JP4671055B2 - Tapping command processing system, electronic device operation system, and electronic device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a hit command processing system, an electronic device operating system, and an electronic device.

  A gyro is a sensor that measures the speed of rotation (rotational angular velocity) with respect to a rotational motion around a certain rotational axis. The “vibration gyro sensor” that is widely used today detects the angular velocity using the “Coriolis force”.

  For example, in a vibrating gyroscope that operates using the piezoelectric effect, when an AC voltage is applied to a gyro element (vibrating body such as a crystal), a Coriolis force is generated, and a current is generated according to the rotation rate and angular velocity. The current signal is amplified inside the gyro sensor, and a voltage proportional to the angular velocity is output.

Recently, an ultra-small and low power consumption gyro sensor has been developed, packaged together with an analog front-end circuit and an A / D conversion circuit, mounted on a mobile phone, a digital camera, etc., and used for camera shake correction and the like.
JP 2005-286809 A

  Commands for operating electronic devices are performed by operating buttons or remote controllers provided on the electronic devices. Problems such as poor operability, long operation time, or inability to operate when the remote controller is lost There was a point.

  Further, in the case of a thin display device such as a television, there is a problem that if the operation unit such as a button is provided in the main body, the width of the housing is limited due to wiring.

  An object of some aspects of the present invention is to provide a hit command processing system capable of operating an electronic device by hitting the electronic device, an operation system for the electronic device, and an electronic device.

(1) The present invention
An electronic device tapping command processing system,
An angular velocity sensor that detects a rotational angular velocity and outputs an analog signal corresponding to the rotational angular velocity;
An analog processing circuit that receives an analog signal output from the angular velocity sensor, converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and outputs it as a rotational angular velocity value;
A tapping input detection unit that receives the rotation angular velocity value output from the analog processing circuit and determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device based on the transition of the rotation angular velocity value;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
It is characterized by including.

  Here, the electronic device may be, for example, a mobile phone, a portable game machine, a portable player, a portable personal computer, or an installed electronic device such as a television, an audio, a projector, an air conditioner, a lighting device, or a home appliance. Alternatively, a controller for operating a main body provided separately from the electronic device main body may be used.

  The angular velocity sensor measures a rotational speed (rotational angular velocity) with respect to a rotational motion about a certain rotational axis, and outputs an analog signal corresponding to the rotational angular velocity, and may be a gyro sensor, for example. Here, the type of gyro is arbitrary.

  The rotational angular velocity value may be related to a given axis, or may be received for each of three axes orthogonal to each other.

  The analog processing circuit is, for example, an analog front-end circuit, and may include a low-pass filter, an operational amplifier, an A / D converter, and the like.

  The hit input detection unit and the hit command execution unit may be realized by causing a predetermined program to be executed by, for example, a CPU or a microcomputer including the CPU, or may be realized as a dedicated circuit.

  According to the present invention, by hitting an electronic device, a command associated with the hit, the hit position, and the number of hits can be executed. Therefore, even if an operation unit such as a button or a key is not operated, a command can be executed by hitting the electronic device itself, and an electronic device with good operability can be provided.

  It is also possible to reduce the number of operation units such as buttons and keys.

(2) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit input detection unit
Including a tapping number detection unit that receives the rotation angular velocity value output from the analog processing circuit and determines the number of times the electronic device has been tapped based on the transition of the rotation angular velocity value;
The hit command execution unit
Including a correspondence storage unit for storing the correspondence between the number of hits and the command,
Based on the correspondence, a command associated with the determined number of hits is executed.

  The correspondence storage unit may be configured by a rewritable memory such as a flash memory or an EEPROM, and may be configured so that reference data can be set in the rewritable memory based on an external input. You may make it function as a correspondence memory | storage part by incorporating in the instruction code of a program and making CPU execute.

  According to the present invention, by hitting an electronic device a given number of times, a command associated with the number of times of hitting can be executed.

(3) The present invention
An electronic device tapping command processing system,
A tapping input detection unit that determines the presence or absence of tapping input based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
It is characterized by including.

(4) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit input detection unit
Including a hit number detection unit that determines the number of times an electronic device has been hit based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value;
The hit command execution unit
Including a correspondence storage unit for storing the correspondence between the number of hits and the command,
Based on the correspondence, a command associated with the determined number of hits is executed.

(5) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit input detection unit
Determining the presence or absence of tapping input to a plurality of switch areas set at different positions of the electronic device based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value of the angular velocity sensor of 1;
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area is executed.

  The hit input detection unit may determine a switch area that is hit based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value of one angular velocity sensor.

  The multiple switch areas that have different positional relationships with the angular velocity sensor have different gyro sensor rotation directions and sizes when they are struck, so the characteristics of the output signal of the gyro sensor (for example, the amplitude direction and amplitude) are also different. Come different. Therefore, it is possible to determine which switch area has been hit based on the characteristics of the output signal of the gyro sensor.

  Therefore, by associating different commands for each switch area of a plurality of switch areas, it is possible to realize a plurality of command inputs with one angular velocity sensor.

(6) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit input detection unit
Based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity values of a plurality of angular velocity sensors arranged at different positions of the electronic device, determine the presence or absence of hitting input to a plurality of switch areas set at different positions of the electronic device,
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area is executed.

  The hit input detection unit may determine a switch area hit based on a transition of rotational angular velocity values of a plurality of angular velocity sensors.

(7) The hit command processing system of the present invention
It further includes a correspondence setting unit that sets the correspondence between the number of hits and the command based on an external input and stores it in the correspondence storage unit.

  According to the present invention, the user can set or change the association between the number of times of hitting and the command according to his / her preference, and can set an operation system that is easy for each user to use. Moreover, since the setting differs depending on the person, security can be enhanced in that other people cannot operate it without permission.

(8) The hit command processing system of the present invention
Set the hit command registration period,
A hit command determination information registration processing unit that generates hit command determination information based on the rotational angular velocity value received within the hit command registration period and stores the hit command determination information in a storage unit;
The hit number detection unit is
The number of hits of the electronic device is determined based on the hit command determination information and the transition of the rotational angular velocity value.

  The range (extreme range) that can be taken as the extreme value (maximum value, minimum value) of the pulse to determine the occurrence of the strike operation is set as the strike command decision information based on the rotational angular velocity value received during the strike command registration period. Then, if it is determined whether or not the detected extreme value of the pulse belongs to the extreme value range, it may be determined that a hit operation has been performed.

  In addition, based on the hit command determination information and the rotational angular velocity value received during the hit command registration period, a threshold is set for determining the condition of the extreme value (maximum value and minimum value) of the pulse for determining the occurrence of a hit operation. Thus, it may be determined that the hit operation has been performed when it is determined whether or not the detected extreme value of the pulse exceeds the threshold value.

  In addition, based on the rotational angular velocity value received during the hit command registration period as the hit command determination information, the characteristics of the period (T) for determining the interval of the hit operation are determined, and the pulse is detected using the periodic characteristics. You may make it do.

  In general, although the number of times of hitting is the same, the strength of hitting and the speed of hitting vary depending on the user. The characteristics of the tapping operation for each user (for example, tapping strength and size) are detected and registered as tapping command determination registration information.

  Therefore, when a hitting action different from the user's characteristics (for example, the strength and size of hitting) is performed, the command is not executed, so that an operation by another person is not accepted, and thus an electronic device having a high security function can be provided. it can.

(9) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit number detection unit is
A pulse satisfying an operation event occurrence condition is detected based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, and the number of times the electronic device is hit is determined based on the pulse.

  As an operation event generation condition, a range (extreme range) that can be taken by an extreme value (maximum value, minimum value) of a pulse for determining occurrence of a hitting operation is set, and the detected extreme value of the pulse is the extreme value range. It may be determined that a tapping operation has been performed when it is determined whether or not it belongs.

  In addition, as an operation event generation condition, a threshold value is set for determining a condition of a pulse extreme value (maximum value, minimum value) for determining the occurrence of a hitting operation, and the detected pulse extreme value exceeds the threshold value. If it is determined whether or not it has been exceeded, it may be determined that a hit operation has been performed.

  Also, as an operation event generation condition, based on the rotational angular velocity value received during the hit command registration period, the period characteristic for determining the hit operation interval is determined, and the pulse is detected using the periodic characteristic. May be. In this way, it is possible to control not to execute a command when an operation of tapping with a period different from the period at the time of registration is performed.

(10) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The correspondence storage unit
The correspondence between the number of hits and commands is stored for each processing system,
The hit command execution unit
Including a processing system switching means for switching and executing a plurality of processing systems,
A command associated with the hit count determined for the current processing system is executed based on the correspondence relationship.

  According to the present invention, various commands can be executed by a monotonous operation of “tapping”.

(11) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit command execution unit
Including means to enable or disable the use of the hit command,
When the use of the hit command is set to be effective, the command associated with the determined hit count is executed.

(12) The hit command processing system of the present invention
The hit command registration processing unit
Including a history information registration unit that generates hit command identification information based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when the hit command is executed and stores the hit command determination information in the hit command determination information storage unit,
The hit number detection unit is
A history reflection processing unit for determining the number of hits in consideration of the command history information is included.

  The value of the input value when the hit command has been executed in the past may be held as command history information in the hit command determination information storage unit. Then, an allowable range (an extreme value range or an allowable range such as a threshold value or a cycle) may be determined based on the z pieces of command history information held, and the number of hits may be determined based on the allowable range.

  When the number of hits within the allowable range is determined, the command associated with the number of hits is executed, and the hit command determination information is generated based on the acquired rotational angular velocity values for the past x seconds, and the command history information May be stored in the hit command determination information storage unit, and the oldest command history information may be deleted from the hit command determination information storage unit. As a result, the command history information can be updated to the latest state.

  According to the present invention, there is a learning effect that a recent user input tendency can be reflected in the determination of the number of times of tapping.

(13) The hit command processing system of the present invention
Has a hitting area for inputting hitting commands outside the electronic device,
The hit number detection unit is
The number of hits is determined by setting a determination condition for determining the number of hits on the assumption that the hit area is hit.

  By limiting the hitting area in this way, the detection sensitivity of the angular velocity sensor can be improved.

(14) The hit command processing system of the present invention
A contact detection unit for detecting contact with the hitting area;
The hit number detection unit is
It is characterized in that the number of hits is determined based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value acquired during the period in which contact with the hit area is detected.

  The contact detection unit can also be realized by a temperature sensor, a touch panel, a switch, or the like.

  By providing a contact detection unit for detecting contact in the hit area, it is possible to prevent the command from being executed when the hit operation is not performed on the hit area. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the command from being executed against the user's intention.

  Even if contact with the hit area is not detected, it is possible to detect a hit waveform from the hit area, accept a hit waveform within a predetermined time as a command, and execute a predetermined command.

(15) The hit command processing system of the present invention
A gripping unit provided outside the electronic device and gripped by the user;
A contact detection unit for detecting contact with the gripping unit;
The hit number detection unit is
It is characterized in that the number of hits is determined based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value acquired during the period in which contact with the grip portion is detected.

  The contact detection unit can also be realized by a temperature sensor, a touch panel, a switch, or the like.

  By providing a contact detection unit that detects contact in the grip unit, a command can be executed when the user is performing an operation of gripping and hitting the grip unit. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the command from being executed against the user's intention.

  Even if contact with the gripping portion is not detected, it is possible to detect a hit waveform from the hit area, accept a hit waveform within a predetermined time as a command, and execute a predetermined command.

(16) The present invention provides:
An electronic device operation system,
A vibration detection sensor for detecting vibration of the electronic device;
Based on the output signal of the vibration detection sensor, a tapping input detection unit that determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device,
An operation signal generation unit that generates an operation signal for operating the electronic device based on the presence or absence of the hit input;
It is characterized by including.

  According to the present invention, the operation signal for operating the electronic device is generated based on the user hitting the electronic device (for example, the place where the user struck and the number of times of hitting). That is, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device with excellent operability that can be operated by tapping.

  In the present invention, a determination unit that determines whether an output signal of the vibration detection sensor satisfies a predetermined condition (determination condition) may be included. At this time, by appropriately setting the determination condition of the determination unit, it is possible to provide an electronic device that operates only when a specific user performs a specific operation. For example, the determination condition may be set so that the operation is performed only when the user strikes a specific area of the electronic device with a specific strength or when the user strikes a specific area with a specific strength. According to this, it is possible to prevent malfunction of the electronic device and use by others.

  Note that this electronic device operation system may be configured to generate an operation signal corresponding to the location and number of times the electronic device has been struck. Thereby, it is possible to cause the electronic device to perform various operations by a simple operation of hitting the electronic device.

(17) The present invention provides:
An electronic device that operates based on an operation signal,
A vibration detection sensor for detecting vibration of the electronic device;
Based on the output signal of the vibration detection sensor, a tapping input detection unit that determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device,
An operation signal generation unit that generates an operation signal for operating the electronic device based on the presence or absence of the hit input;
It is characterized by including.

  According to the present invention, the operation signal for operating the electronic device is generated based on the user hitting the electronic device (for example, the place where the user struck and the number of times of hitting). That is, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device with excellent operability that can be operated by tapping.

  In the present invention, a determination unit that determines whether an output signal of the vibration detection sensor satisfies a predetermined condition (determination condition) may be included. At this time, by appropriately setting the determination condition of the determination unit, it is possible to provide an electronic device that operates only when a specific user performs a specific operation. For example, the determination condition may be set so that the operation is performed only when the user strikes a specific area of the electronic device with a specific strength or when the user strikes a specific area with a specific strength. According to this, it is possible to prevent malfunction of the electronic device and use by others.

  Note that this electronic device operation system may be configured to generate an operation signal corresponding to the location and number of times the electronic device has been struck. Thereby, it is possible to cause the electronic device to perform various operations by a simple operation of hitting the electronic device.

(18) The electronic device of the present invention
It is characterized by having a housing not provided with a mechanism for allowing a user to perceive a region where a tapping vibration is input.

  According to the present invention, since it is possible to prevent a third party from recognizing the hit area, it becomes difficult for the third party to reproduce the hit vibration, thereby preventing unauthorized use by a third party. It is possible to provide an electronic device capable of performing

  In the present invention, the electronic device may include a determination condition storage unit that stores a determination condition for determining the hit vibration and a determination condition setting unit that inputs the determination condition to the determination condition storage unit. . Then, the determination condition setting unit may set the determination condition based on the hit vibration input during the determination condition registration period. According to this, since it becomes difficult for a third party other than the user who has input the determination condition to reproduce the vibration satisfying the determination condition, the security function of the electronic device can be realized. In particular, the vibration pattern generated varies depending on the hit position of the article. For this reason, if a mechanism for perceiving an area for inputting tapping vibration is not provided on the casing of the electronic device, it becomes more difficult for a third party to reproduce the vibration that satisfies the determination condition. In addition, according to this, since it is possible to accurately detect the hit vibration by the user, it is possible to provide an electronic device with excellent operability.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below do not unduly limit the contents of the present invention described in the claims. Also, not all of the configurations described below are essential constituent requirements of the present invention.

1. First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a configuration of a hit command processing system according to the present embodiment.

  The hit command processing system 10 according to the present embodiment includes an angular velocity sensor (gyro) 20 as a vibration detection sensor. The angular velocity sensor 20 measures a rotational speed (rotational angular velocity) with respect to a rotational motion around a certain rotational axis, and outputs an analog signal 22 corresponding to the rotational angular velocity. The angular velocity sensor 20 may be a gyro sensor, for example. The gyro may be, for example, a vibrating gyroscope that operates by using the piezoelectric effect. In this type, an AC voltage is applied to the gyro element (vibrating body such as crystal) to vibrate at least a part of the gyro element and use the Coriolis force. Then, a current (voltage) corresponding to the rotation rate and angular velocity is generated. The current signal is amplified inside the gyro sensor, and a voltage proportional to the angular velocity is output. In addition, the kind of gyroscope is arbitrary, For example, the gyrosensor which applied the MEMS (micro electro mechanical system) technique may be used.

  The rotational angular velocity value to be detected may be related to a given axis or may be detected for each of three axes orthogonal to each other.

  However, the vibration detection sensor applicable to the present invention is not limited to the angular velocity sensor. For example, the hit command processing system 10 according to the present embodiment may include an acceleration sensor instead of the angular velocity sensor 20 or in combination with the angular velocity sensor 20. Since the vibration of the electronic device can also be detected by the acceleration sensor that detects the acceleration of the article, it is possible to detect the presence or absence of the hitting operation.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes an analog processing circuit (analog front end circuit) 30. The analog processing circuit 30 includes a low-pass filter / op-amp 32 and an A / D converter (A / D converter) 34, receives the analog signal 22, and outputs a corresponding digital signal 36.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a captured data holding unit 60. The captured data holding unit 60 holds the input digital signal (rotational angular velocity).

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a hit count detector 70. The hit number detection unit 70 receives the rotational angular velocity value 36 output from the analog processing circuit 30 and determines the number of hits based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value. For example, it is realized by a CPU or a microcomputer including a CPU. can do.

  The hit count detection unit 70 may detect a pulse that satisfies the operation event occurrence condition based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, and may determine the number of hits of the electronic device based on the pulse.

  The hit command processing system 10 according to the present embodiment includes a correspondence relationship storage unit 42. The correspondence storage unit 42 stores the correspondence between the number of hits and the command. Note that the correspondence storage unit 42 may be configured by a rewritable memory such as a flash memory or an EEPROM so that reference data can be set in the rewritable memory based on an external input. Alternatively, the correspondence relationship may be incorporated into the instruction code of the program and executed by the CPU so as to function as the correspondence relationship storage unit 42.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a hit command execution unit 80. The hit command execution unit 80 executes a command associated with the determined number of hits based on the correspondence, and can be realized by, for example, a CPU or a microcomputer including a CPU.

  The hit command execution unit 80 includes means for setting whether the use of the hit command is valid or invalid, and executes the command associated with the determined hit count when the use of the hit command is set to be valid. You may do it.

  The hit command processing system 10 according to the present embodiment includes a correspondence setting unit 40. The correspondence setting unit 40 sets the correspondence between the number of hits and the command based on an external input and stores it in the correspondence storage unit, and can be realized by, for example, a CPU or a microcomputer including a CPU.

  The correspondence relationship storage unit 40 stores the correspondence relationship between the number of hits and the command for each processing system, and the hit command execution unit 80 includes processing system switching means for switching and executing a plurality of processing systems. Based on this, the command associated with the hit count determined for the current processing system may be executed.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a hit command determination information registration processing unit 90. The hit command determination information registration processing unit 90 generates hit command determination information based on the rotational angular velocity value received during the hit command registration period, and stores it in the hit command determination information storage unit. It can be realized by a microcomputer or the like.

  The hit count detection unit 70 may determine the number of hits of the electronic device based on the hit command determination information and the transition of the rotational angular velocity value.

  The hit command registration processing unit 90 may include a history information registration unit 92. The history information registration unit 92 generates the hit command specifying information based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when the hit command is executed, and stores the hit command identification information in the hit command determination information storage unit as the hit command history information. May determine the number of hits in consideration of hit command history information.

  The hit count detection unit 70 sets a determination condition for determining the hit count on the assumption that the hit area set for inputting the hit command to a part of the electronic device is hit. May be determined.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a contact detection unit 100. The contact detection unit 100 detects contact with the hit area, and the hit count detection unit 70 determines the hit count based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value acquired during the period in which contact with the hit area is detected. Also good.

  The contact detection unit 100 detects contact with the gripping unit, and the hit count detection unit 70 determines the hit count based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value acquired during the period in which contact with the gripping unit is detected. May be.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a contact detection unit 100. The contact detection unit 100 may determine the number of hits based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value acquired during the period in which contact with the gripping unit is detected.

  The hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a hit command determination information storage unit 50. The hit command determination information storage unit 50 stores hit command determination information for determining a given hit count generated based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when the corresponding hit command is executed.

  The hit command determination information may be, for example, a rotation angular velocity value transition period, an extreme value range, an extreme value threshold value, or the like.

  The hit command determination information storage unit 50 may be configured by a rewritable memory such as a flash memory or an EEPROM so that reference data can be set in the rewritable memory based on an external input.

  The analog processing circuit 30 may be mounted on a semiconductor integrated circuit device (IC) for realizing the hit command processing system 10 of the present embodiment, or mounted on another semiconductor integrated circuit device (IC). Also good.

  FIG. 2 illustrates a mobile phone that is an example of the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, in this embodiment, an angular velocity sensor (for example, a gyro sensor) 210 as a vibration detection sensor is mounted on a mobile phone 200. In this manner, an angular velocity sensor mounted on an electronic device (such as a mobile phone, a portable game machine, a portable player, a television, or other electronic device) detects an angular velocity (vibration) applied to the electronic device.

  Here, when a hitting operation is applied to the electronic device, the electronic device moves accordingly, and thus a rotational angular velocity corresponding to the number of times of hitting is detected.

  FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams for explaining the rotational angular velocity of the present embodiment.

  FIG. 3A is an example of an analog signal output from the angular velocity sensor. The angular velocity sensor detects a rotational angular velocity with respect to a predetermined one axis as an analog signal. This analog signal changes according to changes in the operation of the electronic device. 220 is a change in the voltage value output from the angular velocity sensor when the electronic device rotates to the right, and 222 is a change in the voltage value output from the angular velocity sensor when the electronic device is rotated to the left.

  FIG. 3B shows a digital signal obtained by digitally converting an analog signal output from the angular velocity sensor. Assuming that the voltage value of the resting state is 0, the section 220 ′ having a positive value rotates right (generation of a right rotation pulse), and the section having a negative value rotates left (left rotation pulse). Occurrence). When the electronic device is struck once, the right rotation and the left rotation are detected as a pair, so that it is possible to detect that the electronic device is struck once by the generation of the paired right rotation pulse and left rotation pulse.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining determination of the number of hits in the present embodiment.

  It is assumed that the signal 250 is a transition of the rotational angular velocity value detected when it is hit twice (in this case, a continuous line (analog value) is shown for convenience, but a set of discrete points (digital The same applies to value).

  The signal 250 indicating the transition of the rotational angular velocity value is obtained after the regular pulse having the extreme values (maximum value or minimum value) of P1, P2, P3, and P4 first, and then the extreme values of P5, P6, P7, and P8. A derivative pulse with appears. Here, the pulses having the extreme values of P1 and P2 are generated by the first hit operation, and the pulses having the extreme values of P3 and P4 are generated by the second hit operation. The subsequent irregular pulses (pulses having extremal values P5, P6, P7, and P8) are generated by the shaking generated as a reaction of the first and second tapping operations.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, pulses generated by the hitting operation are extracted from the signal 250 indicating the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, and the number of hits is determined. A threshold value (+ S1, −S1) of the signal 250 indicating the transition of the rotational angular velocity value is set, a pulse satisfying the operation event occurrence condition is detected based on the threshold value, and the number of times the electronic device is hit is determined based on the pulse. You may do it.

  For example, a threshold value (+ S, −S) may be set, and if a pair of pulses exceeding the threshold value is detected, it may be determined that one hit operation has been performed. In this case, the signal 250 indicating the transition of the rotational angular velocity value shown in FIG. 4 is a pair of pulses exceeding the threshold (a pair of pulses having P1 and P2 as extreme values, and a pair of pulses having P3 and P4 as extreme values) ), It can be determined that there has been a tapping operation twice.

  In addition, when an extreme value range (+ l, -l) that defines both the upper and lower limits that an extreme value can take is set and a pair of pulses whose extreme value is within the extreme value range is detected, one tapping operation is performed. You may make it determine that it was. In this way, the transition 250 of the rotational angular velocity value is caused by two pairs of pulses whose extreme values are within the extreme value range (one pair of pulses having P1 and P2 as extreme values and one pair of pulses having P3 and P4 as extreme values). ), It can be determined that there has been a tapping operation twice. Also, according to this, when the signal 250 indicating the transition of the rotational angular velocity value includes a value exceeding the extreme value range, it is possible to prevent the electronic device from operating based on the vibration. Therefore, malfunction of the electronic device can be prevented.

  By setting appropriate operation event generation conditions in this way, it is possible to improve the accuracy of determining the number of times of hitting.

  Set the hit command registration period, have the user input the hit command during that time, set the operation event generation condition based on the rotation angular velocity value received during the hit command registration period, and store this as hit command judgment information The number of hits of the electronic device may be detected based on the transition of the hit command determination information and the rotation angular velocity value.

  For example, as an operation event occurrence condition, a range (extreme value range) that can be taken as an extreme value (maximum value, minimum value) of a pulse for determining occurrence of a strike operation based on a rotational angular velocity value received during a hit command registration period. It may be set and it may be determined that the hit operation has been performed when it is determined whether or not the detected extreme value of the pulse belongs to the extreme value range.

  In addition, as an operation event generation condition, a threshold is set for determining the condition of the extreme value (maximum value, minimum value) of a pulse for determining the occurrence of a hit operation based on the rotational angular velocity value received during the hit command registration period. Then, if it is determined whether or not the detected extreme value of the pulse exceeds the threshold value, it may be determined that the hit operation has been performed.

  Also, as an operation event generation condition, based on the rotational angular velocity value received within the hit command registration period, the characteristic of the period (T) for determining the interval of the hit operation is judged, and the pulse is detected using the periodic characteristic. You may make it do.

  In this way, it is possible to control not to execute a command when an operation of tapping with a period different from the period at the time of registration is performed.

  5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining the relationship between the rotational angular velocity value detected during the hit command registration period and the hit command determination registration information to be set.

  In general, the number of times of hitting is the same, but the strength of hitting and the speed of hitting vary depending on the user. In this way, the configuration may be such that the number of times is determined by absorbing the difference between the users, but a configuration in which a unique command for each user corresponding to the difference for each user is registered. In other words, a hit command registration period, which is a period for registering a hit command for each user, is provided, and during this time, the user actually performs actions such as “hit once” and “hit twice”, and the rotational angular velocity value generated thereby. Based on the transition, the characteristics of the tapping operation for each user (for example, tapping strength and size) are detected and registered as tapping command determination registration information.

  A signal 270 in FIG. 5A is a transition of the rotational angular velocity value detected when the user A performs the “tapping twice” operation. A signal 280 in FIG. It is assumed that the rotation angular velocity value detected when the “hitting” operation is performed. Here, T1 is the period of the signal 270, and +11 and -11 are the extreme value range of the signal 270. T2 is the period of the signal 280, and +12 and -12 are the extreme value range of the signal 280.

  The absolute value of the extreme value of the signal 270 in FIG. 5A is larger (| l1 |> | l2 |) and the cycle is longer (T1> T2) than the signal 280 in FIG. 5B. That is, even in the same two-time tapping operation, the user A performs the tapping operation twice slowly and strongly, and the user B performs the tapping operation twice faster and weaker than the user A.

  In the electronic device of user A, the cycle T1 and the extreme value range 11 are registered as command determination registration information, and in the electronic device of user B, the cycle T2 and the extreme value range 12 are registered as command determination registration information. May be.

  In this way, even if user B performs an operation of tapping twice on user A's electronic device, the command will not be executed. Even if user A performs an operation of tapping twice on user B's electronic device, the command will not be executed. Not executed. Therefore, since an operation by another person is not accepted, an electronic device having a high security function can be provided.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the number of hits and the command.

  The table 300 is a command correspondence table that defines the correspondence between the number of hits and the command. The command correspondence table 300 stores the number of hits and command specifying information for specifying a command corresponding to the hit number.

  For example, a start command is associated with one strike, a stop command is associated with two strikes, and a forward command is associated with three strikes. A backward command is associated with four hits.

  In this way, for example, when applied to a portable music player, the user can play a song by tapping the electronic device once, and can stop playing the song by tapping the electronic device twice. It is possible to cue forward by tapping the electronic device three times, and to cue backward by tapping the electronic device four times.

  The correspondence relationship between the number of hits and the command may be tabulated and stored in a storage unit so that it can be referred to from a program or the like, or may be incorporated in advance as an instruction code in a program or incorporated in a circuit in advance. Also good.

  Further, the correspondence relationship between the number of hits and the command may be set based on an external input and stored in the correspondence storage unit. In other words, the correspondence between the number of times of hitting and the command may be set or changed by an input from the user.

  In this way, the user can change the setting of the association between the number of times of hitting and the command as necessary, and can set an operation system that is easy to use for each user. In addition, security is strengthened because the settings differ depending on the person.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a configuration for switching commands to be associated according to a processing system.

  The table 350 is a command correspondence table that stores the correspondence between the number of hits and commands for each processing system.

  FIG. 7 shows how the commands are registered in association with each other for the three processing systems (recording / playback mode 370, telephone mode 380, and web browsing mode 390).

  Which processing system (processing mode) is currently used may be stored in, for example, a processing mode register. The processing mode register is updated according to the user operation history. For example, when the user selects the recording / playback mode from the menu screen after starting, set “1” (value indicating the recording / playback mode) in the processing mode register, and set the telephone mode to the processing mode register. When “2” (value representing the telephone mode) is set and the web browsing mode is selected, “3” (value representing the web browsing mode) may be set in the processing mode register. Then, a command to be executed may be determined according to the number of hits and the processing mode with reference to the processing mode register when the hit command is executed.

  In this way, it can be executed by hitting various commands.

  FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are diagrams for explaining an example of a hitting region according to this embodiment. Electronic device 200 according to the present embodiment has a hit area for inputting a hit command to the outside. Then, the user inputs a hit command by hitting the hit area 410.

  The hit number detection unit sets the determination condition for determining the hit number on the assumption that the hit area 410 is hit, and detects the hit number. By limiting the hitting area in this way, the detection sensitivity of the angular velocity sensor can be improved.

  The electronic device 200 may be configured such that the hit area 410 cannot be perceived from the outside. According to this, it becomes difficult for a third party to vibrate the electronic device 200 accurately, so that it is possible to prevent others from using it. For example, in the electronic device 200, the hit area 410 and its peripheral area may be formed flush with each other. That is, the hit area 410 and its peripheral area may be made of the same material, and the surface of the hit area 410 and the surface of the peripheral area may have the same (series) of colors and patterns. Good. That is, the electronic device 200 is configured not to have any mark (a mark that can be perceived visually or tactilely) in the area where the third party inputs the operation information (striking area 410) to notify that the area is the area. It may be. In other words, the casing of the electronic device 200 may be configured so as not to have a mechanism that allows the user to perceive a hitting area.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the hitting area 410 may be configured to be perceivable from the outside. For example, the hit area 410 may be provided with a contact detection unit that detects contact with the hit area 410. The contact detection unit can be realized by a temperature sensor, a touch panel, a switch, or the like.

  By providing a contact detection unit for detecting contact in the hit area 410, it is possible to prevent the command from being executed when the hit action (the action of vibrating the electronic device 200) is not performed on the hit area. it can. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the command from being executed against the user's intention.

  Even if the contact with the hit area 410 is not detected, a hit waveform from the hit area may be detected, a hit waveform within a predetermined time may be received as a command, and a predetermined command may be executed.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing for determining the number of times an electronic device has been hit using the rotational angular velocity.

  First, the rotational angular velocity is detected by the gyro sensor (step S10).

  Next, the analog signal output from the gyro sensor is converted into a digital signal (step S20).

  Next, the rotational angular velocity value (digital signal) is input and held in the work buffer (step S30).

  Next, the number of hits is detected based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value for the past x seconds held in the work buffer (captured data holding unit) (step S40).

  Next, the command associated with the detected number of hits is executed based on the correspondence between the number of hits and the command (step S50).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing for registering the correspondence between the number of times of tapping and the command.

  When a correspondence setting input is received (step S110), the correspondence between the number of hits and the command is set based on the input and stored in the correspondence storage unit (step S120).

  Here, for example, when the user selects registration of the correspondence from the menu, the selection screen is displayed. When the “number of times of tapping” is specified from the selection screen, a list of commands that can be associated is displayed. You may make it carry out in the format which selects the command performed in association with "the number of times of hitting" out of them.

  The relationship between the “number of times of hitting” and the command to be executed can be set / changed at any time.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the hit command determination information registration process.

  First, it is determined whether or not it is the hit command registration period, and if it is within the period, the following processing is performed (step S210).

  Next, it is determined whether or not there is contact detection in the hit area. If there is contact detection, the following processing is performed (step S220).

  Based on the rotational angular velocity value received within the hit command registration period, hit command determination information is generated and stored in the hit command determination information storage unit (step S230).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing for determining the number of times an electronic device has been hit using the hit command determination information.

  First, the rotational angular velocity is detected by the gyro sensor (step S310).

  Next, the analog signal output from the gyro sensor is converted into a digital signal (step S320).

  Next, the rotational angular velocity value (digital signal) is input and held in the work buffer (step S330).

  Whether there is contact detection in the hit area If there is contact detection, the following processing is performed (step S340).

  Based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value for the past x seconds held in the work buffer and the hit command determination information, the number of hits is detected (step S350).

  Based on the correspondence, a command associated with the number of hits detected for the current processing system is executed (step S360).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a learning function for detecting a hit command.

  First, the rotational angular velocity is detected by the gyro sensor (step S410).

  Next, the analog signal output from the gyro sensor is converted into a digital signal (step S420).

  Next, the rotational angular velocity value (digital signal) is input and held in the work buffer (step S430).

  Whether there is contact detection in the hit area If there is contact detection, the following processing is performed (step S440).

  In consideration of the hit command history information held in the work buffer, the number of hits is detected based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value for the past x seconds (step S450).

  Next, based on the correspondence, a command associated with the detected number of hits is executed (step S460).

  Based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when the hit command is executed, the hit command specifying information is generated and stored in the hit command determination information storage unit as the hit command history information, and the oldest command history information is stored in the motion specifying information storage unit. (Step S470).

  In the present embodiment, by determining the number of hits in consideration of command history information, for example, a learning effect that the latest user input tendency can be reflected is achieved.

2. Second Embodiment FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a configuration of a hit command processing system according to a second embodiment.

  The hit command processing system 610 of the present embodiment includes an angular velocity sensor (gyro) 20 as a vibration detection sensor. The angular velocity sensor 620 measures the rotational speed (rotational angular velocity) with respect to a rotational motion around a certain rotational axis, and outputs an analog signal 22 corresponding to the rotational angular velocity. The angular velocity sensor 620 may be a gyro sensor, for example. The type of gyro is arbitrary, and for example, a gyro sensor that applies MEMS (micro electro mechanical system) technology may be used. Further, the rotational angular velocity value to be detected may be related to a given axis or may be detected for each of three axes orthogonal to each other.

  The hit command processing system 610 of the present embodiment includes an analog processing circuit (analog front end circuit) 630. The analog processing circuit 630 includes a low-pass filter / op-amp 32 and an A / D converter (A / D converter) 634, receives an analog signal 622, and outputs a corresponding digital signal 636.

  The hit command processing system 10 according to the present embodiment includes a captured data holding unit 660. The captured data holding unit 660 holds the input digital signal (rotational angular velocity).

  The hit command processing system 610 of the present embodiment includes a hit input detection unit 670. The hit input detection unit 670 receives the rotational angular velocity value 636 output from the analog processing circuit 630, and determines the presence or absence of a hit input to the electronic device based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value. For example, a CPU or a microcomputer including a CPU Etc. can be realized.

  Further, the tapping input detection unit 670 may determine the presence or absence of tapping input to a plurality of switch areas set at different positions of the electronic device based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value of one angular velocity sensor.

  Further, the hit input detection unit 670 determines whether there is a hit input to a plurality of switch areas set at different positions of the electronic device based on transitions of rotational angular velocity values of the plurality of angular velocity sensors arranged at different positions of the electronic device. May be.

  The hit input detection unit 670 may detect a pulse that satisfies an operation event generation condition based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, and may determine the presence or absence of a hit input to the electronic device based on the pulse.

  The hit command processing system 610 of the present embodiment includes a hit command execution unit 680. The hit command execution unit 680 executes a command associated with the hit input when it is determined that there is a hit input, and can be realized by, for example, a CPU or a microcomputer including a CPU.

  The hit command executing unit 680 may execute a command associated with the switch area when it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas.

  The hit command processing system 610 of this embodiment includes a hit input determination information registration processing unit 690. The hit input determination information registration processing unit 690 generates hit input determination information based on the rotational angular velocity value received during the hit input registration period, and stores it in the hit input determination information storage unit 650. It is realizable with the microcomputer etc. which are included.

  The hit input detection unit 670 may determine the presence or absence of a hit input to the electronic device based on the hit input determination information and the transition of the rotational angular velocity value.

  The hit input registration processing unit 690 may include a history information registration unit 692. The history information registration unit 692 generates hit input specific information based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when it is determined that there is a hit input, and stores it in the hit input determination information storage unit 650 as the hit input history information. In step 670, the presence / absence of the hit input and the switch area where the hit input is performed may be determined in consideration of the hit input history information.

  The hit input detection unit 670 sets a determination condition for determining the presence or absence of a hit input on the assumption that a switch area set for inputting a hit command to a part of the electronic device is hit. The presence or absence of a hit input may be determined. In addition, by setting a judgment condition to determine the presence or absence of tapping input for each switch area of a plurality of switch areas set in a plurality of different locations of an electronic device, the presence or absence of tapping input for each switch area of a plurality of switch areas May be determined.

  The hit command processing system 610 of this embodiment includes a hit input determination information storage unit 650. The tapping input determination information storage unit 650 stores tapping input determination information generated based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when there is tapping input to the switch area. When there are a plurality of switch areas, tapping input determination information for determining a switch area having a tapping input may be stored.

  The hit command determination information may be, for example, a rotation angular velocity value transition period, an extreme value range, an extreme value threshold value, an amplitude direction, an amplitude magnitude, or the like.

  The hit command determination information storage unit 650 may be configured by a rewritable memory such as a flash memory or an EEPROM so that reference data can be set in the rewritable memory based on an external input.

  The analog processing circuit 630 may be mounted on a semiconductor integrated circuit device (IC) for realizing the hit command processing system 610 of this embodiment, or may be mounted on another semiconductor integrated circuit device (IC). Also good.

  Next, an example will be described in which a hit input to two different switch areas is determined by one gyro sensor. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of switch areas provided in an electronic device and a gyro sensor. FIGS. 17A and 17B are diagrams showing a gyro sensor when each switch area is hit. It is a figure which shows the example of the analog signal taken out.

  Here, the switch area is an area to be hit when performing an input to the electronic device, and can be set as appropriate on the surface of the electronic device.

  710 in FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a positional relationship between the two switch areas SW1 and SW2 when the portion including the two switch areas SW1 and SW2 provided in the electronic device is viewed from above, and 710 ′ is the electronic device. It is a figure which shows the positional relationship of two switch areas SW1 and SW2 and the gyro sensor 710 when the part containing two switch areas SW1 and SW2 provided from the side.

  In such a case, since the rotational direction of the gyro sensor 770 differs depending on the hit position, different analog signals are extracted depending on the hit position.

  FIG. 17A shows an example of an analog signal taken out from the gyro sensor when the switch area SW1 is hit, and FIG. 17B shows an analog signal taken out from the gyro sensor when the switch area SW2 is hit. An example is shown. When the switch area SW1 is struck, a pair of negative pulses 730 having a predetermined magnitude and a positive pulse 732 having a predetermined magnitude are generated in this order, and when the switch area SW2 is struck, the pair is paired. A positive pulse 740 having a predetermined magnitude and a negative pulse 742 having a predetermined magnitude are generated in this order.

  As described above, the characteristic of the extracted analog signal (for example, transition in the amplitude direction) differs depending on the positional relationship between the gyro sensor 720 and the switch areas SW1 and SW2, and therefore the hit switch area is determined from the characteristic of the extracted analog signal. can do. For example, when the extracted analog signal indicates that a negative pulse 730 having a predetermined magnitude and a positive pulse 732 having a predetermined magnitude are generated in this order, as shown in FIG. When it is determined that there is a hit input to the area SW1, and a pair of predetermined positive pulse 740 and predetermined negative pulse 742 are generated in this order as shown in FIG. It may be determined that there is a hit input to the switch area SW2.

  Next, an example in which one gyro sensor determines a hit input to three different switch areas will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a positional relationship between a plurality of switch areas provided in an electronic device and a gyro sensor. FIGS. 19A to 19C are diagrams showing a gyro sensor when the switch area is hit. It is a figure which shows the example of the analog signal taken out.

  Here, the switch area is an area to be hit when performing an input to the electronic device, and can be set as appropriate on the surface of the electronic device.

  760 in FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship of the three switch areas SW1 to SW3 when the portion including the three switch areas SW1 to SW3 provided in the electronic device is viewed from above, and 760 ′ is the electronic device. It is a figure which shows the positional relationship of three switch area SW1-SW3 and the gyro sensor 770 when the part containing 3 switch area SW1-SW3 provided from the side.

  In such a case, since the rotational direction of the gyro sensor 770 differs depending on the hit position, different analog signals are extracted depending on the hit position.

  FIG. 19A shows an example of an analog signal taken out from the gyro sensor when the switch area SW1 is hit, and FIG. 19B shows an analog signal taken out from the gyro sensor when the switch area SW2 is hit. FIG. 19C shows an example of an analog signal taken out from the gyro sensor when the switch area SW3 is hit. When the switch area SW1 is struck, a pair of negative pulses 780 having a predetermined magnitude and positive pulses 782 having a predetermined magnitude are generated in this order, but the amplitude is slightly smaller than that of the reference pulses 780 ′ and 782 ′. The pulse is lowered. In addition, when the switch area SW3 is hit, a pair of positive pulses 790 having a predetermined magnitude and negative pulses 792 having a predetermined magnitude are generated in this order, but the amplitude is slightly smaller than that of the reference pulses 790 'and 792'. The pulse has dropped. Further, when the switch area SW2 is hit, a left / right amplitude (unspecified amplitude) 750 is generated.

  When the switch area 4 to the switch area 6 are hit, no signal is output from the gyro sensor 770 because the gyro sensor 770 does not rotate even if vibration is transmitted. The switch area 4 to the switch area 6 are rotated by the gyro sensor 772, and therefore it may be determined by an analog signal from the gyro sensor 772.

  As described above, the characteristics of the extracted analog signal (such as fiber in the amplitude direction and the magnitude of the amplitude) differ depending on the positional relationship between the gyro sensor 770 and the switch areas SW1 to SW3. Switch area can be determined. For example, as shown in FIG. 19A, the extracted analog signal is paired with a negative pulse 780 having a predetermined magnitude (pulse having a lower amplitude than the reference pulse) and a positive pulse 782 having a predetermined magnitude (reference pulse). If a pulse having a lower amplitude) is generated in this order, it may be determined that there is a hit input to the switch area SW1. Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 19C, the extracted analog signals are paired with a positive pulse 790 having a predetermined magnitude (a pulse whose amplitude is lower than the reference pulse) and a negative pulse 792 having a predetermined magnitude (a reference pulse). In the case where it is indicated that a pulse whose amplitude is lower than that of the pulse has occurred in this order, it may be determined that there is a hit input to the switch area SW3. For example, when the extracted analog signal indicates that a left / right amplitude (unspecified amplitude) 750 having the same amplitude as that of the reference pulse is generated as shown in FIG. 19B, there is a hit input to the switch area SW2. You may judge.

  Next, an example in which a gyro sensor and a switch area are arranged on a flat surface and a hit input is detected will be described.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a positional relationship between a plurality of switch areas and a plurality of gyro sensors provided on a flat surface of an electronic device. FIGS. 21A to 21D illustrate a case where each switch area is hit. It is a figure which shows the example of an analog signal taken out from a several gyro sensor.

  Here, the switch area is an area to be hit when performing hitting input to the electronic device, and can be appropriately set on the flat surface of the electronic device.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a positional relationship between the four switch areas SW1 to SW4 and the four gyro sensors 820-1 to 820-4 provided on the flat surface 810 of the electronic apparatus. Here, the flat surface may be, for example, a surface including a display surface of a thin television, or an internal or external surface installed in parallel with the display surface.

  In such a case, the rotational direction and amplitude of each gyro sensor 820-1 to 820-4 differ depending on the hit position.

  FIG. 21A shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 4 (820-4) and the gyro sensor 3 (820-3) when the switch area SW1 is hit. When the switch area SW1 is struck, a first magnitude negative pulse 810 and a first magnitude positive pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 4 (820-4, a position near the left side of the switch area 1). 812 occurs in this order.

  From the gyro sensor 3 (820-3, a position far from the right side of the switch area 1), a negative pulse 814 having a second magnitude (smaller than the first magnitude) and a positive pulse 816 having a second magnitude are paired. (The amplitude is smaller than that of the pulses 810 and 812) occurs in this order.

  The direction of the waveform can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the mounting direction when the gyro sensor is mounted on the board. For example, when the switch area SW1 is hit, if the signals output from the gyro sensor 4 (820-4) and the gyro sensor 3 (820-3) are to be in the same direction, the signals in the same direction are output. Alternatively, the mounting direction of the gyro sensor may be adjusted.

  FIG. 21B shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 4 (820-4) and the gyro sensor 3 (820-3) when the switch area SW2 is hit. When the switch area SW2 is hit, a second magnitude negative pulse 820 and a second magnitude positive pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 4 (820-4, the far left position of the switch area 2). 822 occurs in this order.

  Also, from the gyro sensor 3 (820-3, a position close to the right side of the switch area 2), a pair of a negative pulse 824 having a first magnitude (greater than the second magnitude) and a positive pulse 826 having a first magnitude. (The amplitude is larger than that of the pulses 820 and 822) occurs in this order.

  FIG. 21C shows an example of an analog signal extracted from the gyro sensor 3 (820-3) and the gyro sensor 2 (820-2) when the switch area SW3 is hit. When the switch area SW3 is hit, the first magnitude positive pulse 830 and the first magnitude negative pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 3 (820-3, the position close to the left side of the switch area 3). 832 occurs in this order. From the gyro sensor 2 (820-2, a position far from the right side of the switch area 3), a positive pulse 834 having a second magnitude (smaller than the first magnitude) and a negative pulse 836 having a second magnitude are paired. (The amplitude is smaller than that of the pulses 830 and 832) occurs in this order.

  FIG. 21D shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 3 (820-3) and the gyro sensor 2 (820-2) when the switch area SW4 is hit. When the switch area SW4 is hit, a second magnitude positive pulse 840 and a second magnitude negative pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 3 (820-3, the far left position of the switch area 4). 842 occurs in this order. Further, from the gyro sensor 2 (820-2, a position close to the right side of the switch area 4), a positive pulse 844 having a first magnitude (greater than the second magnitude) and a negative pulse 846 having a first magnitude as a pair. (The amplitude is larger than that of the pulses 840 and 842) occurs in this order.

  Since the amplitude direction (including the order of generation of positive and negative pulses) and the amplitude of analog signals extracted from multiple gyro sensors differ depending on the switch area hit in this way, analog signals extracted from multiple gyro sensors Can be determined based on the amplitude direction (including the order of generation of positive and negative pulses) and the magnitude of the amplitude.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a positional relationship between the four switch areas SW1 to SW4 provided on the flat surface 810 of the electronic apparatus and the two gyro sensors 850-1 and 850-2.

  In such a case, the rotational direction and amplitude of each gyro sensor 850-1 and 850-2 differ depending on the hit position.

  FIG. 23A shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1) and the gyro sensor 2 (850-2) when the switch area SW1 is hit. When the switch area SW1 is struck, a first magnitude negative pulse 860 and a first magnitude positive pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1, near the right side of the switch area 1). 862 occurs in this order. Further, from the gyro sensor 2 (850-2, a position far from the right side of the switch area 1), a pair of a negative pulse 864 having a second magnitude (smaller than the first magnitude) and a positive pulse 866 having a second magnitude. (The amplitude is smaller than that of the pulses 810 and 812) occurs in this order.

  FIG. 23B shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1) and the gyro sensor 2 (850-2) when the switch area SW2 is hit. When the switch area SW2 is struck, a second magnitude negative pulse 870 and a second magnitude positive pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1, far from the right side of the switch area 2). 872 occurs in this order. Also, from the gyro sensor 2 (850-2, a position close to the right side of the switch area 2), a pair of first magnitude (greater than the second magnitude) negative pulse 874 and first magnitude positive pulse 876. (The amplitude is smaller than that of the pulses 870 and 872) occurs in this order.

  FIG. 23C shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1) and the gyro sensor 2 (850-2) when the switch area SW3 is hit. When the switch area SW3 is struck, the first magnitude positive pulse 880 and the first magnitude negative pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1, near the left side of the switch area 3). 882 occurs in this order. Further, from the gyro sensor 2 (850-2, the far left position of the switch area 3), a positive pulse 884 of a second magnitude (smaller than the first magnitude) and a negative pulse 886 of a second magnitude are paired. (The amplitude is smaller than that of the pulses 880 and 882) occurs in this order.

  FIG. 23D shows an example of analog signals extracted from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1) and the gyro sensor 2 (850-2) when the switch area SW4 is hit. When the switch area SW4 is hit, a second magnitude positive pulse 890 and a second magnitude negative pulse are paired from the gyro sensor 1 (850-1, the far left position of the switch area 4). 892 occurs in this order. Further, from the gyro sensor 2 (850-2, a position close to the left side of the switch area 43), a positive pulse 894 having a first magnitude (greater than the second magnitude) and a negative pulse 896 having a first magnitude as a pair. (The amplitude is larger than that of the pulses 890 and 892) occurs in this order.

  When the arrangement relationship between the gyro sensor and the switch area is changed, the characteristics (amplitude direction and amplitude magnitude) of the analog signal for determining whether or not each switch area is hit are different. Therefore, the characteristics of analog signals taken out from a plurality of gyro sensors when each switch area is hit according to the arrangement relationship between the gyro sensor and the switch area are checked in advance to determine which switch area is hit. You may set the conditions for.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing for determining the presence / absence of a hit input to the electronic device using the rotational angular velocity.

  First, the rotational angular velocity is detected by the gyro sensor (step S510).

  Next, the analog signal output from the gyro sensor is converted into a digital signal (step S520).

  Next, the rotational angular velocity value (digital signal) is input and held in the work buffer (step S530).

  Next, the hit switch area is determined based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value for the past x seconds held in the work buffer (captured data holding unit) (step S540). For example, as described with reference to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the determination may be made based on the transition in the amplitude direction of an analog signal (or a digital signal obtained by A / D converting the analog signal) output from one gyro sensor. For example, as described with reference to FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C, the transition in the amplitude direction and the magnitude of the amplitude of an analog signal (or a digital signal obtained by A / D converting the analog signal) output from one gyro sensor. Judgment may be made based on such factors. Further, for example, as described with reference to FIGS. 21A to 21D and FIGS. 23A to 23D, analog signals (or digital signals obtained by A / D converting analog signals) output from a plurality of gyro sensors are used. You may judge based on the combination of the transition of an amplitude direction, and the magnitude | size of an amplitude.

  Next, a command associated with the hit switch area is executed (step S550).

  FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining an example in which a thin TV is operated by hitting.

  As shown in the figure, four switch areas SW1 to SW4 are provided in a casing including a surface (corresponding to a flat surface in FIG. 20) including a display unit (LCD display or the like) 910 of a thin television 900, and the switch area is hit. Thus, an input operation may be performed on the flat-screen television.

  Here, the gyro sensor may be arranged as shown in, for example, FIG. 20 or FIG. In addition, since manufacture becomes easy, so that a gyro sensor is arrange | positioned between switch areas, you may make it arrange | position a gyro sensor between switch areas.

  For example, the first switch area SW1 may be used as a hit input area for instructing the volume increase, and the volume may be increased by one step when the first switch area SW1 is hit once. In other words, the first switch area SW1 may be associated with the command for increasing the volume by one level, and if it is determined that the first switch area SW1 has been hit once, the command for increasing the volume by one level may be executed.

  Further, for example, the second switch area SW2 may be used as a hit input area for instructing the volume reduction, and the volume may be lowered by one step when the second switch area SW2 is hit once. In other words, the first switch area SW1 may be associated with a command called “Volume 1 level down”, and if it is determined that the first switch area SW1 is hit once, the command called “Volume 1 level down” may be executed.

  Further, for example, the third switch area SW3 may be used as a hit input area for instructing to increase the channel number, and the channel number may be increased by one step when the third switch area SW3 is hit once. That is, if the third switch area SW1 is associated with a command for increasing the channel number and it is determined that the third switch area SW3 has been hit once, the command for increasing the channel number may be executed.

  Further, for example, the fourth switch area SW4 may be used as a hit input area for instructing the channel number down, and the channel number may be lowered by one step when the fourth switch area SW4 is hit once. That is, if the fourth switch area SW4 is associated with a command for channel number down and it is determined that the fourth switch area SW4 has been hit once, the command for channel number down may be executed.

  In this way, a switch can be provided without using an electrical switch in a housing of a thin television or the like. Accordingly, there is no need to consider the wiring area as in the configuration in which an electrical switch is provided, and thus the casing of the thin television can be made thinner.

  FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the electronic device according to this embodiment. The electronic device 950 includes a vibration detection sensor 952. The vibration detection sensor 952 is attached to the electronic device 950 and configured to detect vibration of the electronic device 950. As the vibration detection sensor 952, an angular velocity sensor can be used. The vibration detection sensor 952 may be configured to output an analog signal corresponding to the vibration mode of the electronic device 950.

  The electronic device 950 has a tapping input detection 954 that determines whether or not the user has performed tapping input on the electronic device 950 based on the output signal of the vibration detection sensor 952. The hit input detection unit 954 includes a determination condition storage unit 956 that stores a determination condition for determining that a hit input has been performed on the electronic device 950, and is based on the determination condition stored in the determination condition storage unit 956. The presence or absence of tapping input may be determined. The hit input detection unit 954 may further include a determination condition setting unit 958 that stores the determination condition in the determination condition storage unit 956. The determination condition setting unit 958 may be configured to set the determination condition based on the hit input applied to the electronic device 950 during the determination condition setting registration period. According to this, it is possible to operate the electronic device by hitting input only when hitting input of specific strength is made in a specific area of the electronic device 950 with the electronic device 950 installed in a predetermined manner. Thus, an electronic device can be configured. Therefore, it becomes possible to prevent malfunction.

  The electronic device 950 includes an operation signal generation unit 960. The operation signal generation unit 960 generates an operation signal corresponding to the hit input detected by the hit input detection unit 954. In the case of having a plurality of switch areas, the operation signal generation unit 960 has data indicating the correspondence between the hit switch area and the operation signal, and based on the data, You may be comprised so that the corresponding operation signal may be output. Thereby, it is possible to cause the electronic device to perform various operations by a simple operation of hitting a switch area provided in the electronic device.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to this embodiment, A various deformation | transformation implementation is possible within the range of the summary of this invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the number of hits is determined using the rotational angular velocity about one axis has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the configuration may be such that a motion command is detected by detecting rotational angular velocities about three axes.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the voltage value transition is extracted as an analog signal from the angular velocity sensor has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which the transition of the current value is extracted as an analog signal from the angular velocity sensor may be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where a mobile phone, a portable player, or a thin television is used as the electronic device has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device may be a controller for operating a main body provided separately from the main body. In this way, it is possible to provide a controller capable of performing hitting input.

The figure for demonstrating the structure of the hit command processing system of this Embodiment. It is an example of the electronic device of this Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the rotation angular velocity of this Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating determination of the frequency | count of a hit in this Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the relationship between the rotation angular velocity value detected within the hit command registration period, and the hit command determination registration information set. It is a figure for demonstrating the correspondence of a frequency | count of a hit and a command. The figure for demonstrating the structure which switches the command made to respond | correspond according to a processing system. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of a hitting area according to the present embodiment. The flowchart for demonstrating the flow of the process which determines the frequency | count that the electronic device was hit using rotation angular velocity. The flowchart for demonstrating the flow of the process which registers the correspondence of the frequency | count of a hit and a command. The flowchart for demonstrating the flow of the registration process of hit command determination information. The flowchart for demonstrating the flow of the process which determines the frequency | count that the electronic device was hit using hit command determination information. The flowchart for demonstrating the learning function of a hit command detection. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a structure of an electronic device. The figure for demonstrating the structure of the hit command processing system of 2nd Embodiment. The figure which shows the positional relationship of the some switch area and gyro sensor which were provided in the electronic device. FIGS. 17A and 17B are diagrams showing examples of analog signals taken out from the gyro sensor when each switch area is hit. The figure which shows the positional relationship of the some switch area and gyro sensor which were provided in the electronic device. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C are diagrams showing examples of analog signals taken out from the gyro sensor when each switch area is hit. The figure which shows the positional relationship of the several switch area and the several gyro sensor which were provided in the flat surface of the electronic device. FIGS. 21A to 21D are diagrams showing examples of analog signals taken out from a plurality of gyro sensors when each switch area is hit. The figure which shows the positional relationship of four switch areas and two gyro sensors provided in the flat surface of the electronic device. FIG. 23A to FIG. 23D show examples of analog signals extracted from a plurality of gyro sensors when each switch area is hit. The flowchart for demonstrating the flow of the process which determines the presence or absence of the hit input to an electronic device using a rotation angular velocity. The figure for demonstrating the example in the case of operating a thin television by hitting. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

10 hit command processing system, 20 angular velocity sensor, 22 analog signal, 30 analog processing circuit, 32 low-pass filter / op-amp, 34 A / D converter, 36 digital signal, 40 correspondence setting unit, 42 correspondence storage unit, 50 hit command Determination information storage unit, 60 capture data holding unit, 70 hit number detection unit, 80 hit command execution unit, 90 hit command determination information registration processing unit, 92 history reflection detection processing unit, 100 contact detection unit, 200 electronic device, 410 hit Area, 500 electronic device, 502 vibration detection sensor, 504 hit count determination unit, 506 determination condition storage unit, 508 determination condition setting unit, 510 operation signal generation processing unit, 610 hit command processing system, 620 angular velocity sensor, 622 analog signal, 630 Analog Processing circuit, 632 low-pass filter / op-amp, 634 A / D converter, 636 digital signal, 650 strike command determination information storage unit, 660 capture data holding unit, 670 strike input detection unit, 680 strike command execution unit, 950 electronic device, 952 Vibration detection sensor, 954 hit count determination unit, 956 determination condition storage unit, 958 determination condition setting unit, 960 operation signal generation processing unit

Claims (19)

An electronic device tapping command processing system,
An angular velocity sensor that detects the rotational angular velocity and outputs an analog signal;
An analog processing circuit that receives an analog signal output from the angular velocity sensor, converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal;
A tapping input detection unit that receives the digital signal output from the analog processing circuit and determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
Including
The hit input detection unit
Based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value of the angular velocity sensor, determine whether or not there is a tapping input to a plurality of switch areas where analog signals detected by the angular velocity sensor by tapping are arranged at different positions;
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area determined to have the hit input is executed. Tapping command processing system. An electronic device tapping command processing system,
An angular velocity sensor that detects rotation and outputs an analog signal;
An analog processing circuit that receives an analog signal output from the angular velocity sensor, converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal;
A tapping input detection unit that receives the digital signal output from the analog processing circuit and determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
Including
The hit input detection unit
Based on the rotation direction value of the analog value output by the angular velocity sensor and the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, the presence or absence of a hit input to a plurality of switch areas where the analog signals detected by the angular velocity sensor are arranged at different positions by being hit. Judgment,
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area determined to have the hit input is executed. Tapping command processing system. An electronic device tapping command processing system,
An angular velocity sensor that detects rotation and outputs an analog signal;
An analog processing circuit that receives an analog signal output from the angular velocity sensor, converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal;
A tapping input detection unit that receives the digital signal output from the analog processing circuit and determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
Including
The command processing system includes a plurality of angular velocity sensors,
The hit input detection unit
Based on the transition of rotational angular velocity values of the plurality of angular velocity sensors arranged at different positions of the electronic device, analog signals detected by the plurality of angular velocity sensors by being hit are applied to a plurality of switch areas arranged at different positions. Judge whether there is a hit input,
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area determined to have the hit input is executed. Tapping command processing system. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The hit input detection unit
Including a tapping number detection unit that receives the rotation angular velocity value output from the analog processing circuit and determines the number of times the electronic device has been tapped based on the transition of the rotation angular velocity value;
The hit command execution unit
Including a correspondence storage unit for storing the correspondence between the number of hits and the command,
The correspondence based on the relationship, hit command processing system and executes the associated with the number of times that he determined to be叩command. An electronic device tapping command processing system,
A tapping input detector that determines the presence or absence of tapping input based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
Including
The hit input detection unit
Based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, the presence or absence of hit input to a plurality of switch areas arranged at different positions of the analog signal detected by the angular velocity sensor by being hit,
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area determined to have the hit input is executed. Tapping command processing system. An electronic device tapping command processing system,
A tapping input detector that determines the presence or absence of tapping input based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value;
If it is determined that there is a hit input, a hit command execution unit that executes a command associated with the hit input;
Including
The hit input detection unit
Based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity values of a plurality of angular velocity sensors arranged at different positions of the electronic device, presence / absence of tapping input to a plurality of switch areas arranged at different positions of the analog signals detected by the angular velocity sensors by being tapped Determine
The hit command execution unit
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, a command associated with the switch area determined to have the hit input is executed. Tapping command processing system. In claim 5 or 6,
The hit input detection unit
Including a hit number detection unit that determines the number of times an electronic device has been hit based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value;
The hit command execution unit
Including a correspondence storage unit for storing the correspondence between the number of hits and the command,
The correspondence based on the relationship, hit command processing system and executes the associated with the number of times that he determined to be叩command. In claim 4 or 7 ,
A tapping command processing system comprising a correspondence setting unit that sets a correspondence between the number of hits and a command based on an external input and stores it in the correspondence storage unit. In any one of Claim 4 , 7 , and 8 ,
Set the hit command registration period,
A hit command determination information registration processing unit that generates hit command determination information based on the rotational angular velocity value received within the hit command registration period and stores the hit command determination information in a storage unit;
The hit number detection unit is
A hit command processing system for determining the number of times an electronic device has been hit based on the hit command determination information and the transition of the rotational angular velocity value. In any one of Claim 4, 7-9 ,
The hit number detection unit is
A hit command processing system, wherein a pulse satisfying an operation event occurrence condition is detected based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value, and the number of times the electronic device is hit is determined based on the pulse. In any one of Claim 4, 7-10 ,
The correspondence storage unit
The correspondence between the number of hits and commands is stored for each processing system,
The hit command execution unit
Including a processing system switching means for switching and executing a plurality of processing systems,
The correspondence based on the relationship, hit command processing system and executes a command associated with the number of times that he determined to be叩for the current processing system. In any one of Claims 4 and 7-11 ,
The hit command execution unit
Including means to enable or disable the use of the hit command,
A hit command processing system that executes a command associated with the determined number of hits when the use of the hit command is set to be valid. In any one of claims 10-12 depending on claim 9 or 9 .
The hit command determination information registration processing unit
Including a history information registration unit that generates hit command identification information based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value when the hit command is executed and stores the hit command determination information in the hit command determination information storage unit,
The hit number detection unit is
A hit command processing system including a history reflection processing unit for determining the number of hits based on the transition of the rotational angular velocity value and the command history information. In any one of Claims 4 and 7-13 ,
Has a hitting area for inputting hitting commands outside the electronic device,
The hit number detection unit is
A hit command processing system for determining the number of hits by setting a determination condition for determining the number of hits on the assumption that the hit area is hit. In claim 14,
A contact detection unit for detecting contact with the hitting area;
The hit number detection unit is
A hit command processing system characterized by determining the number of hits based on a transition of a rotational angular velocity value acquired during a period in which contact with a hit area is detected. In any one of Claim 4, 7-15 ,
A gripping unit provided outside the electronic device and gripped by the user;
A contact detection unit for detecting contact with the gripping unit;
The hit number detection unit is
The hit command processing system, wherein the hit number is determined based on a transition of the rotational angular velocity value acquired during a period in which contact with the grip portion is detected. An electronic device operation system,
An angular velocity sensor for detecting vibration of the electronic device;
Based on the output signal of the angular velocity sensor, a tapping input detection unit that determines the presence or absence of tapping input to the electronic device,
An operation signal generation unit that generates an operation signal for operating the electronic device based on the presence or absence of the hit input;
Including
The hit input detection unit
Based on the output signal of the angular velocity sensor, the presence or absence of hit input to a plurality of switch areas arranged at different positions of the analog signal detected by the angular velocity sensor by being hit,
The operation signal generator is
When it is determined that the hit input is present in any one of the plurality of switch areas, an operation signal associated with the switch area determined to have the hit input is output. Electronic device operation system. An electronic device capable of tapping input operation,
An electronic device comprising the hit command processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or the electronic device operation system according to claim 17. In claim 18,
An electronic apparatus, comprising a housing mechanism for perceived not attached as an input area hit the plurality of switch area.