JP6198581B2 - Interface device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an interface apparatus when an operation unit and a display unit are separated (installed separately).

  Conventionally, an interface device in which an operation unit such as a touch panel and a display unit are integrally formed is known, and a touch operation exists as a useful operation method. In this case, if the operation unit and the display unit are integrated, it is possible to select and determine by one operation of touching and releasing the icon.

  For example, in Patent Document 1, in a display device in which an operation unit and a display unit using a touch panel are integrated, icons are rearranged and displayed around a contact position touched by an operator's finger or the like. An apparatus capable of reducing the amount of movement of the line of sight to search for and the movement of a finger or the like performing an input operation is disclosed.

JP 2011-210083 A

  However, there are cases where the information display unit is installed in a place out of the reach of the user due to restrictions on the installation position of the device such as an interface device in a vehicle such as an automobile. In this case, the content displayed on the display unit is operated using an operation unit separated from the display unit. Further, like some notebook personal computers, there are cases where the display unit and the operation unit are separated even if the display unit exists in an accessible place.

As described above, even when the operation unit and the display unit are separated, the touch operation exists as a useful operation method as the operation method, but the separation type is more iconic than the integral type. There was a problem that the amount of work for selecting / determining increased.
For example, when selecting an icon displayed on the display unit, if it is an integrated type, it can be selected and determined by a single operation of touching and releasing the icon. In many cases, a two-step operation is required, such as using the cursor on the icon and selecting the touch operation unit by tapping.

Even if the operation unit separated from the main display unit has a display unit, if the size is smaller than the main display unit or the resolution is low, the same one-touch operation as the integrated type can be performed. There may be no cases.
Furthermore, when an icon touch operation is performed with an integrated device, the user's hand can adjust the spatial position and select pinpoints before touching the displayed icon. In this case, it is often necessary to move the cursor after touching, and the larger the movement, the more troublesome. In addition, the operation unit is often smaller in size than the display unit, and many touch and release operations may be required to move the cursor.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and even when the operation unit and the display unit are separated (installed separately), one operation of touch and release is performed. An object of the present invention is to provide an interface device capable of selecting and determining icons.

In order to achieve the above object, an interface device according to the present invention includes a contact position detection unit that detects a contact position where an operation object contacts, and a display unit that is separately provided from the contact position detection unit and capable of displaying a plurality of icons. A storage unit that stores change data of display content displayed on the display unit, a contact position detected by the contact position detection unit, and based on the change data stored in the storage unit, A control unit that controls display content displayed on the display unit, and the control unit positions and sizes of the plurality of icons displayed on the display unit according to the contact position acquired from the contact position detection unit. Is determined based on the change data stored in the storage unit, displayed on the display unit, and based on the information acquired from the contact position detection unit, The state of contact and non-contact of the crop body is determined, and if the contact state of the operation object continues, the icon corresponding to the contact position is selected, and the first contact of the operation object In consideration of the direction in which the operation object cannot move , an icon other than the icon corresponding to the position is considered, and the operation object is contacted from the first contact position so that the icon can be reached without passing over another icon. Immediately before changing to the non-contact state when the contact state of the operation object is changed to non-contact, displayed on the display unit so that it can be selected by moving while maintaining the state It is determined that an icon corresponding to the contact position is selected, and an operation corresponding to the icon is executed.

  According to the present invention, since it is possible to select and determine any icon in one operation from when the operator's finger contacts the touch position detection unit (touch pad) until it is released, the operation for the operator However, it is possible to select a menu icon safely and perform an operation corresponding to the icon without looking at the operation unit even during driving.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an interface device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation in a contact position detection unit according to Embodiment 1 and an example of a display screen displayed on a display unit. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a control unit in the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows another example of the operation example in the contact position detection part in the state of Fig.2 (a) of Embodiment 1, and the display screen displayed on a display part. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating still another example of an operation example in the contact position detection unit according to the first embodiment and a display screen displayed on the display unit. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation example in the contact position detection unit and a display screen displayed on the display unit in the state of FIG. 5A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in a contact position detection unit according to Embodiment 2 and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a control unit in the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows another example of the example of operation in the contact position detection part in the state of FIG.7 (b) of Embodiment 2, and the display screen displayed on a display part. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an interface device in a third embodiment. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation in an approach / contact position detection unit according to Embodiment 3 and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a control unit according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation example in the approach / contact position detection unit and a display screen displayed on the display unit in the state of FIG. 11A according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an interface device in a fourth embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation in a contact position detection unit according to Embodiment 4 and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a control unit in the fourth embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an interface apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This interface device includes a contact position detection unit 1, a display unit 2, a storage unit 3, and a control unit 4. The operation unit and the display unit are separated (installed separately). In the present invention, a case where this interface device is mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile will be described as an example.

  The contact position detection unit 1 detects and detects a position where an operation object such as an operator's finger touches, such as a contact detection device such as a capacitance type, an ultrasonic type, an infrared type, or a terminal capable of touch operation. Position information is output. In the present invention, the contact position detector 1 will be described as a touch pad provided on a vehicle handle, an armrest of a driver's seat, or the like.

  The display unit 2 is a display unit that is separately provided from the contact position detection unit 1 and can display a plurality of icons. For example, the display unit 2 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. Various images, a menu screen, a plurality of icons, and the like are displayed according to the contents controlled by the control unit 4.

The storage unit 3 stores a display change database 31 that summarizes the program and change data of display contents displayed on the display unit 2.
The display change database 31 is a database that holds change data necessary for changing display contents displayed on the display unit 2, such as the limit number of icons, icon arrangement information (coordinate information), and icon size information. is there.

The control unit 4 controls the entire image and operation, and includes a display information management unit 41, a contact position information analysis unit 42, and a database access unit 43.
The display information management unit 41 manages and executes transitions of display screens displayed on the display unit 2 and changes of icon positions and sizes.
The contact position information analysis unit 42 acquires the position information detected by the contact position detection unit 1 and determines contact / long press (continuation of contact) / non-contact (release, change from contact to non-contact). At the same time, the acquired position information is converted into position information necessary for operating the contents displayed on the display unit 2.
The database access unit 43 accesses the display change database 31 stored in the storage unit 3 and acquires information about display change contents.

  That is, the control unit 4 acquires the position information detected by the contact position detection unit 1 and controls the display content displayed on the display unit 2 based on the change data stored in the storage unit 3. More specifically, at least one of the positions and sizes of the plurality of icons displayed on the display unit 2 according to the contact position acquired from the contact position detection unit 1 is stored in the storage unit 3. Based on the information obtained from the contact position detection unit 1 and determining the continuation and change state of the contact and non-contact (release) of the operation object such as a finger, An icon is selected and determined according to the determination result, and an operation corresponding to the icon is executed. Details will be described later.

Here, processing in the control unit 4 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to an operation example and a display screen example shown in FIG. 2 and a flowchart shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the contact position detection unit 1 according to the first embodiment and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit 2. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the control unit 4 according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a process.

  As shown in FIG. 2 (a), the contact position detection unit 1 is a touch pad provided within the reach of the operator's hand, and the display unit 2 installed separately from the contact position detection unit 1 includes: Arbitrary images are displayed. Here, it is assumed that a car navigation map is displayed.

  In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 2B, when the operator's finger contacts the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, the contact position information analysis unit 42 detects the contact detected by the contact position detection unit 1. Position information is acquired (step ST1), and it is determined whether or not the contact at that position is a long press (step ST2). Note that whether or not the button is long-pressed is determined based on whether or not the contact time has continued for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds).

  When it is determined that the button is a long press (in the case of YES in step ST2), the database access unit 43 stores data (display change data) relating to the icon arrangement corresponding to the contact position acquired in step ST1. From the display change database (step ST3), the display information management unit 41 determines the icon arrangement / size based on the acquired display change data, arranges the icons, and causes the display unit 2 to display the menu screen. (Step ST4).

  At this time, the display information management unit 41 arranges icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position of the finger at positions that can be selected by moving the finger while maintaining the contact state from the first contact position. As shown, it is displayed on the display unit 2.

  In FIG. 2B, the “return” button is displayed at the left center of the display unit 2 when the operator's finger contacts and presses the center of the left end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 for a long time. A display screen in which menu icons are arranged at positions where a finger can move around in the selected state. That is, each icon is arranged in the upward direction, the downward direction, and the right direction in view of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further to the left (there is no moving space), and the finger remains in contact. Is moved to a location where the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  Thereafter, the contact position information analysis unit 42 determines whether or not the contact position of the operator's finger has moved (step ST5). When the movement of the operator's finger is detected (YES in step ST5), the display information management unit 41 places an icon on the coordinate value (corresponding coordinate system of the display unit 2) of the movement destination of the finger. If the icon is not arranged (in the case of NO in step ST6), the process returns to step ST5 to determine the movement of the finger contact position. If there is an icon at the finger movement destination (YES in step ST6), the icon is selected (step ST7).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 2C from the state of FIG. 2B, when the operator's finger moves downward while in contact with the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, in FIG. The display in which the position of the “return” button is selected is changed to a state in which the “E” icon in the downward direction is selected.

When the operator releases the finger in this state, the contact position information analysis unit 42 detects non-contact (release) (in the case of YES in step ST8), and the display information management unit 41 detects the non-contact (release) position. The selection of the icon “E” is made a decision state, and the screen content is changed (step ST9).
On the other hand, when the non-contact (release) of the operator's finger is not detected (NO in step ST8), the process returns to step ST5 and is repeated.

  Further, when it is determined in step ST5 that there is no movement of the finger (in the case of NO in step ST5), it is determined whether or not the finger is released at the contact position (whether there is no contact (release)). Determination is made (step ST8), and the subsequent processing is repeated.

  As described above, the control unit 4 determines the continuation and change state of the contact and non-contact (release) of the operation object such as the finger based on the information acquired from the contact position detection unit 1, and the contact of the finger or the like. If the state continues, the icon corresponding to the contact position is selected, and the icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position such as a finger are maintained from the first contact position. When the contact state of a finger or the like changes to non-contact (release), it changes to the non-contact (release) state. It is determined that an icon corresponding to the contact position immediately before the operation is selected, and an operation corresponding to the icon is executed.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another example of the operation example in the contact position detection unit and the display screen displayed on the display unit in the state of FIG. 2A according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 4A shows the display when the operator's finger touches and touches the upper end of the right end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 for a long time in the state shown in FIG. In the state where the “return” button is displayed and selected in the upper right part of the section 2, a display screen in which menu icons are arranged at positions where the finger can move around is shown.

  That is, each icon is arranged in an arc shape in the left direction and the downward direction in view of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further to the right or upward (there is no movement space), and It is arranged in a place where the icon can be reached without moving over another icon by moving the fingertip while keeping it in contact.

  In this state, when the operator's finger is in contact and moves downward, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), the cursor in which the position of the “return” button was selected in FIG. 4 (a). The display is in a state where the downward “E” icon is selected. When the operator releases the finger in this state, selection of the icon “E” at that position is determined, and an operation corresponding to the icon “E” is executed.

  As described above, in a state where a normal navigation map or the like is displayed, by touching and holding somewhere on the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, an icon is displayed at a position that is easy for the operator to operate. A menu screen is displayed. Just move your finger in the direction of the desired icon and release it, that is, you can select and determine any icon with one operation from touching to releasing As a result, the operation is very easy and light for the operator, and it is possible to safely select a menu icon and perform an operation corresponding to the icon without looking at the operation unit even during driving. .

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another example of the operation example in the contact position detection unit 1 and the display screen displayed on the display unit 2 according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 5A, in this application example, a menu screen in which a plurality of icons (menu icons) are arranged is displayed on the display unit 2 separately provided apart from the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1. Has been.

  In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the operator's finger contacts the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, the contact position information analysis unit 42 detects the contact detected by the contact position detection unit 1. Position information is acquired (step ST1), and it is determined whether or not the contact at that position is a long press (step ST2).

  When it is determined that the button is a long press (in the case of YES in step ST2), the database access unit 43 stores data (display change data) relating to the icon arrangement corresponding to the contact position acquired in step ST1. From the display change database (step ST3), the display information management unit 41 determines the arrangement / size of the icons based on the acquired display change data, rearranges the icons, and displays the menu screen on the display unit 2 (Step ST4).

  FIG. 5B shows that the “return” button is displayed at the left center of the display unit 2 when the operator's finger touches and presses the center of the left end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 for a long time. In the selected state, a display screen is shown in which menu icons are rearranged at positions where fingers can move around. That is, each icon is arranged in an arc shape in the upward direction, the right direction, and the downward direction in consideration of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further to the left (there is no movement space), and touches the finger. By moving the fingertip as it is, it is placed in a place where the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, since nine menu icons exist, they are arranged in an arc shape. Further, the position of each icon on the menu screen displayed in FIG. 5A and the position of each icon on the menu screen in FIG. 5B after the icons are rearranged are not greatly changed. That is, even after the rearrangement, the icons “A”, “B”, and “C” are upward, “D”, “E”, and “F” are near the center, and “G”, “H”, and “I” are downward. The arrangement of the icons is adjusted so that the rough position of the icons is maintained.

  Thereafter, the contact position information analysis unit 42 determines whether or not the contact position of the operator's finger has moved (step ST5). When the movement of the operator's finger is detected (YES in step ST5), the display information management unit 41 places an icon on the coordinate value (corresponding coordinate system of the display unit 2) of the movement destination of the finger. If the icon is not arranged (in the case of NO in step ST6), the process returns to step ST5 to determine the movement of the finger contact position. If there is an icon at the finger movement destination (YES in step ST6), the icon is selected (step ST7).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5C from the state of FIG. 5B, when the operator's finger moves in the lower right direction while being in contact with the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, FIG. Then, the display where the position of the “return” button is selected is changed to the state where the “I” icon in the lower right direction is selected.

When the operator releases the finger in this state, the contact position information analysis unit 42 detects non-contact (release) (in the case of YES in step ST8), and the display information management unit 41 detects the non-contact (release) position. The selection of the icon “I” is made a decision state, and the screen content is changed (step ST9).
On the other hand, when the non-contact (release) of the operator's finger is not detected (NO in step ST8), the process returns to step ST5 and is repeated.

  Further, when it is determined in step ST5 that there is no movement of the finger (in the case of NO in step ST5), it is determined whether or not the finger is released at the contact position (whether there is no contact (release)). Determination is made (step ST8), and the subsequent processing is repeated.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating another example of the operation example in the contact position detection unit and the display screen displayed on the display unit in the state of FIG. 5A according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 (a) shows that the operator's finger touches and presses the center of the right end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 for a long time in the state shown in FIG. 5 (a). A display screen is shown in which menu icons are rearranged at positions where the finger can move around the “return” button displayed and selected at the center right of the section 2. That is, each icon is arranged in an arc shape in the upward direction, the left direction, and the downward direction in consideration of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further to the right (there is no movement space), and touch the finger. By moving the fingertip as it is, it is placed in a place where the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  In this state, when the operator's finger is in contact and moved in the lower left direction, as shown in FIG. 6 (b), the cursor in which the position of the “return” button was selected in FIG. 6 (a). In the display, the “I” icon in the lower left direction is selected. When the operator releases the finger in this state, the selection of the icon “I” at that position is determined, and the operation corresponding to the icon “I” is executed.

  As described above, in a state where the menu screen is displayed, by touching and holding somewhere on the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, icons are rearranged at positions that are easy for the operator to operate. The menu screen is displayed, and you can select and decide for any icon by moving your finger in the direction of the desired icon and releasing it. The operation is very easy and light for the operator, and it is possible to safely select a menu icon and execute an operation corresponding to the icon without looking at the operation unit even during driving.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to select / determine any icon in one operation from when the finger of the operator touches the contact position detection unit (touch pad) until it is released. Therefore, the operation is very easy and light for the operator, and it is possible to safely select a menu icon and execute an operation corresponding to the icon without looking at the operation unit even during driving. Become.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
Since the block diagram showing the configuration of the interface device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is the same as FIG. 1 shown in the first embodiment, the illustration and description thereof are omitted. In the second embodiment described below, a function for calculating the presence / absence and movement direction of the finger contact position from the coordinate data of the contact position acquired in time series is provided. It is provided with a function of enlarging and displaying only the icon in the moving direction and the icon in the vicinity thereof.

Here, the processing in the control unit 4 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to the operation example and display screen example shown in FIG. 7 and the flowchart shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of operation in the contact position detection unit 1 of the second embodiment and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit 2, and FIG. 8 is a diagram of the control unit 4 in the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a process.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the contact position detection unit 1 is a touch pad provided within the reach of the operator's hand, and the display unit 2 installed separately from the contact position detection unit 1 includes A menu screen with a plurality of icons (menu icons) arranged is displayed.

  In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the operator's finger contacts the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, the contact position information analysis unit 42 detects the contact detected by the contact position detection unit 1. The position information is acquired (step ST11), and it is determined whether or not the contact at that position is a long press (step ST12). Note that whether or not the button is long-pressed is determined based on whether or not the contact time has continued for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds).

  When it is determined that the button is long-pressed (YES in step ST12), the database access unit 43 stores data (display change data) regarding the icon arrangement corresponding to the contact position acquired in step ST11. From the display change database (step ST13), the display information management unit 41 determines the icon arrangement and size based on the acquired display change data, arranges the icons, and causes the display unit 2 to display the menu screen. (Step ST14).

  At this time, the display information management unit 41 arranges icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position of the finger at positions that can be selected by moving the finger while maintaining the contact state from the first contact position. As shown, it is displayed on the display unit 2.

  FIG. 7B shows that a “return” button is displayed at the left center of the display unit 2 when the operator's finger contacts and presses the center of the left end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 for a long time. A display screen in which menu icons are arranged at positions where a finger can move around in the selected state. That is, each icon is arranged in an arc shape in the upward direction, the downward direction, and the right direction in consideration of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further leftward (no movement space), and the finger touches the icon. By moving the fingertip as it is, it is placed in a place where the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, since nine menu icons exist, they are arranged in an arc shape. Further, the position of each icon on the menu screen displayed in FIG. 7A and the position of each icon on the menu screen in FIG. 7B after the icons are rearranged are not greatly changed. That is, even after the rearrangement, the icons “A”, “B”, and “C” are upward, “D”, “E”, and “F” are near the center, and “G”, “H”, and “I” are downward. The arrangement of the icons is adjusted so that the rough position of the icons is maintained.

  This state is the same as in FIGS. 5A and 5B of the first embodiment, but here only nine icons are used for explanation, and the number of icons is large and is ten or more. In this case, it is assumed that it is difficult to select an icon in the fingertip movement direction control.

  Thereafter, the contact position information analysis unit 42 determines whether or not the contact position of the operator's finger has moved (step ST15). When the movement of the operator's finger is detected (YES in step ST15), the display information management unit 41 places an icon on the coordinate value (corresponding coordinate system of the display unit 2) of the movement destination of the finger. If the icon is not arranged (in the case of NO in step ST16), the process returns to step ST15 to determine the movement of the finger contact position.

  If there is an icon at the destination of the finger (YES in step ST16), the database access unit 43 displays the display change database in the storage unit 3 for the icon in the vicinity (both adjacent) centering on the icon. Based on the display change data obtained from, the icon placement / size, etc., is determined according to the location of the finger's destination, and only the icon displayed at the destination and the nearby icon are extracted, and the display information The management part 41 displays the menu screen which expanded and arrange | positioned it on the display part 2 (step ST17).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7C from the state of FIG. 7B, when the operator's finger moves in the upper right direction while being in contact with the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, it is in that direction. A menu screen in which only the three icons “B”, “C”, and “D” are enlarged and arranged is displayed together with the icons “B” and “D” in the vicinity (both adjacent) centered on the “C” icon.

  Thereafter, the contact position information analysis unit 42 determines whether or not the contact position of the operator's finger has further moved (step ST18). When the movement of the operator's finger is detected (YES in step ST18), the display information management unit 41 places an icon on the coordinate value (corresponding coordinate system of the display unit 2) of the movement destination of the finger. If the icon is not arranged (in the case of NO in step ST19), the process returns to step ST18 to determine the movement of the finger contact position. If there is an icon at the finger movement destination (YES in step ST19), the icon is selected (step ST20).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7D from the state of FIG. 7C, when the operator's finger moves to the right while touching the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, in FIG. The display in which the position of the “return” button is selected is changed to the state in which the “C” icon in the right direction is selected.

When the operator releases the finger in this state, the contact position information analysis unit 42 detects non-contact (release) (in the case of YES in step ST21), and the display information management unit 41 detects the non-contact (release) position. The selection of the icon “C” is made a decision state, and the screen content is changed (step ST22).
On the other hand, when the non-contact (release) of the operator's finger is not detected (NO in step ST21), the process returns to step ST15 and the process is repeated.

  Further, when it is determined in step ST15 that there is no finger movement (in the case of NO in step ST15), it is determined whether or not the finger is released at the contact position (whether there is no contact (release)). Determination is made (step ST21), and the subsequent processing is repeated.

As described above, the control unit 4 displays on the display unit 2 when the contact state of the operation object such as the finger continues and moves based on the information acquired from the contact position detection unit 1. At least one of the position and the size of the plurality of icons to be changed is changed according to the contact position after the movement of the finger or the like.
Thereby, for example, the cursor movement in FIGS. 2, 4 to 6, and the like can be performed using the direction information, and the selection is performed by simple cursor movement based on the coordinate movement amount ( It is possible to select an icon with a lower load (shorter movement) than when selecting an icon by moving the touch position using a normal coordinate system.

In addition, when the contact state of the operation object such as the finger continues and moves, the control unit 4 is displayed at a position on the display unit 2 corresponding to the contact position according to the contact position after the movement. Only the selected icon and the icon in the vicinity thereof are extracted and displayed on the display unit 2 in an enlarged manner.
Thus, even when there are a large number of icons and the rearranged and resized icons are displayed in a small size, the icons can be easily selected and determined.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating another example of the operation example in the contact position detection unit and the display screen displayed on the display unit in the state of FIG. 7A according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 9A shows a state in which the operator touches the center of the left end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 in the state shown in FIG. The display screen in which the menu icon is rearranged at a position where the finger can move around in the state in which the “return” button is displayed and selected in the left center portion of the display unit 2 by long pressing. .

  That is, each icon is arranged in the right direction and the downward direction in consideration of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further leftward or upward (there is no moving space), and the finger is brought into contact with each other. It is placed in a place where you can reach the icon without moving over another icon by moving the fingertip.

  9B, from the state shown in FIG. 9A, the operator's finger moves in the diagonally upper right direction of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, and further moves upward. The example of the menu screen displayed when it becomes a state which cannot be performed is shown. In this case, each icon is arranged in the right direction and the lower direction in view of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move upward any more and cannot move much in the left direction (there is no movement space), and By moving the fingertip while keeping the finger in contact, it is arranged at a location where the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  In this state, when the operator's finger is in contact and moved in the lower right direction, as shown in FIG. 9C, the position of the “return” button was selected in FIG. 9B. In the cursor display, the “C” icon in the lower right direction is selected. When the operator releases the finger in this state, the selection of the icon “C” at that position is determined, and the operation corresponding to the icon “C” is executed.

  In this manner, in a state where the menu screen with a large number of icons is displayed, by touching and holding somewhere on the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, the icon is placed at a position that is easy for the operator to operate. Is displayed, and if you move your finger in the direction of the desired icon as it is, the surrounding menu icons will be enlarged, so the operator will move your finger in the direction of the desired icon as it is All the icons can be selected / determined with a single operation from touch to release, which means that the operation is very easy and light for the operator, and it can be done while driving. However, it is possible to safely select a menu icon and perform an operation corresponding to the icon without looking at the operation unit.

  As described above, even in the case of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, one operation until the operator's finger comes in contact with the contact position detection unit (touch pad) until it is released, Since any icon can be selected and determined, the operation is very easy and light for the operator, and even when driving, the menu icon can be selected safely without looking at the operation section. It is possible to execute an operation corresponding to.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the interface apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the structure similar to what was demonstrated in Embodiment 1, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted. The interface device according to Embodiment 3 shown below includes an approach / contact position detection unit 11, a display unit 2, a storage unit 3, and a control unit 40, and the operation unit and the display unit are separated (separately installed). Device).

  The approach / contact position detection unit 11 is a position where an operation object such as an operator's finger approaches using a device that improves the sensitivity of the capacitive contact device, an optical contact detection device, or a camera. The (location) and the touched position are detected, and the detected approach / contact position information is output. That is, as compared with the contact position detector 1 in the first and second embodiments, not only contact but also approach can be detected.

The control unit 40 controls the entire image and operation, and includes a display information management unit 41, an approach / contact position information analysis unit 44, and a database access unit 43.
The approach / contact position information analysis unit 44 acquires the position information detected by the approach / contact position detection unit 11 to determine approach / contact / long press / non-contact (release), and the acquired position information. Is converted into position information necessary for operating the content displayed on the display unit 2.

  That is, the control unit 40 acquires the position information detected by the approach / contact position detection unit 11 and controls the display content displayed on the display unit 2 based on the change data stored in the storage unit 3. More specifically, according to the approach position and the contact position acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit 11, at least one of the positions and sizes of the plurality of icons displayed on the display unit 2 is stored in the storage unit 3. Is determined on the basis of the change data stored in the display unit and displayed on the display unit 2, and on the basis of information acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit 11, the approach, contact, and non-contact of the operation object such as a finger ) Is continued and changed, an icon is selected and determined according to the determination result, and an operation corresponding to the icon is executed. Details will be described later.

Here, processing in the control unit 40 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to an operation example and a display screen example shown in FIG. 11 and a flowchart shown in FIG.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of operation in the approach / contact position detection unit 11 of the third embodiment and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit 2, and FIG. 12 is a control unit in the third embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows 40 processes.

  Similar to the first and second embodiments, the approach / contact position detection unit 11 is a touch pad provided within the reach of the operator's hand, and as shown in FIG. An arbitrary image is displayed on the display unit 2 installed separately from the detection unit 11. Here, it is assumed that a car navigation map is displayed.

  In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 11B, when the operator's finger approaches the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11 and a proximity state is detected, the approach / contact position information analysis unit 44. Obtains the approach position information detected by the approach / contact position detection unit 11 (step ST31), and determines whether or not the approach at the position is approaching for a long time exceeding a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) ( Step ST32).

  When it is determined that the vehicle is close for a long time (in the case of YES in step ST32), the database access unit 43 stores data (display change data) relating to the icon arrangement corresponding to the approach position acquired in step ST31. 3 from the display change database 3 (step ST33), the display information management unit 41 determines the icon arrangement / size based on the acquired display change data, arranges the icons, and displays the menu screen on the display unit 2. (Step ST34).

  At this time, the display information management unit 41 arranges icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position of the finger at positions that can be selected by moving the finger while maintaining the contact state from the first contact position. As shown, it is displayed on the display unit 2.

  FIG. 11B shows the display when the operator's finger has stopped for a long time (2 seconds or more) in the state of being approached without touching the center of the left end of the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11. A display screen in which menu icons are arranged at positions where a finger can move around the “return” button displayed and selected at the center left of the part 2 is shown. That is, each icon is arranged in the upward direction, the downward direction, and the right direction in view of the fact that when the operator's finger touches (contacts) as it is, it cannot move further in the left direction (there is no movement space) And it is arrange | positioned in the place which can reach the icon even if it does not pass on another icon by finger-tip movement with a finger touching.

  Thereafter, the approach / contact position information analysis unit 44 determines whether or not the operator's finger has touched and the contact position has moved (step ST35). When the movement of the operator's finger is detected (YES in step ST35), the display information management unit 41 arranges an icon on the coordinate value (corresponding coordinate system of the display unit 2) of the movement destination of the finger. If the icon is not arranged (in the case of NO in step ST36), the process returns to step ST35 to determine the movement of the finger contact position. If there is an icon at the finger movement destination (YES in step ST36), the icon is selected (step ST37).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 11C from the state of FIG. 11B, when the operator's finger contacts the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11 and moves downward as it is, FIG. In (b), the display where the position of the “return” button is selected is changed to the state where the downward “E” icon is selected.

When the operator releases the finger in this state, the approach / contact position information analysis unit 44 detects non-contact (release) (in the case of YES in step ST38), and the display information management unit 41 performs non-contact (release). The selection of the position icon “E” is determined and the screen content is changed (step ST39).
On the other hand, when non-contact (release) of the operator's finger is not detected (NO in step ST38), the process returns to step ST35 and the process is repeated.

  Further, when it is determined in step ST35 that there is no movement of the finger (in the case of NO in step ST35), whether or not the finger is released at the contact position (whether there is no contact (release)) is determined. Determination is made (step ST38), and the subsequent processing is repeated.

  As described above, based on the information acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit 11, the control unit 40 determines the continuation and change state of the approach, contact, and non-contact (release) of an operation object such as a finger, When the approaching state of the finger or the like is continued, a plurality of icons are displayed on the display unit 2, and when the contact state of the finger or the like is continued, the icon corresponding to the contact position is set to the selected state. An icon other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position is displayed on the display unit 2 so as to be arranged at a position that can be selected by moving a finger or the like while maintaining the contact state from the first contact position. When the contact state of a finger or the like changes to non-contact (release), it is determined that the icon corresponding to the contact position immediately before changing to the non-contact (release) state is selected, and the operation corresponding to the icon is executed. To do.

  As described above, the operator operates the touch / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11 without touching it in the air without touching it in the state where the normal navigation map is displayed. A menu screen with icons arranged at easy positions is displayed. Just touch and move your finger in the direction of the desired icon and release it. Can be selected and determined, which makes the operation very easy and light for the operator, and even during driving, the menu icon can be selected safely without looking at the operation section, and the operation corresponding to the icon can be performed. It becomes possible to execute.

  Note that, here, the menu screen is displayed, and it is assumed that the finger is touched to move. However, the icon can be selected by moving it while floating in the air without touching the finger, and the desired icon is displayed. It may be determined and executed by confirming that the button is selected and touching. Even in this case, it is possible to select and determine any icon with one operation of touching the finger.

In addition, the interface device of the third embodiment changes the types of icons displayed on the display unit 2 according to the approach position where the operator's finger approaches, such as when the menu screen spans multiple pages. If different menu screens are displayed, it is effective even when it takes time to search for a desired icon.
For example, when there are two pages of menu screens, if the proximity position information where the operator's finger is close is the left part from the center as shown in FIG. 11B, the menu screen of the first page is displayed. As shown in FIG. 13A, if it is the right part from the center, the menu screen of the second page is displayed.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of the operation example in the approach / contact position detection unit and the display screen displayed on the display unit in the state of FIG. 11A according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 13A shows that, in the state shown in FIG. 11A, the operator approaches the right end center of the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11 and stops for 2 seconds or more. In the state where the “return” button is displayed and selected in the center of the right side of the display unit 2, a display screen in which the menu icon of the second page is arranged at a position where the finger can move around the button is shown.

  That is, each icon is arranged in the upward direction, the left direction, and the downward direction in view of the fact that when the finger of the operator touches it as it is, it cannot move further in the right direction (there is no movement space), and By moving the fingertip while touching, the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  FIG. 13B shows a state in which the operator's finger touches (contacts) the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11 and moves downward from the state shown in FIG. 13A. In FIG. 13A, the cursor display in the state in which the position of the “return” button is selected becomes a state in which the downward “J” icon is selected. When the operator releases the finger in this state, the selection of the icon “J” at that position is determined, and the operation corresponding to the icon “J” is executed.

  That is, the control unit 40 determines a plurality of icon types to be displayed on the display unit 2 based on the change data stored in the storage unit 3 according to the approach position where the operator's finger approaches, Part 2 is displayed. As a result, even if it takes time to search for a desired icon, such as when the number of icons is large and the menu screen spans multiple pages, a menu screen in which different icons are arranged according to the approach position of the finger is displayed. Can be displayed.

  Thus, in a state where the number of icons is large and there are many menu screens, the operator's finger is stopped for a predetermined time without touching in the air on the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) 11, A menu screen corresponding to the proximity position of the operator's finger is displayed, and a menu screen with icons arranged at positions that are easy to operate when the operator touches as it is is displayed. The operator can easily search for a desired icon even when it takes time to search for the desired icon.

  Then, when a menu screen with the desired icon is displayed, just touch it and move your finger in the direction of the desired icon and release it, that is, from screen transition to icon selection / determination.・ Since it can be performed on any icon in one operation until it is released from contact, it is very easy for the operator to operate and the load is low. It becomes possible to select and execute an operation corresponding to the icon.

  Here, the case where the menu screen has two pages has been described assuming a one-plane approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad). For example, when the menu screen has four pages, the approach position is at the upper left. A menu screen to be displayed may be divided into four parts: a part, an upper right part, a lower left part, and a lower right part.

  Further, when the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad) is, for example, a spherical surface or a plurality of surfaces, the approach position of the operator's finger even if there are more menu screens Since it becomes easy to change and display the menu screen according to the situation, it can be used more effectively.

  In the third embodiment, the contact position detecting unit 1 in the first embodiment is replaced with the approach / contact position detecting unit 11, but the contact position detecting unit 1 in the second embodiment is replaced with the approach / contact. Needless to say, the position detector 11 may be replaced.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, icons are rearranged or resized according to the approach of the operator's finger, so that the operator's finger is placed on the approach / contact position detection unit (touch pad). Since it is possible to select and determine any icon with a single operation from touching to releasing, the operation is very easy for the operator and the load is low. It is possible to safely select a menu icon without executing the operation corresponding to the icon.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the interface apparatus according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the structure similar to what was demonstrated in Embodiment 1-3, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted. The interface device according to Embodiment 4 shown below includes a contact position detection unit 1, a display unit 2, a vehicle data detection unit 5, a storage unit 30, and a control unit 50. The operation unit and the display unit are separated from each other. It is a device that is installed (separately installed).

The vehicle data detection unit 5 detects driving information of the vehicle using various sensors installed in the vehicle, and outputs the information via a CAN or the like.
The storage unit 30 includes a display change database 31 that summarizes the program and change data of display contents displayed on the display unit 2, and a function database that can be used during traveling that stores data on functions that can be used while the vehicle is traveling. 32 is stored.
The travel-usable function database 32 stores travel-usable icon data indicating icons that can be used when the vehicle travels.

The control unit 50 controls the entire image and operation, and includes a display information management unit 41, a contact position information analysis unit 42, a database access unit 43, and a vehicle data analysis unit 45.
The vehicle data analysis unit 45 acquires and analyzes the vehicle information detected by the vehicle data detection unit 5, outputs the current vehicle information, or holds it in the storage unit 3.

Here, processing in the control unit 50 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to an operation example and a display screen example shown in FIG. 14 and a flowchart shown in FIG.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of operation in the contact position detection unit 1 of the fourth embodiment and an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit 2, and FIG. 15 is a diagram of the control unit 50 in the fourth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a process.

  As shown in FIG. 14 (a), the contact position detection unit 1 is a touch pad provided within the reach of the operator's hand, and the display unit 2 installed separately from the contact position detection unit 1 includes Arbitrary images are displayed. Here, it is assumed that a car navigation map is displayed.

  In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 14B or FIG. 14C, when the operator's finger contacts the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1, the contact position information analysis unit 42 becomes the contact position detection unit. 1 is acquired (step ST41), and it is determined whether or not the contact at that position is a long press (step ST42). Note that whether or not the button is long-pressed is determined based on whether or not the contact time has continued for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds).

  When it is determined that the button is long-pressed (in the case of YES in step ST42), the vehicle data analysis unit 45 determines whether the vehicle is running from the data acquired from the vehicle data detection unit 5. (Step ST43).

  Here, when the vehicle is not traveling (stopped) (in the case of NO in step ST43), the database access unit 43 uses the data acquired by the contact position information analysis unit 42 and the determination result during the stop as a key. As such, icon arrangement data corresponding to the contact position of the operator's finger is acquired from the display change database (step ST44).

  On the other hand, when the vehicle is traveling (in the case of YES at step ST43), the database access unit 43 uses the data acquired by the contact position information analysis unit 42 and the determination result during traveling as a key. The icon arrangement data corresponding to the contact position is acquired from the display change database (step ST45).

Then, based on the acquired display change data, the display information management unit 41 determines the arrangement / size of the icons, arranges the icons, and displays the menu screen on the display unit 2 (step ST46).
At this time, the display information management unit 41 arranges icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position of the finger at positions that can be selected by moving the finger while maintaining the contact state from the first contact position. As shown, it is displayed on the display unit 2.

  FIG. 14 (b) shows that when the vehicle is not running (stopped), the operator's finger touches the center of the left end of the contact position detection unit (touch pad) 1 and is pressed long, A display screen in which all menu icons are arranged at positions where a finger can move around the “return” button displayed and selected in the left center portion of the display unit 2 is shown. That is, each icon is arranged in the upward direction, the downward direction, and the right direction in view of the fact that the operator's finger cannot move further to the left (there is no moving space), and the finger remains in contact. Is moved to a location where the icon can be reached without passing over another icon.

  FIG. 14B is the same as FIG. 2B in the first embodiment. However, when the vehicle is traveling, the vehicle is traveling as shown in FIG. 14C. A menu screen on which only the usable icon “C” is displayed is displayed. In this example, only the icon “C” that can be selected / executed while traveling is shown. However, icons other than “C” are displayed so that it can be selected. Only the selectable / executable icon “C” may be displayed in a selectable state.

  16 is the same as steps ST5 to ST9 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 3 in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

  As described above, the control unit 50 acquires the driving information detected by the vehicle data detection unit 5, determines whether or not the vehicle is traveling, and stores the storage unit when the vehicle is traveling. Based on the travel available icon data stored in 3, only the icons that can be used during travel are displayed on the display unit 2.

  In this way, by detecting whether or not the vehicle is running and displaying only icons that can be used while the vehicle is running, the operator can select the icon safely and appropriately. can do.

  In addition, although this Embodiment 4 demonstrated that the interface apparatus in Embodiment 1 was further provided with the vehicle data detection part 5, and changed the icon displayed depending on whether the vehicle is driving | running | working, Needless to say, the interface device according to the second and third embodiments may further include the vehicle data detection unit 5 to perform the same processing.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first to third embodiments, icons that cannot be used while the vehicle is running are excluded, and only usable icons are displayed. It is possible to select an icon and execute an operation corresponding to the icon.

  In the present invention, within the scope of the invention, any combination of the embodiments, or any modification of any component in each embodiment, or omission of any component in each embodiment is possible. .

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Contact position detection part (touch pad), 2 Display part, 3,30 Storage part, 4,40,50 Control part, 5 Vehicle data detection part, 11 Approaching / contact position detection part (touch pad), 31 Display change database , 32 Function database available during running, 41 Display information management unit, 42 Contact position information analysis unit, 43 Database access unit, 44 Approach / contact position information analysis unit, 45 Vehicle data analysis unit.

Claims (8)

A contact position detection unit that detects a contact position where the operation object comes in contact;
A display unit installed separately from the contact position detection unit and capable of displaying a plurality of icons;
A storage unit for storing display content change data displayed on the display unit;
A control unit that acquires a contact position detected by the contact position detection unit and controls display content displayed on the display unit based on change data stored in the storage unit;
The controller is
According to the contact position acquired from the contact position detection unit, at least one of the positions and sizes of the plurality of icons to be displayed on the display unit is determined based on the change data stored in the storage unit, and the display As well as display
Based on the information acquired from the contact position detection unit, the continuation and non-contact state of the operation object is determined, and if the contact state of the operation object continues, corresponding to the contact position The icon to be selected can be selected, and icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position of the operation object can be reached without considering the direction in which the operation object cannot move and without passing over other icons. The operation object is displayed on the display unit so as to be arranged at a position that can be selected by moving the operation object while maintaining the contact state from the initial contact position, and the contact state of the operation object is non-contact It is determined that the icon corresponding to the contact position immediately before the change to the non-contact state is selected, and the operation corresponding to the icon is executed. A featured interface device. The control unit, based on the information acquired from the contact position detection unit, the position of the plurality of icons to be displayed on the display unit when the contact state of the operation object continues and moves. The interface device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the sizes is changed in accordance with a contact position after the operation object is moved. The control unit extracts only an icon displayed at a position on the display unit corresponding to the contact position and an icon in the vicinity thereof according to the contact position after the operation object has moved, and the display unit The interface device according to claim 2, wherein the interface device is enlarged and displayed. An approach / contact position detection unit for detecting an approach / contact position where the operation object approaches and contacts,
A display unit installed separately from the approach / contact position detection unit and capable of displaying a plurality of icons;
A storage unit for storing display content change data displayed on the display unit;
A control unit that acquires the approach position and the contact position detected by the approach / contact position detection unit, and controls display content displayed on the display unit based on change data stored in the storage unit; Prepared,
The controller is
Based on the change data stored in the storage unit, at least one of the positions and sizes of the plurality of icons displayed on the display unit according to the approach position and the contact position acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit. Determined and displayed on the display unit,
Based on the information acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit, the continuity and change state of the approach, contact, and non-contact of the operation object is determined, and when the approach state of the operation object continues, When a plurality of icons are displayed on the display unit, and the contact state of the operation object continues, the icon corresponding to the contact position is selected, and icons other than the icon corresponding to the first contact position of the operation object are selected. The operation object is displayed on the display unit so as to be arranged at a position that can be selected by moving the operation object while maintaining the contact state from the first contact position, and the contact state of the operation object becomes non-contact. When the interface changes, it is determined that the icon corresponding to the contact position immediately before the change to the non-contact state is selected, and an operation corresponding to the icon is executed. -Face device. Based on the information acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit, the control unit continues the contact state of the operation object, and when the control unit moves, the control unit displays a plurality of icons to be displayed on the display unit. The interface apparatus according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the position and the size is changed according to a contact position after the operation object is moved. The control unit extracts only an icon displayed at a position on the display unit corresponding to the contact position and an icon in the vicinity thereof according to the contact position after the operation object has moved, and the display unit 6. The interface device according to claim 5, wherein the interface device is enlarged and displayed. The controller is
Based on the approach position acquired from the approach / contact position detection unit, a plurality of types of icons to be displayed on the display unit are determined based on the change data stored in the storage unit, and displayed on the display unit The interface device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The interface device is used by being mounted on a vehicle,
A vehicle data detector for detecting driving information of the vehicle;
The storage unit also stores travelable icon data indicating icons that can be used when the vehicle travels,
The control unit obtains the driving information detected by the vehicle data detection unit to determine whether the vehicle is traveling, and when the vehicle is traveling, is stored in the storage unit. The interface device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein only the icons that can be used during traveling are displayed on the display unit based on the icon data that can be used during traveling. .

Images