JP4430026B2 - Mobile terminal device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a portable terminal device having a structure capable of transitioning from a first state in which a casing covers a power key to a second state in which the power key can be operated, and more specifically, for a user in a dark environment. The present invention relates to a portable terminal device considering usability.

  In the conventional portable terminal device, various technologies that consider key operability have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).

  The portable wireless terminal device described in Patent Literature 1 includes an end-call key light emitting unit that emits an end-call key in a call state. In other words, even when the call is open and all the key backlight settings are set to off, only the end call key is turned on or blinked by the end call light emitting unit. Yes. As a result, the end key can be identified from various key parts other than the end key, so that the user can easily recognize the end key when attempting to end the end.

  Further, the mobile communication terminal described in Patent Document 2 is configured to light up for a predetermined time immediately after pressing all the LEDs that illuminate input operation keys such as a call start key and numeric keys. . As a result, operations such as numeric keys that are highly necessary to be operated immediately after the operation of the input operation keys can be performed without any inconvenience even in a dark place such as at night. Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed, by turning on only the LED provided corresponding to the end key, it is possible to reliably operate the end key that is surely operated after the input operation key is operated. It has become.

Further, the portable terminal device described in Patent Document 3 saves the trouble of operating the power switch (power key) when the case is opened from the state where the foldable case is closed and the power is turned off. The power switch control unit turns on the power switch when the upper / lower housing is detected to be opened from the closed state by the housing open / close sensor while the power is off. It has a configuration. That is, the portable terminal device can be turned on without opening the power supply by simply opening the foldable casing.
JP 2003-289353 A JP 2003-23491 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-319016

  The devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are devised so that the end-call key can be operated reliably at the end of the call even in a dark place such as at night, but the portable terminal device is taken out and the power key is operated. However, when making a call to someone with the mobile terminal device turned on, the problem that the position of the power key is not known in a dark place such as at night and is difficult to operate has not been solved.

  On the other hand, the device described in Patent Document 3 detects that the housing has been opened and automatically turns on the power switch when the portable terminal device is taken out and the power key is operated. It has become. Therefore, the power of the mobile terminal device can be easily turned on even in a dark place such as at night. However, since the power described in Patent Document 3 is automatically turned on just by opening the casing, for example, even when the portable terminal device is opened casually in a place where the power must be turned off, such as a hospital, There was a problem that the power was turned on. Moreover, since the power is turned on even if the portable terminal device is opened casually, there is a problem that power is wasted.

  The present invention was devised to solve such problems. For example, in the case of a foldable portable terminal device, when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, the power is kept off and the power key is turned off. It is to provide a portable terminal device that improves the operability of the user while considering the power saving effect by clearly notifying only the position of the user.

  The portable terminal device of the present invention is a portable terminal device having a structure capable of transitioning from a first state in which a housing covers a power key to a second state in which the power key can be operated, from the first state to the second state. And detecting means for detecting a transition of the power key, and notifying means for notifying a user of the position of the power key when a state transition is detected by the detecting means in a power-off state of the apparatus. To do.

  That is, the portable terminal device of the present invention includes a foldable (clamshell type) portable terminal device, a jack for horizontally rotating a display housing in which a liquid crystal display panel is disposed with respect to an operation housing in which various keys are disposed. The present invention is applied to a knife-type mobile terminal device and a slide-type mobile terminal device in which a display housing is linearly slid in one horizontal direction with respect to an operation housing. And, for example, in a foldable portable terminal device, when the state transition is made from the first state where the display housing is closed to the opened second state, the detecting means detects this transition operation (opening operation), Notify the user of the location of the power key.

  Here, the notification means may be an illumination means such as an LED that lights or blinks only the power key. And when a transition operation (opening operation) is detected by the detection means, only the power key can be illuminated by turning on or blinking the LED. As a result, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, the position of the power key can be immediately known, so that the user can easily operate the power key and can turn on the portable terminal device. Become. In addition, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a bright place, only the power key is lit or blinked, which also has an effect of actively instructing the user of the position of the power key.

  Further, the notification means may be a key backlight that illuminates all keys including the power key. Since the key backlight is originally provided, there is no need to add new parts or the like, which is an effective means for cost reduction. Then, when the transition operation (opening operation) is detected by the detection means, all keys including the power key can be illuminated by turning on or blinking the key backlight. As a result, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, the position of the power key can be immediately known, so that the user can easily operate the power key and can turn on the portable terminal device. Become.

  Further, the notification means may be a panel backlight of a display panel provided in a housing on the display unit side. Since the panel backlight of the display panel is originally provided, it is not necessary to add new parts or the like, which is an effective means for cost reduction. Then, when the transition operation (opening operation) is detected by the detection means, all the keys including the power key can be illuminated by turning on or blinking the panel backlight. As a result, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, the position of the power key can be immediately known, so that the user can easily operate the power key and can turn on the portable terminal device. Become.

  In addition, according to the present invention, it is provided with time setting means for setting a notification time zone, and the notification means has a notification time set by the time setting means at which the time when the state transition is detected by the detection means. It may be configured such that notification (lighting or the like) is made when it is within the band, and notification is not made (non-lighting) when it is outside the notification time period. For example, if it is set as a notification time zone in the winter from 5 pm to 7 pm the next morning, the power key is illuminated when the mobile terminal device is opened during this time zone, and it is carried when the daytime is bright. When the terminal device is opened, the power key is not illuminated. Thereby, power saving can be achieved.

  In addition, according to the present invention, the illuminance sensor that detects ambient brightness is provided, and when the state change is detected by the detection means, the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is previously detected. You may comprise so that it may notify (lighting etc.) when it is below the set fixed illumination intensity, and not notify (non-lighting) when it is above a certain illumination intensity. For example, the portable terminal device may be used in a dark room even during the daytime. In such a case, since the ambient illuminance is detected by the illuminance sensor, the power key can be illuminated when the location is below a certain illuminance. That is, by providing the illuminance sensor, it is possible to control illumination and non-illumination of the power key in a flexible manner according to the use state of the user.

  Further, according to the present invention, the notification means may be configured to terminate the notification after a predetermined time period has been notified. Thereby, useless power consumption can be suppressed. Note that the certain time may be set to an arbitrary time by the user.

  According to the portable terminal device of the present invention, when the portable terminal device changes state from the first state to the second state, the detecting means detects this transition operation (opening operation), and the position of the power key is indicated to the user. For notification, only the power key is lit or blinking, the key backlight is lit or blinking, or the backlight of the display is lit or blinking, so the mobile terminal device is opened in a dark place. However, since the position of the power key is immediately known, the user can easily operate the power key. Moreover, since only the power key is illuminated while the power of the portable terminal device is off, useless power consumption can be suppressed. Further, by providing the time setting means and the illuminance sensor, the power key can be illuminated only when necessary, so that wasteful power consumption can be further suppressed. Further, if a key backlight or a backlight of the display unit is used as the notification means, these lights are originally provided, so that it is not necessary to add new parts or the like, and there is an effect of cost reduction.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In this embodiment, a foldable portable terminal device will be described as an example of the portable terminal device. FIG. 1 is an external view of the mobile terminal device according to the present embodiment in the “normally open state”. The normally open state is the most basic device state when the mobile terminal device is used. (A) in the figure is a front view of the mobile terminal device in the normally open state as viewed from the user side. It is the left view. 2 is a left side view of the mobile terminal device of FIG. 1 in the “normally closed state”. The normally closed state is the most basic device state when the mobile terminal device is stored.

  This portable terminal device includes an operation casing 1, a display casing 2, and a movable connecting portion 3. The operation housing 1 and the display housing 2 are both thin housings having a substantially rectangular flat plate shape, and have two opposing main surfaces. Each of the operation casing 1 and the display casing 2 is connected by a movable connecting portion 3 at one short side. The movable connecting portion 3 can relatively rotate both housings 1 and 2 around the first rotation axis A1.

  That is, if the operation housing 1 is fixed and the display housing 2 is rotated around the first rotation axis A1, the main surfaces of both housings 1 and 2 can be folded facing each other or expanded. be able to.

  Note that, depending on the type of the mobile terminal device, there may be provided a second rotation axis in a direction orthogonal to the first rotation axis A1, but in the present embodiment, a general type having only the first rotation axis A1 is provided. A case where the present invention is applied to a portable terminal device having a structure will be described.

  Various operations such as a numeric keypad 10, main guide keys 11 to 13, a main multifunction key 14, an off-hook key 15, an on-hook key (power key) 16, and a main clear key 17 are provided on the main surface (opposing surface) of the operation casing 1. A key is arranged, and the main surface is used as an operation surface for a user to perform an operation input. Further, the call microphone 18 is disposed in the vicinity of the casing end on the opposite side to the movable connecting portion 3 within the operation surface. In addition, a key backlight 63 (see FIG. 4) made up of a plurality of LEDs, for example, that illuminates the operation keys 10 to 17 is provided inside the operation housing 1.

  A main display screen 20 including a liquid crystal display panel is disposed on the main surface (opposing surface) of the display housing 2, and the main surface is used as a display surface for performing display output to the user. A call receiver 21 is arranged in the display surface. In addition, a panel backlight 65 (see FIG. 4) for illuminating the main display screen 20 is provided inside the display housing 2.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a main part of the internal structure of the mobile terminal device of FIG. 1, in which a main part of the movable connecting part 3 and a detection sensor of the apparatus state are shown. The movable connecting portion 3 includes bearing members 30 and 31 fixed to the operation casing 1, a rotating member 32 rotatably held by the bearing members 30 and 31, and a frame fixed to the display casing 2. It consists of member 33.

  That is, the movable connecting portion 3 has a single-axis hinge structure that relatively rotates the operation housing 1 and the display housing 2 around the first rotation axis A1. If the display housing 2 is rotated around the first rotation axis A1 by the bearing members 30, 31 and the rotation member 32, the portable terminal device can be opened and closed. For example, when the display housing 2 is rotated around the first rotation axis A1 from the normal open state and folded so that the display surface and the operation surface are both inside, the normal close state shown in FIG. 2 is obtained. .

  The magnet 40 in the figure is provided for detecting the device state by the movable connecting portion 3. One of the magnet 40 and the magnetic sensor 41 is provided in the operation housing 1 and the other is provided in the display housing 2, and is disposed at positions facing each other in the normal closed state. For this reason, if the magnetic sensor 41 detects the line of magnetic force of the magnet 40, it can be determined that it is in the normally closed state (see FIG. 2). As the magnetic sensor 41, a Hall element, MR element, or the like can be used.

  FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the mobile terminal device having the above-described configuration. Here, only the main parts related to the present embodiment are shown.

  That is, the mobile terminal device of the present embodiment includes a main control unit 60, a device state detection unit 61, an input control unit 62, a display unit 64, a timer unit 66, and a clock unit 67 as main components.

  The input control unit 62 monitors the operation of the operation keys 10 to 17 on the operation surface and outputs a key operation signal to the main control unit 60. The operation keys 10 to 17 in the operation surface cannot be used in the normally closed state in which the operation surface is folded inward. Further, the input control unit 62 performs lighting or blinking control of the key backlight 63 including a plurality of LEDs for illuminating the operation keys 10 to 17 in the operation surface in accordance with an instruction from the main control unit 60. In addition, LED63a in a figure is LED which illuminates the on-hook key (henceforth "power key") 16, and this is mentioned later.

  The display control unit 64 performs display control of the main display screen 20. Further, the display control unit 64 performs lighting control of the panel backlight 65 for illuminating the liquid crystal panel as the main display screen 20 in accordance with an instruction from the main control unit 60.

  For example, the timer unit 66 performs measurement of a predetermined time for shifting to the power saving mode when no key operation is performed in a power-on state of the apparatus. The clock unit 67 measures the current time.

  The main control unit 60 includes a processor that performs main control of the mobile phone device. The device state detection unit 61 determines the device state based on the detection signal of the magnetic sensor 41. If the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41 is used, it is possible to distinguish between a normally closed state and a normally open state. The main control unit 60 controls the operations of the input control unit 62, the display control unit 64, and the timer unit 66 based on the determination result. The above is the configuration of the basic functional block diagram of the mobile terminal device of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, lighting or blinking control of the key backlight 63 and lighting control of the panel backlight 65 are performed based on the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41. In this case, in this embodiment, the device itself is controlled. This is characterized in that these controls are performed in a power-off state. Hereinafter, specific examples will be described.

  In the first embodiment, on or off control of only the LED 63a that illuminates the power key 16 in the key backlight 63 composed of a plurality of LEDs based on the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41 is performed in the power-off state of the apparatus. This is an embodiment to be controlled.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a configuration for realizing the first embodiment. In the basic functional block diagram shown in FIG. 4, the device state detection unit 61 and the input control unit 62 are connected to signal lines. And the apparatus state detection unit 61 outputs the determination result to the input control unit 62. That is, the input control unit 62 directly acquires the determination result of the normal close state or the normal open state from the device state detection unit 61 without going through the main control unit 60, and based on the determination result, the LED 63a is turned on or Flashing control is performed. Accordingly, even when the main control unit 60 is in a sleep state in which only a part of functions such as waiting for key input is operated, the lighting or blinking control of the LED 63a can be performed. After the power key 16 is pressed and the apparatus is turned on, the input control unit 62 performs the lighting control of the key backlight 63 according to the control from the main control unit 60 as usual.

  Hereinafter, with reference to a flow chart shown in FIG. 6, a lighting or blinking control operation of the LED 63 a that illuminates the power key 16 will be described.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S1). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S1), the apparatus state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the input control unit 62. Based on the detection result indicating the off state, the input control unit 62 turns on or blinks only the LED 63a that illuminates the power key 16 (step S2). That is, only the LED 63a is lit or blinked while the power supply of the device itself is kept off. Thereby, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, for example, the position of the power key 16 can be easily confirmed.

  Thereafter, the input control unit 62 monitors whether or not the power key 16 has been pressed, or whether or not the display housing 2 is closed and a detection result indicating an on state is input from the device state detection unit 61 ( Steps S3 and S4). When the power key 16 is pressed (Yes in step S3), a power-on signal is output to the main controller 60 as before (step S6). Based on the power-on signal, the main control unit 60 shifts the apparatus to a power-on state. Subsequent on / off control of the key backlight 63 by the input control unit 62 follows an instruction from the main control unit 60.

  On the other hand, when the display housing 2 is closed without pressing the power key 16 (No in step S3, Yes in step S4), the apparatus state detection unit 61 sends the input sensor 62 to the input control unit 62. Since the detection result indicating the ON state is input, the input control unit 62 turns off the LED 63a (step S5).

  In the first embodiment, after the LED 63a is turned on, the LED 63a is turned on until the power key 16 is pressed or the display housing 2 is closed again. However, after the LED 63a is turned on, the power key 16 is pressed. In this case, the LED 63a may be turned off automatically when a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) elapses without the display housing 2 being closed. In this case, the input control unit 62 and the timer circuit 66 may be connected, and the input control unit 62 may be configured so that the timer circuit 66 can measure a predetermined time. This fixed time may be set in advance as a fixed time, but may be set to an arbitrary time by the user. By making the setting possible by the user, the user can freely set a user-friendly favorite time according to his / her own usage pattern.

  The second embodiment is an embodiment in which, based on the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, control for turning on or blinking the entire key backlight 63 composed of a plurality of LEDs is performed in a power-off state of the apparatus. The functional block configuration for realizing the second embodiment is the same as the functional block configuration of the first embodiment (see FIG. 5).

  That is, the input control unit 62 directly acquires the determination result of the normal closed state or the normal open state from the device state detection unit 61 without going through the main control unit 60, and based on the determination result, the key backlight 63 is obtained. The whole lighting or blinking control is performed. Accordingly, even when the main control unit 60 is in a sleep state in which only a part of functions such as standby for key input is operated, the entire key backlight 63 can be turned on or blinked. After the power key 16 is pressed and the apparatus is turned on, the input control unit 62 performs the lighting control of the key backlight 63 according to the control from the main control unit 60 as usual.

  Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, the lighting or blinking control operation of the entire key backlight 63 will be described.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S11). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S11), the apparatus state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the input control unit 62. Based on the detection result indicating the off state, the input control unit 62 turns on or blinks the entire key backlight 63 (step S12). That is, the key backlight 63 is turned on or blinked while the power supply of the apparatus itself is kept off. Thereby, for example, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, the position of the entire operation key can be easily confirmed, and the position of the power key 16 can also be easily recognized.

  Thereafter, the input control unit 62 monitors whether or not the power key 16 has been pressed, or whether or not the display housing 2 is closed and a detection result indicating an on state is input from the device state detection unit 61 ( Steps S13 and S14). If the power key 16 is pressed (Yes in step S13), a power-on signal is output to the main controller 60 as before (step S16). Based on the power-on signal, the main control unit 60 shifts the apparatus to a power-on state. Subsequent on / off control of the key backlight 63 by the input control unit 62 follows an instruction from the main control unit 60.

  On the other hand, when the display housing 2 is closed without pressing the power key 16 (No in Step S13, Yes in Step S14), the apparatus state detection unit 61 sends the input sensor 62 to the input control unit 62. Since the detection result indicating the on state is input, the input control unit 62 turns off the key backlight 63 (step S15).

  In the second embodiment, after the entire key backlight 63 is turned on, the entire key backlight 63 is turned on until the power key 16 is pressed or the display housing 2 is closed again. After the light 63 is turned on, when the predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) has passed without the power key 16 being pressed and the display housing 2 being closed, the entire key backlight 63 is May be automatically turned off. In this case, the input control unit 62 and the timer circuit 66 may be connected, and the input control unit 62 may be configured so that the timer circuit 66 can measure a predetermined time.

  The third embodiment is an embodiment in which the control for turning on the panel backlight 65 is performed in the power-off state of the apparatus based on the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41.

  FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram for realizing the third embodiment. In the basic functional block configuration shown in FIG. 4, the apparatus state detection unit 61 and the display control unit 64 are connected by a signal line. The discrimination result is also output from the state detection unit 61 to the display control unit 64. That is, the display control unit 64 directly acquires the determination result of the normal close state or the normal open state from the device state detection unit 61 without using the main control unit 60, and the panel backlight 65 is based on the determination result. The lighting control is performed. Thereby, even when the main control unit 60 is in a sleep state in which only a part of functions such as waiting for key input is operated, the lighting control of the panel backlight 65 can be performed. Note that after the power key 16 is pressed and the apparatus is turned on, the display control unit 64 performs the lighting control of the panel backlight 65 according to the control from the main control unit 60 as usual.

  Hereinafter, the lighting control operation of the entire panel backlight 65 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S21). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S21), the device state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the display control unit 64. The display control unit 64 turns on the panel backlight 65 based on the detection result indicating the off state (step S22). That is, the panel backlight 65 is turned on while the power supply of the apparatus itself remains off. Thereby, for example, even when the portable terminal device is opened in a dark place, the position of the entire operation key can be easily confirmed, and the position of the power key 16 can also be easily recognized.

  Thereafter, the display control unit 64 monitors whether or not the power key 16 is pressed or whether or not the display housing 2 is closed and a detection result indicating an on state is input from the device state detection unit 61 ( Steps S23 and S24). If the power key 16 is pressed (Yes in step S23), a power-on signal is output to the main controller 60 as usual (step S16). Based on the power-on signal, the main control unit 60 shifts the apparatus to a power-on state. Subsequent ON / OFF control of the panel backlight 65 by the display control unit 64 follows instructions from the main control unit 60.

  On the other hand, when the display housing 2 is closed without pressing the power key 16 (No in step S23, Yes in step S24), the apparatus state detection unit 61 sends the electromagnetic sensor 41 to the input control unit 62. Since the detection result indicating the ON state is input, the display control unit 64 turns off the panel backlight 65 (step S25).

  In the third embodiment, after the entire panel backlight 65 is turned on, the panel backlight 65 is turned on until the power key 16 is pressed or the display housing 2 is closed again. When the power key 16 is not pressed and the display housing 2 is not closed after the 65 is turned on, the panel backlight 65 is automatically turned on when a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) elapses. It may be configured to be turned off. In this case, the display control unit 64 and the timer circuit 66 may be connected so that the display control unit 64 can measure the fixed time by the timer circuit 66.

  In the first to third embodiments, when the OFF state of the magnetic sensor 41 is detected by opening the display housing 2, the LED 63a, the key backlight 63, or the panel backlight 65 is immediately turned on. However, when the display housing 2 is opened in a bright place during the day, the user can easily confirm the position of the power key without displaying (instructing) the position of the power key 16 by illumination or the like. Can be operated. That is, an instruction by illumination or the like is required when the display housing 2 is opened in a dark place. The following examples are examples in consideration of this point.

  In the fourth embodiment, when the display housing 2 is opened, whether or not the LED 63a or the key backlight 63 is turned on is determined based on the time zone when the display housing 2 is opened, and then the lighting is performed. This is an example.

  FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example for realizing the fourth embodiment. In the functional block configuration shown in FIG. In the control unit 62, the current time can be directly acquired.

  Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, the lighting or blinking control operation of the LED 63a that illuminates the power key 16 will be described. Since the lighting control operation of the entire key backlight 63 is the same, the description of the lighting control operation of the entire key backlight 63 is omitted here.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S31). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S31), the device state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the input control unit 62.

  When the input control unit 62 acquires the detection result indicating the off state, the input control unit 62 determines whether or not the acquisition time is within the notification time zone set in the internal memory (not shown) (step S32). Here, the notification time zone is set in advance by the user. That is, the notification time zone is set to a time zone in which the surroundings are dark and the operation keys are likely to be difficult to see when the user uses the mobile terminal device outdoors. Specifically, for example, in the winter season, the time zone may be set from 5 pm to 7 am the next morning, and in the summer season, the time zone may be set from 7 pm to 5 am the next morning.

  If the result of determination in step S32 is that the time when the display housing 2 is opened is within the notification time zone (if determined Yes), the operation proceeds to step S2 in FIG. Only the LED 63a illuminating 16 is turned on or blinked. Then, the processing proceeds to the subsequent processing (step S3 to step S6).

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S32, when the time when the display housing 2 is opened is outside the notification time zone (when it is determined No), the process ends without turning on the LED 63a (step S32). S33).

  According to the fourth embodiment, the power key 16 is not illuminated when the display housing 2 is opened when the day is bright. Thereby, power saving can be achieved.

  In the fifth embodiment, when the display housing 2 is opened, whether or not the panel backlight 63 is turned on is determined based on the time zone when the display housing 2 is opened, and is then turned on. is there.

  FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a configuration for realizing the fifth embodiment. In the functional block configuration shown in FIG. 8, a display control unit 64 and a clock unit 67 are further connected to display In the control unit 64, the current time can be directly acquired.

  Hereinafter, the lighting control operation of the panel backlight 63 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S41). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S41), the device state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the display control unit 64.

  When acquiring the detection result indicating the off state, the display control unit 64 determines whether or not the acquisition time is within the notification time zone set in the internal memory (not shown) (step S42). This notification time zone is set in advance by the user as in the fourth embodiment.

  If the result of determination in step S42 is that the time when the display housing 2 is opened is within the notification time zone (if determined Yes), the operation proceeds to step S22 in FIG. The light 65 is turned on. Then, the processing proceeds to the subsequent processing (step S23 to step S26).

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S42, if the time when the display housing 2 is opened is outside the notification time zone (if determined No), the process is terminated without turning on the panel backlight 65. (Step S43).

  According to the fifth embodiment, the panel backlight 65 is not turned on when the display housing 2 is opened when the day is bright. Thereby, power saving can be achieved.

  In the sixth embodiment, when the display housing 2 is opened, whether or not the LED 63a or the key backlight 63 is turned on is determined based on the brightness around the location where the display housing 2 is opened. This is an example of lighting.

  FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a configuration for realizing the sixth embodiment. In the functional block configuration shown in FIG. 5, an illuminance sensor 68 is further connected to the input control unit 62. is there. That is, the input controller 62 can determine the ambient brightness.

  Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 15, the lighting or blinking control operation of the LED 63a that illuminates the power key 16 will be described. Since the lighting control operation of the entire key backlight 63 is the same, the description of the lighting control operation of the entire key backlight 63 is omitted here.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S51). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S51), the device state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the input control unit 62.

  When the input control unit 62 acquires the detection result indicating the off state, the input control unit 62 acquires ambient illuminance from the illuminance sensor 68 at that time, and whether the acquired illuminance is equal to or less than a predetermined illuminance set in the internal memory (not shown). It is determined whether or not (step S52). Here, the constant illuminance is set in advance by the user. That is, this constant illuminance is set to an illuminance that seems to be in a state where the surroundings are dark and the operation keys are difficult to see when the user uses the portable terminal device.

  If the result of determination in step S52 is that the ambient brightness when the display housing 2 is opened is less than or equal to a certain illuminance (if determined Yes), the operation proceeds to step S2 in FIG. The LED 63a that illuminates the power key 16 is turned on or blinked. Then, the processing proceeds to the subsequent processing (step S3 to step S6).

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S52 is that the ambient brightness when the display housing 2 is opened is greater than or equal to a certain illuminance (when determined No), the process is performed without turning on the LED 63a. The process ends (step S53).

  According to the sixth embodiment, when the display housing 2 is opened when in a bright place, the power key 16 is not illuminated. Thereby, power saving can be achieved.

  In the seventh embodiment, when the display housing 2 is opened, whether or not to turn on the panel backlight 65 is determined based on the brightness around the place where the display housing 2 is opened, and then the lighting is performed. It is the Example which is equal.

  FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example for realizing the sixth embodiment. In the functional block configuration shown in FIG. 8, an illumination sensor 68 is further connected to the display control unit 64. is there. That is, the display controller 64 can determine the ambient brightness.

  Hereinafter, the lighting control operation of the panel backlight 65 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The device state detection unit 61 constantly monitors the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41, that is, the on / off state, even in the power-off state of the device itself (that is, the sleep state of the main control unit 60) (step S61). ). When the display housing 2 is opened to detect the off state of the magnetic sensor 41 (Yes in step S61), the apparatus state detection unit 61 outputs a detection result to the display control unit 64.

  When the display control unit 64 acquires the detection result indicating the off state, the display control unit 64 acquires ambient illuminance from the illuminance sensor 68 at that time, and whether the acquired illuminance is equal to or less than a predetermined illuminance set in the internal memory (not shown). It is determined whether or not (step S62). Here, the constant illuminance is set in advance by the user. That is, this constant illuminance is set to an illuminance that seems to be in a state where the surroundings are dark and the operation keys are difficult to see when the user uses the portable terminal device.

  If the result of determination in step S62 is that the ambient brightness when the display housing 2 is opened is less than or equal to a certain illuminance (if determined Yes), the operation proceeds to step S22 in FIG. The panel backlight 65 is turned on. Then, the processing proceeds to the subsequent processing (step S23 to step S26).

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S62 is that the ambient brightness when the display housing 2 is opened is greater than or equal to a certain illuminance (if determined No), the panel backlight 65 is turned on. If not, the process ends (step S63).

  According to the seventh embodiment, when the display housing 2 is opened when in a bright place, the panel backlight 65 is not turned on. Thereby, power saving can be achieved.

  In the above embodiment, a magnetic sensor is used as the detection unit, but a mechanical detection unit may be used. For example, a protrusion that can expand and contract is formed on the main surface (opposite surface) of one housing, and when the housings are closed, the protrusion is pushed in by the main surface of the other housing. It may be a mechanical switch that detects the open state of the housing by projecting the protrusion from the main surface when the is opened.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the folding-type (clamshell type) portable terminal device is mentioned as an example as a portable terminal device, the power key can be operated from the first state where the casing covers the power key. Any structure may be used as long as it can transition to the second state. For example, a jack knife type portable terminal device that horizontally rotates (turns) a display case in which a liquid crystal display panel is arranged with respect to an operation case in which keys are arranged, or a display case with respect to the operation case. The present invention can also be applied to a slide-type portable terminal device that linearly reciprocates in one horizontal direction.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the display housing is detected by the magnetic sensor, the power key, the key backlight, or the panel backlight is always turned on. Whether or not can be selected by the user. That is, a selection key (not shown) is provided on the main surface of the operation casing 1, and by operating this selection key, it is possible to select whether the operation as in the first to seventh embodiments is valid or prohibited. You may do it. If such a selection key is provided, it is possible to freely select the validity or prohibition of the above operation according to the usage status of each user.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the housing is opened, the power supply of the apparatus main body remains off, and only the power key is turned on or blinked, the key backlight is turned on, and the backlight of the display unit is turned on. Since it is configured to be lit, even when the portable terminal device is casually opened in a place where the power must be turned off, such as in a hospital or a train, the power is not automatically turned on. In other words, simply opening the mobile terminal device does not automatically receive e-mails or incoming calls, and therefore does not bother the surroundings in such a specific place.

  The present invention relates to a portable terminal device having a structure capable of transitioning from a first state in which a casing covers a power key to a second state in which the power key can be operated, such as a foldable (clamshell type) portable terminal device, a jack It is suitably used for knife-type mobile terminal devices, slide-type mobile terminal devices, and the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is an external view in the "normally open state" of the portable terminal device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, (a) is the front view which looked at the portable terminal device in a normally open state from the user side, (b) It is a left side view. It is a left view in the "normally closed state" of the portable terminal device of this embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the rotating shaft part of the portable terminal device of this embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the electrical constitution of the portable terminal device of this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example for realizing a control operation according to the first embodiment. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example for realizing a control operation according to a third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example for realizing a control operation according to a fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example for realizing a control operation according to a fifth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example for realizing a control operation according to a sixth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example for realizing a control operation according to a seventh embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation according to the seventh embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 Operation case 2 Display case 16 On-hook key (power key)
40 Magnet 41 Magnetic Sensor 60 Main Control Unit 61 Device State Detection Unit 62 Input Control Unit 64 Display Unit 66 Timer Unit 67 Clock Unit 68 Illuminance Sensor

Claims (7)

In the portable terminal device having a structure capable of transitioning from the first state in which the housing covers the power key to the second state in which the power key can be operated,
Detecting means for detecting a state transition from the first state to the second state;
A notification means for notifying a user of the position of the power key when a state transition is detected by the detection means in a power-off state of the apparatus itself ;
The notification means is a key backlight for all keys including the power key, and illuminates the power key in the key backlight composed of a plurality of light emitting elements when a state transition is detected by the detection means. A portable terminal device characterized in that only a light emitting element is turned on or blinked . In the portable terminal device having a structure capable of transitioning from the first state in which the housing covers the power key to the second state in which the power key can be operated,
Detecting means for detecting a state transition from the first state to the second state;
A notification means for notifying a user of the position of the power key when a state transition is detected by the detection means in a power-off state of the apparatus itself;
The notification means is a key backlight of all keys including the power key, when said state transition is detected by the detection means, mobile terminal you characterized by turning on or flashing the key backlight . In the portable terminal device having a structure capable of transitioning from the first state in which the housing covers the power key to the second state in which the power key can be operated,
Detecting means for detecting a state transition from the first state to the second state;
A notification means for notifying a user of the position of the power key when a state transition is detected by the detection means in a power-off state of the apparatus itself;
The notification means is a panel backlight of the display panel, wherein when the state transition is detected by the detection means, mobile terminal you characterized by lighting or blinking the panel backlight. It has time setting means to set the notification time zone,
The notification means notifies when the time when the state transition is detected by the detection means is within the notification time zone set by the time setting means, and does not notify when the time is outside the notification time zone. The portable terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein It has an illuminance sensor that detects the brightness of the surroundings,
When the state detection is detected by the detection unit, the notification unit notifies when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is equal to or lower than a predetermined illuminance, and when the illuminance is higher than the predetermined illuminance. mobile terminal device according to any one of claims 1, characterized in that does not notify to claim 3. The notification unit, when notified constant preset time, then the portable terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that to end the notification. Mobile terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the predetermined time can be set at any time by the user.

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