JP2004086711A - Device with touch panel - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device having a touch panel making it hard to be erroneously inputted and having an excellent operability. <P>SOLUTION: This device comprises a variable frequency vibrator 204 driving a body 101, a detection panel 201 detecting the presence or absence of a pressing operation to a touch panel part 104 and detected coordinate values, and a control part 207 having a coordinate area set means and a control means. The coordinate area for the detected coordinate values detected by the detection panel 201 is set by the coordinate area set means, and the variable frequency vibrator 204 is controlled by the control means so that the mechanical driving of the variable frequency vibrator is gradually varied according to a relation of the detected coordinate values detected by the detection panel 201 to the coordinate area set by the coordinate area set means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a device having a touch panel, and in particular, to a device having a touch panel capable of improving operability by notifying an operator of information on an operation position by a driving mechanism mechanically driven by operation of the touch panel, and inputting the touch panel. The present invention relates to a mobile terminal and a mobile phone terminal as devices.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In a normal touch panel, for example, as a switch, an operator accepts an input operation only visually in an area of a figure that is visually displayed (hereinafter simply referred to as a display area) (hereinafter referred to as an effective input area). The input is performed by judging the coordinates. In general, the input is notified by a sound or a change in display.
[0003]
Therefore, in order to reduce input errors, the touch panel sets an effective input area corresponding to the display area as a switch, sets those areas to have a sufficiently large area, and furthermore, sets a sufficient area between adjacent switches. Requires a large distance.
[0004]
A device having a conventional touch panel further includes a mechanism for mechanically driving vibration or impact in order to improve the feel of an operator on the flat touch panel (for example, see Patent Document 1). ).
[0005]
FIG. 10 shows a schematic configuration of an apparatus having the touch panel.
[0006]
As shown in FIG. 10, when a device having a touch panel is touched or pressed by a switch set at a predetermined coordinate of touch panel 1001, a coordinate signal 1005 of the touch panel is detected, and control device 1004 drives signal 1006 to drive vibrator 1002. Emits. Thereby, the operator feels the vibration of vibrator 1002. When the touch panel is touched or pressed twice or more within a specific time, a control signal 1007 for driving the electromagnetic hammer 1003 is issued. Thereby, the operator feels the impact of the electromagnetic hammer 1003.
[0007]
Here, touching or pressing two or more times within a specific time corresponds to a double-click operation used with a mouse or the like of a computer device, and is an act of inputting at the coordinates. In other words, in the device having the touch panel, when the operator touches or presses the switch on the touch panel and touches the switch portion, the operator is made to perceive the location of the switch by vibration or the like. Then, an input is performed by a double-click operation, and it is possible for the operator to perceive that the input has been received and with a different impact.
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the device having the above touch panel, the driving by the vibrator 1002 when touching or pressing is touched in the vicinity of the center of the switch due to the constant inside of the switch or the edge of the switch. Can not do it. Therefore, especially when the switch is small, if the switch is hidden by the finger at the time of operation and the position of the switch is not known, remove the finger from the touch panel again and visually check the switch position to prevent input errors. In addition, it is necessary to judge the above-mentioned difference in driving by tactilely by moving the finger largely to the boundary of the switch and to judge the center position by estimating from the position of the upper, lower, left and right boundary of the switch.
[0009]
That is, as compared with a normal mechanical switch, there is a disadvantage that the input operation is complicated and the operation speed is inevitably reduced.
[0010]
On the other hand, current mobile terminals, and especially mobile phone terminals, are becoming smaller and more sophisticated, with very small input switches arranged very close to each other. Going fast. At this time, the size of the finger being operated is often larger than the input button, but the operation is performed as usual.
[0011]
In addition, many input operations are performed to input one character in order to input Japanese using limited input buttons of a small device. For example, in order to input “ko”, an operation is performed such that the “ka row” button is pressed five times.
[0012]
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having a touch panel that is less likely to cause an input error and has excellent operability.
[0013]
It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus having a touch panel that can set a switch on the touch panel to a small size or a small interval even in a small mobile terminal.
[0014]
Another object of the present invention is to provide a device having a touch panel suitable for performing an input operation at high speed.
[0015]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-8-221173
[0016]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention includes a driving unit that mechanically drives at least one of a main body and a touch panel, and detects presence / absence of a pressing operation on the touch panel and a detected coordinate value by a pressing detection unit. Further, a coordinate range for the detected coordinate value detected by the pressing detecting means is set by the coordinate range setting means. Then, by controlling the driving means by the control means, a machine of the driving means is controlled in accordance with a relative relationship between the detected coordinate value detected by the pressing detection means and the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means. The target drive is gradually changed. That is, the control unit controls the driving unit based on the relative relationship between the coordinate range of the touch panel and the detected coordinate value, and changes the mechanical drive with respect to the pressing operation to give the operator a tactile difference. . Further, the mechanical drive of the driving unit is gradually performed together with the relative relationship of the detected coordinate values to the coordinate range (for example, the relative distance from the center of the coordinate range, for example, the relative distance from the boundary of the coordinate range). Change and notify the operator.
[0017]
According to the device having the touch panel having the above-described configuration, there is an effect that an operator's operation is induced in the coordinate range (that is, the area of the switch) on the operation surface of the touch panel or in a specific portion of the coordinate range. For example, an operator's operation can be induced in the center of the coordinate range by gradually changing the mechanical drive inside the coordinate range toward the coordinate value in the center of the coordinate range. Further, for example, by gradually and strongly changing the mechanical drive outside the coordinate range in the direction of the coordinate range, it is possible to induce the operation of the operator in the direction of the coordinate range.
[0018]
Therefore, it is possible to provide a device having a touch panel with excellent operability in which the operation of the operator is naturally induced to a correct or more preferable operation position and an input error is less likely to occur.
[0019]
In addition, since the notification of the position of the coordinate range is performed by a more finely controlled mechanical drive, the effect that the perception of the position by the tactile sense becomes clearer and the effect that the operator can easily learn the operation position can be obtained. Have.
[0020]
Further, particularly, each time the operation is repeated, the direction of the boundary of the coordinate range on the touch panel, the direction near the center, or the direction of the coordinate range itself can be confirmed by the pressing operation accompanying the operation. Each time, there is a special advantage that the error of the operation position can be corrected naturally and the high-speed operation can be continuously performed.
[0021]
In this case, the mechanical drive is gradually changed, which means the type of the mechanical drive, the direction of the mechanical drive, the strength of the mechanical drive, the frequency of the mechanical drive, the pattern of the mechanical drive, or a combination thereof. Means to change either one continuously or to change it stepwise.
[0022]
Further, in particular, after controlling the driving means so that the mechanical drive is discontinuously different at the boundary between the inside and the outside of the coordinate range, inside the coordinate range, or outside, or both. Further, it is preferable to implement the above configuration.
[0023]
The pressing operation is, for example, an operation for perceiving the coordinate range set to give a tactile difference by tracing with a finger.
[0024]
Further, as the pressure detecting means, a detecting means which does not necessarily need to contact the surface of the touch panel can be used as a detecting principle, such as a touch panel which detects by detecting a change in capacitance.
[0025]
Further, the mechanical drive may be performed by the control unit only on a part of the touch panel, and the control of the drive unit may not always be performed on the entire surface of the touch panel. That is, for example, the control may be performed on one of the inside and the outside of the coordinate range and not performed on the other. In that case, it is particularly preferable to control the driving unit within the coordinate range.
[0026]
In one embodiment of the apparatus having a touch panel, the control unit controls the driving unit, and the detected coordinate value of the press detection unit is within the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting unit. At this time, the mechanical drive of the drive means is gradually changed between the center of the coordinate range and the detected coordinate value. In other words, the driving operation is performed such that the mechanical driving gradually changes depending on whether the detected coordinate value is near the center or the peripheral coordinate value of the coordinate range in the coordinate range by the pressing operation of the operator. Control the means.
[0027]
As in the case of a mechanical switch, when operating the switch, the operator must tactilely perceive the position of the switch by a pressing operation, and then, in order to perform the input reliably, in the more central portion of the area of the switch. Attempt to perform an input operation at close coordinates.
[0028]
In the relative relationship between the coordinate range of the touch panel and the detected coordinate value, the control unit controls the driving unit to change the mechanical drive with respect to the pressing operation so as to give the operator a tactile difference. Set. At this time, if the mechanical drive is constant in the coordinate range, it is necessary to confirm the boundary of the coordinate range by pressing operation and determine the center position by estimation.
[0029]
According to the device having the touch panel of the above-described embodiment, for example, the detected coordinate value is controlled to increase the mechanical vibration of the driving unit as the coordinates are closer to the center of the coordinate range, and the finger is moved by the pressing operation. It can be sensed whether the user is moving in the direction of the central coordinates of the coordinate range or moving away from the central part of the coordinate range. Therefore, it is possible to perceive the vicinity of the position on the touch panel corresponding to the central coordinates of the coordinate range without performing a large tracing operation until the boundary of the coordinate range can be confirmed and without determining the center by estimation. . Therefore, it is possible to provide an apparatus having a touch panel with excellent operability that can naturally induce an operation in the coordinate range.
[0030]
In addition, a position corresponding to the center of the coordinate range on the touch panel is notified by mechanical drive of a more finely controlled driving means, so that the operator can more clearly and tactilely perceive the position of the coordinate range. Has the effect of causing.
[0031]
In addition, each time the operation is repeated, the direction near the center of the coordinate range on the touch panel can be confirmed by the pressing operation accompanying the operation. It has a special advantage in that various operations can be performed continuously.
[0032]
In one embodiment of the apparatus having a touch panel, the control unit controls the driving unit, and the detected coordinate value of the press detection unit is outside the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting unit. At this time, the mechanical drive of the drive unit is gradually changed between the outer edge of the coordinate range and the detected coordinate value. In other words, the control of the driving unit is performed such that the detected coordinate value detected by the pressing operation of the operator is outside the coordinate range and the mechanical drive gradually changes according to the distance from the outer edge of the coordinate range. Do.
[0033]
In the relative relationship between the coordinate range of the touch panel and the detected coordinate value, the control unit controls the driving unit to change the mechanical drive with respect to the pressing operation so as to give the operator a tactile difference. Set. Then, for example, in the coordinate range set as a switch, a display area substantially matching the area is displayed on the touch panel. However, when the display area is visually perceived and the pressing operation is started, the display area is difficult to see because the touch panel is hidden by a finger. In this case, if the pressing operation has deviated from the coordinate range, in order to find the coordinate range, once release the finger and visually check the position again, or perform the pressing operation with a wide width. It is necessary to perceive the difference in the tactile sensation to search the coordinate range.
[0034]
According to the device having the touch panel of the embodiment, the user perceives whether the finger is slightly moved by the pressing operation to move toward the coordinate range or to move away from the coordinate range. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to provide an apparatus having a touch panel with excellent operability that can naturally induce an operation in the coordinate range.
[0035]
Further, the direction of the position of the coordinate range on the touch panel is notified outside the coordinate range by a more finely controlled mechanical drive, so that the operator can more clearly tactilely perceive the position of the coordinate range. Has the effect of causing.
[0036]
In particular, when the plurality of coordinate ranges are close to each other, or when the coordinate range is small, whether the coordinate range is near the center coordinate of the coordinate range or the coordinate around the coordinate range. In addition to performing a gradually different mechanical drive depending on something, furthermore, by adopting the configuration of the above-described embodiment, the coordinate range and the direction toward the center in the coordinate range can be more naturally perceived. Can have the advantage. In this case, it is particularly preferable to control the driving unit so that the mechanical driving is discontinuously different at the boundary between the coordinates of the pressing operation and the inside and outside of the coordinate range.
[0037]
Further, in the apparatus having the touch panel according to one embodiment, the visual display area set on the touch panel so as to correspond to the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means is provided to the operator by the pressing operation requesting means. Request that a pressing operation be performed. Then, when the operator performs a pressing operation using the pressing operation requesting unit, a deviation of the detected coordinate value of the pressing detecting unit with respect to the coordinates of the display area is measured by the detected coordinate value deviation measuring unit. Then, based on the shift of the detected coordinate value with respect to the coordinates of the display area, the shift correction unit corrects the positional relationship between the display area and the coordinate range. That is, a display area on the touch panel (an area of a figure visually displayed), for example, a switch visually perceived by the operator is displayed. Then, the operator is caused to perform a pressing operation of the switch on the display area. Then, the detected coordinate value detected by the pressing detection means is shifted from the coordinate value of the display area (or the center of the display area), and the shift is measured. Then, it is possible to correct the mechanical drive of the drive unit controlled by the control unit, which is performed later, based on the measured shift.
[0038]
In the relative relationship between the coordinate range of the touch panel and the detected coordinate value, the control unit controls the driving unit to change the mechanical drive with respect to the pressing operation so as to give the operator a tactile difference. Set. At this time, the position where the operator visually perceives the display area as a switch on the touch panel may be different from the position of the coordinate range perceived by the operator by touch.
[0039]
This may be caused not only by an alignment error between the mechanism for displaying the touch panel and the mechanism constituting the pressure detecting means but also depending on the operation method. For example, when the operation is not always performed carefully from the vertical direction of the operation surface, such as when holding the device with one hand and performing key input with the thumb of the held hand as in operation on a mobile phone terminal In some cases, the detected coordinate values may be shifted.
[0040]
At this time, if the coordinate range is set according to the position of the display area, the operator may feel a distance between the display area and the coordinate range, or may feel inconsistency between visual and tactile senses. There is. In particular, when the coordinate ranges are close to each other or when the coordinate ranges are small, the operator is confused.
[0041]
According to the device having the touch panel of the embodiment, the positional relationship between the display area and the coordinate range can be corrected so that the position perceived by the operator's vision and the position perceived by the tactile sense can be matched. Therefore, it is possible to provide a device having a touch panel with excellent operability.
[0042]
Further, when the notification of the coordinate range on the touch panel is performed by the above-described finely controlled mechanical drive, the perception of the position by the tactile sense becomes clearer. The user's operation feeling can be particularly improved.
[0043]
In the device having the touch panel according to one embodiment, the presence or absence of an input operation is detected by the input detection unit, and the input coordinate value of the input operation is detected by the input coordinate detection unit. The input operation requesting unit requests the touch panel to perform an input operation on the coordinate range set on the touch panel by the coordinate range setting unit. Then, the operator is caused to perform an input operation, and the deviation of the input coordinate value with respect to the coordinate range is measured by the input coordinate value deviation measuring means. Then, the deviation of the input coordinate value with respect to the coordinate range is corrected by the input coordinate correction means. That is, the control unit controls the driving unit based on the relative relationship between the coordinate range of the touch panel and the detected coordinate value, and changes the mechanical drive with respect to the pressing operation to give the operator a tactile difference. . The coordinate range here is, for example, an area as a switch. Then, the operator is caused to perform the pressing operation, and further, the operator is caused to perform the input operation at a position in the coordinate range perceived by touch. Then, the input coordinate value when the input detecting means detects the pressing is detected with some deviation from the coordinates of the coordinate range (or the center of the coordinate range), and this deviation is detected as the input coordinates. It is measured by a value deviation measuring means. At this time, the input coordinate value detected by the input coordinate detecting means in the case of the input operation performed thereafter is corrected based on the measured shift.
[0044]
In the device having the touch panel, when the operator performs an input operation, the detected coordinates at the position where the operator perceives the coordinate range by tactile sense, and the detected coordinates are detected when the operator performs the input operation at the location. There may be a difference between the input coordinate value and the input coordinate value.
[0045]
This may be caused not only by an error in mechanical alignment between the detection mechanism of the press detection means of the touch panel and the detection mechanism of the input coordinate detection means, but also by an operation method.
[0046]
For example, when an operation with a strong pressure (strong pressing operation) with respect to the pressing operation is used as an input operation, a contact surface of a finger on a touch panel in the strong pressing operation is different from that in the pressing operation. Occurs. Especially when the operation is not always performed carefully from the vertical direction of the operation surface, such as when holding the device with one hand and performing key input with the thumb of the held hand as in operation on a mobile phone terminal In some cases, the coordinates detected by each other may deviate greatly.
[0047]
At this time, if the input coordinate value is the coordinate value of the input operation, the input coordinate value deviates from the detected coordinate value perceived by tactile sense in the pressing operation. That is, input may not be possible inside the coordinate range and at a location perceived by the operator, or may be input at a location perceived outside the coordinate range.
[0048]
This is because, when a plurality of valid input areas (areas for accepting input operations) exist close to each other or when the valid input area is small, an erroneous operation of inputting to another adjacent valid input area occurs at worst. The operator may be confused.
[0049]
According to the device having the touch panel of the above embodiment, the input coordinate detecting means is corrected so that the coordinates of the position perceived by the pressing operation by the operator and the position detected by the input operation at that position match. Can be done. Therefore, it is possible to provide a device having a touch panel with excellent operability.
[0050]
Further, in the case where the notification of the coordinate range on the touch panel is performed by the above-described finely controlled mechanical drive, the perception of the position by the tactile sense becomes clearer. In particular, the operational feeling can be improved.
[0051]
Further, the input coordinate detecting means can be configured to output, for example, the detected coordinate value obtained by the pressing detecting means as the input coordinate value. Alternatively, the input coordinate value may be detected and output separately from the pressing detection means.
[0052]
Further, as described above, the method of detecting an input operation in distinction from the pressing operation may be configured to detect the input operation in accordance with the pressure difference of the pressing operation. May be provided to distinguish between a pressing operation with a weak pressure and a pressing operation with a strong pressure, or detection may be performed at predetermined pressures by separate detection mechanisms. In addition to the pressure difference of the operation, it is also possible to distinguish and detect using the difference of the pushing distance.
[0053]
Alternatively, it is also possible to configure such that an operation of touching a plurality of times within a predetermined time is detected as an input operation.
[0054]
The device having the touch panel according to one embodiment is a mobile terminal.
[0055]
In the portable terminal described above, if an attempt is made to display as much information as possible by making the display screen as large as possible, the size of the key input unit may be reduced and the operability may be reduced.
[0056]
By using the device having the touch panel of the present invention as a display screen and an input unit, the size of the display can be increased without impairing operability.
[0057]
Further, in a mobile terminal having a narrow input surface and in which input of a large amount of information is apt to be avoided, there is an effect that the operation speed is improved as described above, and thus there is an effect that a use opportunity of the mobile terminal itself increases.
[0058]
An apparatus having a touch panel according to one embodiment is a mobile phone terminal.
[0059]
In recent mobile phone terminals, in addition to dial display and the like, for example, those capable of displaying e-mail and Web contents and viewing digital television have been developed. Therefore, it is preferable that the display screen has a large display screen or a plurality of display screens and can display a large amount of information. For example, in digital TV viewing, opportunities to use subtitle broadcasting in terms of manners in public places increase. In that case, since it is necessary to display both the television screen and the subtitles, a configuration in which the display screen can have a larger area or a configuration including a plurality of display screens is required.
[0060]
However, on the other hand, an input device with good operability is required for dial operation and e-mail input. In a mobile phone terminal, a key input device is originally small and arranged close to each other.
[0061]
According to the apparatus having the touch panel of the above embodiment, even if the touch panel is used as both the display screen and the input unit, it is possible to increase the total area of the display screen without impairing the operability.
[0062]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a device having a touch panel according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments.
[0063]
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mobile phone terminal as an example of a device having a touch panel according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0064]
As shown in FIG. 1, the main body 101 of the mobile phone terminal has a structure that can be folded by a folding unit 102. Further, the display unit 103 and the touch panel unit 104 are arranged on the inner surface of the main body 101 that is folded.
[0065]
FIG. 2 schematically shows the structure of the touch panel unit 104. As shown in FIG. 2, the touch panel unit 104 includes a detection panel 201 as an example of a pressing detection unit, a liquid crystal display panel 202 as an example of a display unit, a pressure-sensitive sensor 203 as an example of an input detection unit, and a main body. A variable frequency vibrator 204 is provided as an example of the driving means provided in the device 101.
[0066]
FIG. 2 shows a state in which the detection panel 201 and the liquid crystal display panel 202 are detached, and is actually used in a state where the detection panel 201 and the liquid crystal display panel 202 are superimposed on a predetermined position of the main body 101 as shown by a broken line.
[0067]
The detection panel 201 detects plane contact values (X-axis 205, Y-axis 206) using the detection of contact with the operation surface as a weak pressing detection signal, and the detection coordinate value of the contact on the operation surface as a weak pressing coordinate signal. It is configured to output. Then, even when a strong pressing operation as an example of the input operation is performed, the same output is performed.
[0068]
The detection mechanism of the detection panel 201 is based on an existing technology of a so-called touch panel such as a resistive film type, an ultrasonic type, a photoelectric type, and a capacitance type, and thus a detailed description is omitted. Here, since the detection panel 201 is disposed so as to overlap the screen of the liquid crystal display panel 202 disposed below, the detection panel 201 is made of a transparent (or translucent) material.
[0069]
The pressure-sensitive sensor 203 has a mechanism for detecting a strong pressing operation, that is, an input operation for strongly pressing the switch by the operator, separately from a weak pressing operation tracing the detection panel 201. In the first embodiment, the touch panel 104 is supported by four pressure-sensitive sensors 203. Then, the pressures of the four pressure-sensitive sensors 203 are summed and calculated as a pressure on the entire touch panel unit 104. Then, the threshold value of the pressure-sensitive sensor 203 is set to a predetermined pressure so that the pressure-sensitive sensor 203 detects a strong pressing operation by an operation of a pressure larger than the threshold value of the pressure at which the detection panel 201 starts detection. I do. Then, the configuration is such that a strong pressure detection signal is output from the pressure sensor 203 when a strong pressure operation is performed.
[0070]
The pressure-sensitive sensor 203 as an example of the input detecting means detects a difference in the pushing distance (stroke) in addition to the above-described detection method based on the pressure sensing, and is different from a light contact on the operation surface due to a weak pressing operation. Separately, a configuration may be adopted in which a strong pressing operation as an example of an input operation of the operator is detected, and a detection signal of the strong pressing operation is output.
[0071]
The display unit 103 and the liquid crystal display panel 202 use an LCD device (liquid crystal display device) with a backlight according to the existing technology. As the display means of the touch panel unit 104, other existing technologies such as an EL (electroluminescence) display and a CRT (cathode ray tube) display can be used.
[0072]
The variable frequency vibrator 204 has a mechanism for transmitting mechanical drive to an operator. Here, the variable frequency vibrator 204 is used in common with a vibration device used to notify an incoming call of a mobile phone terminal, and is configured to be able to control the frequency of vibration. In addition to a mechanism for changing the vibration frequency, the driving means may use a vibrator capable of changing the vibration intensity, or may be a mechanical device capable of changing the direction or pattern of the vibration or a combination thereof. Drive unit can be used.
[0073]
Although not shown in the drawing, the detection signals of the detection panel 201 and the pressure-sensitive sensor 203 are input to a control unit 207 incorporated in the main body 101 of the mobile phone terminal, and the variable frequency vibrator is transmitted from the control unit 207. Control signals are input to the liquid crystal display panel 204 and the liquid crystal display panel 202.
[0074]
In addition, as an example of the input coordinate detecting means, the control unit 207 uses the coordinate value indicated by the weak pressing coordinate signal when the strong pressing detection signal is detected as the strong pressing coordinate value when the strong pressing operation is performed. . In the first embodiment, an example in which a strong pressing operation is used as an example of an input operation is described.
[0075]
Therefore, the pressing operation on the touch panel unit 104 is hereinafter referred to as a weak pressing operation, distinguished from the strong pressing operation, and the detection panel 201 as an example of a pressing detecting unit that detects the presence or absence of the pressing operation and the detected coordinate value is provided by the above-described weak pressing operation. And the weak pressing coordinate value are detected.
[0076]
Further, the mechanical drive controlled in response to the pressing operation of the present invention is referred to as a first mechanical drive hereinafter, in distinction from the mechanical drive corresponding to another input operation. On the other hand, the mechanical drive corresponding to the input operation is hereinafter referred to as a second mechanical drive.
[0077]
It should be noted that the path of the detection signal and the control signal and the mutual connection of the control units are also described in the existing technology, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-293644.
[0078]
FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control unit 207 that controls the mechanical operation of the variable frequency vibrator 204 in accordance with the operation of the mobile phone terminal having the touch panel and the operation in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, control of mechanical driving of the mobile phone terminal will be described with reference to FIG.
[0079]
First, in step S1, an area for providing a tactile difference is set. In other words, an area in which the mechanical drive is changed is set in a later-described step in relation to the above-mentioned weak pressing coordinate value. For example, it is an area where the operator perceives mechanical driving as a switch. In the first embodiment, this is performed by setting a coordinate range for the coordinate values of the weak pressing coordinate signal detected by the detection panel 201. That is, the area on the coordinates corresponding to the coordinate range of the detection panel 201 is the area that gives the tactile difference. The coordinate range is set, for example, as a mathematical expression or a logical expression using the X coordinate value and the Y coordinate value of the weak pressing coordinate signal.
[0080]
Next, in step S2, a valid input area in which the input operation is valid is set. That is, when an input operation is performed by a strong pressing operation, an area on the touch panel unit 104 that receives the input operation is set. In the first embodiment, the effective input area is set so that the coordinates substantially match the area on the coordinates of the detection panel 201 (the area providing the tactile difference) set in step S1. The valid input area is set as a mathematical expression or a logical expression using the X coordinate value and the Y coordinate value of the strongly pressed coordinate signal detected by the input coordinate detecting means.
[0081]
Further, a switch (display area) indicated by a graphic is displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 such that the coordinates substantially coincide with the area where the tactile difference is given. For example, a figure displaying a number corresponding to a telephone dial is displayed.
[0082]
Depending on the processing (step S9) to be described later, the area for providing the difference in tactile sensation and the effective input area set in step S1 and step S2 may maintain the same arrangement or change to a different arrangement. is there. For example, when a dial is being input on the touch panel unit 104, a switch on which a number is displayed is set, and the operation is continued on the input screen of the same arrangement. The switch is used to set the switch according to the switch display. In other words, the area providing the tactile difference and the effective input area are maintained in the same manner, or are changed so as to have another arrangement. In addition, the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 is similarly changed. In addition, the area for providing the difference in the sense of touch and the effective input area are usually set at a plurality of places, but may be only one place.
[0083]
Next, in step S3, it is determined whether or not there is a weak pressing operation. If there is a weak pressing operation, the process proceeds to step S4. If there is no weak pressing operation, the process proceeds to step S13. That is, in step S3, it is determined whether the operator is touching the operation surface (detection panel 201) of touch panel unit 104. In the first embodiment, the presence / absence of the weak pressing operation is determined based on the presence / absence of the weak pressing detection signal output from the detection panel 201.
[0084]
Then, in step S13, the mechanical driving of the variable frequency vibrator 204 is stopped, and the process proceeds to step S12. In the first embodiment, the mechanical driving of the variable frequency vibrator 204 is stopped.
[0085]
In step S4, it is determined whether or not the position of the weak pressing operation is within the region providing the tactile difference. If the position is within the region providing the tactile difference, the process proceeds to step S5, while the weak pressing operation is performed. If the position is not within the area providing the tactile difference, the process proceeds to step S14. That is, in step S4, it is determined whether or not the operator is in contact with the region providing the tactile difference set on the detection panel 201. In the first embodiment, the determination is made based on whether or not the X coordinate value and the Y coordinate value of the weak pressing coordinate value output from the detection panel 201 are within the coordinate range set in step S1.
[0086]
Next, in step S5, the variable frequency vibrator 204 is mechanically driven in the driving state A, and the process proceeds to step S6. That is, the operator is notified that he or she is touching the area that gives the difference in the sense of touch set in step S1. In the first embodiment, the driving state A is a state in which the variable frequency vibrator 204 is driven mechanically at a medium frequency.
[0087]
On the other hand, in step S14, the variable frequency vibrator 204 is mechanically driven in the driving state D, and the process proceeds to step S12. That is, the operator is notified that he or she is touching the outside of the area that provides the difference in the sense of touch set in step S1. In the first embodiment, the driving state D is a state in which the variable frequency vibrator 204 is mechanically driven at a low frequency, so that the operator can perceive the driving state D separately from the mechanical driving in step S5.
[0088]
Next, in step S6, the presence or absence of a strong press operation is determined. If there is a strong press operation, the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, the presence or absence of a strong press operation is determined. move on. That is, in step S6, it is determined whether or not an input operation has been performed as an operation of strongly pushing. In the first embodiment, the presence / absence of a strong press operation is determined based on the presence / absence of a strong press detection signal output from the pressure sensor 203.
[0089]
Then, in step S7, the position of the strong pressing operation is detected, and the process proceeds to step S8. In the first embodiment, when there is a strong press detection signal of the pressure sensor 203, the X coordinate value and the Y coordinate value of the weak press coordinate signal of the weak press operation are changed to the position of the strong press operation, that is, the strong press coordinate signal. The value is calculated by the control unit 207 as a value.
[0090]
That is, this step 7 constitutes the input coordinate detecting means.
[0091]
Next, in step S8, it is determined whether or not the position of the strong pressing operation detected in step 7 is within the valid input area set in step S2. If the position of the pressing operation is not inside the valid input area, the process proceeds to step S15. That is, in step S8, it is determined whether the operator has performed an input operation in the valid input area. In the first embodiment, the determination is made by substituting the value of the strongly pressed coordinate signal into a mathematical expression or a logical expression that sets the effective input area in step S2.
[0092]
Then, in step S9, the variable frequency vibrator 204 is mechanically driven in the driving state B, and the process proceeds to step S10. That is, the operator is notified that the input operation by the strong pressing operation has been received. In the first embodiment, the driving state B is a state in which the variable frequency vibrator 204 is mechanically driven at a high frequency, so that the operator can perceive the driving state B separately from the mechanical driving in step S5 and step S14.
[0093]
Next, in step S10, an input process corresponding to the valid input area in which the operator made an input in step 8 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S11. For example, in the valid input area corresponding to the switch of the numeral “1” of the dial portion, “1” is displayed on the display in response to the operation of inputting the “1” of the dial, and “1” is input. And remembering that.
[0094]
In step S11, the process waits for the end of the strong pressing operation, and when the strong pressing operation ends, the process proceeds to step S12. That is, one strong pressing operation is not continuously detected as an input operation, or the strong pressing operation is repeatedly detected on and off in a fine manner (this may occur when the operation is performed near the detection threshold). There is a wait for a certain period of time until a state without a strong pressing operation is maintained so as not to be mistakenly detected as a plurality of input operations.
[0095]
On the other hand, in step S15, the variable frequency vibrator 204 is set to the driving state C, and the process proceeds to step S12. That is, the operator is notified that the input operation has been performed outside the valid input area. In the first embodiment, the driving state C is a state in which no mechanical driving is performed.
[0096]
Then, in step S12, it is determined whether or not there is a termination instruction. If there is a termination instruction, the processing ends. If there is no termination instruction, the processing returns to step S1 and repeats. The instruction to end the operation is equivalent to, for example, turning off the power, operating the switch for instructing the interruption of the processing by the operator, or those functions (power off or interruption of the processing) on the touch panel unit 104. This is set by performing a strong pressing operation in the effective input area to be performed.
[0097]
Next, in steps S5 and S14, the first mechanical drive is gradually changed based on the value of the weakly pressed coordinate signal detected by the detection panel 201 and the relative position between the tactile sensation region. An example will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0098]
In the input operation to the switch, the operator may use a mechanical switch or a switch set on the touch panel unit 104 at a more central portion of the switch to be input in order to perform the input reliably. Attempt to perform an input operation at close coordinates.
[0099]
However, when the mechanical drive is constant inside the region providing the tactile difference set in the detection panel 201 (shown in FIG. 2), after perceiving the region providing the tactile difference by a weak pressing operation, It was necessary to perform a weak pressing operation over a wide range, confirm the boundary of the region giving the tactile difference, and judge the center coordinates by estimation.
[0100]
Further, the area for providing the tactile difference set in the detection panel 201 is set to substantially match the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 (shown in FIG. 2). However, in the case of a small switch, when the display area is visually perceived and a weak pressing operation is started, the display area is difficult to see because the touch panel is hidden by a finger. For this reason, in the case where the region where the tactile difference is provided is out of the region where the tactile difference is provided, in order to find the region where the tactile difference is provided by the tactile difference, it is necessary to perform a weak pressing operation over a wide range. This has been a particular problem because the size of the switches is particularly small in mobile terminals where the area of the touch panel is limited, especially in mobile telephone terminals.
[0101]
In FIG. 4, regions 401 and 402 for providing a tactile difference as a coordinate range set in the detection panel 201 described in the first embodiment are, for example, numbers "1" and "1" when a telephone number is input. The area of the switch corresponding to “2” is shown. The regions 401 and 402 for providing the difference in the sense of touch have an elliptical shape that is obliquely inclined in design, and are set to match the shape of the display region or the effective input region as much as possible. For example, a display area is displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 as an elliptical switch, and areas 401 and 402 for providing the above-mentioned tactile difference are set so as to overlap the displayed ellipse. In addition, a valid input area is set correspondingly. Of course, the shape of the region providing the tactile difference may be, for example, a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, or another shape.
[0102]
Then, the operator looks at the elliptical figure displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 and touches the operation surface of the touch panel 104 lightly, that is, starts the weak pressing operation and gives the area 401, which gives the tactile difference, 402 is perceived as a difference between the first mechanical drive, that is, the drive state A (medium frequency) and the drive state D (low frequency), and an input operation is performed.
[0103]
As described above, since the area that provides the tactile difference set in the detection panel 201 can have various shapes, the center of the area that provides the tactile difference cannot be uniquely determined. However, in actual use, it is possible to set an area that can be determined as a center or a center part in inputting. In the first embodiment, the central portions 403 and 404 of the regions 401 and 402 that provide the difference in the sense of touch are set near the center of the elliptical regions 401 and 402.
[0104]
A point 405 inside the area 401 for providing the tactile difference indicates coordinates indicated by a weak pressing coordinate signal output from the detection panel 201 by the weak pressing operation. A line 406 with an arrow in FIG. 4 indicates a distance from a central portion 403 of the area 401 that gives the tactile difference to a point 405.
[0105]
Further, a point 407 outside the areas 401 and 402 for providing the difference in tactile sensation indicates coordinates indicated by a weak pressing coordinate signal in a weak pressing operation at another time. A line 408 with an arrow in FIG. 4 indicates a distance from the area 401 that gives the tactile difference to a point 407. Further, a line 409 with an arrow in FIG. 4 indicates a distance from the area 402 giving the tactile difference to a point 407.
[0106]
FIG. 5 is a view for explaining control of the variable frequency vibrator 204 (shown in FIG. 2) when an operation is performed on the touch panel unit 104 (shown in FIG. 2) in which a region providing a tactile difference in FIG. 4 is set. FIG. In FIG. 5, the horizontal axis represents the relative distance (corresponding to lines 406 and 408 with arrows in FIG. 4) of the input operation and the weak pressing operation inside and outside the effective input area, and the vertical axis represents the frequency at which the variable frequency vibrator 204 is mechanically driven. It is a graph made into.
[0107]
That is, in the input operation 503 by the strong pressing operation in the effective input area of the touch panel unit 104, mechanical driving is performed at a high frequency 504.
[0108]
When a weak pressing operation is performed on the touch panel unit 104, for example, within the area 401 for providing the tactile difference, the frequency of the mechanical drive is changed according to the distance from the central unit 403 indicated by the line 406 with an arrow. Change gradually.
[0109]
In FIG. 5, a central portion 403 of the tactile difference providing area 401 shown in FIG. 4 is indicated by a horizontal axis scale 505, and an outer edge of the tactile difference providing area 401 shown in FIG. The distance from the central portion 403 shown in FIG. 4 to the point 405 (corresponding to the line 406 with an arrow) is shown by the horizontal axis 507. The frequency of the mechanical drive is controlled so as to gradually change from the high frequency 508 at the center 403 of the area 401 providing the tactile sensation to the low frequency 509 at the outer edge, as shown in a graph 501.
[0110]
Outside the area 401 for providing the difference in tactile sensation, the frequency of the mechanical drive is gradually changed in accordance with the distance from the area 401 for providing the tactile difference indicated by the arrowed line 408 to the point 407. . In the first embodiment, the value of the closer distance (corresponding to the line 408 with an arrow) is smaller than the distance (corresponding to the line 409 with an arrow) from the region 402 that gives a difference in another tactile sense to the point 407 (corresponding to the line 409 with an arrow). Was used.
[0111]
In FIG. 5, the proximity of the tactile difference providing area is indicated by a scale 511 on the horizontal axis, and the remote part is indicated by a scale 512 on the horizontal axis. The distance from the tactile difference providing area is indicated by a horizontal scale. Indicated by axis 513. The frequency of the mechanical drive is controlled so as to gradually change from a high frequency 515 in the vicinity to a low frequency 516 in the periphery as shown by a graph 517.
[0112]
In the first embodiment, the mechanical drive is controlled by setting step S9 in FIG. 3 as the frequency 504, step S5 as the frequency graph 510, and step S14 as the frequency graph 517.
[0113]
That is, the step S1 constitutes a coordinate range setting unit that sets a coordinate range (a region that gives a tactile difference) with respect to the detected coordinate value detected by the detection panel 201 as an example of the pressure detection unit.
[0114]
Further, the driving state A in step S5 is configured such that the mechanical driving gradually changes as shown in the graph 510 of FIG. 5, or the driving state D in step S14 is gradually changed as shown in the graph 517 of FIG. By adopting a configuration in which the mechanical drive changes, the detected coordinate value detected by the detection panel 201 as the pressure detecting means and the coordinate range (the area giving a tactile difference) set by the coordinate range setting means can be obtained. The control means is configured to control the variable frequency vibrator 204 so that the mechanical drive of the variable frequency vibrator 204 as an example of the driving means gradually changes in accordance with the relative relationship of the above.
[0115]
The driving state A in step S5 is configured such that the mechanical driving gradually changes as shown in a graph 510 of FIG. When within the coordinate range (the region providing the difference in tactile sensation), the mechanical drive of the variable frequency vibrator 204 gradually changes based on the distance between the center of the coordinate range and the detected coordinate value. The control means controls the variable frequency vibrator 204.
[0116]
The driving state D in step S14 is configured such that the mechanical driving gradually changes as shown in a graph 517 in FIG. When it is outside the coordinate range (the area providing a tactile difference), the mechanical driving of the variable frequency vibrator 204 is performed based on the distance between the outer edge of the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means and the detected coordinate value. The control means for controlling the variable frequency vibrator 204 is constituted so that the value gradually changes.
[0117]
That is, the control unit 207 has a coordinate range setting unit and a control unit.
[0118]
Also, the boundary between the inside and the outside of the tactile difference providing region is distinguished from the lowest frequency 509 of the mechanical drive in the tactile difference providing region and the tactile difference so that the operator can clearly distinguish the tactile difference. It is preferable to provide a sufficient difference in the highest frequency 515 of the mechanical drive outside the region providing the
[0119]
Naturally, it is necessary to provide a sufficient difference between the highest frequency 508 of the mechanical drive in the area where the tactile difference is given and the frequency 504 of the mechanical drive during the input operation so that the operator can clearly distinguish the tactile sense. preferable.
[0120]
Further, as described above, in addition to the control for gradually changing the frequency of the mechanical drive, it is also possible to gradually change the intensity of the mechanical drive or to gradually change the type. Alternatively, as in the first embodiment, the drive state A, the drive state B, the drive state C, or the drive state D is changed to another type of mechanical drive so that the operator can easily distinguish these mechanical drives. It is also possible to drive, and in each of the above-mentioned driving states, the intensity, type, or combination of the driving can be gradually changed in accordance with the value of the weak pressing coordinate signal.
[0121]
For example, as shown in the prior art, it can be the difference between a vibrator and an electromagnetic hammer. Alternatively, as shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-350592, a method of changing one of the mechanical driving waveforms (preferably an input operation) to be a pulse mechanical driving is also possible. Alternatively, as shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-64723, it is possible to perform a movement such that the operation surface involves a coordinate change perpendicular to the operation surface. Alternatively, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-137419, it is also possible to use a mechanism or the like in which the operation surface vibrates in parallel with the operation surface to change the vibration direction to facilitate the distinction. Alternatively, it is also possible to make it easy to distinguish between the vibration of the operation surface and the vibration of the entire apparatus. Control can be performed such that the intensity, frequency, combination, pattern, and the like of these mechanical drives are gradually changed.
[0122]
In addition, the mechanical drive that changes gradually has a configuration that changes smoothly as shown in graphs 510 and 517 shown in FIG. It is also possible. In this case, if the change occurs stepwise, it is more preferable that the change for each step is set to be smaller than the change at the boundary between the driving state A and the driving state C.
[0123]
According to the configuration of the first embodiment, in the configuration in which the mechanical drive is gradually changed as described above in the region where the tactile difference is set in the detection panel 201, the finger is moved by a weak pressing operation. Thus, the user can perceive whether the user is moving toward the center of the region providing the tactile difference or moving away from the center.
[0124]
Therefore, it is possible to perceive the vicinity of the center of the region providing the tactile difference without performing a large tracing operation until the boundary of the region providing the tactile difference can be confirmed and without determining the center by guessing. Then, an operation is induced near the center of the region that gives a difference between nature and tactile sensation. Therefore, a mobile phone terminal with excellent operability can be provided.
[0125]
In addition, while repeating the operation, it is possible to confirm the direction and degree of deviation from the center or the vicinity of the center where the tactile difference is given by the weak pressing operation accompanying the operation, so that the area where the tactile difference is given can be confirmed. There is an effect that the operator naturally learns the vicinity of the center and the operation speed is increased. In addition, each time the operation is performed, the center of the area where the difference in tactile sensation or the direction of the area can be perceived with the sense of a finger. Has an effect that can be.
[0126]
Further, in the configuration in which the mechanical drive is gradually changed outside the region where the tactile difference is set in the detection panel 201 as described above, the finger is pressed with a weak pressing operation outside the region where the tactile difference is provided. By moving, you can perceive whether you are moving toward the area giving the tactile difference or moving away from the area giving the tactile difference, giving the difference between nature and tactile sense An operation is induced in the direction of the area.
[0127]
Therefore, it is possible to provide a mobile phone terminal with excellent operability that can quickly find an area that gives a tactile difference.
[0128]
In addition, while repeating the operation, the direction and degree of the deviation from the area providing the tactile difference can be confirmed by the weak pressing operation accompanying the operation, so that the operator naturally learns the area providing the tactile difference and performs the operation. This has the effect of increasing the speed. In addition, since the direction of the area providing the difference in tactile sensation can be perceived by the sense of a finger every time an operation is performed, an error of the operation is naturally fed back, and there is an effect that high-speed accurate operation can be continued.
[0129]
Further, according to the configuration of the above embodiment, the notification of the coordinates of the area on the touch panel unit 104 that gives the difference in tactile sensation is notified by more finely controlled mechanical drive, so that the tactile perception of the position can be more clearly understood. Has the following effects.
[0130]
In particular, when a plurality of tactile difference providing regions exist close to each other, or when a tactile difference providing region is small, both inside and outside of the tactile difference providing region are gradually increased as described above. The configuration of performing different mechanical driving has an advantage that a region that gives a difference in tactile sensation and a direction toward the center in the region that gives a tactile difference can be more naturally perceived.
[0131]
In contrast to the first embodiment, in the configurations disclosed in JP-A-8-221173 and JP-A-10-293644, which are shown as conventional examples, the inside of the switch and the periphery of the switch are used for the tactile sense of the switch unit. However, there is no description that gradually changes the mechanical drive, and therefore, the problem of the present invention cannot be solved.
[0132]
Further, it is preferable that steps S10 and S11 shown in FIG. 3 be processed in parallel if possible. More preferably, the processing of step S10 and the processing of the other steps are preferably performed by another thread that is processed in parallel in the program or another program that is processed in parallel.
[0133]
Further, in step S15 shown in FIG. 3, instead of stopping the driving, another type of driving may be performed to notify the operator that the input operation has been performed at the wrong coordinates. Alternatively, it is also possible to keep the previous mechanical drive (any one of drive state A, drive state B and drive state D) from changing. However, by stopping the mechanical drive as in the present configuration, the operator tries to increase or decrease the force of the weak pressing operation on the operation surface having no effective input area, and adjusts the operation prior to the operation to the effective input area. Has the advantage that
[0134]
The mobile phone terminal shown in FIG. 1 has a display unit 103 as a display device and a touch panel unit 104 as an input device. A configuration may be adopted in which a television screen of a television broadcast is displayed and subtitles of the television broadcast are displayed using the touch panel unit 104 as a second display unit.
[0135]
By adopting the configuration of the first embodiment, the input portion is narrow, and the switches are small and dense, so that the touch panel can not be used for the input operation of the mobile phone terminal from which the touch panel cannot be substantially used in terms of operability. Can be used substantially. Therefore, it is possible to arrange a touch panel as a second display on a mobile phone terminal having a limited size. Watching TV on a mobile phone terminal requires a lot of opportunities to use TV broadcasting even in places where quietness is required as manners, such as public transportation such as trains, waiting rooms of hotels and hospitals, libraries, etc. A mobile phone terminal that can display a large image and has excellent operability of the mobile phone terminal is desirable, and the configuration of the first embodiment is particularly suitable.
[0136]
[Second embodiment]
Next, a mobile phone terminal as an example of a device having a touch panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The mobile phone terminal according to the second embodiment corrects the relative positional relationship between the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 of the touch panel and the area providing the tactile difference set on the detection panel 201. Except for this point, the configuration is substantially the same as the mobile phone terminal of the first embodiment, and FIGS. 1 and 2 are used.
[0137]
In the mobile phone terminal according to the second embodiment, the operator visually recognizes the switch (the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202), and the operator uses the tactile sensation to set the switch (the tactile sensation set on the detection panel 201). There is a case where a difference is generated between the perceived region and the region giving the difference.
[0138]
For example, a mechanical shift between the liquid crystal display panel 202 and the detection panel 201 or a visual shift may occur because the liquid crystal display panel 202 and the detection panel 201 have a distance in a direction perpendicular to the operation surface. However, due to the shape of the finger and the nature of the detection mechanism of the detection panel 201, a difference may occur between the coordinates that the user intends to touch and the coordinates that the detection panel 201 detects.
[0139]
This has a problem that the error is particularly large in a mobile phone terminal that is frequently operated with one hand, since a weak pressing operation is rarely operated straight from the front of the touch panel.
[0140]
At this time, if the position of the region providing the tactile difference set in the detection panel 201 is set to coincide with the position of the display region displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202, the display region and the tactile The user may feel a distance to the area giving the difference, or may feel a contradiction between the sight and the sense of touch.
[0141]
This may confuse the operator when a plurality of tactile difference providing regions are close to each other or when the tactile difference providing region is small.
[0142]
In the second embodiment, the touch panel is corrected by correcting the positional relationship between the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 and the area providing a tactile difference set on the detection panel 201 by the correction unit described below. The operator can feel that the position visually perceived and the position felt as the difference in the tactile sensation by the light pressing operation are more consistent with each other.
[0143]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the control unit 207 that corrects the positional relationship between the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 and the area that provides a tactile difference set on the detection panel 201. I have. FIG. 7 shows a display area displayed on the touch panel unit 104, a position indicated by the value of the detected coordinate signal of the weak pressing operation, and an area for providing a corrected tactile difference.
[0144]
First, in step S20, a display area is set on the touch panel 104. That is, a figure corresponding to a switch is displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202. Then, the operator is instructed to touch the display area, for example. In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of elliptical display areas 701 and 702 as switches are displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202.
[0145]
Next, in step S21, the position of the weak pressing operation by the operator performing the weak pressing operation is recorded. In the second embodiment, the value of the detected coordinate signal detected by the detection panel 201 is recorded. FIG. 7 shows a locus 703 of the weak pressing operation obtained from the X coordinate value and the Y coordinate value of the value of the detected coordinate signal as a record when the light pressing operation is performed on the display area 701.
[0146]
Next, in step S22, the positional relationship between the visual display region and the region providing the tactile sensation is corrected using the deviation of the value of the weak pressing coordinate signal with respect to the display region or the coordinates of the center of the display region. I do.
[0147]
In FIG. 7, an arrow 704 indicates a deviation between the averaged coordinate value calculated from the coordinates of the locus 703 of the weak pressing operation and the center of the display area 701. That is, when the operator tries to touch the display area 701, the detection panel 201 detects a detection coordinate signal with a shift of the arrow 704. Therefore, in order for the operator to perceive the display position and the position perceived by the tactile sensation in the light pressing operation as the same position, the haptic position corrected by the arrow 704 with respect to the position of the display area 701 is used. Is set in step S1 shown in FIG. Alternatively, the region for providing the tactile difference is set in accordance with the position of the elliptical region 701, and in step S4 shown in FIG. The value of the pressed coordinate signal may be corrected in the opposite direction by the amount of the arrow 704 to determine whether or not the value is within the area where the tactile difference is provided.
[0148]
In some cases, it may be necessary to correct the shape of the area that gives the tactile difference to the display area. In FIG. 7, such an example is indicated by an area 402 that provides a tactile difference corresponding to the display area 702. Here, the width 706 of the region 402 providing the tactile difference is smaller than the width 705 of the display region 702. This can be done by making corrections based on the spread of the trajectory when touching the display area 702, or by making corrections as necessary so as to secure an interval with another adjacent tactile area of a predetermined distance or more. Is possible. Naturally, such correction can also be realized by correcting the value of the weak pressing coordinate signal of the weak pressing operation in step S4 as necessary and detecting whether or not the signal is within the area.
[0149]
In addition, the above correction may be configured such that a deviation is measured by one or a plurality of representative display areas, and correction is performed based on a deviation of the representative display area measured with respect to other display areas. is there. Alternatively, it is also possible to configure so as to measure and correct the deviation for each display area.
[0150]
That is, step S20 constitutes a pressing operation requesting unit that requests the operator to perform a pressing operation on the visual display area set on the touch panel unit 104.
[0151]
In addition, step S21 constitutes a detected coordinate value deviation measuring unit that measures a deviation of the value of the weakly pressed coordinate signal of the detection panel 201 as an example of the pressed detecting unit with respect to the coordinates of the display area.
[0152]
In addition, the step S22 constitutes a deviation correcting means for correcting the positional relationship between the display area and the area providing the tactile difference based on the deviation.
[0153]
That is, the control unit 207 includes a pressing operation requesting unit, a detected coordinate value deviation measuring unit, and a deviation correcting unit.
[0154]
According to the configuration of the second embodiment, the position of the touch panel unit 104 is visually controlled by correcting the displacement between the position visually observed by the operator and the position in the weak pressing operation and performing mechanical drive control accompanying the weak pressing operation. The position felt as a tactile sensation by the weak pressing operation can be felt as a position that is more consistent with the operator. Therefore, there is an effect that input errors in the input operation are reduced.
[0155]
In addition, even in the case of a small switch on the touch panel unit 104 or a switch with a small interval between adjacent switches, there is an effect that input errors can be further reduced.
[0156]
Therefore, it is particularly suitable for a portable terminal having a touch panel whose operation surface is limited.
[0157]
Further, it is more suitable for a mobile phone terminal that is frequently used after one-handed high-speed input operation.
[0158]
In addition, since the position perceived by the eye matches the position perceived by the tactile sense, the fingertip can easily learn the coordinates of the switch, and it is possible to provide a device that can easily improve the input speed.
[0159]
In addition, in particular, in the case of the configuration shown in the first embodiment in which notification of a region providing a tactile difference on the touch panel unit 104 is performed by more finely controlled mechanical driving, the tactile perception of the position becomes clearer. By eliminating the difference between the visual sense and the tactile sensation, the operational feeling of the operator can be particularly improved, and there is an effect of further reducing input errors. Therefore, the correction according to the second embodiment is particularly effective.
[0160]
[Third embodiment]
Next, a mobile phone terminal as an example of a device having a touch panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The mobile phone terminal according to the third embodiment is different from the mobile phone terminal according to the second embodiment except that a relative positional relationship between an area for providing a tactile difference of a touch panel and an effective input area is corrected. They have substantially the same configuration, and FIGS. 1 and 2 are referred to.
[0161]
In the mobile phone terminal according to the third embodiment, when the operator performs a tactile difference by the first mechanical drive with a weak pressing operation and perceives a switch, and performs an input operation with a strong pressing operation In some cases, a difference may occur between the input area (valid input area) and the input area. For example, a difference between coordinate values detected by the operation pressure on the touch panel unit 104 during a weak pressing operation and a pressure applied on the touch panel unit 104 during an input operation may cause a difference.
[0162]
This has a problem that the error is particularly large because an input operation is rarely input straight from the front of the touch panel unit 104 in a mobile phone terminal that is frequently operated with one hand.
[0163]
At this time, if the effective input area is set to coincide with the area providing the tactile difference, input cannot be performed at a location perceived as being inside the area providing the tactile difference, or outside the area providing the tactile difference. You may be able to type in where you perceive.
[0164]
In the case where a plurality of effective input areas exist close to each other or when the effective input areas are small, at the worst, an input error occurs in which an input is made to another adjacent effective input area, which confuses the operator. It is because.
[0165]
In the third embodiment, the correction means described below corrects the positional relationship between the area providing the tactile sensation and the effective input area, so that the position sensed by the weak pressing operation on the touch panel unit 104 and the input operation by the input operation are performed. Is received by the operator as a more consistent position.
[0166]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the control unit 207 that corrects the positional relationship between the touch-sensitive area of the touch panel unit 104 and the effective input area. FIG. 9 shows an area for providing a difference in tactile sensation of the touch panel unit 104, a position indicated by a value of a strongly pressed coordinate signal at the time of a strongly pressed operation as an input operation, and a corrected effective input area. .
[0167]
First, in step S30, an area for providing the above-mentioned tactile difference is set on the touch panel unit 104. That is, an area corresponding to a switch on the touch panel 104 is set. Then, the operator is instructed, for example, to visually check the display area, further touch and confirm by touch, and perform an input operation by a strong pressing operation.
[0168]
FIG. 9 shows display areas 701 and 702 displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 formed of an elliptical figure as a switch, and areas 401 and 402 for providing a tactile difference set on the detection panel 201 corresponding thereto. I have.
[0169]
In the third embodiment, an example is shown in which the correction is performed subsequently to the configuration of the second embodiment.
[0170]
Next, in step S31, the value of the strongly-pressed coordinate signal by the strongly-pressed operation by the operator in the area for providing the tactile difference is recorded. That is, the input position of the input operation by the strong pressing operation is recorded.
[0171]
In FIG. 9, the position indicated by the value of the strongly-pressed coordinate signal when the strongly-pressed operation is performed on the area 401 that provides the tactile difference at the time of the strongly-pressed operation is represented by a black circle 903. In the third embodiment, a plurality of strong pressing operations are performed to average the operation error and the detection error, and the average coordinates of the strong pressing operation position are obtained. Therefore, in FIG. 9, in addition to the black circle 903, a plurality of black circles indicating a plurality of strong pressing operation positions are shown.
[0172]
Next, in step S32, the positional relationship between the coordinates of the area of the touch panel unit 104 that gives the tactile difference and the effective input area is corrected. In FIG. 9, an arrow 904 indicates a shift between a position obtained by averaging a plurality of strong pressing operation positions and a position at the center of the area 401 that provides the tactile difference. That is, when the operator attempts to input a position perceived as a tactile sensation by a weak pressing operation, the value of the strongly pressing coordinate signal of the input operation is detected with the displacement of the arrow 904. Therefore, in order to make the operator perceive the position of the region providing the tactile difference and the position of the strong pressing operation as the same position, the position of the region 401 providing the tactile difference corresponds to the arrow 904. The effective input area 901 is set by correcting the position of the input. Alternatively, the coordinates of the effective input area are set in the same area 401 as the area providing the tactile difference, and the value of the strongly pressed coordinate signal of the strongly pressed operation in the input operation in step S8 shown in FIG. Conversely, it is also possible to make a correction to determine whether the area is inside the valid input area.
[0173]
In some cases, it may be necessary to correct the shape of the effective input area with respect to an area that gives a difference in tactile sensation. This example is shown in FIG. 9 as an effective input area 902 corresponding to the area 402 providing a tactile difference. Here, the width 905 of the effective input area 902 is smaller than the width 706 of the area 402 providing the tactile difference. This is, in the case of performing a plurality of strong pressing operation operations, to add correction from the spread of the values of the plurality of strong pressing coordinate signals, or to ensure a predetermined interval or more between adjacent effective input areas, It is possible to make corrections as needed. Naturally, such correction can also be realized by correcting the value of the strongly-pressed coordinate signal of the strongly-pressed operation in step S8 shown in FIG. .
[0174]
In addition, the above correction is performed by measuring the deviation in one or more representative tactile difference providing regions and calculating the deviation in the representative tactile difference measured region with respect to the other tactile difference providing regions. It is also possible to configure so that the correction is performed in advance. Alternatively, it is also possible to configure so as to perform measurement and correction of the deviation with respect to the region where the difference in individual haptics is given.
[0175]
That is, in step S30, the area for providing the tactile difference is set, and the input operation requesting means is provided to the operator in the area for providing the tactile difference.
[0176]
Step S31 constitutes an input coordinate value deviation measuring means for measuring a deviation of the input coordinate value from the coordinate range.
[0177]
Further, the step S32 constitutes an input coordinate correcting means for correcting a shift of the input coordinate value with respect to the coordinate range based on the shift.
[0178]
That is, the control unit 207 includes an input operation requesting unit, an input coordinate value deviation measuring unit, and an input coordinate correcting unit.
[0179]
According to the configuration of the third embodiment, the input operation is detected by correcting the displacement between the area set on the touch panel section 104 and the effective input area in the input operation. The operator can perceive the position of the region providing the difference and the position where the input is accepted by the input operation, that is, the position of the effective input region, as a position that is more consistent with the operator. Therefore, there is an effect that input errors in the input operation are further reduced.
[0180]
In addition, even in the case of a small switch on the touch panel unit 104 or a switch with a small interval between adjacent switches, there is an effect that input errors can be further reduced. Therefore, the device having the touch panel of the present invention is particularly suitable for a portable terminal having a touch panel whose operation surface is limited in area.
[0181]
Further, the device having the touch panel according to the present invention is more suitable for a mobile phone terminal which is often used by performing a high-speed input operation with one hand.
[0182]
In addition, since the area of the switch perceived by touch and the area of input acceptance match, the fingertip can easily learn the position of the switch, and an input speed can be improved.
[0183]
In addition, in particular, as in the second embodiment, the configuration for correcting the positional relationship between the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 202 and the area providing the tactile difference, and the tactile sense of the third embodiment are used. The use of the configuration for correcting the positional relationship between the region giving the difference and the effective input region has an advantage that the operator can have a consistent operational feeling in the operation on the touch panel unit 104.
[0184]
Further, in particular, in the case of the configuration of the first embodiment in which notification of an area on the touch panel unit 104 that gives a tactile difference is performed by more finely controlled mechanical driving, the perception of coordinates by the tactile sense becomes clearer. Eliminating the shift between the sense of the pressing operation and the area for receiving the input can particularly improve the operational feeling of the operator and has the effect of further reducing input errors. Therefore, the correction by the configuration of the third embodiment is particularly effective.
[0185]
In the above-described first to third embodiments, the input operation is performed by the strong pressing operation as in the first embodiment. However, the input operation is not limited to the strong pressing operation, and as described in the related art. In addition, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the input is performed by an operation of touching the operation surface a plurality of times within a certain time, that is, an operation such as a so-called double click. Similarly, there is an effect that the position can be more accurately and quickly perceived in the weak pressing operation. In particular, in the related art, releasing a finger to perform an input operation from a position perceived by tactile sensation has caused an erroneous operation. In the configuration of the third embodiment, it is possible to correct a position perception by a tactile sensation in a weak pressing operation and a shift in an input position due to a double-click operation or the like.
[0186]
However, when the strong pressing operation is used as the input operation as in the third embodiment, after the input position is accurately and quickly confirmed by the tactile sense, the input operation is performed continuously without releasing the finger from the touch panel unit 104. Therefore, input errors can be reduced and the input can be performed more quickly, which is more preferable.
[0187]
Note that, in the third embodiment, an example in which correction is performed subsequent to the configuration of the second embodiment has been described. However, the display area displayed on the liquid crystal display panel and the tactile sensation set on the detection panel according to the second embodiment are described. Instead of correcting the relative positional relationship with the region providing the difference, the relative positional relationship between the region providing the tactile difference and the effective input region may be corrected.
[0188]
【The invention's effect】
As is clear from the above, according to the apparatus having the touch panel of the present invention, the effect of inducing the operator's operation to the coordinate range (for example, the area of the switch) of the operation surface of the touch panel or a specific portion of the coordinate range is obtained. Having. That is, for example, by changing the mechanical drive inside the coordinate range so as to gradually increase toward the center of the coordinate range, the operation of the operator can be induced in the center of the coordinate range. Further, for example, by changing the mechanical drive outside the coordinate range so as to gradually increase in the direction of the coordinate range, it is possible to induce the operation of the operator in the direction of the coordinate range.
[0189]
Therefore, it is possible to provide a device having a touch panel with excellent operability, which is naturally induced by a correct or more preferable operation position of the operator and is less likely to make an input error.
[0190]
In addition, since the notification of the position in the coordinate range is performed by more finely controlled mechanical drive, the effect that the perception of the position by the tactile sense becomes clearer and the effect that the operator can easily learn the operation position are provided. Have.
[0191]
In addition, particularly, each time the operation is repeated, the direction of the boundary on the touch panel, the direction near the center, or the direction of the coordinate range itself can be confirmed by the pressing operation accompanying the operation. There is a special advantage that the error of the operation position can be corrected naturally and the high-speed operation can be continuously performed.
[0192]
Further, with the above effects, it is possible to provide a device having a touch panel in which switches on the touch panel can be particularly set small or intervals can be set small.
[0193]
In addition, even in the case of a particularly small portable terminal, it is possible to provide an apparatus having a touch panel in which switches on the touch panel can be set small or the interval can be set small.
[0194]
In particular, even in a mobile phone terminal in which an input unit is very narrow and dense and requires high-speed operation, an apparatus having the touch panel of the present invention can be provided.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mobile phone terminal as an example of a device having a touch panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing an arrangement of a touch panel unit and a driving unit of the mobile phone terminal.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining control of the mobile phone terminal.
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining finer control of the mobile terminal.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a relationship between a relative distance of an input operation and a weak pressing operation inside and outside an effective input area and a driving frequency in the mobile phone terminal.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a difference between a display area displayed on a liquid crystal display panel and a tactile sense set on the detection panel in a mobile phone terminal as an example of a device having a touch panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 9 is a flowchart for explaining correction of a given area.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining correction of a display area displayed on a liquid crystal display panel of the mobile phone terminal and an area giving a tactile difference set on a detection panel.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining correction of a region providing a tactile difference and an effective correction region in a mobile phone terminal as an example of a device having a touch panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining correction of a region providing a tactile difference and an effective input region.
FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a device having a conventional touch panel.
[Explanation of symbols]
101 ... body,
103 ... Display unit,
104 ... Touch panel part
201 ... detection panel,
202 ... Liquid crystal display panel,
203 ... pressure sensor,
204: variable frequency vibrator,
205 ... X axis,
206 ... Y axis,
207 ... Control unit,
401, 402... Areas giving a difference in tactile sensation,
403, 404 ... central part,
405 points,
406, 408, 409 ... Lines with arrows,
407 ... points,
701, 702 ... display area,
703: locus of the value of the weak pressing coordinate signal,
704, 705 ... shift,
901, 902 ... valid input area,
903: position indicated by the value of the strongly pressed coordinate signal,
904 ... shift,
1001 ... Touch panel,
1002 ... vibrator,
1003 ... electromagnetic hammer,
1004 ... Control unit,
1005 ... detection signal,
1006, 1007 ... control signals.

Claims (7)

A touch panel attached to the main body, the touch panel having pressing detection means for detecting the presence or absence of a pressing operation and a detected coordinate value
Driving means for mechanically driving at least one of the main body or the touch panel,
Coordinate range setting means for setting a coordinate range for the detected coordinate value detected by the press detection means,
According to the relative relationship between the detected coordinate value detected by the pressure detecting means and the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means, the driving is performed such that the mechanical driving of the driving means gradually changes. An apparatus having a touch panel, comprising: control means for controlling the means. An apparatus having a touch panel according to claim 1,
The control means, when the detected coordinate value detected by the pressing detection means is inside the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means, a distance between the center of the coordinate range and the detected coordinate value. An apparatus having a touch panel, wherein the driving unit is controlled so that the mechanical driving of the driving unit changes gradually based on the above. An apparatus having a touch panel according to claim 1,
The control means, when the detected coordinate value detected by the pressing detection means is outside the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means, an outer edge of the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means. An apparatus having a touch panel, wherein the driving unit is controlled so that mechanical driving of the driving unit changes gradually based on a distance between the driving unit and the detected coordinate value. An apparatus having a touch panel according to claim 1,
Displaying a visual display area set on the touch panel so as to correspond to the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means, and requesting the operator to perform a pressing operation on the display area. Pressing operation request means,
A detection coordinate value deviation measuring unit configured to measure a deviation of a detection coordinate value of the pressing detection unit with respect to the coordinates of the display area by an operator performing a pressing operation by the pressing operation requesting unit;
A shift correcting unit that corrects a positional relationship between the display area and the coordinate range based on a shift of the detected coordinate value of the press detection unit with respect to the coordinates of the display area detected by the detected coordinate value shift measuring unit. An apparatus having a touch panel, comprising: An apparatus having a touch panel according to claim 1,
Input detection means for detecting the presence or absence of an input operation;
Input coordinate detecting means for detecting an input coordinate value of the input operation,
Input operation requesting means for requesting an operator to perform an input operation on the touch panel with respect to the coordinate range set by the coordinate range setting means, and the operator performs an input operation on the touch panel by the input operation requesting means Input coordinate value deviation measuring means for measuring the deviation of the input coordinate value with respect to the coordinate range,
An apparatus having a touch panel, comprising: input coordinate correcting means for correcting a shift of the input coordinate value with respect to the coordinate range detected by the input coordinate value shift measuring means. The device having the touch panel according to claim 1, wherein the device is a portable terminal. The device having a touch panel according to claim 1, wherein the device is a mobile phone terminal.

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