JP2004227089A - Character string input device, character string input method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a character string device which can input a character string efficiently. <P>SOLUTION: A storage section 302 stores at least a history of the character string inputted by a character string input device 301 in the past, and a fixed form character string as candidate character strings; a display section 304 displays a candidate character string referred by a reference section 303; a transfer section 306 transfers an object referred by the reference section 303 in accordance with the kind of a user's transfer instruction input; an edit section 305 edits a present candidate character string in accordance with a user's edit instruction input and makes this as an object referred by the reference section 303, and a determination section 307 outputs the character string referred by the reference section 303 as an input result from the user, when the user performed a determination instruction input. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a character string input device, a character string input method, and a program.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In various information processing using a computer, a PDA (Personal Data Assistant), a mobile phone, a game device, etc., various instruction input and data input techniques from a user are extremely important.
[0003]
A general computer uses a keyboard or mouse to input a character string. A mobile phone assigns hiragana or alphabetic characters to the numeric keys 0 to 9, and switches the input mode for input. A method of performing input using a recognition technique is widely used. Also, in the game device, a technique is used in which video of the keyboard is displayed on the screen, the cursor is moved to a desired character on the keyboard using the direction key, and the character is input using the enter key. .
[0004]
Furthermore, a technique is also provided in which a fixed sentence is assigned to a function key or the like, and the fixed sentence is input by pressing it.
[0005]
In addition, in a system that performs a dialog with a user using a command line, a history of character strings input in the past by the user is stored, and the history is moved by the operation from the keyboard. Some provide a history function that allows the user to re-enter or edit the same character string as the input character string.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, particularly in an environment where there are few keys and buttons that can be used by the user, such as a mobile phone, a game device, and a PDA, there is always a need for a character string input technology that is easy to get familiar with and efficient for the user.
[0007]
The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and provides a character string input device, a character string input method, and a program for realizing them by a computer, which are suitable for efficiently inputting a character string. The purpose is to provide.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, the following invention is disclosed in accordance with the principle of the present invention.
[0009]
A character string input device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a storage unit, a reference unit, a display unit, a moving unit, and a determining unit, and is configured as follows. Note that the character string input device includes not only a computer or the like that is controlled by software, but also a device that implements the following configuration using a dedicated electronic circuit / electric circuit.
[0010]
First, the storage unit stores at least a history of character strings output by the character string input device in the past as an input result from the user and a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings as candidate character strings. In other words, the storage unit stores a history of character strings input by the user using the character string input device in the past, and also stores fixed character strings prepared in advance and expected to be frequently used.
[0011]
On the other hand, the reference unit refers to the current candidate character string. Further, the display unit displays candidate character strings referred to by the reference unit. Therefore, when the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is changed / updated by the action of the editing unit or moving unit described later, the display unit accordingly changes the candidate character string after being changed / updated. Is displayed.
[0012]
On the other hand, when there is a movement instruction input from the user, the movement unit selects a character string other than the current candidate character string from among the candidate character strings stored in the storage unit according to the movement instruction input as the next candidate. And the next candidate character string is referred to as a new candidate by the reference unit. In other words, in response to the movement instruction input, the moving unit “moves” through the history and the fixed character string candidate group input in the past, and a desired character string (or a character string similar to the desired character string). , Which can be easily edited to a desired character string), and this is set as the current candidate. As described above, when the reference unit refers to a new candidate, it becomes the current candidate, and the display unit displays this new candidate.
[0013]
Furthermore, when a determination instruction is input from the user, the determination unit outputs a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit as an input result from the user. That is, if there is a determination instruction input from the user, the character string referred to by the reference unit (this is the same as the character string displayed on the display unit) is the input result. As described above, since the storage unit stores the history of character strings output in the past, the input result output here is additionally stored in the storage unit.
[0014]
In the present invention, the user can input a character string by searching for a desired character string from the history of the input character string and the fixed sentence with a simple instruction input.
[0015]
The character string input device of the present invention further includes an editing unit and can be configured as follows. That is, when an editing instruction is input from the user, the editing unit edits the character string referred to by the reference unit in accordance with the input of the editing instruction, and refers to the reference unit as the new candidate character string. Let Possible editing instructions include moving the cursor within the current candidate string, deleting the character before the cursor, deleting the character pointed to by the cursor, inserting a character at the cursor position, and deleting all the current candidates. It is done. In the case of character insertion, the above-described software keyboard technique can be applied. In the present invention, the user can select and input a character string prepared in advance, and can further edit the character string.
[0016]
In the character string input device of the present invention, the movement instruction input includes the types of the movement instruction input in the history and the movement instruction input in the fixed form, and can be configured as follows.
(A) When the movement instruction input from the user is an in-history movement instruction input, and the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the character string histories output in the past stored in the storage unit The moving unit selects another one of the character string histories output in the past as the next candidate.
(B) When the movement instruction input from the user is an in-standard movement instruction input, and the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings stored in the storage unit, The moving unit selects another one of the predetermined plural fixed character strings as the next candidate.
[0017]
That is, the moving unit determines whether the current candidate character string is one in the history or a fixed character string, and whether the instruction input is a movement in the history or a movement in the fixed character string. , And the candidate character string is changed accordingly.
[0018]
According to the present invention, when a user wants to search only a candidate in the history to search for a desired character string or scan only a fixed character string to search for a desired character string, the user can efficiently do this. Can do.
[0019]
In the character string input device according to the present invention, the storage unit further stores a predetermined default character string (including a character string having a length of 0), and the movement instruction input is a first movement instruction input. And the second movement instruction input, and can be configured as follows. Here, the predetermined default character string serves as a “reference position” for movement within the candidate group of the history and the fixed character string, and when there is no desired character string in the history and the fixed character string. Corresponds to the case of accepting direct input of characters from the user by a software keyboard or the like.
[0020]
First, when the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is the predetermined default character string, the moving unit receives a movement instruction input from the user.
If it is the first movement instruction input, one of the character string histories output in the past is
If it is the second movement instruction input, one of the predetermined plural fixed character strings is
Select as next candidate.
[0021]
On the other hand, when the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the character string histories output in the past, the moving unit receives a movement instruction input from the user.
If it is the first or second movement instruction input, another one of the history of the character strings output in the past, or the predetermined default character string,
Select as next candidate.
[0022]
When the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the predetermined plural fixed character strings, the moving unit receives a movement instruction input from the user.
If it is the first or second movement instruction input, another one of the predetermined plurality of fixed character strings, or the predetermined predetermined character string,
Select as next candidate.
[0023]
That is, the first movement instruction input corresponds to the reference position and movement in the history, and the second movement instruction input corresponds to the movement in the reference position and the fixed character string.
[0024]
According to the present invention, the movement in the history and the movement in the fixed character string are grouped, and the movement between both groups is performed via the reference position. A column selection interface can be provided.
[0025]
The character string input device of the present invention can be configured as follows.
[0026]
That is, when the reference unit refers to the first candidate character string, the first movement instruction input is given to refer to the second candidate character string, and the first candidate and the second candidate character string are referred to. If any of the candidates is included in the history of the character string output in the past, then when the second movement instruction input is given, the moving unit sets the first candidate character string as the next candidate. select.
[0027]
On the other hand, when the reference unit is referring to the third candidate character string, the second movement instruction input is given to refer to the fourth candidate character string, and the third candidate and the fourth candidate character string are referred to. If any of the candidates is included in the history of the character string output in the past, and the first movement instruction input is subsequently given, the moving unit sets the third candidate character string as the next candidate. select.
[0028]
According to the present invention, the first movement instruction input can be canceled by the second movement instruction input immediately after, and the second movement instruction input can be canceled by the first movement instruction input immediately after, so that the user An easy-to-understand selection interface can be provided.
[0029]
In the character string input device of the present invention, the storage unit classifies and stores the predetermined plurality of fixed character strings into a plurality of groups, and the movement instruction input indicates the type of the third movement instruction input. If the candidate character string included in the reference part is one of the predetermined plurality of fixed character strings, the moving unit may include another fixed character included in the group to which one of the fixed character strings belongs. One of the columns can be configured to be selected as the next candidate. In other words, when a fixed character string is displayed, when a third movement instruction is input, a new candidate is obtained by scanning the candidates included in the current group.
[0030]
In the present invention, for example, by grouping fixed character strings into “greetings”, “person names”, “verbs”, “nouns”, “particles”, “adjectives”, etc., the user can efficiently select a desired fixed character string. A simple selection interface can be realized.
[0031]
In the character string input device of the present invention, the storage unit stores at least one of the fixed character strings belonging to each of the plurality of groups as a representative fixed character string, and is referred to by the reference unit. When the character string is the representative standard character string, the determination unit determines the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit as the input result from the user even when the determination instruction is input from the user. Can be configured not to output.
[0032]
For example, a "greeting", "Good morning,""Hello,""Goodevening" in the group contains a fixed character string "Goodbye,""bye-bye", consider the case "greeting" is the group representative fixed string. If a third movement instruction input is given when any of these is the current candidate, these six candidates are scanned and displayed as appropriate. When any of the five character strings other than “greeting” is displayed as a candidate and a decision instruction is input, the character string is output as an input result, but the representative standard character string “ When “greeting” is displayed as a candidate, this is not used as an input result.
[0033]
In the present invention, if a group name (corresponding to a higher level concept of a fixed character string belonging to the group) is adopted as a representative fixed character string, a selection interface that allows a user to easily acquire a desired character string is realized. can do.
[0034]
A character string input method according to another aspect of the present invention is a candidate for at least a history of character strings output in the past as an input result from a user by the character string input method and a plurality of predetermined character strings. Using a storage unit that stores the character string and a reference unit that refers to the current candidate character string, and includes a display step, an editing step, a moving step, and a determining step, and is configured as follows. To do.
[0035]
First, in the display step, a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is displayed.
[0036]
On the other hand, in the editing process, when there is an editing instruction input from the user, the character string referenced by the reference unit is edited according to the editing instruction input, and the edited character string is referred to the reference unit as a new candidate. Let
[0037]
Further, in the movement step, when there is a movement instruction input from the user, a character string other than the current candidate character string is selected from the candidate character strings stored in the storage unit according to the movement instruction input as the next candidate. And the reference part refers to the character string of the next candidate as a new candidate.
[0038]
In the determination step, when a determination instruction is input from the user, a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is output as an input result from the user.
[0039]
A program according to another aspect of the present invention causes a computer (including an information processing device such as a game device, a PDA, or a mobile phone) to function as a storage unit, a reference unit, a display unit, a moving unit, and a determining unit, The program is configured to cause the computer to function as follows.
[0040]
In other words, the storage unit stores at least a history of character strings output in the past by the character string input device as an input result from the user and a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings as candidate character strings.
[0041]
On the other hand, the reference unit refers to the current candidate character string.
[0042]
Further, the display unit displays candidate character strings referred to by the reference unit.
[0043]
On the other hand, when there is a movement instruction input from the user, the movement unit selects a character string other than the current candidate character string from among the candidate character strings stored in the storage unit according to the movement instruction input as the next candidate. And the reference part refers to the character string of the next candidate as a new candidate.
[0044]
Furthermore, when a determination instruction is input from the user, the determination unit outputs a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit as an input result from the user.
[0045]
The program of the present invention further causes the computer to function as an editing unit, and when the editing unit inputs an editing instruction, the editing unit edits a character string referred to by the reference unit according to the editing instruction input. The character string of the edited result can be configured to be referred to by the reference unit as a new candidate.
[0046]
The program of the present invention can be recorded on a computer-readable information recording medium such as a compact disk, flexible disk, hard disk, magneto-optical disk, digital video disk, magnetic tape, and semiconductor memory. The above program can be distributed and sold via a computer communication network independently of the computer on which the program is executed. The information recording medium can be distributed and sold independently of the computer.
[0047]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In the following, for ease of understanding, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a game device will be described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to information processing devices such as various computers, PDAs, and mobile phones. it can. That is, the embodiment described below is for explanation, and does not limit the scope of the present invention. Therefore, those skilled in the art can employ embodiments in which each or all of these elements are replaced with equivalent ones, and these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention.
[0048]
(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a typical game device in which the character string input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is realized. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.
[0049]
The game apparatus 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an interface 104, a controller 105, an external memory 106, an image processing unit 107, and the like. , A DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) -ROM drive 108 and a NIC (Network Interface Card) 109.
[0050]
A DVD-ROM storing a game program and data is loaded in the DVD-ROM drive 108 and the game apparatus 100 is turned on to execute the program, thereby realizing the character string input device of the present embodiment. Is done.
[0051]
The CPU 101 controls the overall operation of the game apparatus 100 and is connected to each component to exchange control signals and data.
[0052]
The ROM 102 stores an IPL (Initial Program Loader) that is executed immediately after the power is turned on, and when this is executed, the program recorded on the DVD-ROM is read out to the RAM 103 and execution by the CPU 101 is started. The The ROM 102 stores an operating system program and various data necessary for operation control of the entire game apparatus 100.
[0053]
The RAM 103 is for temporarily storing data and programs, and holds programs and data read from the DVD-ROM and other data necessary for game progress and chat communication.
[0054]
The controller 105 connected via the interface 104 receives an operation input performed when the user executes the game.
[0055]
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the appearance of the controller 105. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.
[0056]
On the left side of the controller 105, there are arranged an ↑ button 201, a ↓ button 202, a ← button 203, and a → button 204 that are used to perform operation input indicating up, down, left, and right.
[0057]
On the right side, a ○ button 205 used to input a decision operation, a × button 206 used to input a cancel operation, a Δ button 207 used to input an instruction such as a menu display, A square button 208 used for inputting other instructions is arranged.
[0058]
In addition to the SELECT button 209 and the START button 210, an ANALOG button 211 for instructing start / stop of analog input and an indicator 212 for displaying whether the analog input is valid or invalid are arranged in the center. .
[0059]
In addition, joysticks 213 and 214 for inputting an instruction with a size in a direction not limited to up, down, left, and right are arranged at the lower center.
[0060]
Further, an L1 button 215, an L2 button 216, an R1 button 217, and an R2 button 218 that can be used for inputting various instructions are disposed above.
[0061]
Each button 201-208, 215-218 of the controller 105 is provided with a pressure sensor, and when analog input is enabled, it can detect which button is pressed, The magnitude of the pressure of the user's pressing operation can be obtained in 256 steps from 0 to 255.
[0062]
The joysticks 213 and 214 of the controller 105 are provided with strain gauges and can detect how much they are bent in which direction.
[0063]
Returning to FIG. 1, the external memory 106 detachably connected via the interface 104 stores data indicating the progress of the game, chat communication log (record) data, and the like in a rewritable manner. The user can record these data in the external memory 106 as appropriate by inputting an instruction via the controller 105.
[0064]
A DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 108 stores a program for realizing the game and image data and audio data associated with the game. Under the control of the CPU 101, the DVD-ROM drive 108 performs a reading process on the DVD-ROM loaded therein, reads out necessary programs and data, and these are temporarily stored in the RAM 103 or the like.
[0065]
The image processing unit 107 processes the data read from the DVD-ROM by an image arithmetic processor (not shown) included in the CPU 101 or the image processing unit 107, and then processes the processed data on a frame memory ( (Not shown). The image information recorded in the frame memory is converted into a video signal at a predetermined synchronization timing and output to a monitor (not shown) connected to the image processing unit 107. Thereby, various image displays are possible.
[0066]
The image calculation processor can execute a two-dimensional image overlay calculation, a transmission calculation such as α blending, and various saturation calculations at high speed.
[0067]
In addition, the polygon information arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space and added with various texture information is rendered by the Z buffer method, and a rendering image obtained by overlooking the polygon arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space from a predetermined viewpoint position is obtained. High speed execution of the obtained operation is also possible.
[0068]
Further, the CPU 101 and the image arithmetic processor operate in a coordinated manner, so that a character string can be drawn as a two-dimensional image in a frame memory or drawn on the surface of each polygon according to font information that defines the character shape. is there. The font information is recorded in the ROM 102, but it is also possible to use dedicated font information recorded in the DVD-ROM.
[0069]
The NIC 109 is used to connect the game apparatus 100 to a computer communication network (not shown) such as the Internet, and conforms to the 10BASE-T / 100BASE-T standard used when configuring a LAN (Local Area Network). Accordingly, an analog modem for connecting to the Internet using a telephone line, an ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) modem, an ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Modem) modem, and a cable television line for connecting to the Internet. A cable modem or the like and an interface (not shown) that mediates between these and the CPU 101 are configured.
[0070]
The audio processing unit 110 converts audio data read from the DVD-ROM into an analog audio signal and outputs the analog audio signal from a speaker (not shown) connected thereto. Further, under the control of the CPU 101, sound effects and music data to be generated during the progress of the game are generated, and sound corresponding to this is output from the speaker.
[0071]
In addition, the game apparatus 100 uses a large-capacity external storage device such as a hard disk so as to perform the same functions as the ROM 102, the RAM 103, the external memory 106, the DVD-ROM attached to the DVD-ROM drive 108, and the like. It may be configured.
[0072]
Further, it is possible to adopt a form in which a keyboard for accepting a character string editing input from a user, a mouse for accepting various position designations and selection inputs, and the like are connected. In addition, a general-purpose personal computer can be used instead of the game apparatus 100 of the present embodiment.
[0073]
(Outline configuration)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the character string input device according to the present embodiment. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG. In the following, first, the outline of the character string input device 301 will be described, and then control of processing executed in the character string input device 301 will be described.
[0074]
The character string input device 301 includes a storage unit 302, a reference unit 303, a display unit 304, an editing unit 305, a moving unit 306, and a determining unit 307.
[0075]
First, the storage unit 302 stores, as candidate character strings, at least a history of character strings output by the character string input device 301 in the past as an input result from the user and a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings. In other words, the storage unit 302 stores a history of character strings input by the user using the character string input device 301 in the past, and stores a fixed character string prepared in advance and expected to be frequently used. . Accordingly, the RAM 103 and the external memory 106 function as a part of the storage unit 302 that stores a history of character strings output in the past. In addition to the RAM 103 and the external memory 106, the DVD-ROM and ROM 102 mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 108 can function as a part of the storage unit 302 that stores a plurality of predetermined character strings.
[0076]
FIG. 4 shows a state in which a history of character strings and a fixed character string are nodes and are stored in the storage unit 302 in the form of a graph structure that refers to one another. As shown in the figure, the graph structure 401 includes a history node 402 that stores a history of character strings input by a user using the character string input device 301 in the past, and a fixed character that stores a fixed character string prepared in advance. A column node 403 and a default character string node 404 that stores character strings that are candidates first when processing by the character string input device 301 is started are included.
[0077]
From the node, there is an arrow (an arc in graph theory) that refers to another node. The arrows are labeled “upper” and “lower”, respectively. There is one “up” arrow and “down” arrow from each node.
[0078]
FIG. 4 also shows the reference unit 303. The reference unit 303 refers to the current candidate character string. When the use of the character string input device 301 is started, the reference unit 303 points to the default character string node 404 by the arrow 411, but the node pointed to by the arrow 411 is updated by the user's movement instruction input. . In FIG. 4, an arrow 411 indicates one of the nodes in the character string history 401. That is, the RAM 103 and the external memory 106 function as the reference unit 303.
[0079]
The graph structure 401 is the most straightforward implementation in the memory as a so-called linked list. For example, the graph structure 401 is implemented as a character string array and expresses the above-described arrow relationship by calculation processing of array subscripts. Such a method may be adopted.
[0080]
On the other hand, the display unit 304 displays candidate character strings referred to by the reference unit 303. As will be described later, when the default character string node 404 itself is edited by the editing unit 305, or when the movement instruction input is processed by the moving unit 306 and the node indicated by the arrow 411 is changed, the display unit 304 changes accordingly. The candidate character string after being changed / updated is displayed. That is, the CPU 101 functions as the display unit 304 in cooperation with the image processing unit 107.
[0081]
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing how the contents of the node indicated by the arrow 411 and a part of the graph structure 401 are displayed on the monitor by the image processing unit 107 by the display unit 304.
[0082]
A cursor 502 having a frame shape is displayed at the center of the screen 501. In the frame of the cursor 502, the content of the default character string node 404 that is a candidate that the current reference unit 303 refers to by the arrow 411 is displayed. However, in this figure, since there is no input from the user, a character string having a length of 0 is displayed in the cursor 502 (that is, no characters are displayed). Further, a predetermined number of character strings are displayed on the cursor 502 when the “up” arrow is sequentially traced from the default character string node 404. Below the cursor 502, a predetermined number of character strings of each node when the “down” arrow is followed in order from the default character string node 404 are displayed.
[0083]
The moving unit 306 monitors the pressing operation of the controller 105 by the user. That is, the CPU 101 functions as the moving unit 306 in cooperation with the controller 105. If a movement instruction is input from the user, the node indicated by the arrow 411 from the reference unit 303 is changed accordingly. The following modes are adopted as the movement instruction input.
↑ Pressing operation of button 201. Move the node along the "up" arrow.
↓ Pressing operation of the button 202. Move the node along the "down" arrow.
[0084]
FIG. 6 shows a graph structure when the ↑ button 201 is pressed twice with respect to the graph structure 401 shown in FIG. 4 and an image displayed on the monitor by the display unit 304 corresponding to the graph structure. The state of is shown. As shown in the figure, the arrow 411 indicates the history node 402 having the character string “history 2”. “History 2” is also displayed in the cursor 502 on the screen, which corresponds to the fact that a series of character strings displayed above and below the cursor 502 has been moved upwards by two. I understand that.
[0085]
As a result, a character string other than the current candidate character string is selected as the next candidate, and the reference unit 303 refers to the next candidate character string as a new candidate.
[0086]
As can be seen from the graph structure 401 shown in FIG. 4, if the pressing operation of the ↑ button 201 is continued, the character strings of the history nodes 402 are sequentially displayed in the cursor 502 on the screen, and the character strings of all the history nodes 402 are displayed. If it is done, it will return to the default character string node 404 (it will be 1 round). That is, while the ↑ button 201 is continuously pressed, the ↑ button 201 is interpreted as an instruction input for movement in the history.
[0087]
If the pressing operation of the ↓ button 202 is continued, the character strings in the fixed character string node 403 are sequentially displayed in the cursor 502 on the screen, and the character strings in all the fixed character string nodes 403 are displayed. It will return to the character string node 404 (it will be 1 round). That is, while the ↓ button 202 is continuously pressed, the ↓ button 202 is interpreted as a movement instruction input within the fixed character string.
[0088]
Further, since the ↑ button 201 and the ↓ button 202 mean movements in opposite directions, if the ↓ button 202 is pressed immediately after the ↑ button 201 is pressed, it is possible to return to the original node. The same applies when the ↑ button 201 is pressed immediately after the ↓ button 202 is pressed.
[0089]
Using the ↑ button 201 and the ↓ button 202 in this manner, the user can freely move in the past and the candidate group of fixed character strings, and the desired character string is displayed in the cursor 502. Then, this is determined as an input result. When receiving a determination instruction input from the user, the determination unit 307 outputs a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit 303 as an input result from the user. In the present embodiment, the determination instruction input is associated with the pressing operation of the ○ button 205.
[0090]
For example, when the user presses the ○ button 205 in the situation as shown in FIG. 6, the character string “history 2” that is referred to by the reference unit 303 and displayed in the cursor 502 by the display unit 304 is output as an input result. Is done.
[0091]
Furthermore, since the storage unit 302 stores the history of character strings output in the past, the input result output here is additionally stored in the storage unit 302. That is, a new history node 402 is created, and the history node 402 stores this input result. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, this new history node 402 is inserted between the default character string node 404 and the adjacent history node 402 via the “up” arrow.
[0092]
In an embodiment in which the number of history nodes 402 is limited to a certain number, when the number of history nodes 402 that have already been reached reaches the limit number, the default character string node 404 is connected via an “up” arrow. Alternatively, an embodiment may be employed in which the adjacent history node 402 is deleted from the graph structure 401, the input result is stored in the history node 402, and the graph structure 401 is inserted again as described above. In this case, “the history node 402 adjacent to the default character string node 404 via the“ up ”arrow” corresponds to the input result input the earliest.
[0093]
In addition, when the input result matches any of the existing history nodes 402, a method of not inserting the input node is also conceivable. In addition, when it matches with any of the existing history nodes 402, the position of the existing history node 402 is set between the default character string node 404 and the adjacent history node 402 through the “up” arrow. It may be moved. In the latter case, when the ↑ button 201 is pressed, the history is displayed in the cursor 502 in the order of the latest input, but the same character string is not displayed multiple times before going around once. The current history status can be quickly listed.
[0094]
On the other hand, there may be a case where a character string displayed in the cursor 502 is desired to be directly edited. In this embodiment, the character string displayed in the cursor 502 is shifted to the direct editing mode by pressing the □ button 208.
[0095]
When shifting to the direct editing mode, first, the current candidate character string, that is, the character string stored in the node referred to by the reference unit 303 via the arrow 411 is acquired. Then, the default character string node 404 is overwritten and stored with this character string, and updating is performed so that the arrow 411 refers to the default character string node 404.
[0096]
Next, the address of the default character string node 404 is passed to another editing function module, and the character string stored therein is edited in accordance with an instruction from the user. When editing such a character string, a known software keyboard technique or the like can be used.
[0097]
The following is a brief description of editing operations using known software keyboard technology. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a screen display of the software keyboard. On the screen 801, an edit target character string 802, usable characters 803 (in the figure, only letters and spaces of “A” to “Z”) and a character cursor 804 (in the figure, pointing to one of the characters 803). “N” is displayed). When the user uses the ↑ button 201, the ↓ button 202, the ← button 203, and the → button 204, the character cursor 804 moves in that direction. When the ○ button 205 is operated, the character currently pointed to by the character cursor is added to the end of the edit target character string 802. When the × button 206 is operated, the last character of the edit target character string 802 is deleted. When the button 208 is pressed, the editing of the character string is completed, and the editing target character string 802 that was displayed last is stored in the default character string node 404.
[0098]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of character string input processing executed by the character string input device 301 of this embodiment. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.
[0099]
When the character string input process is started, first, the contents of the reference unit 303 are initialized and updated so that the reference unit 303 points to the default character string node 404 via the arrow 411 (step S901). The contents of the column node 404 are deleted (step S902).
[0100]
Then, the current state of the graph structure 401 is displayed as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 (step S903), and the instruction input from the user is monitored to check what the instruction input is (step S904).
[0101]
When the instruction input is the ↑ button 201 (step S904; up), the next node along the “up” arrow coming out from the node indicated by the arrow 411 is examined, and the reference unit 303 performs the next operation via the arrow 411. The content of the reference unit 303 is updated so as to refer to the node (step S905), and the process returns to step S903.
[0102]
When the instruction input is the ↓ button 202 (step S904; down), the next node along the “down” arrow coming out from the node indicated by the arrow 411 is examined, and the reference unit 303 passes the next node via the arrow 411. The contents of the reference unit 303 are updated so as to refer to the node (step S906), and the process returns to step S903.
[0103]
When the instruction input is the ○ button 205 (step S904; determination), the reference unit 303 acquires a character string stored in the node referred to via the arrow 411 (step S907), and the acquired character string The graph structure 401 is updated as described above (step S908), the acquired character string is output as an input result (step S909), and this process is terminated.
[0104]
When the instruction input is the □ button 208 (step S904; edit), the character string stored in the node referenced by the reference unit 303 via the arrow 411 is acquired (step S910), and the acquired character string is displayed. The stored character string is stored in the default character string node 404 (step S911), the reference unit 303 refers to the predetermined character string node 404 via the arrow 411 (step S912), and the stored character string is used as a software keyboard. (Step S913), and the process returns to Step S903.
[0105]
According to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize a character string input technique that has both a history function and a fixed character string input function and allows a user to input a character string efficiently.
[0106]
In the above embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, candidate character strings are also displayed above and below the cursor 502. However, when the present invention is applied to command line interfaces of various OSs. This display may be omitted. In this case, the display of the cursor 502 itself can be omitted. In one line of the command line, a character string stored in a node referenced by the reference unit 303 via the arrow 411 is displayed.
[0107]
In the above embodiment, a very simple software keyboard is used. However, a publicly known higher-performance software keyboard may be used. For example, an edit cursor is defined for the character string to be edited, and can be combined with a software keyboard that realizes various editing functions by combining the movement of the edit cursor and the movement of the character cursor.
[0108]
(Other embodiments)
In the above embodiment, the ↑ button 201 and the ↓ button 202 are employed as movement instruction inputs, and the “up” arrow and the “down” arrow in the graph structure 401 are associated with each of them. In the present embodiment, another type of arrow is provided in the graph structure 401, and another button is assigned to the arrow, thereby enabling a character string to be input by a method similar to a menu format.
[0109]
FIG. 10 shows a graph structure in the present embodiment. The relationship between the history node 402 corresponding to the upper half of the graph structure 401 and the default character string node 404 is the same as in the above embodiment. In the lower half, the fixed character string node 402 is arranged in the above embodiment, but in this embodiment, the representative fixed character string node 405 which is a kind of the fixed character string node is replaced with the default character string node 404 and “ It is arranged cyclically via an “up” arrow and a “down” arrow. Also, from each representative fixed character string node 405, fixed character string nodes 403 are cyclically arranged via a “right” arrow and a “left” arrow.
[0110]
Then, the “up” arrow and “down” arrow coming out of each of the fixed character string nodes 403 indicate the same nodes as those indicated by the “up” arrow and “down” arrow of the representative fixed character string node 405 corresponding thereto. ing.
[0111]
The “left” arrow is associated with the ← button 203, and the “right” arrow is associated with the → button 204, and the processing of the operation of the ↑ button 201 and the ↓ button 202 shown in steps S 904 to S 906 is performed. As in the case, move within the node.
In other words, if the instruction input from the user is a pressing operation of the ← button 203, it is checked whether there is a next node along the “left” arrow coming out from the node pointed by the arrow 411. The content of the reference unit 303 is updated so that the unit 303 refers to the next node via the arrow 411. On the other hand, if the instruction input from the user is a pressing operation of the right button 204, it is checked whether there is a next node along the “right” arrow coming out from the node indicated by the arrow 411. The content of the reference unit 303 is updated so that the unit 303 refers to the next node via the arrow 411.
[0112]
Typically, in the representative standard character string node 405, characters corresponding to the superordinate concept of the character string stored in the standard character string node 403 arranged cyclically by the “left” and “right” arrows. It is desirable to store the column.
[0113]
In this embodiment, when the instruction input is the ○ button 205 in step S904 of the above embodiment, it is checked whether or not the node is the representative fixed character string node 405. Returning to step S903, otherwise proceeding to step S907, the character string itself stored in the representative standard character string node 405 may not be determined as an input result.
[0114]
(Other embodiments)
In the above-described embodiment, the default character string node 404 is prepared in the graph structure 401, and the group of the history node 402 and the group of the fixed character string node 403 are configured to be separated from each other. The connection / reference relationship between these nodes and the arrows is not limited to the above-described mode. For example, various variations as shown in FIG. 11 are conceivable.
[0115]
FIG. 11A shows a structure in which the history node 402, the fixed character string node 403, and the default character string node 404 form one cycle. In FIG. 11B, the “up” arrow from the most “top” of the history node 402 points to the “bottom” of the history node 402, and the “bottom” of the fixed character string node 403 is the “bottom”. The “down” arrow from the thing indicates the structure that points to the “upper” part of the fixed character string node 403. Such a variation may be combined with the above-described configuration using the “left” and “right” arrows.
[0116]
Even when such various variations are adopted, if there is an arrow of a certain direction attribute (such as “up” and “down”) from one node to another in the graph structure 401, the other If there is an arrow with the opposite direction attribute from the node to the node, the candidate character string will be displayed cyclically. When the reverse operation is performed, the reverse direction will be displayed. Therefore, an input method suitable for human intuition is realized.
[0117]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a character string input device, a character string input method, and a program for realizing these by a computer, which are suitable for efficiently inputting a character string.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a typical game device in which a character string input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is realized.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an external configuration of a controller that is facilitated by the game device;
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a character string input device.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state of a graph structure stored in a storage unit and a reference unit.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example by a display unit.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example by a display unit and a state of a graph structure stored in a storage unit and a reference unit.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing how a graph structure is updated.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of a software keyboard.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a flow of character string input processing executed by the character string input device.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another embodiment of a graph structure.
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing another embodiment of a graph structure.
[Explanation of symbols]
100 game devices
101 CPU
102 ROM
103 RAM
104 interface
105 controller
106 External memory
107 Image processing unit
108 DVD-ROM drive
109 NIC
110 Speech processing unit
201 ↑ button
202 ↓ button
203 ← button
204 → button
205 ○ button
206 x button
207 button
208 □ button
209 SELECT button
210 START button
211 ANALOG button
212 Indicator
213 Joystick
214 Joystick
215 L1 button
216 L2 button
217 R1 button
218 R2 button

Claims (9)

A character string input device comprising a storage unit, a reference unit, a display unit, a moving unit, and a determining unit,
The storage unit stores at least a history of character strings output in the past by the character string input device as an input result from a user, and a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings as candidate character strings,
The reference unit refers to the current candidate character string,
The display unit displays a candidate character string referenced by the reference unit,
In response to a movement instruction input from the user, the moving unit selects a character string other than the current candidate character string from the candidate character strings stored in the storage unit according to the movement instruction input as a next candidate. Select the next candidate character string as a new candidate in the reference section,
The determination unit outputs a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit as an input result from the user when a determination instruction is input from the user. The character string input device according to claim 1, further comprising an editing unit,
When there is an editing instruction input from the user, the editing unit edits the character string referred to by the reference unit according to the editing instruction input, and refers to the character string of the editing result as a new candidate to the reference unit It is characterized by letting. The character string input device according to claim 1 or 2,
The movement instruction input includes types of movement instruction input in history and movement instruction input in fixed form,
When the movement instruction input from the user is an in-history movement instruction input, and the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the history of character strings output in the past stored in the storage unit, The moving unit selects another one of the history of character strings output in the past as the next candidate,
When the movement instruction input from the user is an in-standard movement instruction input, and the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings stored in the storage unit, The moving unit selects another one of a predetermined plurality of fixed character strings as the next candidate. The character string input device according to claim 1 or 2,
The storage unit further stores a predetermined default character string (including a zero-length character string),
The movement instruction input includes the types of the first movement instruction input and the second movement instruction input,
(A) When the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is the predetermined default character string, the moving unit determines the past if the movement instruction input from the user is the first movement instruction input. If one of the character string histories output to the second movement instruction input is selected, one of the predetermined plural fixed character strings is selected as the next candidate,
(B) When the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the character string histories output in the past, the moving unit receives the first or second movement instruction input from the user. If it is a movement instruction input, the other one of the history of the character string output in the past or the predetermined default character string is selected as the next candidate,
(C) When the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the predetermined plurality of fixed character strings, the moving unit receives the first or second movement instruction input from the user. If it is a movement instruction input, another one of the predetermined plural fixed character strings or the predetermined predetermined character string is selected as a next candidate. The character string input device according to claim 4,
When the reference section refers to the first candidate character string, the first movement instruction input is given to refer to the second candidate character string, and the first candidate and the second candidate are referred to. Are included in the history of the character string output in the past, and then when the second movement instruction input is given, the moving unit sets the first candidate character string as the next candidate. Selected,
When the reference section refers to the third candidate character string, the second movement instruction input is given to refer to the fourth candidate character string, and the third candidate and the fourth candidate are referred to. Are included in the history of the character string output in the past, and then when the first movement instruction input is given, the moving unit sets the third candidate character string as the next candidate. A feature characterized by selection. The character string input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The storage unit categorizes and stores the predetermined plurality of fixed character strings into a plurality of groups,
The movement instruction input includes the type of the third movement instruction input,
When the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is one of the predetermined plurality of fixed character strings, if the movement instruction input from the user is a third movement instruction input, the movement unit , One of the other fixed character strings included in the group to which one of the fixed character strings belongs is selected as the next candidate. The character string input device according to claim 6,
The storage unit stores, as a representative fixed character string, at least one of fixed character strings belonging to each of a plurality of groups,
When the candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is the representative fixed character string, the determination unit can determine whether the candidate reference unit is referred to by the reference unit even when a determination instruction is input from the user. Character strings are not output as user input results. A character string input method using a storage unit and a reference unit, wherein the storage unit includes at least a history of character strings output in the past as an input result from a user by the character string input method, A plurality of fixed character strings are stored as candidate character strings, and the reference unit refers to the current candidate character strings,
A display process, a movement process, and a determination process,
In the display step, a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is displayed,
In the movement step, when there is a movement instruction input from the user, a candidate character string stored in the storage unit other than the current candidate character string is changed to the next candidate according to the movement instruction input. And select the next candidate character string as a new candidate to be referred to by the reference unit,
In the determination step, when a determination instruction is input from a user, a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit is output as an input result from the user. A program that causes a computer to function as a storage unit, a reference unit, a display unit, a moving unit, and a determining unit,
The storage unit stores at least a history of character strings output in the past by the character string input device as an input result from a user, and a plurality of predetermined fixed character strings as candidate character strings,
The reference unit refers to the current candidate character string,
The display unit displays a candidate character string referenced by the reference unit,
In response to a movement instruction input from the user, the moving unit selects a character string other than the current candidate character string from the candidate character strings stored in the storage unit according to the movement instruction input as a next candidate. And select the next candidate character string as a new candidate to be referred to by the reference unit,
The determination unit functions to output a candidate character string referred to by the reference unit as an input result from the user when a determination instruction is input from the user.

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