch one of the first to third modes to another mode when the operation is not released within a first time after the operation to Input device. The input device according to claim 3,
The control means releases the operation within a first time after the operation to the operation unit is started, and starts the operation again within a second time after the release of the operation. An input device that controls the mode switching means to switch any one of the first to third modes to another mode when the mode is not canceled within the first time. The input device according to claim 2,
The control means controls the command output means to output a determination command when the operation is released within a first time after the operation to the operation unit is started, and the operation If the operation to the unit is not canceled within the first time, any one of the first to third modes is performed every predetermined time after the first time has elapsed until the operation is canceled. An input device that controls the mode switching means so as to switch to another mode. The input device according to claim 1,
Calculating means for calculating a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical quantity;
An input device further comprising: output means for outputting information on the displacement correspondence amount and mode switching information which is information indicating that one of the first to third modes has been switched to another mode . The input device according to claim 1,
A displacement corresponding amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical amount, a scroll corresponding amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount, and a zoom correspondence corresponding to the zoom amount of the image according to the physical amount. A calculating means for calculating an amount;
Output means for outputting information on the displacement correspondence amount in the first mode, outputting information on the scroll correspondence amount in the second mode, and outputting information on the zoom correspondence amount in the third mode; An input device further comprising: The input device according to claim 7,
The input unit calculates the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount based on the displacement correspondence amount. The input device according to claim 8,
The calculation means calculates the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount by multiplying the displacement correspondence amount by a gain that increases as the displacement correspondence amount increases. The input device according to claim 8,
The input unit integrates the displacement correspondence amount to calculate the scroll correspondence amount or the zoom correspondence amount. The input device according to claim 8,
The calculation means calculates a first scroll correspondence amount based on a first displacement correspondence amount corresponding to a displacement amount of the pointer in the first direction on the screen, and the pointer has the first direction. Calculating a second scroll correspondence amount based on a second displacement correspondence amount corresponding to a displacement amount in a second direction orthogonal to
The input device is:
In the second mode, when the first displacement correspondence amount is smaller than the second displacement correspondence amount, output control for controlling the output means to stop the output of the first scroll correspondence amount An input device further comprising means. The input device according to claim 7,
The scroll corresponding amount or the zoom corresponding amount is the same value as the displacement corresponding amount. The input device according to claim 1,
The mode switching means switches any one of the first to third modes to another mode every predetermined time after the operation to the operation unit is started until the operation is canceled, or An input device that switches one of the first to third modes to another mode each time the operation unit is operated. The input device according to claim 1,
The operation unit is a two-stage operation unit capable of two-step switching. The input device according to claim 1,
The input device includes at least one of a biaxial angular velocity sensor, a biaxial acceleration sensor, and a biaxial angle sensor. An input device for controlling movement of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen,
A housing,
Detecting means for detecting a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the housing;
One operation unit for inputting an operation;
Command output means for outputting a determination command in response to the operation to the operation unit;
A first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity, or on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity. Mode switching means for switching a third mode in which the image zooms according to an operation to the operation unit;
Control means for controlling the command output means and the mode switching means so that either the output of the decision command or the switching of the mode is executed in accordance with the timing of the operation to the operation unit; An input device further comprising: A housing, detection means for detecting a physical quantity according to the movement of the housing, an operation unit for inputting an operation, and a first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen according to the physical quantity; A second mode in which the image is scrolled on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity and a third mode in which the image is zoomed on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity according to the operation on the operation unit. A mode switching means for switching, a calculating means for calculating a displacement correspondence amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical quantity, information on the displacement correspondence amount, and any one of the first to third modes A pointer displayed on the screen in accordance with the information output from the input device having output means for outputting mode switching information that is information indicating that the mode has been switched to another mode A control apparatus for controlling display of fine images,
Receiving means for receiving the information on the displacement correspondence amount and the mode switching information;
In the second mode, a scroll corresponding amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image is calculated based on the displacement corresponding amount, and in the third mode, a zoom corresponding to the zoom amount of the image is calculated based on the displacement corresponding amount. A calculation means for calculating the correspondence amount;
Display control means for controlling the display of the movement of the pointer according to the displacement corresponding amount, controlling the scroll display of the image according to the scroll corresponding amount, and controlling the zoom display of the image according to the zoom corresponding amount. Control device. Receiving the physical quantity information and the operation information output from an input device having a casing, a detection unit for detecting a physical quantity according to the movement of the casing, and an operation unit for inputting an operation; A control device that controls display of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen,
Receiving means for receiving the physical quantity information and the operation information;
According to the displacement corresponding amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer on the screen according to the physical amount information, the scroll corresponding amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount information, and the physical amount information. Calculating means for calculating a zoom correspondence amount corresponding to a zoom amount of the image on the screen;
A first mode for controlling the display of the movement of the pointer by the displacement correspondence amount, a second mode for controlling the scroll display of the image by the scroll correspondence amount, and a zoom display of the image by the zoom correspondence amount. And a mode switching means for switching a third mode for controlling the operation according to the operation information. A control system for controlling display of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen,
A housing,
Detecting means for detecting a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the housing;
An operation unit for inputting operations;
A first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; and the screen on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity. Mode switching means for switching a third mode in which the image is zoomed according to the operation to the operation unit;
A displacement corresponding amount corresponding to the displacement amount of the pointer according to the physical amount, a scroll corresponding amount corresponding to the scroll amount of the image according to the physical amount, and a zoom correspondence corresponding to the zoom amount of the image according to the physical amount. A calculating means for calculating an amount;
Output means for outputting information on the displacement correspondence amount in the first mode, outputting information on the scroll correspondence amount in the second mode, and outputting information on the zoom correspondence amount in the third mode; An input device having
Receiving means for receiving information on the displacement correspondence amount, information on the scroll correspondence amount, and information on the zoom correspondence amount;
A control unit that controls display of movement of the pointer based on the displacement correspondence amount, controls display of scrolling of the image based on the scroll correspondence amount, and controls display of zoom of the image based on the zoom correspondence amount. And a control system. A handheld device for controlling movement of a pointer and an image displayed on a screen,
A housing,
A display unit for displaying the screen;
Detecting means for detecting a physical quantity corresponding to the movement of the housing;
An operation unit for inputting operations;
A first mode in which the pointer moves on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; a second mode in which the image scrolls on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity; and the screen on the screen in accordance with the physical quantity. A mode switching means for switching a third mode in which the image is zoomed according to the operation on the operation unit, and a display of movement of the pointer in the first mode, and the image in the second mode. Display control means for controlling the scroll display of the image and controlling the zoom display of the image in the third mode.

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