JP7259252B2 - Electronic dictionary device, search support method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an electronic dictionary device, search support method, and program .

In general, portable electronic dictionary devices are used to look up the meanings and contents of words. The electronic dictionary device has a dictionary database of various dictionaries such as an English-Japanese dictionary and a Japanese dictionary, searches for entry words in the dictionary corresponding to a search term such as a word entered by operating a character input key, and performs the search. Explanation information such as the meaning associated with the entry word (word) is displayed.

Further, an electronic dictionary device equipped with a jump search function that can search for headwords in the dictionary by selecting an arbitrary character string from the descriptive information thus displayed and using the selected character string as a new search term. is also known.

JP 2006-228045 A

The present invention provides an electronic dictionary device and search support capable of presenting information corresponding to an arbitrary search target character string selected from the character information displayed on the screen to the user in a new and unprecedented way. It aims at providing a method and a program .

In the electronic dictionary device according to the first aspect of the present invention, when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on a main screen, sub-areas including a first area and a second area are displayed. A display control unit for superimposing and displaying a screen on a part of the main screen , wherein the display control unit displays the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string as the first information. area , and a list of other dictionary data in which the search character string is included in character strings recorded as headwords is displayed on the main screen together with the search character string. An icon for switching display contents of is displayed in the second area .
Further, in the electronic dictionary device according to the second aspect of the present invention, when a search character string is specified by a user operation from among the character information displayed on the main screen, the first area and the second area are displayed. a display control unit that superimposes and displays a sub screen including the The main screen is displayed in one area, and a list of other dictionary data in which the search character string is included in character strings recorded as headwords is displayed on the main screen together with predetermined information. An icon for switching display contents is displayed in the second area, and the predetermined information is second information obtained by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list with the search character string. It is characterized by
A search support method according to a first aspect of the present invention is a search support method executed by an electronic dictionary device, in which a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on a main screen. display control processing for superimposing and displaying a sub-screen including a first area and a second area on a part of the main screen, wherein the display control processing includes the search character string as the first dictionary data is displayed in the first area, and a list of other dictionary data in which the search character string is included in the character string recorded as an entry word is displayed on the main screen. An icon for switching display contents of the main screen is displayed in the second area so as to be displayed together with the search character string.
A search support method according to a second aspect of the present invention is a search support method executed by an electronic dictionary device, in which a search character string is designated by a user operation from character information displayed on a main screen. display control processing for superimposing and displaying a sub-screen including a first area and a second area on a part of the main screen, wherein the display control processing includes the search character string as the first dictionary data is displayed in the first area, and a list of other dictionary data in which the search character string is included in the character string recorded as an entry word is displayed on the main screen. an icon for switching display contents of the main screen is displayed in the second area so as to be displayed together with predetermined information, and the predetermined information is obtained by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list. It is characterized by being the second information acquired by searching with a character string.
Further, the program according to the first aspect of the present invention causes the computer to display a first area and a second area when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on a main screen. is superimposed on a part of the main screen, and the display control means displays the first information obtained by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string. In addition to being displayed in the first area, a list of other dictionary data in which the search character string is included in character strings recorded as headwords is displayed on the main screen together with the search character string. It is characterized in that an icon for switching display contents of the main screen is displayed in the second area.
Further, the program according to the second aspect of the present invention causes the computer to display the first area and the second area when a search character string is specified by a user operation from the character information displayed on the main screen. is superimposed on a part of the main screen, and the display control means displays the first information obtained by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string. The main screen is displayed in the first area, and a list of other dictionary data in which the search character string is included in character strings recorded as headwords is displayed on the main screen along with predetermined information. An icon for switching the display contents of the screen is displayed in the second area, and the predetermined information is the second dictionary data acquired by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list with the search character string. It is characterized by being information.

1 is a front view showing the external configuration of an electronic dictionary device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electronic circuit of the electronic dictionary device; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the first half of a flowchart showing information display processing of the electronic dictionary device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the second half of the flowchart showing the information display processing of the electronic dictionary device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display operation when selecting an arbitrary character string from the explanatory information display screen displayed on the main screen according to the information display processing of the electronic dictionary device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the display operation when the [headword] key in the menu selection area of the sub-screen is selected according to the information display processing of the electronic dictionary device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the display operation when the previously selected jump list information is collectively displayed when the [headword] key is selected according to the information display processing of the electronic dictionary device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the display operation when the previously selected jump list information is displayed by dictionary when the [headword] key is selected according to the information display processing of the electronic dictionary device;

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

FIG. 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of an electronic dictionary device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The electronic dictionary device is not only configured as the electronic dictionary device 10 dedicated to learning support described below, but also includes tablet-type PDA (personal digital assistants), PCs (personal computers), mobile phones, mobile phones, etc. equipped with learning support functions. It can also be configured as an electronic book, a portable game machine, and the like.

The electronic dictionary device 10 comprises a foldable case in which a body case 11 and a lid case 12 can be opened/closed via a hinge portion 13 . [Home] key 14a, function designation key 14b, character input key 14c, [Enter] key 14d, [Return] key 14e, cursor key 14f, and [Shift] A key input section (keyboard) 14 including keys 14g, etc., an audio output section (including a speaker) 15, and an audio input section (including a microphone) 16 are provided.

A touch panel type display unit 17 is provided on the surface of the lid case 12 . The touch panel type display unit 17 has a structure in which a touch position detection device for detecting a position touched by a user with a pen or finger and a display device are integrated. consists of

At the right end of the touch panel type display unit 17, there are provided keys for pressing some keys in the key input unit 14 and specifying some functions of the electronic dictionary device 10 by touch operation. A touch key area 17A is provided in which function descriptions ([Home], [Training Gym], [Return], [Function Menu]) are fixedly printed.

A [home] key 14a of the key input unit 14 is a key for displaying a home screen on the display unit 17. FIG. Although not shown, the home screen displays a plurality of icons registered according to initial settings of the electronic dictionary device 10 or user operations. Each icon is a figure, a symbol, or the like for activating a function corresponding to the notation of the icon. The home screen includes, for example, an application icon that directly activates a function (application) that uses dictionary content, and a group icon that displays an icon list screen of a plurality of functions belonging to one category.

The function designation key 14b of the key input unit 14 is used to select the dictionary contents ([Large Dictionary], etc.) written on each key, the categories of the dictionary contents ([National Language], [Ancient Language], [Kanwa], [English-Japanese], etc.). ), [contents list], and one category [study notebook] of tools, respectively.

Further, when the keys of the key input unit 14 are operated after the [Shift] key 14g is operated, the key functions are not described without a frame on the key top, but are described with a frame. It is designed to be able to function as a key that is For example, when the [K] key is operated after the [Shift] key 14g is operated, the [?] key is pressed instead of the [K] input key. ] input key.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic circuit of the electronic dictionary device 10. As shown in FIG.

The electronic circuit of the electronic dictionary device 10 includes a CPU 21 which is a computer. The CPU 21 controls the operation of each part of the circuit according to a control program pre-stored in a memory 22 such as a flash ROM. The control program may be read from an external recording medium 23 such as a memory card by a recording medium reading section 24 and stored in the storage section 22, or may be read from a Web server (here, a program server) 30 on the communication network N. may be downloaded via the communication unit 25 from the storage unit 22 and stored in the storage unit 22 .

The storage unit 22, the recording medium reading unit 24, and the communication unit 25 are connected to the CPU 21 via data and control buses. Display unit 17 is connected.

The storage unit 22 includes a control program storage unit 22a for storing the control program, a normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b, a simple dictionary content data storage unit 22c, a tool data storage unit 22d, a display data storage unit 22e, and a search result storage unit 22d. It includes a storage section 22f, a previously selected jump list information storage section 22g, a previously selected dictionary information storage section 22h, and the like.

The control program storage unit 22a stores a system program that controls the overall operation of the electronic dictionary device 10, a program for communicating with an external electronic device via the communication unit 25, and the storage units 22b and 22c. , 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, and 22h to execute various functions corresponding to each content and tool.

The normal dictionary contents data storage unit 22b uses the corresponding contents such as normal dictionary contents data (Japanese) 22b1 and normal dictionary contents data (English) 22b2 including multiple types of dictionary contents for each dictionary category. stored as an application that The normal dictionary content data (Japanese language) 22b1 includes [national language dictionary] in which Japanese explanation information is described in association with kanji/kana headwords, and Japanese explanation information in correspondence with kanji entry words. [Kanji dictionary] with descriptions, [Encyclopedia] with description information in Japanese associated with kanji/kana/alphabet headwords, and description information in Japanese associated with kana headwords. This includes data such as [Katakana Dictionary]. The normal dictionary content data (English) 22b2 includes [English-Japanese dictionary] in which explanation information in Japanese is described in association with headwords in the alphabet, and in which explanation information in English is described in association with headwords in the alphabet. Data such as [English-English dictionary] and [Japanese-English dictionary] in which English explanation information is described in association with kanji/kana headwords are included.

The simple dictionary content data storage unit 22c stores, for each dictionary category, simple dictionary content data (for Japanese) 22c1, simple dictionary content data (for English) 22c2, etc., containing a plurality of types of simple dictionary content. Store it as an application to use. The simple dictionary content data (Japanese language) 22c1 is a [Japanese mini-dictionary], [Kanwa Mini-dictionary], [Encyclopedia mini-dictionary], [Katakana mini-dictionary], etc. The simple dictionary content data (English) 22c2 is the [English-Japanese mini-dictionary], [English-Japanese mini-dictionary], [English-Japanese dictionary] in which information in parentheses included in the explanation information described in the [English-Japanese dictionary] is omitted and only the main information is omitted. English mini-dictionary], [Japanese-English mini-dictionary], etc. are included.

The tool data storage unit 22d stores [ENGLISH LESSON] data, [Learning notebook] data, etc., including a plurality of types of learning support functions, for each category of tools. [ENGLISH LESSON] data is data used for English learning support functions such as listening and speaking. be.

The display data storage unit 22e stores, for example, bitmap format image data that the CPU 21 displays on the touch panel type display unit 17 according to the operation of the electronic dictionary device 10. FIG.

The search result storage unit 22f stores search results obtained by searching for headwords corresponding to search target character strings from the normal dictionaries stored in the normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b.

The previously selected jump list information storage unit 22g stores previously selected jump list information indicating whether the list display finally used at the time of executing the previous selection jump function was the collective list display or the dictionary-by-diction list display. memorize

The previously selected dictionary information storage unit 22h stores previously selected dictionary information indicating which dictionary content was finally used when display by dictionary was performed when the selection jump function was executed last time.

In the electronic dictionary device 10 configured as described above, the CPU 21 controls the operation of each circuit section according to the instructions written in the control program storage section 22a, and the software and hardware operate in cooperation. achieves a control function as described in the following description of operation.

Next, the operation of the electronic dictionary device 10 configured as described above will be described.

3A and 3B are diagrams showing a series of flowcharts showing information display processing of the electronic dictionary device.

First, when a dictionary is selected according to the user's operation of the function designation key 14b of the key input unit 14, the CPU 21 activates the normal dictionary selected from the normal dictionary content data of the storage unit 22, and A search term input screen (not shown) of the normal dictionary is displayed on the display screen. The CPU 21 displays the search term input according to the user's operation of the character input keys 14c of the key input unit 14 on this search term input screen (step S11). After that, in response to the user's operation of the [Enter] key 14d of the key input unit 14, the CPU 21 searches the selected normal dictionary for a headword corresponding to the input search term, and The explanation information is read out and stored in the search result storage section 22f of the storage section 22. FIG. Then, the CPU 21 creates image data based on the stored explanation information and stores it in the display data storage unit 22e, thereby displaying the explanation information on the main screen of the display unit 17 (step S12).

FIG. 4A shows a display example when, for example, [English-Japanese dictionary] is selected and the English word "establish" is entered as a search term. The display unit 17 includes the aforementioned touch key area 17A and a main screen area 17B for displaying information. The searched and read explanatory information is displayed as an explanatory information display screen 171 in the main screen area 17B.

When an arbitrary character string in the displayed explanatory information is selected by the user U's touch operation on the explanatory information display screen 171, the CPU 21 displays the character string selected by the user U based on the touch position. A character string is determined (step S13). The selection of the character string by the user U's touch operation may be a continuous touch for a predetermined time or more, that is, a so-called long press operation. The CPU 21 determines, from the touch position, the break of the character string including the character of the description information corresponding to the touch position, and specifies the selected character string. This can be realized by various methods, for example, by referring to a word dictionary (not shown), by determining whether characters are the same or different, such as kanji or hiragana, or by using spaces or punctuation marks. . Alternatively, the character string may be selected by tracing the touch operation. In this case, the range of the character string can be easily identified from the start position and end position of the touch operation.

When a character string is selected by the user U in this manner, the CPU 21 performs a specified display HL such as a reverse display of the selected character string as a search target character string, as shown in FIG. 4B. At the same time, the CPU 21 writes the image data of the sub-screen to the display data storage unit 22e of the storage unit 22, thereby displaying the sub-screen 172 on the explanatory information display screen 171 in the main screen area 17B (step S14). ). The sub-screen 172 includes a simple dictionary area 172A, which is a first area for displaying explanatory information retrieved from the simple dictionary content data storage unit 22c of the storage unit 22, and a menu, which is a second area for displaying various menu icons. and a selection area 172B. The menu selection area 172B includes, as menu icons, a [candidate] icon 172B1, a [headword] icon 172B2, an [example sentence] icon 172B3, a [phrase] icon 172B4, a [voice] icon 172B5, a [marker] icon 172B6, a [textbook style ] icon 172B7, [X] (close) icon 172B8. Only those menu icons that can be selected are displayed according to the situation at that time. In the example of FIG. 4B, the [textbook font] icon 172B7 is inactive and cannot be selected, and this state is indicated by a dashed line in the drawing.

Further, when a character string is selected by the user U, the CPU 21 selects the selected character string from the simple dictionary corresponding to the normal dictionary selected in step S11 in the simple dictionary content data storage unit 22c of the storage unit 22. Then, it is determined whether or not the search target character string hits the entry word of the simple dictionary (step S15). That is, when a character string selection operation is performed, the CPU 21 starts searching the simple dictionary without any other user instruction such as key operation.

Here, if it is determined that there is a hit headword (YES in step S15), the CPU 21 reads the brief explanation information of the headword and stores it in the search result storage section 22f of the storage section 22. FIG. Then, the CPU 21 creates image data based on the stored brief explanation information, and rewrites the image data stored in the display data storage unit 22e with the created image data. The simple explanation information is displayed in the simple dictionary area 172A of the sub-screen 172 of the display unit 17 (step S16). Note that the simple explanation information in the simple dictionary area 172A of this sub-screen 172 can be scrolled by operating the up and down keys of the cursor keys 14f.

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no hit headword (NO in step S15), the CPU 21 rewrites the image data stored in the display data storage unit 22e with the image data of the non-applicable message. Then, the message is displayed in the simple dictionary area 172A of the sub-screen 172 of the display unit 17 (step S17).

After performing the display in the simple dictionary area 172A of the subscreen 172 in step S16 or S17, the CPU 21 causes the user U to perform a touch operation to display [headword] in the menu selection area 172B of the subscreen 172 of the display unit 17. It is determined whether the icon 172B2 has been selected (step S18). It should be noted that the menu icons can also be selected by operating the left and right keys of the cursor keys 14f and the [Enter] key 14d instead of the touch operation.

Here, if it is determined that the [headword] icon 172B2 has been selected (YES in step S18), the CPU 21 determines that the previously selected jump list information stored in the previously selected jump list information storage section 22g of the storage section 22 is It is determined whether or not the list display finally used at the time of executing the selection jump function last time is the collective display indicating that the collective list display was performed (step S19). The previously selected jump list information is stored in the previously selected jump list information storage unit 22g as a default when the electronic dictionary device 10 is shipped from the factory.

If it is determined that the previously selected jump list information is collective display (YES in step S19), the CPU 21 determines whether or not an exact match search has already been executed for all normal dictionaries using the search target character string. (Step S20). This determination may be made based on the contents stored in the search result storage section 22f of the storage section 22, or a flag may be provided inside the CPU 21 or in the storage section 22 so that the flag is set when the search is performed. It may be constructed so that the judgment is made according to the state of this flag. Here, if it is determined that an exact match search for all normal dictionaries has already been executed (YES in step S20), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S22, which will be described later.

If it is determined that a complete match search has not yet been performed for all ordinary dictionaries using the search target character string (NO in step S20), the CPU 21 stores headwords that completely match the search target character string in the storage unit 22. All the dictionaries in the normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b are searched, and the explanation information of the searched headword is read out and stored in the search result storage unit 22f of the storage unit 22 (step S21).

Then, based on the search results stored in the search result storage unit 22f, the CPU 21 creates image data of a batch list representing the search results, and stores the image data in the display data storage unit 22e, as shown in FIG. 4C. The collective list display screen 173 is displayed in the main screen area 17B of the display unit 17 (step S22). Batch list display screen 173 includes title bar 173A, entry word list area 173B, and preview area 173C. The title bar 173A includes a [By Dictionary] icon 173A1. The headword list area 173B is an area for displaying a list of dictionary names and headwords of ordinary dictionaries that hit the search target character string. The preview area 173C is an area for displaying the leading portion of the description information of the headword selected from the normal dictionaries listed in the headword list area 173B. In entry word list area 173B, the selected normal dictionary is indicated by a designated display HL such as a reversed display. In this example, the entry word list area 173B and the preview area 173C are displayed side by side, but they may be switched according to a user operation.

Next, the CPU 21 determines whether or not a switching display has been instructed based on whether or not the [by dictionary] icon 173A1 on the collective list display screen 173 has been selected by the user U's touch operation (step S23). When determining that the switching display has been instructed (YES in step S23), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S27, which will be described later.

Here, when it is determined that the switching display is not instructed (NO in step S23), the CPU 21 performs a touch operation by the user U or by operating the up and down keys of the cursor keys 14f and the [Enter] key 14d. , determines whether or not another list item in the headword list area 173B, that is, another dictionary has been selected (step S24). When determining that no item has been selected (NO in step S24), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S26, which will be described later.

If it is determined that another list item in the entry word list area 173B has been selected (YES in step S24), the CPU 21 reads the explanatory information of the selected dictionary from the search result storage section 22f of the storage section 22, Image data to be displayed in the preview area 173C is created and written in the display data storage unit 22e to update the display in the preview area 173C (step S25).

Although not shown, the selected item (dictionary) may be further selected by the user U's touch operation or by operating the up/down cursor keys 14f and the [Enter] key 14d. is performed, the CPU 21 switches the explanatory information display screen 171 as described in FIG. 4A so that all the explanatory information can be browsed.

Then, the CPU 21 determines whether or not to end the process (step S26). For example, when a selection operation is further performed on the selected item (dictionary) to switch so that all the explanation information can be browsed, the CPU 21 performs a key When the user operates the function designation key 14b of the input unit 14, or when the touch key area 17A is touched, it is determined that the process ends. When determining that the process is not finished yet (NO in step S26), the CPU 21 returns the process to step S23. If it is determined to end (YES in step S26), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S37, which will be described later.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S19 that the previously selected jump list information is not displayed collectively, that is, displayed by dictionary (NO in step S19), or if it is determined that switching display is instructed in step S23. If so (YES in step S23), the CPU 21 determines whether or not one ordinary dictionary has been searched for the search target character string (step S27). This determination can be made based on the contents stored in the search result storage section 22f of the storage section 22 and the state of the flag. Here, if it is determined that one normal dictionary search has already been executed (YES in step S27), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S29, which will be described later.

If it is determined that one ordinary dictionary search has not yet been performed using the search target character string (NO in step S27), the CPU 21 selects the plurality of ordinary dictionary content data stored in the ordinary dictionary content data storage unit 22b of the storage unit 22. Among the ordinary dictionaries, one ordinary dictionary indicated by the previously selected dictionary information stored in the previously selected dictionary information storage unit 22h of the storage unit 22 is searched for a headword that matches the search target character string, and the retrieved The explanation information of the entry word is read and stored in the search result storage section 22f of the storage section 22 (step S28). The previously selected dictionary information includes the normal dictionary content data (Japanese) 22b1 and the normal dictionary content data (Japanese) 22b1 and normal dictionary content data (Japanese/English) according to the type of character string (Japanese/English) as the factory default of the electronic dictionary device 10. The leading dictionaries ([Japanese dictionary], [English-Japanese dictionary]) of the English language) 22b2 are stored in the previously selected dictionary information storage unit 22h. In addition, the search for this one ordinary dictionary is carried out by various search methods such as exact match and original search.

Then, based on the search results stored in the search result storage unit 22f, the CPU 21 creates image data of a batch list representing the search results, and stores the image data in the display data storage unit 22e, as shown in FIG. 4D. The dictionary list display screen 174 is displayed in the main screen area 17B of the display unit 17 (step S29). The dictionary-by-dictionary list display screen 174 includes a title bar 174A, an entry word list area 174B, and a preview area 174C. The title bar 174A includes a tab 174A1 for switching individual dictionaries, and a [to all display] icon 174A2. Among the tabs 174A1, the dictionary used for the search is indicated by a specified display HL such as a reversed display. Headword list area 174B is an area for displaying a list of headwords that hit the search target character string. The preview area 174C is an area for displaying the leading portion of the descriptive information of a selected headword among the headwords listed in the headword list area 173B. In the headword list area 174B, the selected headword is indicated by a designated display HL such as a reversed display. In this example, the entry word list area 174B and the preview area 174C are displayed side by side.

Next, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the switching display has been instructed based on whether or not the [to collective display] icon 174A2 on the dictionary-by-diction list display screen 174 has been selected by the user U's touch operation (step S30). . When determining that the switching display has been instructed (YES in step S30), the CPU 21 returns the process to step S20 described above. As a result, a collective list display screen 173 as shown in FIG. 4C can be displayed in the main screen area 17B of the display section 17. FIG.

If it is determined that the switching display is not instructed (NO in step S30), the CPU 21 performs a touch operation by the user U, or by operating the up and down cursor keys 14f and the [Enter] key 14d. It is determined whether or not another list item in the entry word list area 174B, that is, another entry word has been selected (step S31). When determining that no item has been selected (NO in step S31), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S33, which will be described later.

If CPU 21 determines that another list item in headword list area 174B has been selected (YES in step S31), CPU 21 reads out the description information of the selected headword from search result storage section 22f of storage section 22. , image data to be displayed in the preview area 174C is created and written in the display data storage unit 22e, thereby updating the display in the preview area 174C (step S32).

Although not shown, the selected item (headword) can be further selected by the user U's touch operation or by operating the up and down keys of the cursor keys 14f and the [Enter] key 14d. When the operation is performed, the CPU 21 switches the explanatory information display screen 171 as described with reference to FIG. 4A so that all the explanatory information can be viewed.

The CPU 21 also determines whether or not the tab 174A1 for switching individual dictionaries has been selected by the touch operation of the user U or by the operation of the left/right keys of the cursor keys 14f and the [Enter] key 14d. It is determined whether or not an instruction to switch is given (step S33). When it is determined that dictionary switching has not been instructed (NO in step S33), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S35, which will be described later.

On the other hand, if the CPU 21 determines that dictionary switching has been instructed (YES in step S33), the CPU 21 selects one of a plurality of normal dictionaries stored in the normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b of the storage unit 22. The search result is stored in the search result storage unit 22f of the storage unit 22, and the dictionary-by-dictionary list display screen 174 is displayed based on the search result. The content is updated (step S34).

Then, the CPU 21 stores the information for specifying the switched dictionary as the previously selected dictionary information in the previously selected dictionary information storage unit 22h of the storage unit 22 (step S35).

Note that, even on the dictionary-by-dictionary list display screen 174 updated in this way, if the selected item (headword) is further selected, the explanation information display screen 171 is displayed so that all the explanation information can be browsed. Needless to say, it can be switched to

Further, the order of the processing of steps S31 and S32 and the processing of steps S33 and S34 may be reversed.

Then, the CPU 21 determines whether or not to end the process (step S36). If it is determined that the process is not finished yet (NO in step S36), the CPU 21 returns the process to step S27. If it is determined to end (YES in step S36), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S37, which will be described later.

In step S26 or step S36, when it is determined that the process is to be completed (YES in step S26 or step S36), the CPU 21 determines whether the current list display is performed on the collective list display screen 173 or whether the list by dictionary is displayed. Depending on whether the display screen 174 displays the previous jump list information collectively or according to the dictionary, the previous jump list information is stored in the previous selected jump list information storage section 22g of the storage section 22 (step S37). Then, the CPU 21 terminates this information display process. When a dictionary is selected in accordance with the user's operation of the function designation key 14b of the key input unit 14, this information display process is executed again.

In steps S11 to S13, the case where an arbitrary character string is set as a search target character string from the retrieved description information has been described as an example, but the search target character string is not limited to this. Of course, it is also possible to select a character string in a state in which content different from the retrieved explanatory information is displayed and use it as a search target character string.

If it is determined in step S18 that the [headword] icon 172B2 has not been selected (NO in step S18), other processing is executed. Here, other processing will be briefly described.

When the [candidate] icon 172B1 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 changes the search target character string and searches the simple dictionary. That is, in step S15, the simple dictionary is searched with the character string determined to be selected by the user U in step S13 as the first candidate of the character string to be searched, but [candidate] icon 172B1 is selected. This means that the character string to be searched is not the character string desired by the user, so a search is performed using the next candidate for the character string to be searched. For example, if the character string determined to be selected is "Mt. Fuji" and the [Japanese language mini-dictionary] is searched, the first candidate for the search target character string is "Mt. Fuji". Each time the [Candidate] icon 172B1 is selected, a search is performed using the second candidate "Fuji" and the third candidate "Fuji" as the search character strings. Therefore, for the first time, the simple dictionary search result of the search target character string of the first candidate is displayed in the simple dictionary area 172A of the sub-screen 172, and by touching this [candidate] icon 172B1, the second and third candidates are displayed. The display of the simple dictionary area 172A can be switched to the simple dictionary search result of the search target character string.

Further, when the [example sentence] icon 172B3 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 selects from among the plurality of normal dictionaries stored in the normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b of the storage unit 22, An example sentence containing the character string to be searched is searched from the head or one of the ordinary dictionaries selected last time, and an example sentence list screen for listing the example sentences is displayed in the main screen area 17B of the display unit 17.例文帳に追加

Similarly, when the [phrase] icon 172B4 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 selects one of the plurality of normal dictionaries stored in the normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b of the storage unit 22. , from one ordinary dictionary selected at the head or last time, a phrase containing the search target character string is searched, and a phrase list screen for listing the phrases is displayed in a main screen area 17B of a display part 17.例文帳に追加

Further, when the [Voice] icon 172B5 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 displays the description displayed on the description information display screen 171 with the selected character string at the beginning. After scrolling to the line, the voice output unit 15 reproduces and outputs the voice linked to the selected character string included in the normal dictionary selected in step S11. At this time, the CPU 21 superimposes and displays a menu selection screen for the voice mode on the explanatory information display screen 171 . This menu selection screen includes a [Listen] icon for instructing playback, a [Record] icon for instructing recording, a volume [-] and [+] icon for instructing volume, and an icon for instructing playback speed. playback speed [-] and [+] icons for listening, a [listening comparison] icon for instructing listening comparison, and the like. The Listen to Compare icon is initially in an inactive state. When the [record] icon is selected, the CPU 21 records the voice input by the voice input unit 16 from the time of selection in the voice recording area (not shown) of the storage unit 22 . For this recording, a predetermined recording time such as one minute may be determined, or the end of recording may be instructed by the [Enter] key 14d. Further, when the recording ends, the CPU 21 activates the [listening comparison] icon on the menu selection screen, and when this [listening comparison] icon is selected, the CPU 21 records the voice linked to the selected character string. The audio output section 15 reproduces and outputs the audio in order.

Further, when the [Marker] icon 172B6 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 superimposes a marker selection screen on the explanatory information display screen 171, and adds A marker is displayed superimposed on it. The marker selection screen includes, for example, icons of three colors of red, blue and yellow, and the selected character string is marked with a red marker which is the first color. The CPU 21 switches the color of the marker according to the left/right key operation of the cursor key 14f. Also, when an icon of any color is selected by a touch operation, the CPU 21 displays a marker wordbook screen in the main screen area 17B of the display section 17 . This marker wordbook screen is for registering a character string with a marker in a wordbook area (not shown) of the storage unit 22. For example, the marker wordbook screen is for registering in any of a predetermined number of registration areas, such as 50. This is a screen for selecting When a registration destination is selected by a touch operation, the CPU 21 stores in the wordbook area of the storage unit 22 which color marker is attached to which character of which entry word in which dictionary. , the display of the display unit 17 is returned to the explanation information display screen 171 . At this time, the selected character string is displayed with a marker of the selected color. Note that when the [marker] icon 172B6 is selected again while the character string with the marker is selected, the CPU 21 superimposes the marker deletion screen on the explanatory information display screen 171 instead of the marker selection screen. You can display it and delete the marker.

Further, when the [textbook font] icon 172B7 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 stores the first character in the selected character string in a font storage unit (not shown) of the storage unit 22. The stored textbook font is zoomed to the size of the main screen area 17B.

Further, when the [X] (close) icon 172B8 in the menu selection area 172B of the sub-screen 172 is selected, the CPU 21 terminates the superimposed display of the sub-screen 172. FIG. This is the same processing as when the [Return] key 14e is operated.

When [function menu] in the touch key area 17A is touch-operated, the CPU 21 superimposes on the explanation information display screen 171 a function menu screen displaying a list of operable functions. This function menu screen can include, as menu icons, a [setting] icon, a [guide] icon, a [character size] icon, a [screen division search] icon, a [study notebook] icon, and an [X] (close) icon. Only the functions that can be operated in the situation when the [function menu] is touch-operated are displayed as active.

As described above, according to the electronic dictionary device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the user U can browse simple detailed information displayed on the sub-screen 172 only by a touch operation. When you want to know, you can get an overview of words you don't know with a single touch without going through multiple steps.

Also, if you want to search for more details, you can search by operating from this sub-screen 172 . In this case, by displaying headwords retrieved from multiple dictionaries as a collective list on the collective list display screen 173, it is possible to immediately know the meaning and to easily compare dictionaries. Furthermore, it is easy to switch to the dictionary-specific list display screen 174, and by switching to the list for each dictionary, it is possible to correspond to a case where only a specific dictionary such as a dictionary specified by a school is used, or to display a list other than an exact match. It is also possible to search for the original shape, for example.

Also, when searching by operation from the sub-screen 172, information on whether to use either the collective list display screen 173 or the dictionary-specific list display screen 174 is first selected, and information on which one was used last time is stored. It can be determined by storing it in the section 22g. In other words, the list display screen suitable for the user's usage situation is displayed without the user U performing a selection operation.

In the above-described embodiment, when a character string is specified, simple explanation information using this character string as a headword is searched from the simple dictionary and displayed in the simple dictionary area 172A of the sub-screen 172, and then jumped to. When the [headword] icon 172B2, which is an icon, is operated, normal explanatory information with the character string as the headword is searched from the normal dictionary data and displayed on the main screen. is not limited to

For example, information other than the explanation information corresponding to the headword, such as example sentences and phrases that use the specified character string as the headword, is displayed in a display area (simple dictionary area 172A) provided on the sub-screen 172. good too.

In addition, simple explanation information is displayed in a display area (simple dictionary area 172A) provided on the sub-screen 172, and in this state, the [example sentence] icon 172B3 or the [phrase] icon 172B4, which are jump icons, are operated. In this case, example sentences and phrases related to the above character string may be retrieved from a general dictionary and displayed on the main screen. Combination with information is free.

In other words, according to the character string specified by the user, some kind of advance display information is displayed using a part of the display area without rewriting the entire main screen that has been displayed up to that point. The user who sees the information determines whether or not it is necessary to search or display further information related to this character string, and if he/she wishes to display further information, it is displayed together with this preceding display information. By operating the icon (button for instructing search and display of further information), additional information can be displayed as necessary. , there is an advantage that unnecessary searches and displays do not have to be performed.

It should be noted that each method of processing by the electronic dictionary device 10 described in the above embodiment, that is, each method such as the information display processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. Storing and distributing in external storage media such as memory cards (ROM cards, RAM cards, etc.), magnetic disks (floppy (registered trademark) disks, hard disks, etc.), optical disks (CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), semiconductor memory, etc. be able to. Then, the computer (CPU) of the electronic dictionary device equipped with a display function reads the program recorded on the medium of the external recording device into the storage device, and the operation is controlled by the read program, whereby the above embodiment can be performed. can implement the control functions described in , and perform similar processing according to the techniques described above.

In addition, program data for realizing each of the above methods can be transmitted in the form of program code over the communication network (N), and from a computer device (program server) connected to the communication network (N) The data of the program can be fetched into an electronic dictionary device having a display function and stored in a storage device to realize the aforementioned control function.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, each of the above-described embodiments includes inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. For example, even if some constituent elements are deleted from all the constituent elements shown in each embodiment, or some constituent elements are combined in different forms, the problems described in the column of problems to be solved by the invention can be solved and the effect described in the column of the effects of the invention can be obtained, a configuration in which these constituent elements are deleted or combined can be extracted as an invention.

The invention described in the original claims of the present application is appended below.

[1]
a display unit for displaying a main screen for displaying character information;
first dictionary data acquired by associating headwords with first information about the headwords, and second information different from the first information about the headwords same as the headwords are associated with each other; a dictionary storage unit that stores the second dictionary data acquired by
search string specifying means for specifying a search target string according to a user operation;
a first area for displaying the first information searched by the first dictionary data when the search target character string is specified by the search character string specifying means; and a search from at least the second dictionary data. a sub-screen display means for displaying a sub-screen including a second area for displaying a jump icon, which is an icon for designating a
When the search target character string is specified by the search character string specifying means, a headword corresponding to the search target character string is searched from the headwords of the first dictionary data, and the searched headword is searched. a first display control means for displaying the first information corresponding to in the first area of the sub-screen;
when a user operates the jump icon displayed in the second area of the sub-screen, a headword corresponding to the search target character string specified by the search character string specifying means, a second display control means for searching the headwords of the second dictionary data and displaying a list of the searched headwords or the second information corresponding to the searched headwords on the main screen; ,
Electronic dictionary device.

[2]
The sub-screen display means superimposes and displays the sub-screen on the main screen.
The electronic dictionary device according to [1].

[3]
The second dictionary data is normal dictionary data in which explanation information of the headword is collected as the second information,
The first dictionary data is simple dictionary data in which, as the first information, explanation information simplified from the second information of the headword is recorded,
The dictionary storage unit
a plurality of normal dictionary data including, in addition to the second dictionary data, third dictionary data that is the normal dictionary data and is different from the second dictionary data;
a plurality of simple dictionary data corresponding to each of the plurality of normal dictionary data, including the first dictionary data;
remember the
The first display control means, when the search target character string is specified by the search character string specifying means, selects the headword corresponding to the search target character string from the plurality of simple dictionaries stored in the dictionary storage unit. searching from the headwords of one simple dictionary data in the dictionary data, and displaying the simplified explanation information corresponding to the searched headword in the first area of the sub-screen;
The second display control means controls, when the user operates the jump icon displayed in the second area of the sub-screen, the search object specified by the search character string specifying means to Headwords corresponding to the character string are searched from headwords of all the normal dictionary data stored in the dictionary storage unit, and a list of the searched headwords or the headwords corresponding to the searched headwords is searched. displaying descriptive information within the main screen;
The electronic dictionary device according to [1] or [2].

[4]
The display unit has a touch panel arranged on the display screen,
The search character string specifying means specifies the search target character string from the character information displayed in the main screen according to a user's touch operation,
The second display control means, when the user performs a touch operation on the jump icon, sets the headword corresponding to the search target character string specified by the search character string specifying means to the 2 searching from the headwords of the dictionary data, and displaying a list of the retrieved headwords or the second information corresponding to the retrieved headwords on the main screen;
The electronic dictionary device according to any one of [1] to [3].

[5]
When the user operates the jump icon displayed in the second area of the sub-screen, a headword corresponding to the search target character string specified by the search character string specifying means is displayed. , among the plurality of normal dictionary data stored in the dictionary storage unit, one of the headwords of one normal dictionary data is searched, and a list of the searched headwords or corresponding to the searched headwords Further comprising a third display control means for displaying the explanation information to be displayed in the main screen,
The electronic dictionary device according to [3].

[6]
The second display control means is
displaying a switching icon for switching to display by the third display control means on the main screen displaying the list of searched headwords or the explanatory information corresponding to the searched headwords;
In response to the user's operation on the switching icon, the third display control means causes the entry word corresponding to the search target character string specified by the search character string specifying means to be added to the one normal dictionary data. performing an instruction to search among headwords and display a list of the searched headwords or the explanatory information corresponding to the searched headwords on the main screen;
The electronic dictionary device according to [5].

[7]
The third display control means is
displaying a switching icon for switching to display by the second display control means on the main screen displaying the list of searched headwords or the explanatory information corresponding to the searched headwords;
In response to the user's operation on the switching icon, the second display control means causes the entry word corresponding to the search target character string specified by the search character string specifying means to be displayed in all of the normal dictionary data. performing an instruction to search among headwords and display a list of the searched headwords or the explanatory information corresponding to the searched headwords on the main screen;
The electronic dictionary device according to [5] or [6].

[8]
Search result storage means for storing search results by the second display control means and the third display control means,
When the second display control means performs a search in response to an instruction from the third display control means, if the search result storage means already stores a search result based on the search target character string, using the results to display a list of searched headwords or the explanatory information corresponding to the searched headwords on the main screen;
The third display control means, when performing a search in accordance with an instruction from the second display control means, when the search result storage means already stores search results based on the search target character string, Using the results, displaying a list of searched headwords or the explanatory information corresponding to the searched headwords on the main screen;
The electronic dictionary device according to [7].

[9]
Previously selected jump list information storage means for storing previously selected jump list information indicating which of said second display control means and said third display control means was finally used;
when the user operates the jump icon displayed in the second area of the sub-screen, based on the previously selected jump list information stored in the previously selected jump list information storage means; , determining means for determining which one of the second display control means and the third display control means is to be used;
further comprising
The electronic dictionary device according to [7].

[10]
The third display control means is
for selecting one ordinary dictionary data to be searched on the main screen displaying a list of headwords retrieved from the one ordinary dictionary data or the explanatory information corresponding to the retrieved headwords; Display multiple dictionary name tab icons,
searching for the headword from one normal dictionary data corresponding to the selected dictionary name tab icon in response to the user's selection operation on one of the plurality of dictionary name tab icons;
The electronic dictionary device according to [5].

[11]
further comprising previously selected dictionary information storage means for storing previously selected dictionary information indicating which one normal dictionary data corresponding to the selected dictionary name tab icon is,
The third display control means searches for the entry word from the normal dictionary data indicated by the previously selected dictionary information when performing a search from the one normal dictionary data according to the user's operation on the jump icon.
The electronic dictionary device according to [10].

[12]
The second dictionary data is normal dictionary data in which explanation information of the headword is collected as the second information,
The dictionary storage unit stores, in addition to the second dictionary data, a plurality of normal dictionary data including third dictionary data which is the normal dictionary data and is different from the second dictionary data,
The electronic dictionary device designates a headword corresponding to a search target character string input according to a user operation from among the plurality of normal dictionary data stored in the dictionary storage unit according to the user operation. further comprising fourth display control means for retrieving headwords from among the headwords of the normal dictionary data and displaying explanatory information corresponding to the retrieved headwords on the main screen;
The first display control means searches for a headword corresponding to the search target character string from headwords of simple dictionary data corresponding to normal dictionary data designated in accordance with the user operation.
The electronic dictionary device according to [1].

[13]
a display unit for displaying a main screen for displaying character information; first dictionary data obtained by associating headwords and first information about the headwords and collecting them; headwords identical to the headwords and the headwords; A control unit of an electronic dictionary comprising: second dictionary data recorded in association with second information different from the first information about words;
Specify the search target character string according to the user operation,
When the search target character string is specified, a first area for displaying the first information searched by the first dictionary data and an icon for designating a search from at least the second dictionary data. displaying a sub-screen including a second area for displaying a certain jump icon;
When the character string to be searched is specified, a headword corresponding to the character string to be searched is searched from the headwords of the first dictionary data, and the first information corresponding to the searched headword is searched. is displayed in the first area of the sub-screen,
When the user operates the jump icon displayed in the second area of the sub-screen, the headword corresponding to the specified search target character string is added to the second dictionary data. searching among headwords, and displaying on the main screen a list of the searched headwords or the second information corresponding to the searched headwords;
How to search electronic dictionaries.

[14]
a display unit for displaying a main screen for displaying character information; first dictionary data obtained by associating headwords and first information about the headwords and collecting them; headwords identical to the headwords and the headwords; an electronic dictionary computer comprising: second dictionary data recorded in association with second information different from the first information about words;
search string specifying means for specifying a search target string according to a user operation;
a first area for displaying the first information searched by the first dictionary data when the search target character string is specified by the search character string specifying means; and a search from at least the second dictionary data. sub-screen display means for displaying a sub-screen including a second area for displaying a jump icon, which is an icon for specifying
When the search target character string is specified by the search character string specifying means, a headword corresponding to the search target character string is searched from the headwords of the first dictionary data, and the searched headword is searched. first display control means for displaying the first information corresponding to in the first area of the sub-screen;
when a user operates the jump icon displayed in the second area of the sub-screen, a headword corresponding to the search target character string specified by the search character string specifying means, second display control means for retrieving headwords from the second dictionary data and displaying a list of the retrieved headwords or the second information corresponding to the retrieved headwords on the main screen;
A computer readable control program for functioning as a

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Electronic dictionary apparatus 14... Key input part 14a... [Home] key 14b... Function designation key 14c... Character input key 14d... [Enter] key 14e... [Return] key 14f... Cursor key 14g... [Shift] key 15... Voice output unit 16 Voice input unit 17 Display unit 17A Touch key area 17B Main screen area 171 Explanation information display screen 172 Sub screen 172A Simple dictionary area 172B Menu selection area 172B1 [candidate] icon 172B2 [Headword] icon 172B3 ... [Example sentence] icon 172B4 ... [Phrase] icon 172B5 ... [Voice] icon 172B6 ... [Marker] icon 172B7 ... [Textbook style] icon 172B8 ... [X] (close) icon 173 ... Collective list display Screen 173A... Title bar 173A1... [Go to by dictionary] icon 173B... Headword list area 173C, 174C... Preview area 174... List display screen by dictionary 174A... Title bar 174A1... Tab 174A2... [To all display] icon 174B... Heading Word list area 21 ... CPU
22 Storage unit 22a Control program storage unit 22b Normal dictionary content data storage unit 22b1 Normal dictionary content data (Japanese)
22b2: Normal dictionary content data (English)
22c... Simple dictionary content data storage unit 22c1... Simple dictionary content data (Japanese)
22c2: Simple dictionary content data (English)
22d... Tool data storage unit 22e... Display data storage unit 22f... Search result storage unit 22g... Previously selected jump list information storage unit 22h... Previously selected dictionary information storage unit HL... Designated display U... User

Claims (9)

A sub-screen including a first area and a second area is superimposed and displayed on a part of the main screen when a search character string is specified by a user operation from the character information displayed on the main screen. with a display control unit that
The display control unit causes the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string to be displayed in the first area , and displays the search character string in the character string recorded as an entry word. displaying an icon in the second area for switching the display content of the main screen so that a list of other dictionary data containing is displayed on the main screen together with the search character string ;
Electronic dictionary device. When the icon is operated, the display control unit converts the second information acquired by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list with the search character string to the list and the search character string. display on the main screen with columns,
The electronic dictionary device according to claim 1. A sub-screen including a first area and a second area is superimposed and displayed on a part of the main screen when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on the main screen. Equipped with a display control unit,
The display control unit causes the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string to be displayed in the first area, and displays the search character string in the character string recorded as an entry word. displaying an icon in the second area for switching display contents of the main screen so that a list of other included dictionary data is displayed on the main screen together with predetermined information;
The predetermined information is second information obtained by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list with the search character string.
Electronic dictionary device. When displaying the second information, the display control unit causes the second dictionary data selected from the list to be displayed in an identifiable manner.
4. The electronic dictionary device according to claim 2 or 3 . wherein said first dictionary data is recorded with said explanation information so that said explanation information can be briefly displayed as said first information;
5. The electronic dictionary device according to claim 1 . A search support method executed by an electronic dictionary device, comprising:
A sub-screen including a first area and a second area is superimposed and displayed on a part of the main screen when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on the main screen. including display control processing,
The display control process causes the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string to be displayed in the first area, and displays the search character string in the character string recorded as an entry word. displaying an icon in the second area for switching the display content of the main screen so that a list of other included dictionary data is displayed together with the search character string on the main screen;
Search assistance method. A search support method executed by an electronic dictionary device, comprising:
A sub-screen including a first area and a second area is superimposed and displayed on a part of the main screen when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on the main screen. including display control processing,
The display control process causes the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string to be displayed in the first area, and displays the search character string in the character string recorded as an entry word. displaying an icon in the second area for switching display contents of the main screen so that a list of other included dictionary data is displayed on the main screen together with predetermined information;
The predetermined information is second information obtained by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list with the search character string.
Search assistance method. the computer,
A sub-screen including a first area and a second area is superimposed and displayed on a part of the main screen when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on the main screen. function as display control means,
The display control means causes the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string to be displayed in the first area, and the search character string is displayed in the character string recorded as an entry word. displaying an icon in the second area for switching the display content of the main screen so that a list of other included dictionary data is displayed on the main screen together with the search character string;
program. the computer,
A sub-screen including a first area and a second area is superimposed and displayed on a part of the main screen when a search character string is specified by a user operation from character information displayed on the main screen. function as display control means,
The display control means causes the first information acquired by searching the first dictionary data with the search character string to be displayed in the first area, and the search character string is displayed in the character string recorded as an entry word. displaying an icon in the second area for switching display contents of the main screen so that a list of other included dictionary data is displayed on the main screen together with predetermined information;
The predetermined information is second information obtained by searching the second dictionary data selected from the list with the search character string.
program.

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