CN1749941A

CN1749941A - Menu image display method and electronic information equipment

Info

Publication number: CN1749941A
Application number: CNA200510084668XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 神昭义; 大塚邦雄; 野口直之; 泷田聪士
Original assignee: Victor Company of Japan Ltd
Current assignee: JVCKenwood Corp
Priority date: 2004-09-13
Filing date: 2005-07-14
Publication date: 2006-03-22
Anticipated expiration: 2025-07-14
Also published as: CN100356306C

Abstract

The invention provides a menu image display method allowing a user to easily recognize an operated layer and to carry out sure operation. When a menu image is moved from first layer to a second layer or a third layer, boundary lines B1 and B2 set close to each other while avoiding mutual contact are displayed on a display screen 21 for forming divided three areas R1, R2, and R3. A triangle mark SL showing that there is an upper layer is displayed in the area R1. The areas R1 and R2 shows presence of the upper first and second layers. In the area R3, information (thumbnail image in this case) matching the third layer is displayed.

Description

Menu image display method and electronic message unit

Technical field

The present invention relates to menu image display method and electronic message unit, relate in particular to the user when being operating as the menu of hierarchy, can discern the menu image display method and the electronic message unit that have carried out which grade operation easily.

Background technology

In the prior art,, the example that carries out with personal computer has been described as using display frame to carry out the typical example of method of operating.Figure 17 represents to be used for carrying out the picture structure of various settings and operation on personal computer.In picture 101, show rectangular window 102, label (tab) 103 is set at an upper portion thereof, in each label 103, writing the large project of " setting ", " image ", " effect " at this as an example, represent current in window 102 content displayed belong to which large project.

The label 103 corresponding (being the label 103 of " image " here) with current content displayed for as the continuous composition of the window 102 of content display part, it visually can be identified as a piece of paper face.Though also described the label (label 103 of " setting " and " effect ") of other large projects, but for these labels 103, by at configure boundaries line between itself and the window 102, be depicted on other papers that are not current demonstration and show as other large projects.In addition, Figure 17 is the application examples that shows the situation of the content relevant with operation portable information device that will illustrate of back in embodiments of the present invention with existing display packing.

In this explicit representation, the content of writing on label 103 (large project) is the first order, and when having selected each label 103, content displayed is partial structure in window 102.In example shown in Figure 17, the window 102 of " image " large project is divided into the middle project of " SCENCE " and " PLAYLIST ", further, thin project is arranged wherein.The project that in these thin projects, also has complete operation in this window 102, in the example of Figure 17, for example, can " NEW CREATION " in " PLAYLIST " in, new names of playlists is logged in the framework (charging to portion) 104, and the operation of pushing generation button 105, can be in " CHANGING NAME ", the tabulation of opening names of playlists shows and wants the playlist that changes, after rewriting name, the operation of pushing OK button 106.

On the other hand, operate other pictures of further needs.For example, among " PROTECT " and " EDIT " of the thinner project in " SCENCE ", only shown the button 107,108 that the window of this picture is used.For example, for " PROTECT ",, then as shown in figure 18, show the window 109 that comprises a plurality of thumbnails, so the user can carry out the image of hope is applied the operation of protection with it if push the operation of the button 107 of " to protection image assigned picture ".

In addition, particularly as the level time performance of the demonstration that is suitable for portable information device, also proposed the inferior mode (for example, with reference to patent documentation 1) of arranging of on picture, laterally dividing of level.

[patent documentation 1] spy opens the 2001-265477 communique.

But, in existing menu image display method, as be loaded in as in the small displays (display frame) on the portable information device of an example of electronic message unit, even show detailed information therein, User Recognition is also very difficult, the problem that the convenience difference is arranged, problem to be solved are to point out the option of managing with hierarchy easily to the user with understanding.

In the illustrated conventional example of Figure 17, Figure 18 since in the little display frame of portable information device display label 103 tinily only, currently shown which grade content is limited so the user pointed out easily with understanding.Especially, as shown in figure 18, appear as at operation screen under the situation of other windows 109 of the window 102 that is not to have label 103, owing to concealed previous window displayed 102, so belonging to the identification of which level, the window 109 of current appearance depends on operative memory before, occurred under the situation of new window in mistaken operation, the problem of confusion reigned has been arranged.

In the invention of in patent documentation 1, being put down in writing, effective to electronic message unit with display of size more than a certain degree, but show multistage project owing to arrange, so for example, under the situation of the portable information device that is used for only having the very little display below 2 inches, the problem of the visuality difference of each project still exists.

Summary of the invention

The present invention makes in view of the above problems, its objective is provides a kind of when classification time display operation project is operated electronic message unit, the identification user is operating which level is inferior easily, and the menu image display method that can operate reliably and electronic message unit.

The present invention is in order to solve above-mentioned prior art problems, and provide a kind of menu image display method, be used on picture, showing the multilevel menu image, it is characterized in that, comprise the steps: in response to the key operation that on described picture, shows first order menu, be set at the step of first show state, in described first show state, show that on described picture first boundary image and expression have partial first recognition image of described first order subordinate, and in a zone of the described picture of cutting apart by described first boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described first order menu; Enter described partial key operation in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described first order menu, be set at the step of second show state, in described second show state, show that on described picture the second and the 3rd boundary image, expression have second recognition image of the described first order and expression that the 3rd recognition image of the third level of described second level subordinate is arranged, and in first zone line that clips by the described second and the 3rd boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described Level-2 menu; Enter the key operation of the described third level in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described Level-2 menu, be set at the step of the 3rd show state, in described the 3rd show state, show that on described picture the 4th and the 5th close non-contiguously each other boundary image and expression have the higher level's of the described third level the 4th recognition image, and in the zone outside second zone line that clips by the described the 4th and the 5th boundary image, show information corresponding to the described third level.

Here, be preferably in when described first show state enters into described second show state, on described picture, move described first boundary image and be used as described second boundary image.

Preferably described the 3rd boundary image is presented on the position identical with described first boundary image.

Preferably described the 4th boundary image is presented on the position identical with described second boundary image.

Be preferably in when described second show state enters into described the 3rd show state, on described picture, move described the 3rd boundary image and be used as the 5th boundary image.

Be preferably in described first show state,, show described first recognition image being in first exterior lateral area with another zone that does not show the described picture a plurality of projects, that cut apart by described first boundary image that constitutes described first order menu.

Be preferably in described second show state, second exterior lateral area being positioned at described first zone line outside shows described second recognition image; On the position in relative the 3rd exterior lateral area, identical with described first recognition image, show described the 3rd recognition image clipping described zone line.

Be preferably in described the 3rd show state, in the outside that is positioned at described second zone line and do not have to show on the territory, lateral areas, identical with the described second recognition image all round position corresponding to the information of the described third level, show described the 4th recognition image.

Be preferably in described first and second show states display items display title and corresponding at least one of the icon of its project name, as described a plurality of projects; In described second show state, be that project name in the described first order menu item and at least one of icon show in the lump with the higher level of described a plurality of projects.

Being preferably in described second show state, will be that the corresponding information of the described third level shows in the lump with the subordinate of the project of selecting from described a plurality of projects.

A kind of electronic message unit is provided, has had display frame (21), in described display frame, shown to it is characterized in that comprise: operating portion (15) has one or more keys by the multilevel menu image; First display unit (14), it is any key of described operating portion, in response to the key operation that on described picture, shows first order menu, be set at first show state, in described first show state, show that on described picture first boundary image and expression have partial first recognition image of described first order subordinate, and in a zone of the described picture of cutting apart by described first boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described first order menu; Second display unit (14), it is any key of described operating portion, enter described partial key operation in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described first order menu, be set at second show state, in described second show state, on described picture, show the second and the 3rd boundary image, expression has second recognition image of the described first order, and expression has the 3rd recognition image of the third level of described second level subordinate, and in first zone line that clips by the described second and the 3rd boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described Level-2 menu; The 3rd display unit (14), it is any key of described operating portion, enter the key operation of the described third level in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described Level-2 menu, be set at the 3rd show state, in described the 3rd show state, show that on described picture the 4th and the 5th close non-contiguously each other boundary image and expression have the higher level's of the described third level the 4th recognition image, and in the zone outside second zone line that clips by the described the 4th and the 5th boundary image, show information corresponding to the described third level.

Here, preferably include the first boundary image mobile unit, when entering into described second show state from described first show state, on described picture, move described first boundary image and be used as described second boundary image.

Preferably include the second boundary image mobile unit, when entering into described the 3rd show state from described second show state, on described picture, move described the 3rd boundary image and be used as the 5th boundary image.

Preferably described first display unit shows described first recognition image in another regional i.e. first exterior lateral area that does not show the described picture a plurality of projects, that cut apart by described first boundary image that constitutes described first order menu.

Preferably described second display unit shows described second recognition image in second exterior lateral area that is positioned at described first zone line outside; On the position in relative the 3rd exterior lateral area, identical with described first recognition image, show described the 3rd recognition image clipping described zone line.

Preferably described the 3rd display unit is in the outside that is positioned at described second zone line and not have to show described the 4th recognition image on the territory, lateral areas, identical with the described second recognition image all round position of demonstration corresponding to the information of the described third level.

Best described first and second display unit display items display titles and corresponding at least one of the icon of its project name, as described a plurality of projects; Described second display unit is that project name in the described first order menu item and at least one of icon show in the lump with the higher level of described a plurality of projects.

Preferably described second display unit will be that the corresponding information of the described third level shows in the lump with the subordinate of the project of selecting from described a plurality of projects.

The invention effect

According to menu image display method of the present invention and electronic message unit, when operation was divided into multistage operation item, even on little picture, the user also can discern easily and operate which level is inferior, can operate reliably.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the block diagram of expression first embodiment;

Fig. 2 is the figure of an example of the first order of the menu image of expression first embodiment;

Fig. 3 is the figure of a partial example of the menu image of expression first embodiment;

Fig. 4 is the figure of an example of the third level of the menu image of expression first embodiment;

Fig. 5 is that expression is the stereographic map of the surface structure example under the situation of shooting type video camera as first embodiment;

Fig. 6 is the figure that is illustrated in an example of object used in the menu image of first embodiment;

Fig. 7 is the figure of an example of passing of the level of expression first embodiment;

Fig. 8 is the figure of an example of passing that represents the level of first embodiment with menu image;

Fig. 9 is the process flow diagram of an example of display process of the first order of the menu image of expression first embodiment;

Figure 10 is the process flow diagram of an example of partial display process of the menu image of expression first embodiment;

Figure 11 is the process flow diagram of an example of display process of the third level of the menu image of expression first embodiment;

Figure 12 is the figure of an example that shows the passing of the level of representing second embodiment with menu;

Figure 13 is the figure of expression the 3rd embodiment;

Figure 14 is the figure of an example of passing that represents the level of the 4th embodiment with menu image;

Figure 15 is the block diagram of expression the 5th embodiment;

Figure 16 is the figure of an example of passing that represents the level of the 6th embodiment with menu image;

Figure 17 is the figure of expression conventional example;

Figure 18 is the figure of expression conventional example.

Embodiment

Below, with reference to accompanying drawing, describe each embodiment of menu image display method of the present invention and electronic message unit in detail.

＜the first embodiment 〉

First embodiment is example as an example of electronic message unit with portable information devices such as video cameras.

The example of＜actions menu picture and feature operation 〉

Fig. 1 represents the structure example of the hardware of portable information device, and this each piece shown in Figure 1 is built in as shown in Figure 5 the shooting type video camera 50.Among Fig. 1, the image of taking with image pickup part 10 becomes digital signal in image pickup part 10, and supplies with record-playback signal processing part 11 through picture signal with bus 18.11 pairs of digital signals of being imported of record-playback signal processing part are carried out image Compression and format processing etc., and supply with record-playback portion 12.Record-playback portion 12 is built-in or hold the tape of DVC (digital video cassette tape) etc., the recording medium (not shown) of microdrive hard disk internal card, SD card semiconductor memory cards such as (registered trademarks), CDs etc. such as ((マィ Network ロ De ラィ Block) registered trademarks), and record is input to the digital signal of record-playback portion 12 on recording medium.Though omitted diagram, record-playback portion 12 has rotating head, card connection connector and disk drive etc. according to the kind of recording medium.Picture signal is connected to D/A converter 20 with bus 18, after data image signal is transformed to analog picture signal, from 21 outputs of image signal output end.

Picture signal is also connected to display 2 and image storer 13 with bus 18.The picture signal of taking by image pickup part 10 by display not shown in the figures with D/A converter be transformed to demonstration with simulating signal after, be presented on the display 2.Display 2 comprises display frame that for example is made of display panels described later and the driving circuit that is used for display image in display frame.In addition, to temporarily store picture signal into by the picture signal that image pickup part 10 is taken with in the storer 13, stack (superimpose) captions that carried out being generated by microprocessor 14 are with after the overlap-add procedure of signal, turn back to picture signal bus 18, and can show the picture signal of various information after stack on the picture on the display 2, or at the enterprising line item of recording medium, or from 21 outputs of image signal output end.To being recorded in picture signal on the recording medium when reproducing, be compressed behind the decompress(ion) etc. of signal device for playing back image signals with gained by record-playback signal processing part 11 and be output to picture signal with bus 18, and be presented on the display 2, or from 21 outputs of image signal output end.

Portable information device (video camera 50) is controlled by microprocessor 14, and each several part links to each other with microprocessor 14 by bus 19, carries out the exchange of control signal and data.Operating portion 15 comprises Menu key 3, cross key 4, OK key 5 as Fig. 2～shown in Figure 5, is sent to microprocessor 14 from user's input of these user interfaces through bus 19.Stored program or the data used in microprocessor 14 in ROM16, it is RAM17 that microprocessor 14 suitably uses the temporary transient memory that carries out various processing usefulness, carries out various processing.Microprocessor 14 is carried out and is used program and the data that are stored among the ROM16, generate the information of operation with picture (menu images at different levels) of described first embodiment in back after, and supply with images through bus 19 and store with storer 13.Image with storer 13 in the operation of storage show with bus 18 supply displays 2 through picture signal with the information of picture, point out the user.In addition, ROM16 can be after manufacturing as non-volatile ram, also can carry out the various distortion such as rewriting of program.

Fig. 2 represents the display frame 21 of display 2 of portable information device and peripheral part of display frame 21.On the framework 1 of portable information device, loaded the display frame 21 of display 2, and, around display frame 21, load Menu key 3, cross key 4, OK key 5 and be used as user interface.The various function operations methods of portable information device are described according to Fig. 2.Now, consider to have that large project is selected, event selection and end item operation three grades.In aforesaid portable information device,, at first,, as shown in Figure 2, in display frame 21, show the menu that large project is selected by pushing Menu key 3 for carrying out feature operation.In example shown in Figure 2, in display frame 21, large projects such as " BASIC SETTING ", " MEDIA SETTING " are presented at as menu in the region R 1,, selected " SCENE " wherein here.In addition, menu that large project is selected many can not be under situation about once showing in the display frame 21, state shown in Figure 2 is the state of the part of the menu that shown that in display frame 21 large project is selected.

In the menu that this large project shown in Figure 2 is selected, usually can be chosen in the predetermined project of central authorities' demonstration of above-below direction at first, which can not select in project of the initial moment yet, when selecting to be in the project of central authorities at first, press OK key 5, when wanting to select sundry item, when pressing up or down the arrow part of cross key 4, move up and down project, and it is any to select to be in the process of project etc., project choice of central authorities.

For example, under the situation of wanting operation " PLAY LIST ", by pushing the bottom of cross key 4, the project that is positioned at central authorities becomes " PLAY LIST ", and can operate " PLAY LIST ".By making " PLAY LIST " be positioned at central authorities, and the demonstration of " BASIC SETTING " of topmost portion that is positioned at the display frame 21 of Fig. 2 disappears, and shows the menu that is positioned at below " EFFECT " at lowermost part.In this example, then corresponding if the project of wanting to operate in display frame 21 is positioned at central upside or downside with the direction of pushing cross key 4, so, understand operation easily for the user.

Like this, owing to be usually located at the vertical direction central authorities of a plurality of menus, so the user just can select to want the project of operating without moving view point as the menu item of operand.As shown in Figure 2, use the literal bigger to show by making the project that is positioned at central authorities, or show, or make the color difference, and emphasize the project of display operation object with the color burn literal than sundry item with the oval operand that surrounds.Further, in the example of Fig. 2, show the icon ACs of each project of expression in the left side of projects, selected project is shown big icon ACb.

Also can carry out the animation distortion, make to look that this icon ACb rotates, also the method that can implement to be more readily understood.During predetermined after the project of choice menus only, make icon ACb rotation, or after option, for example rotate icon ACb one time, thus the user easily identification selection the situation of this project.

As first embodiment, as menu item, because the user understands each project easily, so best display items display title and corresponding to icon ACs, the ACb of this project name.But, if the user is appreciated that the project of menu, but also display items display title and corresponding to the icon ACs of this project name, at least one of ACb.

As shown in Figure 5, at the Macintosh of the cross key 4 of the bottom right of display frame 21 configuration operation portion 15 and OK key 5 are shooting type video cameras 50 as portable information device, this be because with the face of lens opposition side on be provided with under the situation of display frame 21 of display 2, being in one's hands keeps under the situation of video camera 50 by hand on the band (grip belt) 51, and hand thumb is positioned on cross key 4 and the OK key 5 just.By such configuration cross key 4 and OK key 5, only just can much operate, easily by hand thumb.

But, in example shown in Figure 2, with among Figure 17 as in the project of project enumerate as large project.Like this, the binding of project can suitably be out of shape.In first embodiment, owing to can in the demonstration of projects of menu, use region R 1 in the display frame 21, so even display frame 21 is less, even demonstration a plurality of projects to a certain degree once, the user also can discern easily as the large tracts of land part.

Further, in example shown in Figure 2, near the right-hand member of display frame 21, shown boundary line B1,, picture has been divided into the big region R 1 and the zonule R2 that is positioned at the right side in the left side that is positioned at the horizontal direction central portion that comprises picture by this boundary line B1 as an example of boundary image.On region R 1, show the menu item that large project is selected as tabulation, and the expression first order.On region R 2, show the SR of warning triangle to the right,, the user is emphasized to also have at this end (that is right side) impression of next stage (second level) by this warning triangle SR to the right as an example of recognition image.Do not have warning triangle left by left end in region R 1, and make boundary line B1 and to the right warning triangle SR be positioned at the right-hand member of display frame 21, being easy to be illustrated in the menu that shows on the region R 1 is the first order.In addition, in the example of Fig. 2, the composition that shows as region R 1 for a part with disk-like object.

Here, for example, when the user wants to carry out also to belong to the operation of small project in the large project " SCENE ", for example, enter into the indication of next stage by pushing the right arrow of cross key 4.Be predetermined this indication in the program of in the microprocessor 14 of portable information device, using.For example, also can use by pushing the selection that OK key 5 is identified project certainly, afterwards, push other sequence of operation such as right arrow of cross 4.How to use the one or more keys that on operating portion 15, are provided with to show that image at different levels is then any.

If carry out this operation that enters into the indication of next stage, then, become for example this show state relevant of Fig. 3 with the second level through after during the passing described later.In example shown in Figure 3, as the small project that belongs to large project " SCENE ", " PROTECT " and " EDIT " two projects are shown as menu,, selected " PROTECT " here.

In second level picture shown in Figure 3, near the boundary line B1 that is positioned in the first order picture right-hand member transfers near the picture left end, and newly shows boundary line B2 at right-hand member.The display position of boundary line B2 preferably with among Fig. 2 shows that the position of boundary line B1 is identical.Show warning triangle SL left in the left side of boundary line B1, expression has more higher level (being the first order) here.Show warning triangle SR to the right on the right side of boundary line B2, expression has more subordinate.This demonstration example is under the state that has been offset a plurality of objects of plate-like, partly overlapping composition.Boundary line B1 left field R1 is the disk-like object of upper level, represents to exist the first order by a part that shows the first order, then the wide region R 2 expression second level of central authorities.And, represent to exist the third level by a part that shows the third level at the right side area R3 of boundary line B2.

Here, by selecting " PROTECT ",, become the show state of the third level shown in Figure 4 when using when entering into the indication of next stage with method identical described in the previous first order.Here, it is final stage, under the situation of " PROTECT ", shows a plurality of thumbnails of the image that has write down in recording medium.With respect to first and second grades be menu from a plurality of project choice, in the example shown in Figure 4, the third level is the function operations picture that is used for carrying out " PROTECT ".

In third level picture shown in Figure 4, be positioned near the boundary line B2 of picture right-hand member in the second level and transfer near near the boundary line B1 that shows the picture left end.That is, the position of the boundary line B1 of the third level is identical with the position of partial boundary line B1.Boundary line B2 also can be transferred to contact edge boundary line B1 not and on the close position.Owing near the picture left end of display frame 21, show two boundary line B1, B2, show warning triangle SL left in its left side, so can discern the higher level two-stage (being the first order and the second level) is arranged here.The position of the SL of warning triangle left of the third level is identical with the position of the partial SL of warning triangle left.

In first embodiment, though, used circular-arc boundary line B1, B2 as boundary image; As recognition image, used warning triangle SR, SL, but be not limited to this.As boundary image, also can use the boundary line of linearity, if display frame 21 can be divided into a plurality of zones, then be not limited to line.In addition, also can use arrow as recognition image, also can be the inferior image of level of notifying the user to have higher level or subordinate.

If the demonstration example of key diagram 4, " PROTECT " just can not delete or change as long as do not have de-preservation on this picture, if selected in the thumbnail by cross key 4, and presses OK key 5, then the image of correspondence protected.In the image that has added protection, on the thumbnail SN1 of central authorities, as shown in the figure,, in thumbnail image, insert key label K1 as an example, and can being discerned, the user applied protection.De-preservation also can be by selecting to have added the thumbnail of the image of protecting, the operation of pressing OK key 5 grades again.

Shown in the thumbnail SN2 of lower-left, the thumbnail of selected image is carried out thick frame show.According to the operation of the four direction of cross key 4, selected image moves.Under the situation that has write down the thumbnail more than 9 width of cloth, in the choice during the thumbnail of delegation, by further pushing cross key 4 upwards, the image of record before changing into, being used as thumbnail shows, when selecting the thumbnail of next line, by further pushing downward cross key 4, the image of record after changing into and showing as thumbnail.

At the right side of thumbnail show scroll bars BR1, on which position of the integral body that the cursor CR1 that the part of this blank shows indicates current thumbnail images shown to be arranged in to comprise other thumbnails that conceal.

In addition, in order to turn back to state from state shown in Figure 4, for example, also can under the state of the thumbnail of having selected the left end row, further press the key left of cross key 4 as Fig. 3 of previous stage.At this moment, through during the passing described later, turn back in the picture of Fig. 3.

More than, though described the example of " PROTECT ", (for example, " EDIT " of Fig. 3) comes the display operation picture as the third level too for other functions.But the third level must not be limited to the picture that shows thumbnail, also shows the structure picture that is suitable for various operations.As the operation picture of the third level, also there is the situation of the menu that a plurality of projects are shown as tabulating.In the third level, will be called information as the menu that constitutes by thumbnail and a plurality of project " PROTECT " example corresponding to the third level.Here, so-called information is the information arbitrarily that comprises image and literal.

To be used to show boundary line B1, B2 and warning triangle SR and the program or the data of the key element in the picture such as warning triangle SL are called object to the right left.Also there is the situation of indicating these key elements itself and being called object.Fig. 6 represents the guide look of main rendered object required in first embodiment.Boundary line object OB1 is the object that is used to represent boundary line B1, B2, triangle object OB2 is used to represent the object of warning triangle SR to the right to the right, triangle object OB3 is used to represent the object of warning triangle SL left left, emphasizes that background object OB4 is the object that is used to represent the thick frame that the thumbnail SN2 to Fig. 4 adds.

In addition, icon (little) object OB5, OB6 ... be the object that is used to show to the small icon ACs of each interpolation of menu, icon (greatly) object OB7, OB8 ... it is the object that is used for showing the large icons ACb that the menu item selected is added.These are stored among the ROM16 of portable information device as the program that is used for being described to handle by microprocessor 14 and the part of data.By these objects being provided parameter value (position and size etc.), in the display frame 21 of display 2, show, realize Fig. 2～display frame shown in Figure 4.

The summary that＜inter-stage is passed 〉

Then, the action of inter-stage in passing is described.As previously mentioned, when moving on to from level grade, during through the passing of carrying out the predetermined picture performance after, carry out the demonstration of new level.If this situation of diagram, then as shown in Figure 7.Transverse axis express time process among Fig. 7 shows an example of operating process.

Among Fig. 7, if show the indication of usefulness at first as handle icon, supress Menu key 3, then show the first order (level 1), the user uses this picture to carry out the operations such as selection of project in the menu.If enter into the indication of foregoing next stage, then during predetermined in, show the transition diagram picture that is used for arriving the second level (level 2) from the first order, show the second level.Therefore, the user uses this picture to carry out the operation relevant with the second level, further ought enter into the indication of next stage, then during predetermined in, show the transition diagram picture that is used for arriving the third level (level 3) from the second level, show the third level.Here, the operation wished of user.If turn back to the indication of previous stage, then during predetermined in, show to be used for arriving partial transition diagram picture from the third level, show the second level once more.In addition, the scheduled period when each inter-stage moves also can be the time that the user can discern the degree that moves of level.

Action during＜each passing 〉

As if the passing of representing inter-stage with the composition on the picture, then as shown in Figure 8.Among Fig. 8, (a) represent successively from the first order to partial passing, (b) represent passing from the second level to the third level successively with the figure of (1) to (5) with the figure of (1) to (5).Wherein, among Fig. 8, simply illustrate composition at different levels.

At first, Fig. 8 (a) (1) is the picture of the first order, is equivalent to picture shown in Figure 2.Picture is divided into region R 1 and region R 2 by near the boundary line B1 the picture right-hand member, projects of display menu and icon on the central portion that contains in region R 1 (representing with line and point here).When entering into the indication of next stage, shown in (2), (3) of Fig. 8 (a), (4), moving boundary line B1 successively left, and arrive the position shown in (5).Fig. 8 (a) (5) are equivalent to picture shown in Figure 3.In addition, show that near the picture right-hand member boundary line B2 is divided into region R 2 and region R 3, and, warning triangle SL and warning triangle SR left to the right shown.Like this, in the zone on the picture that is divided into region R 1, R2, R3, on the big region R 2 of central portion, show Level-2 menu.

(1) of Fig. 8 (b) is identical with Fig. 8 (a) (5).If carry out entering into the indication of the third level from the second level shown in Fig. 8 (b) (1), then shown in (2), (3) of Fig. 8 (b), (4), moving boundary line B2 successively left, and arrive the position shown in (5).Here, boundary line B1 and boundary line B2 are contiguous, and region R 2 is tiny areas therebetween.In addition, there is a level, then also can makes boundary line B1 and boundary line B2 further close, the zone 2 single lines that become between boundary line B1 and the boundary line B2 as if finding out between each level corresponding to region R 1 and region R 3.The picture (be here be the center image) that shows the third level in (5) of Fig. 8 (b) with 9 thumbnails.

Enter at picture under the situation of the partial picture shown in (1) of Fig. 8 (b) from the third level of Fig. 8 (b) (5), with above-mentioned opposite, shown in (4), (3) of Fig. 8 (b), (2), moving boundary line B2 successively to the right, and arrive the position shown in (1).In addition, enter at partial picture under the situation of picture of the first order shown in (1) of Fig. 8 (a), with above-mentioned opposite, shown in (4), (3) of Fig. 8 (a), (2) from Fig. 8 (a) (5), moving boundary line B1 successively to the right, and arrive the position shown in (1).

Aforesaid boundary line B1, B2 left or the mobile phase of right every preset time, be that unit carries out successively by each pixel of display frame 21.Thus, because continuous moving boundary line B1, B2, so the user can accurately discern the inferior switching of level.

Below, use the process flow diagram during respectively passing to illustrate that describing on the picture shows.Come execution graph 9～flow processing shown in Figure 11 by microprocessor 14.

At first, Fig. 9 represents to indicate menu to show by pushing Menu key 3, shows the process flow diagram of the processing of the first order.Among Fig. 9, in step S101, monitor whether supress Menu key 3.If detect and supress Menu key 3, then in step S102, near the right-hand member of picture, show boundary line B1 by border object OB1.And, in step S103, show warning triangle SR to the right at the right side area R2 of boundary line B1 by triangle object OB2 to the right.Further, in step 104, on region R 1, show first order menu.

Then, use the process flow diagram of Figure 10 to illustrate from the first order to partial passing.Among Figure 10, at first as shown in Figure 2, show the first order.In step S201, monitor the indication of whether having carried out entering into next stage.Detecting when having carried out this indication, in step S202, close the demonstration of the SR of warning triangle to the right of triangle object OB2 to the right.And, in step S203, with the display position of border object OB1 in time through being moved to the left with predetermined speed.In step S204, monitor whether border object OB1 has transferred to the preposition in picture left side.If detect and transferred to this position, then stop moving, in step S205, the SL of warning triangle left of triangle object OB3 left is presented at the region R 1 in boundary line B1 left side.Further, in step S206, show the boundary line B2 of border object OB2 near the picture right-hand member, in step S207, the region R 3 on B2 right side, boundary line shows the SR of warning triangle to the right of triangle object OB2 to the right.And in step S208, the region R 2 of the picture central portion between boundary line B1 and boundary line B2 shows the projects that constitute Level-2 menu.

As above from the first order to partial passing, though the menu of the first order directly disappears when beginning to pass, also can move to the left with boundary line B1, the part of exposing from picture disappears successively.In addition, if transfer to when last at boundary line B1, local residual menu also can be deleted it on picture.

Further, use the process flow diagram of Figure 11 to illustrate from the second level to the passing of the third level.Among Figure 11, at first as shown in Figure 3, show the second level, in step S301, monitor the indication of whether having carried out entering into next stage.Detecting when having carried out this indication, in step S302, close the demonstration of the SR of warning triangle to the right of triangle object OB2 to the right.And, in step S303, the display position that makes boundary line B2 in time through with predetermined speed left direction move and show.In step S304, monitor whether boundary line B2 transfers to the preposition (position on the right side slightly of boundary line B1) in picture left side.If detect and transferred to this position, then stop moving, in step S305, on the region R 3 of picture central portion, show each function executing picture (corresponding to the information of the third level).

Fig. 7 from the third level (level 3) to the passing of the second level (level 2), carry out the passing opposite and show with Figure 11.

＜the second embodiment 〉

Second embodiment has developed the menu image display method of first embodiment, and the user is more readily understood the connection of first～third level.The concrete structure of electronic message unit of realizing second embodiment is identical with Fig. 1, uses Figure 12 that the characteristic of second embodiment only is described.

Among Figure 12, (a) being the first order menu identical with Fig. 2, (b) being the Level-2 menu identical with Fig. 3, (c) is the information of the third level identical with Fig. 4.Here, the third level is not a thumbnail shown in Figure 4, but corresponding to the configuration information of selected project (being " dynamic image quality " here).

Second embodiment is different with first embodiment in the show state of second shown in Figure 12 (b), (c) and the third level.In Figure 12 (a),, enter Figure 12 (b) by selecting video camera setting as project.Shown in Figure 12 (b), on region R 2, show projects of Level-2 menu.And with projects of this Level-2 menu, demonstration is to the icon ACs and the entry name NA1 (being " video camera setting " here) of the project of the higher level's of the Level-2 menu in showing first order menu.

Also can only be the entry name NA1 of " video camera setting ", but also at least one of display icon ACS and entry name NA1.Also can show large icons ACb, rather than small icon ACs.Like this, the projects that can discern the menu that shows in the second level easily are included in the project in which project of first order menu.

Further, will with to the corresponding information of the third level of item selected (being " dynamic image quality " here) subordinate as configuration information NA3, show with projects of Level-2 menu.Like this, even do not enter the third level, also can discern configuration information to item selected.In addition, the demonstration of configuration information NA3 is not carried out all projects in the second level, can be to carrying out as the value of setting outside the thumbnail of Fig. 4 with as the project that the state that is provided with is selected yet.

In Figure 12 (b),, and enter into Figure 12 (c) by the dynamic image quality of selection as project.Shown in Figure 12 (c), on region R 3, shown the information (configuration information) of the third level.And,, show the higher level's of shown third level information the icon ACb of project of Level-2 menu with the information of this third level.

Identical with the second level, except icon ACb, also can show the entry name that " dynamic image quality " constitutes.But also at least one of display icon ACb and entry name.In addition, also can show small icon ACs, rather than large icons ACb.Like this, can discern configuration information shown in the third level easily is information to which project of Level-2 menu.

＜the three embodiment 〉

Though the first and second embodiment along continuous straight runs are transferred to first～third level successively, the 3rd embodiment then is along inclined direction to transfer to first～third level successively.Essential part in the 3rd embodiment is identical with first embodiment, only uses Figure 13 that the characteristic of the 3rd embodiment is described.Figure 13 is identical with Fig. 3, is partial show state.

Among Figure 13, display frame 21 is divided into three zones by boundary line B31, B32, and the bight, lower-left is that region R 31, upper right bight are region R 33, the part that clipped by boundary line B31, B32 is a region R 32.On region R 31, show warning triangle S31, on region R 33, show warning triangle S32, on region R 32, show each project of Level-2 menu.In the lower left to the transfer of carrying out from this state to the first order, in the lower right to the transfer of carrying out to the third level.In addition, also can be opposite.

＜the four embodiment 〉

The 4th embodiment is not the composition that shows as the disk-like object part of first～the 3rd embodiment, but has shown the composition of title page.Among Figure 14, (a) the expression first order, (b) the expression second level, (c) the expression third level.

Among Figure 14 (a), shown in dotted line, in display frame 21, show title page DR1, the DR2 that describes with respect to background lightlyer.Middle body in display frame 21 shows first order menu.If enter into the second level of Figure 14 (b), then title page DR1, DR2 become the state of opening to the paper inboard, as end DR11, the DR21 of title page DR1, DR2, are presented at the left and right end portions of display frame 21.In the second level of Figure 14 (b), show title page DR3, DR4 also lightlyer.Central portion in display frame 21 has shown partial menu.If the third level that enters Figure 14 (c), title page DR3, DR4 become the state of opening to the paper inboard, as end DR31, the DR41 of title page DR3, DR4, are presented at the left and right end portions of display frame 21.

In the 4th embodiment, the user by about the number of the title page opened discern level time.In the passing of inter-stage, under the situation of the level that enters into subordinate, can with show as a setting more shallow title page deepen to show show be in the state of open mode, entering under higher level's grade inferior situation, the title page of opening is closed, and after closing, shows with the title page of light color and to get final product.

＜the five embodiment 〉

The electronic message unit that has loaded menu image display method of the present invention is not limited to the such portable information device of video camera shown in Figure 5 50, and menu image display method of the present invention also can show in display frame in whole electronic message units of the menu image with a plurality of grades and adopts.

Figure 15 is the block diagram that expression is used for menu image display method of the present invention the 5th embodiment of the electronic message unit outside the video camera 50.In Figure 15, the part identical with Fig. 1 marked same mark, suitably omit its explanation.

Among Figure 15, replace the video camera portion 10 of Fig. 1, be provided as the microphone input terminal 26 and external input terminals 27 of input switching part 23 and voice signal input terminal.After the voice signal of being imported is converted to digital signal by AD converter not shown in the figures, supply with voice signal bus 22.And, after voice signal being compressed the record-playback signal processing part 11 of processing etc., supplying with record-playback portion 12, be recorded in the recording medium not shown in the figures.

The voice signal that is reproduced by record-playback portion 12 carries out decompression processing etc. in record-playback signal processing part 11, export from audio signal output terminal 25 through D/A converter 24.Supply with displays 2 through picture signal with bus 18 with signal with the demonstration of storer 13 from image, be converted to simulating signal with demonstration not shown in the figures with the DA converter after, be presented in the display frame of display 2.Here, show that with signal be the signal of foregoing operation with picture (menu screens at different levels), use program stored and data in ROM16, generate by microprocessor 14.

＜the six embodiment 〉

First, second above-mentioned embodiment is to have three grades menu image, but also can be the menu image with four higher levels.The 6th embodiment illustrates the inter-stage passing that expression has the menu image of level Four.Inferior by level is level Four, and boundary line B1, B2 are newly added boundary line B3.Though do not describe in detail especially, the demonstration of boundary line B1～B3 and warning triangle SR to the right and warning triangle SL left or mobile rule are identical with first, second embodiment.

Utilizability on the industry

The present invention can be widely used in Zai video camera, pocket telephone, portable data assistance etc. Portable information device and other various electronic message unit Zhong, the Zai picture shows the multistage structure of You The menu image that becomes comes the situation of operating equipment.

Claims

1, a kind of menu image display method is used for showing the multilevel menu image on picture, it is characterized in that, comprises the steps:

In response to the key operation that on described picture, shows first order menu, be set at the step of first show state, in described first show state, show that on described picture first boundary image and expression have partial first recognition image of described first order subordinate, and in a zone of the described picture of cutting apart by described first boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described first order menu;

Enter described partial key operation in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described first order menu, be set at the step of second show state, in described second show state, show that on described picture the second and the 3rd boundary image, expression have second recognition image of the described first order and expression that the 3rd recognition image of the third level of described second level subordinate is arranged, and in first zone line that clips by the described second and the 3rd boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described Level-2 menu;

Enter the key operation of the described third level in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described Level-2 menu, be set at the step of the 3rd show state, in described the 3rd show state, show that on described picture the 4th and the 5th close non-contiguously each other boundary image and expression have the higher level's of the described third level the 4th recognition image, and in the zone outside second zone line that clips by the described the 4th and the 5th boundary image, show information corresponding to the described third level.

2, menu image display method according to claim 1 is characterized in that: when entering into described second show state from described first show state, move described first boundary image and be used as described second boundary image on described picture.

3, menu image display method according to claim 2 is characterized in that: described the 3rd boundary image is presented on the position identical with described first boundary image.

4, menu image display method according to claim 1 is characterized in that: described the 4th boundary image is presented on the position identical with described second boundary image.

5, menu image display method according to claim 4 is characterized in that: when entering into described the 3rd show state from described second show state, move described the 3rd boundary image and be used as the 5th boundary image on described picture.

6, menu image display method according to claim 1, it is characterized in that: in described first show state, being in first exterior lateral area, show described first recognition image with another zone that does not show the described picture a plurality of projects, that cut apart by described first boundary image that constitutes described first order menu.

7, menu image display method according to claim 6 is characterized in that: in described second show state, second exterior lateral area being positioned at described first zone line outside shows described second recognition image; On the position in relative the 3rd exterior lateral area, identical with described first recognition image, show described the 3rd recognition image clipping described zone line.

8, menu image display method according to claim 7, it is characterized in that: in described the 3rd show state, in the outside that is positioned at described second zone line and do not have to show on the territory, lateral areas, identical with the described second recognition image all round position corresponding to the information of the described third level, show described the 4th recognition image.

9, menu image display method according to claim 1 is characterized in that: in described first and second show states, and display items display title and corresponding at least one of the icon of its project name, as described a plurality of projects; In described second show state, be that project name in the described first order menu item and at least one of icon show not in the lump with the higher level of described a plurality of projects.

10, menu image display method according to claim 9 is characterized in that: in described second show state, will be that the corresponding information of the described third level shows in the lump with the subordinate of the project of selecting from described a plurality of projects.

11, a kind of electronic message unit has display frame, shows to it is characterized in that the multilevel menu image in described display frame, comprising:

Operating portion has one or more keys;

First display unit, it is any key of described operating portion, in response to the key operation that on described picture, shows first order menu, be set at first show state, in described first show state, show that on described picture first boundary image and expression have partial first recognition image of described first order subordinate, and in a zone of the described picture of cutting apart by described first boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described first order menu;

Second display unit, it is any key of described operating portion, enter described partial key operation in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described first order menu, be set at second show state, in described second show state, on described picture, show the second and the 3rd boundary image, expression has second recognition image of the described first order, and expression has the 3rd recognition image of the third level of described second level subordinate, and in first zone line that clips by the described second and the 3rd boundary image, show a plurality of projects that constitute described Level-2 menu;

The 3rd display unit, it is any key of described operating portion, enter the key operation of the described third level in response to one of described a plurality of projects of selecting to constitute described Level-2 menu, be set at the 3rd show state, in described the 3rd show state, show that on described picture the 4th and the 5th close non-contiguously each other boundary image and expression have the higher level's of the described third level the 4th recognition image, and in the zone outside second zone line that clips by the described the 4th and the 5th boundary image, show information corresponding to the described third level.

12, electronic message unit according to claim 11, it is characterized in that: comprise the first boundary image mobile unit, when entering into described second show state from described first show state, on described picture, move described first boundary image and be used as described second boundary image.

13, electronic message unit according to claim 12 is characterized in that: described the 3rd boundary image is presented on the position identical with described first boundary image.

14, electronic message unit according to claim 11 is characterized in that: described the 4th boundary image is presented on the position identical with described second boundary image.

15, electronic message unit according to claim 14, it is characterized in that: comprise the second boundary image mobile unit, when entering into described the 3rd show state from described second show state, on described picture, move described the 3rd boundary image and be used as the 5th boundary image.

16, electronic message unit according to claim 11, it is characterized in that: described first display unit shows described first recognition image being in first exterior lateral area with another zone that does not show the described picture a plurality of projects, that cut apart by described first boundary image that constitutes described first order menu.

17, electronic message unit according to claim 16 is characterized in that: described second display unit shows described second recognition image in second exterior lateral area that is positioned at described first zone line outside; On the position in relative the 3rd exterior lateral area, identical with described first recognition image, show described the 3rd recognition image clipping described zone line.

18, electronic message unit according to claim 17, it is characterized in that: described the 3rd display unit is in the outside that is positioned at described second zone line and do not have to show on the territory, lateral areas, identical with the described second recognition image all round position corresponding to the information of the described third level, shows described the 4th recognition image.

19, electronic message unit according to claim 11 is characterized in that: described first and second display unit display items display titles and corresponding at least one of the icon of its project name, as described a plurality of projects; Described second display unit is that project name in the described first order menu item and at least one of icon show in the lump with the higher level of described a plurality of projects.

20, electronic message unit according to claim 19 is characterized in that: described second display unit will be that the corresponding information of the described third level shows in the lump with the subordinate of the project of selecting from described a plurality of projects.