JP2006025442A - Remote control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a remote control device which reduces the number of an operational switch and a button, standardizes operational procedures of each kind of remote operation object equipment, and to obtain high operability. <P>SOLUTION: There are provided a display indicator 1 to display a function item selecting screen, where the remote operation objecting equipments of a plurality of function items of an illumination, an air conditioning, a TV, or the like are arranged; a function item selecting switch 2 for selecting the remote operation objecting equipments, for example, the air conditioning, in the function item selecting screen; an acknowledge button 3 for deciding the selected remote operation objecting equipment, for example, the air conditioning; a negation button 4 for canceling the selected function items; a control portion 5 for displaying another function item selecting screen arranging setting functions of a plurality of another function items of an on/off, a temperature, a timer, or the like on the display indicator 1, when the air conditioning is decided and indicated by the acknowledge button 3 and to output the decided and indicated codes, for example, an indication code of the air conditioning; and a communication portion 6 to transmit the output indication code to the remote operation object equipment, for example, the air conditioning by converting them into infrared-ray signals. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a remote control device for remotely operating a plurality of household appliances such as AV equipment, lighting equipment, and air conditioning equipment.

  Conventionally, as a remote control device that performs remote control of a plurality of home appliances or the like by one unit, a preset remote control device of a device manufacturer designation method, a remote control device that learns infrared commands, and the like are known.

  However, in the conventional remote control device, although a plurality of devices can be controlled, there are many devices in which operation buttons for each device are simply arranged on the operation surface of the remote control device, and the buttons on the operation surface increase as the number of operable devices increases. Since the number increases and the area occupied by each button decreases, it is difficult to identify the button and the operability deteriorates. In particular, for the elderly and the visually impaired, such a remote control device may cause an error in adjusting the air conditioning temperature, an error in adjusting the volume of the television, etc. due to an erroneous operation.

  In addition, despite having similar functions such as timers, it may be necessary to operate with different buttons between devices, which also causes operability to deteriorate. Yes.

  In addition, there is a remote control device in which all operations are performed by pressing operation buttons such as a tact switch because of size and cost. In such a remote control device, the actual feeling of the operator's operation is inevitably reduced, and there is a situation in which poor responsiveness causes an erroneous operation.

  Furthermore, for example, a remote control device as shown in Patent Document 1 has been proposed. A pad-like button capable of selecting a plurality of functions with one button for each device is provided on the operation surface to reduce the apparent operation buttons. However, although the number of buttons could be reduced, it is difficult to understand the operation method because one button realizes multiple functions, or the buttons of the operation target device based on the picture displayed on the operation button The operability issues that must be sought for each operation remain unresolved.

JP-A-8-88883

  A remote control device that operates on a plurality of devices is generally used more frequently than a remote control device that targets a single device. Therefore, for a remote control device that generally operates on a battery, There is a problem that the usable time is shortened and the battery must be frequently replaced.

  In general, when a lighting fixture is turned on, in order to emit a large amount of light in the infrared band, the remote control device can be used to control the lighting fixture. Must be output. In contrast, devices such as televisions and air conditioners can perform stable communication with a small amount of light compared to lighting fixtures. Usually, a remote control device that operates on a plurality of devices is often designed to output infrared rays necessary for operating a lighting fixture in order to realize stable and reliable control for any device. As a result, as described above, an increase in the operation frequency and the light emission amount causes an increase in power consumption, and further causes a situation in which the battery life of the remote control device is shortened.

  In order to cope with the shortening of the battery life, it is generally known to use an infrared light emitting element with a narrow infrared light distribution range in order to operate a device as far as possible with a small amount of light. However, by narrowing the light distribution, it is necessary to point the remote control device at the operation target device fairly accurately during remote control operation, and often causes the operator to feel stress.

  In addition, there is a problem that the remote control device shakes due to the button operation, the optical axis center is slightly shifted, and communication becomes impossible as a result. In particular, in the case of elderly people, large hand shakes are generated due to the weakening of the strength of arms and fingers due to aging, and these phenomena appear remarkably.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, problems, requests, etc. The remote control has high operability by minimizing the number of buttons and switches and unifying the operation among a plurality of devices. The object is to obtain a device.

  Another object of the present invention is to obtain a remote control device with high operability by reducing the number of operation procedures to prevent erroneous operations.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide a remote control device having a high operability by giving a greater sense of operation to prevent erroneous operation.

  Another object of the present invention is to obtain a remote control device that performs stable and reliable communication and does not impair battery life by controlling with an optimal amount of infrared light for each device.

  Another object of the present invention is to obtain a remote control device that operates stably even with respect to camera shake or the like that occurs during operation by performing infrared light distribution control optimal for a person or an operation target device.

  The remote control device according to the present invention includes a display means for displaying a function item selection screen in which a plurality of function items are arranged, a function item selection means for selecting a function item in the function item selection screen, and the selected When a specific function item is determined and instructed by the determination instruction input means for determining the selected function item, the cancellation instruction input means for canceling the selected function item, and the determination instruction input means, A display unit for displaying another function item selection screen on which the function items are arranged, and a control unit that outputs an instruction code of the specific function item for which the determination instruction has been issued; and the output instruction code as a radio signal Communication means for converting and transmitting to a remote operation target device, the communication means has a plurality of infrared light emitting elements, and the control means sets the light emission intensity for each remote operation target device in advance. By referring to the emission intensity management data, the number of infrared light emitting elements that can provide the necessary emission intensity corresponding to the selected remote operation target device is selected, and the emission intensity of the infrared signal transmitted from the communication means is controlled. It has a light emitting element control means.

  In the remote control device according to the present invention, the number of switches and buttons to be operated can be reduced, and the area of each functional item to be displayed on the display means is increased, so that the search and operation can be facilitated. It is possible to unify the operation procedure among the operation target devices, simplify the operation procedure, and obtain high operability. Furthermore, there is an effect that communication can be performed reliably and with minimum power consumption, and the battery life can be improved.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external appearance of the remote control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In addition, in each figure, the same code | symbol shows the same or equivalent part.

  1 and 2, reference numeral 100 denotes a remote control device according to the first embodiment, and reference numeral 1 denotes a display device serving as a display means, which is composed of, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Device). Reference numeral 2 denotes a function item selection switch of a pointing device serving as a display selection means, which is composed of, for example, a rotary encoder or the like, and is used by the operator to select a function item displayed on the display 1.

  In the figure, reference numeral 3 denotes an affirmative button serving as a decision instruction input means, and reference numeral 4 denotes a negative button serving as a cancellation instruction input means, which are constituted by, for example, a push switch. The affirmative button 3 and the negative button 4 are for inputting an instruction to execute or cancel the item selected by the function item selection switch 2.

  In the figure, reference numeral 5 denotes a control unit serving as control means. The control unit 5 further includes a control processing unit 51 and a storage unit 52. The control processing unit 51 causes the display 1 to display a screen stored in advance in the storage unit 52. In addition, when an operator instruction is input as instruction data from the function item selection switch 2, the positive button 3 or the negative button 4 based on the display, the control processing unit 51 displays the contents of the instruction data, Another screen stored in the storage unit 52 is displayed based on the instruction data. Further, when the instruction data is confirmed, the control processing unit 51 transmits an instruction code corresponding to each device to the communication unit 6 based on the instruction data.

  Furthermore, in the same figure, 6 is a communication part which becomes a communication means, and transmits the infrared signal which converted the instruction code transmitted from the control part 5 into the infrared code.

  Next, the operation of the remote control device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a display example of the remote control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the first embodiment.

  The control processing unit 51 reads the data (display screen) of FIG. 3A stored in the storage unit 52 and displays it on the display 1 (steps S100 to S101). When the operator rotates the function item selection switch 2, the control processing unit 51 switches one of the function items displayed on the display 1 on the basis of the rotational movement amount to another function item by reversing or shading. And display them separately (steps S102 to S103). The operator presses the affirmative button 3 when the target function item is reversed. FIG. 3A shows the case where “air conditioning” is selected from the initial screens of the function items “lighting”, “air conditioning” and “TV”.

  When the control processing unit 51 determines that the affirmative button 3 has been pressed, the data (display screen) of FIG. 3B stored in the storage unit 52 is read and displayed on the display 1 (steps S104 to S108). ). Here, when the control processing unit 51 determines that the operator has pressed the negative button 4 when the selection of the air conditioning is unsuccessful, the control processing unit 51 reads the data of FIG. 3A stored in the storage unit 52 again. Are displayed on the display 1 (steps S109 to S111). Here, it is assumed that the selection of the air conditioning is correct, that is, the intended one. When the screen of FIG. 3B is displayed on the display 1, the operator again rotates the function item selection switch 2 to display the function item screens of “ON / OFF”, “Temperature”, and “Timer”. One is selected and the affirmative button 3 is pressed (steps S102 to S104). FIG. 3B shows a case where the item “temperature” is selected.

  When the control processing unit 51 determines that the affirmative button 3 is pressed in the temperature item, the data (display screen) of FIG. 3C stored in the storage unit 52 is read and displayed on the display 1 ( Steps S104 to S108). Here, when the control processing unit 51 determines that the operator has pressed the negative button 4 such as when the temperature selection is unsuccessful, the control processing unit 51 reads the data of FIG. 3B stored in the storage unit 52 again. Are displayed on the display 1 (steps S109 to S111). Here, it is assumed that the selection of the temperature is correct, that is, the target. When the screen of FIG. 3C is displayed on the display 1, the operator rotates the function item selection switch 2. The control processing unit 51 causes the display device 1 to display numbers by moving up and down according to the rotational direction and the rotational movement amount. When the number of the temperature to be set is displayed, the operator presses the affirmative button 3. FIG. 3C shows the case where “22 ° C.” is selected as the set temperature. When the affirmative button 3 is pressed at each operation stage, the corresponding infrared signal is transmitted when there is a transmission instruction based on internal information (for example, whether or not there is a transmission instruction for each operation stage). (Steps S105 to S106).

  When no operation is performed for a certain period of time on the screens of FIGS. 3B and 3C, the control processing unit 51 causes the display 1 to display the screen of FIG. Specifically, the screen returns to the initial screen of FIG. 3A (steps S112 to S100 to S101).

  As described above, in remote control device 100 according to the first embodiment, a function item is selected by rotating function item selection switch 2, and when executing the selected function item, affirmative button 3 is pressed and canceled. Is such that the negative button 4 is pressed so that all of these are determined by the control processing unit 51 and the screen and instruction content are displayed on the display 1. Since all the remote operation target devices that can be controlled by the remote control device 100 have a unified operation, the number of operation buttons is small, button search and operation procedures are simple, and high operability can be obtained.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an external appearance of a remote control device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 4, 100A is a remote control device according to the second embodiment, and 1 is a display device serving as a display means. 2A and 2B are function item selection switches serving as display selection means, which are composed of a pair of push switches or the like. The operator displays the function items displayed on the display 1 by the function item selection switch 2A. This is for selection by moving the selection switch 2B downward. Reference numeral 3 denotes an affirmative button serving as a decision instruction input unit. Reference numeral 4 denotes a negative button serving as a cancellation instruction input means. The affirmative button 3 and the negative button 4 are used for inputting an instruction to execute or cancel the item selected by the function item selection switches 2A and 2B. Other configurations, display screens, and the like (not shown) are the same as those of the remote control device 100 according to the first embodiment.

Next, the operation of the remote control device 100A according to the second embodiment will be described.
The control processing unit 51 reads the data (display screen) of FIG. 3A stored in the storage unit 52 and displays it on the display 1. When the operator depresses the function item selection switch 2A or 2B, the control processing unit 51 switches one of the function items displayed on the display 1 for each operation to another function item by reversing or shading. Display them separately. The function item selection switch 2A moves the function item up, and the function item selection switch 2B moves the function item down.

  That is, in the display screen of FIG. 3A, when “air conditioning” is currently selected by the function item selection switch 2A or 2B, the function item “lighting” is selected by pressing the function item selection switch 2A. When the function item selection switch 2B is pressed, the function item “TV” is selected. When the operator reverses the target function item by pressing the function item selection switches 2A and 2B, the operator presses the affirmative button 3. FIG. 3A shows the case where “air conditioning” is selected from the initial screens of the function items “lighting”, “air conditioning” and “TV”.

  The operation after the control processing unit 51 determines that the affirmative button 3 has been pressed is the same as that in the first embodiment, and is omitted here.

  In addition, in the screens of FIGS. 3B and 3C, when no operation is performed for a certain period of time, it is possible to automatically return to the initial screen of FIG. This is the same as the first embodiment.

  As described above, in remote control device 100A according to the second embodiment, function item selection switches 2A and 2B are pressed to select a function item. When executing the selected function item, affirmative button 3 is pressed, When canceling, the negative button 4 is pressed, and all of these are determined by the control processing unit 51, and the screen and the instruction content are displayed on the display 1. Since all the remote operation target devices that can be controlled by the remote control device 100A have a unified operation, the number of operation buttons is small, button search and operation procedures are simple, and high operability can be obtained.

  In the first embodiment, since the rotation direction of the function item selection switch 2 and the movement direction of the selection of the function item are not intuitive, the rotation direction of the function item selection switch 2 is set at an unfamiliar stage in the initial operation. Although there is a possibility of error, in the second embodiment, since it can be performed by an intuitive operation of the upper button and the lower button, it is possible to operate without hesitation when selecting an item.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 and FIGS. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 5, reference numeral 100B denotes a remote control device according to the third embodiment, and reference numeral 53 denotes time measuring means for measuring the continuous pressing time of the function item selection switches 2A and 2B. Reference numeral 54 denotes a continuous operation determination unit, which compares the time measured by the time measuring means 53 with a preset time, and indicates that the function item selection switch 2A or 2B is continuously pressed every time they match. Then, the time count of the time counting means 53 is reset and an operation signal equivalent to that when the function item selection switches 2A and 2B are pressed is output to the control processing section 51. Other configurations not shown, the display screen, and the like are the same as those of the remote control device 100A according to the second embodiment.

  Next, the operation of the remote control device 100B according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen and a selection item when a television channel is selected. FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the operation of the time measuring means of the remote control device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the operation of the continuous operation determining unit of the remote control device according to the third embodiment.

  The remote control device 100B selects the bottom of the function items displayed on the display 1 when the entire function item candidates shown in FIG. 6D do not fit within the screen of the display 1. In the state, when the lower function item is selected by pressing the function item selection switch 2B, the function item candidates shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C are moved up one by one and displayed on the display 1. .

  When selecting a function item from many selection items such as a TV program selection screen, it is necessary to press the function item selection switches 2A and 2B by the number of function items. The burden on the top is large. That is, in the remote control device 100B according to the third embodiment, when the “NHK general channel” is currently set, the function item selection switch 2B is pressed at least thirteen times to change it to “WOW WOW channel”. Must.

  By using the remote control device 100B according to the third embodiment, for example, by continuously pressing the function item selection switch 2B, the continuous pressing time is measured by the clock means 53 (steps S320 to S322). If it is determined by the continuous operation determination unit 54 and it is considered that a certain time has elapsed, the same signal is output to the control processing unit 51 when the function item selection switch 2B is pressed a plurality of times (steps S330 to S334). Since the subsequent operation is the same as in the above example (steps S302 to S312), it is omitted, but the function item selection switch 2A or 2B is pressed a plurality of times by continuously pressing the function item selection switch 2A or 2B. Therefore, it is possible to quickly select a function item without pressing the function item selection switch 2A or 2B many times.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7, 8 and 40. FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 7, reference numeral 100C denotes a remote control device according to the fourth embodiment, and reference numeral 55 denotes a continuous operation acceptance determination unit. Other parts are the same as those in the above-described embodiment.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a continuous operation acceptability database managed by the continuous operation acceptability determination means 55 as an example of the function of the remote control device 100C. FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the operation of the continuous operation acceptance determination unit of the remote control device according to the fourth embodiment.

  Taking the TV program selection scene shown in FIG. 6 as an example, VHF broadcasting (“NHK General”, “NHK Education”, “Nippon Television”, “TBS”, “Fuji Television”, “TV Asahi”, “TV Tokyo” )), UHF broadcasting (“TVK TV”, “TV Saitama”, “Chiba TV”, “MX TV”), BS broadcasting (“NHKBS1”, “NHKBS2”, “WOWWOW”) An example will be described that is used when the operation is temporarily interrupted to alert the user.

  When the function item selection switch 2A or 2B is continuously pressed, the continuous pressing time is counted by the time counting means 53. When the measured time is determined by the continuous operation determination unit 54 and it is considered that a certain time has elapsed, the continuous operation determination unit 54 determines whether or not the continuous operation acceptance determination unit 55 can accept the continuous operation. Inquire.

  When receiving the above inquiry, the continuous operation acceptance / rejection determination means 55 refers to the continuous operation acceptance / rejection database shown in FIG. 8 and refers to the acceptance status of the next function item. An acceptable signal is output to the determination unit 54 (steps S400 to S402).

  When receiving the acceptance signal, the continuous operation determination unit 54 outputs the same signal as the pressing signal of the function item selection switch 2A or 2B to the control processing unit 51. Since the operation after receiving this pressing signal has been described in the third embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

  The continuous operation acceptance / rejection determination means 55 refers to the continuous operation acceptance / rejection database shown in FIG. 8 by an inquiry from the continuous operation determination unit 54 and determines that the acceptance is “rejected”. For example, “TV TOKYO” → “TVK” In the case of moving to “TV”, an acceptance “NO” signal is output to the continuous operation determination unit 54 (steps S400 to S401 to S403).

  Next, when the continuous operation determination unit 54 receives the acceptance rejection signal, even if the function item selection switch 2B is continuously pressed, the continuous operation determination unit 54 sends a pressing signal of the function item selection switch 2B to the control processing unit 51. Since no output is made, continuous pressing is not accepted and “TV TOKYO” remains selected on the screen.

  The operator can know the transition from the VHF broadcast to the UHF broadcast because the scroll operation of the function items by the continuous pressing stops. When the channel is moved to the “TVK TV” of UHF broadcasting, the pressing signal is input to the control processing unit 51 by pressing the function item selection switch 2B again, so that “TVK TV” of UHF broadcasting is selected. You can choose. As described above, the continuous operation determining unit 54 and the continuous operation acceptability determining unit 55 can prevent the function items from being inadvertently scrolled due to continuous pressing.

  In the fourth embodiment, an example of television channel selection is shown. However, for example, even when there is an item in the function that the user does not want to be easily operated, an abnormality caused by an erroneous operation can be obtained by using this function. A remote control device with less driving can be obtained.

Embodiment 5. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11 and FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 9, 100D is a remote control device according to the fifth embodiment, and 56 is an item display order management means, which manages how many times the affirmative button 3 has been selected for each function item stored in the storage unit 52. The order of the function item list in the storage unit 52 is switched in the order of selection frequency. Other parts are the same as those in the above-described embodiment.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the selection frequency management table in the storage unit 52. The example shown in FIG. 10 shows an example of managing the selected frequency in units of weeks. FIG. 11 shows a display example on the television program selection screen. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the operation of the item display order management means of the remote control device according to the fifth embodiment.

  Next, the operation of the remote control device 100D according to the fifth embodiment will be described. When the target function item is selected by the function item selection switch 2A or 2B and selected by the affirmative button 3, the item display order management unit 56 stores a predetermined period (in this example, in the selection frequency management table). The frequency (number of times) selected within one week is updated (steps S500 to S502).

  The item display order management means 56 refers to the selection frequency management table simultaneously with the update, and rewrites the display item order of the function item display list managed by the storage unit 52 in the order of selection frequency (step S503). The control processing unit 51 displays the function items rearranged in the order of selection frequency on the display 1. As a result, an easy-to-use screen in which function items are arranged in the order of selection frequency can be obtained.

  At the initial stage, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11C, program candidates (function items) are arranged in the order of channel numbers. For example, the state of the selection frequency management table in the storage unit 52 after one week of use is as shown in FIG. FIG. 10 shows an example in which “NHK General” channel is selected 10 times, “NHKBS1” channel is 7 times, “Fuji Television” channel is 6 times, and so on in one week.

  In response to a display request from the control processing unit 51, the function items (program candidates) rearranged in the order of selection frequency by the selection frequency management table in the storage unit 52 are displayed on the display 1, and FIGS. An easy-to-use screen in which function items are arranged in the order of selection frequency as shown in FIG.

  Usually, since the function items are always displayed in a predetermined order, it is necessary to select a target program by sequentially selecting programs that are rarely selected by the function item selection switch 2A or 2B. The burden on the operator was heavy. In the method according to the fifth embodiment, since function items can be arranged in the order of selection frequency, it is possible to provide a method for efficiently selecting function items with a minimum operation at the time of use.

Embodiment 6 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 to 14 and FIG. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 12, the display 1, the function item selection switch 2, the affirmative button 3, the negative button 4, and the communication unit 6 have functions similar to those shown in FIG. Since it demonstrated in the form 1, it abbreviate | omits. The control unit 5A includes a control processing unit 51A and a storage unit 52A that are slightly different from the processing functions of the first embodiment.

  In the figure, reference numeral 100E denotes a remote control device according to the sixth embodiment, and reference numeral 7 denotes an angle sensor. An operator detects an elevation angle at which the remote control device 100E is directed to a remote operation target device and outputs elevation angle detection data.

  52 A of storage parts hold | maintain the data memorize | stored in the memory | storage part 52 of Embodiment 1, and hold | maintain the relationship data of the elevation angle detection data transmitted from the angle sensor 7, and a remote operation object apparatus. In addition to the operation of the control processing unit 51 of the first embodiment, the control processing unit 51A selects and processes a remote operation target device from the storage unit 52A based on elevation angle detection data from the angle sensor 7. In the sixth embodiment, the angle sensor 7 and the control unit 5A serve as target device identification means.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state of selecting a remote operation target device of the remote control device 100E according to the sixth embodiment. In the figure, 200 is a television (TV), 300 is a video (VTR), 400 is an air conditioner, and 500 is a lighting fixture. FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the sixth embodiment.

  The remote control target device of the remote control device 100E is basically visible to the operator, and the space in which the remote control device 100E is used has a limited volume to some extent. Is not so many. In the sixth embodiment, as a method for automatically selecting a device, when an operator tries to operate the device by remote control, the remote control device 100E is generally directed toward the remote operation target device. Is used.

  That is, based on the elevation angle of the remote control device 100E directed to the remote operation target device, the remote control device 100E automatically determines the remote operation target device, and displays the device selection screen and device selection as shown in FIG. It is intended to omit the operation of. In the sixth embodiment, the remote operation target device is assumed to be a television 200, a video 300, an air conditioner 400, and a lighting fixture 500, which are the most representative devices installed in the living room, and the angle sensor 7 is used as a device identification unit. This is a remote control device 100E that determines an operation target using.

  FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram of the angle sensor 7. In this figure, 71 is a rotation sensor, and 72 is a pendulum. The rotation sensor 71 does not actually rotate and is fixed to the remote control device 100E. When the pendulum 72 is kept in the vertical direction, the rotation sensor 71 is relatively rotated, and the elevation angle to which the remote control device 100E is directed can be detected based on the amount of rotation movement.

  When elevation angle detection data based on the rotational movement amount of the rotation sensor 71 is input, the control processing unit 51A searches the storage unit 52A to determine a remote operation target device corresponding to the elevation angle detection data (step S600). When the control processing unit 51A determines a remote operation target device, the control processing unit 51A reads an initial screen (for example, FIG. 3B) of the target device from the storage unit 52A and displays it on the display 1 (steps S601 to S602). The control processing unit 51A displays the initial setting screen of the remote operation target device on the display 1 and prompts the operator to input an instruction. This display is not changed until the remote control device 100E is pointed at the remote operation target device and the elevation angle changes until the negative button 4 is pressed. The subsequent remote control operation procedures and operations are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and will not be described.

  As described above, according to the remote control device 100E according to the sixth embodiment, the elevation angle detection data detected based on the relative movement amount between the rotation sensor 71 and the pendulum 72 by being directed to the remote operation target device. Based on this, the control processing unit 51A determines the remote operation target device and causes the display unit 1 to display the function items corresponding to the device as an initial screen. Can be improved.

Embodiment 7 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the configuration of the angle sensor of the remote control device according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. Other configurations are the same as those in the sixth embodiment.

  The remote control device 100F according to the seventh embodiment uses the number of fall sensors 7A corresponding to the number of remotely operated devices as angle sensors.

  FIG. 15A outputs an ON signal by short-circuiting the electrode 73 when the inverted element 74 of the falling sensor 7A is horizontal. FIG. 6B shows an output of an OFF signal by opening the electrode 73 when the inverted element 74 of the fall sensor 7A is at a certain inclination. That is, the fall sensor 7A outputs an ON signal only when it is horizontal.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an installation example of the fall sensor 7A on the remote control device 100F in order to detect a plurality of angles. In this figure, 7Aa, 7Ab, and 7Ac are fall sensors installed in the remote control device 100F with different inclination angles in order to detect three types of elevation angles. In the example of this figure, the fall sensor 7Aa shows an example in which the TV, the fall sensor 7Ab detects an air conditioner, and the fall sensor 7Ac detects a lighting fixture.

  Next, the operation of the remote control device 100F according to the seventh embodiment will be described. The arrangement relationship of each remote operation target device will be described based on the arrangement shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 16A to 16C, each of the fall sensors 7Aa to 7Ac has an inclination angle so that the inverted element 74 stands upright when the remote control device 100F is at an elevation angle facing each device. Yes.

  That is, when the remote control device 100F is directed to the TV as shown in FIG. 16D (when the remote control body is horizontal), only the fall sensor 7Aa is turned on, and the other fall sensors 7Ab and 7Ac are installed. It will be in an OFF state by the inclination of.

  Similarly, when the remote controller 100F is directed to the air conditioner as shown in FIG. 16 (e), only the fall sensor 7Ab is turned on, and the other fall sensors 7Aa and 7Ac are turned off. Further, when the remote control device 100F is directed to the lighting fixture as shown in FIG. 16 (f), only the fall sensor 7Ac is turned on, and the other fall sensors 7Aa and 7Ab are turned off. That is, when detecting N types of inclination angles, it is possible to detect N types of angles by using a fall sensor installed at N types of inclination angles.

  The fall sensor 7A has a simple structure and can be reduced in size as compared with the angle sensor 7 described above. In addition, since the output can be taken out with a simple ON / OFF signal, the signal processing system becomes simple, and an angle sensor optimal for a low-cost and small-sized remote control device can be realized.

Embodiment 8 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of the angle sensor of the remote control device according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention. Other configurations are the same as those in the sixth embodiment.

  The remote control device 100G according to the eighth embodiment uses a distortion sensor 7B as an angle sensor.

  In FIG. 17, 7B is a strain sensor that detects a strain of a material by a change in resistance value, 75 is a load support portion (cylindrical portion) of the strain sensor 7B, and 76 is a detection circuit that detects a change in resistance value due to the strain.

  In the figure, 8 is a battery box, 9 is a battery for the remote control device 100G, 100a is a main body of the remote control device 100G in which the battery box 8 in which the strain sensor 7B and the battery 9 are stored (the bottom plate portion of the casing). ).

  Next, the operation of the remote control device 100G according to the eighth embodiment will be described. The strain sensor 7B is disposed on the main body 100a of the remote control device 100G so as to be in contact with the battery box 8 that stores the battery 9 that drives the remote control device 100G. The battery box 8 is installed so that it can move very slightly in the vertical direction of the figure by changing the elevation angle of the remote control device 100G.

  When the operator points the device at which the remote controller 100G is desired to operate, the main body 100a of the remote controller 100G is inclined, and the battery 9 and the battery box 8 installed thereon are gradually inclined. As described above, since the battery box 8 is installed with a degree of freedom in the vertical direction (left and right lateral direction) in the figure, the load supporting portion (columnar portion) 75 of the strain sensor 7B is connected to the battery 9. A load is applied and distortion is detected. Since the relationship between the inclination angle (load) and the strain of the battery 9 can be uniquely determined, the strain sensor 7B can be used as an angle sensor.

  That is, the angle sensor of the remote control device 100G according to the eighth embodiment uses a very small strain sensor 7B and the battery 9 that is essential for the operation of the remote control device 100G and has a large load as weights for angle detection. Therefore, it can be made very small. Moreover, since there is no mechanical drive part like the above-mentioned embodiment, a highly reliable and long-life angle sensor can be obtained.

Embodiment 9 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing configurations of a remote control device and a remote operation target device according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention. FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the ninth embodiment.

  In FIG. 18, the display 1, the function item selection switch 2, the affirmative button 3, and the negative button 4 have the same functions as those shown in FIG. 1 and will be described in the first embodiment. I omitted it. 100H denotes a remote control device according to the ninth embodiment, and 400 denotes a remote operation target device such as an air conditioner.

  In the figure, 6A is a transmitter on the remote controller side, which converts the instruction code transmitted from the control processor 51B of the remote controller 100H into an infrared signal and transmits it. Reference numeral 401 denotes a receiving unit on the device side, which receives an infrared signal transmitted from the transmitting unit 6A on the remote control side.

  In the figure, reference numeral 404 denotes a translation control unit that converts an infrared signal received by the receiving unit 401 on the device side into a control signal for the device and outputs it. Reference numeral 403 denotes a device identification code transmission unit that constantly generates a device identification code predetermined for each device.

  In the figure, reference numeral 404 denotes a transmission unit on the device side, which converts the device identification code generated by the device identification code transmission unit 403 into an infrared signal and constantly transmits it.

  Further, in the figure, reference numeral 6B denotes a receiving unit on the remote control side, which converts the infrared signal transmitted from the transmitting unit 404 on the device side into a device identification code and outputs it to the control processing unit 51B.

  In addition to the operation of the control processing unit 51 described in the first embodiment, the control processing unit 51B searches the storage unit 52B based on the device identification code received by the receiving unit 6B on the remote control side, and the device identification code The remote operation target device corresponding to is selected and processed. The storage unit 52B stores relation data between the device identification code and the remote operation target device in addition to the data stored in the storage unit 52 of the first embodiment. In the ninth embodiment, the receiving unit 6B and the control unit 5B on the remote control side serve as target device identification means.

  Next, the automatic identification operation of the remote operation target device of the remote control device 100H according to the ninth embodiment will be described. The transmission unit 404 on the device side converts the device identification code generated by the device identification code transmission unit 403 into an infrared signal and constantly transmits the infrared signal. The transmission / reception unit on the device side and the transmission / reception unit on the remote control side have directivity.

  When the operator directs the remote control device 100H to the transmission unit 404 of the remote operation target device (air conditioning device or the like) 400, the device-side transmission unit 404 and the remote-control-side reception unit 6B are directly facing each other, and the device-side transmission unit The receiver 6B on the remote control side receives the infrared signal transmitted from 404.

  The receiving unit 6B on the remote controller converts the received infrared signal into a device identification code and transmits it to the control processing unit 51B (step S900). The control processing unit 51B searches the storage unit 52B based on the device identification code transmitted from the receiving unit 6B, and determines a remote operation target device corresponding to the device identification code (step S901).

  When the control processing unit 51B determines the corresponding remote operation target device, the control processing unit 51B reads an initial screen (for example, FIG. 3B) of the target device from the storage unit 52B and displays it on the display 1 (steps S902 to S903). . The control processing unit 51B displays an initial setting screen of the remote operation target device on the display 1 and prompts the operator to input an instruction. This display is not changed until the remote control device 100H and the remote operation target device 400 are not facing each other until the negative button 4 is pressed. The subsequent remote control operation procedures and operations are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and will not be described.

  As described above, according to the remote control device 100H according to the ninth embodiment, the infrared signal obtained by converting the device identification code generated for each device is always transmitted from the transmitter 404 on the device side, and the infrared signal is transmitted. The receiving unit 6B on the remote controller that has received the signal converts it into a device identification code. Next, the control processing unit 51B searches the storage unit 52B based on the device identification code, determines the corresponding remote operation target device 400, and displays an initial screen having function items according to the device on the display 1. Therefore, the operation procedure can be reduced simply by pointing the remote operation target device 400, and the operability can be improved.

Embodiment 10 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 10 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 10 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 19, the display 1, the function item selection switch 2, the affirmative button 3, the negative button 4, and the communication unit 6 perform the same operations as those described in the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted. To do. 100J is a remote control device according to the tenth embodiment, 10 is a tactile response device as a vibration generating means, and 11 is a sound generator as a sounding means.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the haptic response device 10 of the remote control device 100J according to the tenth embodiment. The tactile response device 10 generates vibration by rotating a rotating shaft of an eccentric weight 11 such as a pager used for incoming vibration with a motor 12. The tactile response device 10 generates vibration based on vibration data transmitted from the control processing unit 51C. The sound generator 11 generates sound based on the sound generation data transmitted from the control processing unit 51C.

  Next, the operation of remote control device 100J according to the tenth embodiment will be described. The display screen will be described with reference to FIG. When the operator rotates the function item selection switch 2, the control processing unit 51C causes one of the function items displayed on the display 1 based on the amount of the rotational movement to be reversed or shaded to perform other functions. Display separately from items. Thereby, visual teaching is performed to the operator.

  Further, the control processing unit 51C transmits vibration data and sound generation data to the tactile response device 10 and the sound generator 11 for each fixed amount of the rotational movement amount of the function item selection switch 2, respectively, so that the operation teaching of the remote control device 100J is tactile. And audibly.

  Further, when the affirmative button 3 or negative button 4 is pressed by the operator, the control processing unit 51C transmits vibration data and sounding data different from those at the time of selecting the function item to the tactile response device 10 and the sounding device 11, By vibrating and sounding, the operator teaches the operation of the remote control device 100J tactilely and audibly.

  As described above, according to the remote control device 100J according to the tenth embodiment, when the function item selection switch 2 selects a function or when instruction data is input by pressing the affirmative button 3 or the negative button 4, the tactile response device 10 is used. It is made to vibrate and be sounded by the sound generator 11, and in addition to visual teaching, it is possible to teach the operator tactilely and auditorily, and by giving a greater sense of equipment operation It is possible to prevent erroneous operation. In addition, by adding a uniform operation procedure and giving the same instruction to the same instruction and another instruction to another instruction, even if it is difficult to obtain information visually, it can be used in common It has the nature.

Embodiment 11 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a tactile response device of a remote control device according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention. Other configurations of the remote control device are the same as those of the above-described tenth embodiment.

  In FIG. 21, 10A is a tactile response device, 10c is a drive circuit for energizing the solenoid coil 10d by a tactile control signal from the control processing unit 51C, and 10e is a drive shaft made of a magnetic material driven by the solenoid coil 10d. .

  The solenoid coil 10d is controlled by a tactile control signal from the control processing unit 51C. When a current flows through the solenoid coil 10d, the drive shaft 10e disposed at the center of the solenoid coil 10d moves, and the housing of the remote control device 100K is moved. By tapping, the tactile sensation is presented to the operator. That is, also in remote control device 100K shown in the eleventh embodiment, the same effect as in the tenth embodiment can be obtained.

Embodiment 12 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 12 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 shows a tactile response device for a remote control device according to Embodiment 12 of the present invention. Other configurations of the remote control device are the same as those of the above-described tenth embodiment.

  In FIG. 22, 10B is a tactile response device, 10f is a motor, and 10g is a pair of wing-like springs attached to the drive shaft of the motor 10f.

  The motor 10f of the haptic response device 10B is controlled by a haptic control signal from the control processing unit 51C shown in FIG. By supplying this tactile control signal to the motor 10f, the wing-like spring 10g attached to the motor 10f rotates, and this spring 10g presents a tactile sensation by hitting the housing of the remote control device 100L. That is, also in remote control device 100L shown in the twelfth embodiment, the same effect as in the tenth embodiment can be obtained.

Embodiment 13 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 23 shows a tactile response device for a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention. Other configurations of the remote control device are the same as those of the above-described tenth embodiment.

  In FIG. 23, 10C is a tactile response device, 10h is a solenoid coil, and 10i is a drive shaft made of a magnetic material driven by the solenoid coil 10h.

  The solenoid coil 10h and the drive shaft 10i are installed under the operation switches 12 such as the affirmative button 3 and the negative button 4 for which a tactile sensation is to be presented. Further, the drive shaft 10i of the solenoid coil 10h is disposed so as to pass through the key top of the operation switch 12 and directly contact the fingertip of the operator.

  The solenoid coil 10h is controlled by a tactile control signal from the control processing unit 51C shown in FIG. By supplying this tactile control signal to the solenoid coil 10h, a current flows through the solenoid coil 10h, the drive shaft 10i disposed at the center of the solenoid coil 10h moves, and passes through the operation switch 12 operated by the operator. The tactile sensation is presented by directly stimulating the fingertip of the operator. That is, also in remote control device 100M shown in the thirteenth embodiment, the same effect as in the tenth embodiment can be obtained.

Embodiment 14 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 14 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The difference between the fourteenth embodiment and the tenth embodiment is only the function of the sound generator.

  The remote control device 100N according to the fourteenth embodiment selects a selected function item or selection when a function item is selected by rotating the function item selection switch 2 or when instruction data is input by pressing the affirmative button 3 or negative button 4. The sound generator 11 reads out the value in the selected range.

  For example, on the display screen shown in FIG. 3A, the sound generator 11 is “Shomei” whenever the function items “lighting”, “air conditioning”, and “TV” are selected by the function item selection switch 2. , Pronounce “kuthou” and “telebi”.

  Similarly, on the display screen shown in FIG. 3C, the sound generator 11 sets the function items “22 ° C.”, “21 ° C.”, and “20 ° C.” to “12”, “20”. It informs you by reading out directly with a voice like “Nijudo”.

  According to the fourteenth embodiment, since the operation content can be understood only by voice, a remote control operation in the dark is possible, and a remote control device that can be operated by hearing and tactile senses even for visually impaired persons is provided. Obtainable.

Embodiment 15 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 15 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 24 to 26 and FIG. FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to Embodiment 15 of the present invention. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the appearance of a remote control device according to Embodiment 15 of the present invention.

  24 and 25, the display 1, the function item selection switch 2, the positive button 3, the negative button 4, and the communication unit 6 perform the same operations as those described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted. Reference numeral 100P denotes a remote control device according to the fifteenth embodiment, reference numeral 13 denotes a person selection switch serving as a characteristic selection unit, and the operator allows the operator to select the number of selection functions according to the taste intended. In the fifteenth embodiment, the person selection switch 13 is classified into three according to the age group.

  In the fifteenth embodiment, a description will be given based on an example of using the remote control device 100P in a home with an average family structure. At home, the remote control device 100P is intended for use from young people who are highly demanded to use equipment to the elderly who generally perform only basic operations.

  For example, when operating a television, the functions that are generally required for many people, including elderly people, are power on / off, volume adjustment, or channel selection. Therefore, other functions are only an obstacle to the operation. Also, each time a function is added due to restrictions on the display area on the display unit 1, the display area of each function item must be relatively small. When the number of selection functions increases, it is difficult to identify the function item. This contributes to the deterioration of operability.

  On the other hand, for those who are enthusiastic, such as young people, not only the basic functions as described above, but also output from video sources such as VCRs, and detailed video such as brightness and hue. There is a case where a remote control device to which an advanced function capable of selecting a setting is added is required.

  Thus, in order to satisfy the remote control device capable of selecting functions according to the preferences of all operators, the remote control device 100P according to the fifteenth embodiment can change the number of function items according to the preferences required by the operators. A person selection switch 13 is provided, and the number of function items can be increased and decreased and the size of the function items displayed on the display 1 can be changed according to the information set in the person selection switch 13.

  FIGS. 26A to 26C are screen display examples by the operation of the person selection switch 13. In FIGS. 25 and 26, the air conditioner is selected as the remote operation target device. FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the fifteenth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, the screen display of the person selection switch 13 will be described. The operator sets the person selection switch 13 to “normal mode”. If it is determined that the normal mode is selected by the person selection switch 13, the control processing unit 51D searches the storage unit 52D and displays the display screen of FIG. 26B on the display 1 (steps S1500 to S1502). In the case of setting in the normal mode, “ON / OFF”, “temperature”, and “timer” settings, which are standard function items that are frequently used, are displayed in general standard sizes.

  If the operator is an elderly person, for example, the person selection switch 13 is set to the “elderly person mode”. If it is determined that the elderly person mode is selected by the person selection switch 13, the control processing unit 51D searches the storage unit 52D and displays the display screen of FIG. 26C on the display 1 (steps S1500 to S1503 to S1504). ). In the case of setting in the elderly mode, the “ON / OFF” and “temperature” settings, which are the most basic functions of the air conditioner, are displayed in a large size so that they are easier to see than in the normal mode.

  For example, when the operator is a youth group, the person selection switch 13 is set to “mania mode”. If it is determined that the mania mode is selected by the person selection switch 13, the control processing unit 51D searches the storage unit 52D and displays the display screen of FIG. 26A on the display 1 (steps S1500 to S1505 to S1506). . In the case of setting in the mania mode, not only standard function items but also fine function items such as “air volume” setting and “wind direction” setting are additionally displayed. Since the display of function items increases, the display becomes inevitably small, but more detailed air conditioning settings are possible.

  In addition, by changing the initial value and settable range of the function items for each mode of the person selection switch 13, it is possible to obtain a safer and more operable remote control device.

  For example, when the person selection switch 13 is set to the “normal mode”, the temperature setting range of the air conditioner is set to “18 ° C. to 28 ° C.”, and the control processing unit 51D does not display other numbers. To. When the person selection switch 13 is set to the “elderly person mode”, the temperature setting range is set to “20 ° C. to 24 ° C.”. In this way, by changing the setting value according to the mode, it is possible to provide delicate operability. Although the temperature setting of the air conditioner has been described above, it is an effective means even in the initial setting such as the volume of the television.

  As described above, according to the fifteenth embodiment, the display number of function items can be changed in accordance with the characteristics and preferences of the operator, and the selection of the display screen and the display size can be selected. For those who prefer a large display that is easy to see, or who only need the basic functions, selecting the “elderly person mode” can display a screen that is easy to view and allows easy selection of only the basic functions.

Embodiment 16 FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 27 to 29 and FIG. FIG. 27 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an external appearance of a remote control device according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention. FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the sixteenth embodiment.

  27 and 28, the display 1, the function item selection switch 2, the affirmative button 3, the negative button 4, and the communication unit 6 perform the same operations as those described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted.

  In the figure, reference numeral 14 denotes a life pattern operation mode selection button serving as a pattern operation mode selection means, which can select either “life pattern operation mode” or “apparatus selection operation mode”.

  The device selection operation mode is a mode for performing remote control operation for each device as described in the first embodiment and the like. The life pattern operation mode is a mode in which remote operation of a plurality of devices set in advance according to one's own life pattern can be performed with a reduced number of push buttons.

  In FIG. 27, the control unit 5E includes a control processing unit 51E and a storage unit 52E. The control processing unit 51E performs processing based on the mode selected by the life pattern operation mode selection button 14 as well as the operation of the control processing unit 51 of FIG. In addition to the data stored in the storage unit 52, the storage unit 52E stores instruction codes for procedures executed in the life pattern mode.

  In daily life, a plurality of devices may be operated in a certain pattern. For example, when the user wants to watch a video, an operation of turning on the power of the television and the power of the video and setting the television channel to an external input is performed. In order to operate such a plurality of devices, it takes time and effort to operate the remote control device according to a certain pattern each time.

  Therefore, in the sixteenth embodiment, the life pattern operation mode selection button 14 is provided, the function items for each device are displayed as in the first embodiment, and the device selection operation mode in which only the target device is remotely operated. The life pattern operation mode in which a plurality of devices are remotely operated by one operation according to the daily life scene can be selected.

  FIG. 29 is a screen display example of the remote control device to which the life pattern operation mode selection button 14 is added. When the “device selection operation mode” is selected, the same display and operation as those described in the first embodiment are performed as shown in FIG. 5A (steps S1600 to S1601). When the life pattern operation mode selection button 14 is operated, the control processing unit 51E reads the data (display screen) of FIG. 5B from the storage unit 52E and displays it on the display 1 (step S1603).

Here, it corresponds to the function item “video viewing”.
(1) TV power on,
(2) Video power on,
(3) TV input source video selection,
(4) It is assumed that an instruction code for 70% illumination dimming is held in the storage unit 52E.

  When a video viewing function item is selected from the function item selection switch 2, the control processing unit 51E searches the storage unit 52E, reads instruction codes (1) to (4) corresponding to video viewing, and communicates in order. It outputs to the part 6 (step S1602). The communication unit 6 uses the instruction code as an infrared code and transmits it as an infrared signal.

  As described above, according to the sixteenth embodiment, the function item of “life pattern operation mode” for operating a plurality of devices based on a certain pattern according to the life scene is set in advance, and the life pattern operation mode is set. When the selection button 14 is provided and the life pattern operation mode is set, the control processing unit 51E transmits an infrared signal obtained by converting the instruction code to the device set based on the setting information stored in the storage unit 52E. Since a plurality of devices can be remotely operated by a single operation, procedures and operations are simple, and labor and time can be saved.

Embodiment 17. FIG.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the function item selection switch 2 and the affirmative button 3 are configured as separate switches. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the function item selection switch 2 Further, the operation button on the remote control device can be deleted by adopting a configuration in which the affirmative button 3 is incorporated into the remote control device.

Embodiment 18 FIG.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the function item selection switch 2 is constituted by a one-dimensional rotary encoder. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be moved in a two-dimensional direction. A function item may be selected using a simple rotary encoder. Further, the function item selection switch 2 constituted by a rotary encoder may be constituted by a button, for example, and the function item may be identified and displayed each time the button is pressed.

Embodiment 19. FIG.
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the function item selected by the function item selection switch 2 is identified and displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the function item selection switch 2 is selected. Thus, the entire screen displayed on the display 1 may be changed and displayed.

Embodiment 20. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 20 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 30 and 46. FIG. 30 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 20 of the present invention. FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light emitting element control circuit of the remote control device according to the twentieth embodiment.

  In FIG. 30, 61, 62, and 63 are infrared light emitting elements that constitute the communication unit 6C. The infrared light emitting elements are driven by the light emitting element control circuit 57 based on the communication control signal from the control processing unit 51 to emit infrared rays and perform communication. Is what you do. Reference numeral 100R denotes a remote control device according to the twentieth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the twentieth embodiment will be described with respect to the case where the operation target is assumed to be a lighting fixture, an air conditioner, and a television (TV).

  It is known that a luminaire using a fluorescent lamp emits high-intensity infrared light immediately after lighting. Therefore, when controlling this apparatus using infrared rays, it is necessary to use infrared light stronger than infrared rays emitted from the luminaire body for communication. Therefore, normally, the three infrared light emitting elements 61 to 63 are turned on at the same time to transmit using the enhanced infrared rays.

  Compared with the above-mentioned lighting fixtures, air conditioners and televisions use weak infrared rays (usually 1 to 2 infrared elements) because they emit less infrared rays that interfere with communication.

  In remote control devices targeting multiple devices, the required amount of infrared light emission is designed based on the device that requires the highest intensity in order to reliably communicate and control any device. ing. However, the remote control device uses a battery as its power source for carrying around, and has a disadvantage that it consumes the battery to emit light with high intensity and shortens the battery life. In addition, since a plurality of devices are operated by a single remote control device, the number of operations is increased as compared with a remote control device that operates a single device, and the battery life is significantly shortened.

  Remote control device 100R according to the twentieth embodiment attempts to perform reliable communication with minimum power consumption by controlling the number of infrared light emitting elements required for each target device.

  When the function item selection switch 2 selects a lighting fixture as the control target device, or the angle sensor 7 identifies the lighting fixture as the control target device and performs lighting control of the lighting fixture or the like, a control processing unit 51 notifies the light emitting element control circuit 57 that the communication control signal and the target are lighting fixtures.

  Based on the notification, the light emitting element control circuit 57 selects the number of elements from which the necessary light emission intensity is obtained from the preset management data of the light emission intensity for each device, and each light emitting element 61, 62 of the communication unit 6C. , 63 is sent out (steps S2000 to S2002). In the case of a luminaire, since the maximum light emission amount is usually required for the reasons described above, all of the infrared light emitting elements 61, 62 and 63 are used for transmission.

  When the function item selection switch 2 selects a television or an air conditioner as the control target device, or when the angle sensor 7 identifies the television or the air conditioner as the control target device, the control processing unit 51 emits light. The element control circuit 58 is notified that the communication control signal and the target are a television or an air conditioner. Based on the notification, the light emitting element control circuit 57 selects the number of elements from which the necessary light emission intensity is obtained from the preset management data of the light emission intensity for each device, and each light emitting element 61, 62 of the communication unit 6C. , 63 (step S2003). In the case of televisions and air conditioners, communication is possible with a small amount of infrared light emission for the reasons described above, and therefore, for example, only the light emitting element 61 is used for the communication.

  As described above, by appropriately controlling the number of infrared light emitting elements to be used for the target device, it is possible to obtain a remote control device that can communicate reliably and with minimum power consumption and extend the battery life. be able to.

Embodiment 21. FIG.
In Embodiment 20 described above, the configuration in which the adjustment of the amount of infrared light emission is controlled by the number of infrared light emitting elements is shown, but the amount of infrared light emission is limited by controlling the drive current for the light emitting elements. Can obtain the same effect.

Embodiment 22. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 22 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 and 47. FIG. FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 22 of the present invention. FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light emitting element control circuit of the remote control device according to the twenty-second embodiment.

  In order to cope with the shortening of the battery life, an LED having a narrow light distribution range is often used to operate a device as far as possible with as little light as possible. In this case, since the light distribution is narrow, it is necessary to operate in the direction of the device accurately.

  Further, there is a problem that the device cannot be stably operated because the center of the optical axis is shifted due to the hand shake due to the button operation.

  For televisions installed in the horizontal direction, it is relatively easy to operate towards the equipment, but when operating air conditioning equipment and lighting equipment, it will be off from the center of the optical axis due to parallax, etc. Operational instability due to the installation position of the equipment also occurs.

  In particular, in the case of elderly people, the operation of air conditioning equipment and lighting fixtures that must be operated with the hands and arms raised, due to the weakening of the strength of the arms and fingers due to aging, generated large hand shakes. These issues will appear in a prominent way.

  In FIG. 31, 64 and 66 are infrared light emitting elements with wide light distribution, and 65 is an infrared light emitting element with narrow light distribution. Reference numeral 100S denotes a remote control device according to the twenty-second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, the operation of remote control device 100S according to the twenty-second embodiment will be described with respect to a case where the operation target is assumed to be an air conditioner, a lighting fixture, and a television.

  For example, when the lighting device is selected as the remote operation target device by the function item selection switch 2 or when the lighting device is identified as the remote operation target device by the angle sensor 7, the control processing unit 51 emits light. The element control circuit 57A is notified that the communication control signal and the target are lighting fixtures.

  Based on the above notification, the light emitting element control circuit 57A refers to a preset light distribution management database for each device, selects an element that can obtain the necessary light distribution and light emission intensity, and each light emitting element of the communication unit 6D. A drive command is sent to (steps S2200 to S2201). In the case of a luminaire, a wide light distribution and a maximum light emission amount are required for the reasons described above, and therefore, all of the light emitting elements 64, 65, and 66 are driven.

  When the air conditioner is selected as the remote operation target device by the function item selection switch 2 or when the air conditioner is identified as the remote operation target device by the angle sensor 7, the light emitting element control is performed from the control processing unit 51. The air conditioner is notified to the circuit 57A as a communication control signal and an operation target.

  Based on the notification, the light emitting element control circuit 57A selects a combination of elements from which a necessary light distribution and light emission intensity can be obtained from a preset light distribution management database for each device, and each light emitting element of the communication unit 6D. A drive command is sent to (steps S2200 to S2201). In the case of an air conditioner, since a relatively wide light distribution is required for the above-described reason, the light emitting elements 64 and 66 are driven. In the case of a television, only a light emitting element 65 is driven because a relatively small amount of light emission in a narrow light distribution range is sufficient.

  In this way, by driving infrared light emitting elements with different light distribution characteristics for the target device, the battery life can be achieved by operating the remote controller with a reliable and minimum power consumption for each device. A remote control device having a longer length can be obtained.

Embodiment 23. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 23 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 32 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 23 of the present invention.

  Since the operation by the person selection switch 13 is the same as that shown in the fifteenth embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. A person selection switch 13 that can change the function item according to the function requested by the operator is provided, information set in the person selection switch 13 (elderly person mode, normal mode, mania mode), and selected device information Thus, by performing the light distribution and the light emission intensity of the communication unit 6D, it is possible to obtain a remote control device that can further improve the operability and the battery life.

Embodiment 24. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 24 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 33 and 48. FIG. FIG. 33 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 24 of the present invention. FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light emitting element control circuit of the remote control device according to the twenty-fourth embodiment.

  In FIG. 33, reference numeral 58 denotes an operation history storage unit that stores the previous (previous) operation target device and operation target function, and the current operation target device and operation target function.

  When the operator rotates the function item selection switch 2, the control processing unit 51 displays a screen stored in advance in the storage unit 52 on the display 1. Based on the display, when the operator's instruction is input as instruction data from the function item selection switch 2, the affirmation button 3 or the negative button 4, the control processing unit 51 displays the contents of the instruction data, or the instruction data Or another screen stored in the storage unit 52 is displayed. Further, when the instruction data is established, an instruction code is output to the light emitting element control circuit 57C.

  From the instruction data, the light emitting element control circuit 57C compares the operation target device and the operation target function as the contents with the operation target device and the operation target function at the previous operation stored in the operation history storage unit 58, and If they are different from each other, the communication unit 6C is instructed to drive the light emission amount at the initial setting value (for example, to drive only the light emitting element 61) with reference to the management data of the light emission intensity for each device (step S2403). In accordance with the instruction, the communication unit 6C outputs an infrared signal obtained by converting the instruction code into an infrared code.

  In addition, the light emitting element control circuit 57C compares the operation target device and the operation target function, which are the contents of the instruction data, with the operation target device and the operation target function at the previous operation stored in the operation history storage unit 58, If they are the same, the communication unit 6C is instructed to drive with a light emission amount larger than the normal light emission amount (for example, drive of the light emitting elements 61 and 62), and the management data of the light emission intensity for each device is rewritten ( Steps S2400 to S2402). According to the instruction, communication unit 6C outputs an infrared signal obtained by converting the instruction code into an infrared code. Thereafter, infrared communication is performed with a light emission amount based on the rewritten light emission intensity management data.

  As described above, according to the twenty-fourth embodiment, the same operation is repeated for the same device when the amount of light emitted by infrared communication is insufficient for the operation of the remote operation target device and the remote control operation of the device fails. Therefore, when the same operation is repeated, the remote control device that can be operated reliably and stably can be obtained by sequentially increasing the light emission amount.

Embodiment 25. FIG.
A remote control device according to Embodiment 25 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 34, 35 and 49. FIG. FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control apparatus according to Embodiment 25 of the present invention. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing the arrangement of devices when the remote control device according to the twenty-fifth embodiment is applied to a toilet space. FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control processing unit of the remote control device according to the twenty-fifth embodiment.

  34 and 35, reference numeral 15 denotes an operation detection sensor, and 100V denotes a remote control device according to the twenty-fifth embodiment. Reference numeral 210 denotes a lighting fixture, 220 denotes a ventilation fan, and 230 denotes a toilet seat with a cleaning function. The motion detection sensor 15 is, for example, a sensor that detects a human motion using light such as infrared rays, a sensor that detects entry / exit by opening / closing the entrance door, and a sensor that detects seating / standing up by contact / non-contact of the toilet seat. Etc.

  The motion detection sensor 15 detects a person entering or leaving the toilet space and a seating / standing up on the toilet seat 230 with a cleaning function. It is assumed that the operation instruction to each device relating to each operation detection of the operation detection sensor 15 is set in advance as follows.

  When entry into the toilet space is detected, the lighting fixture 210 is turned on.

  When sitting on the toilet seat 230 with the cleaning function is detected, the ventilation fan 220 is turned on.

  When the standing from the toilet seat 230 with the cleaning function is detected, the automatic cleaning function of the toilet seat 230 is turned on.

  When the exit from the toilet space is detected, the lighting fixture 210 is turned off, and the ventilation fan 220 is operated by a timer (OFF after a predetermined time).

  The operation of the remote control device according to Embodiment 25 will be described below. When a person enters the toilet space shown in FIG. 35, the operation detection sensor 15 detects entry into the space, and an entry detection signal is sent to the control processing unit 51F. Then, the control processing unit 51F supports the communication unit 6 with the ON instruction code of the lighting fixture 210 based on the operation content at the time of entry detection (step S2501). In accordance with the instruction, the communication unit 6 outputs an infrared signal obtained by converting the instruction code into an infrared code. Regarding the operation at the time of sitting / standing up and leaving the toilet space (steps S2502 to S2504), the operation is the same as the above-described example except that the control target device is different, and thus the description is omitted here.

  As described above, according to the twenty-fifth embodiment, when a hand operation cannot be performed due to a dirty hand or a wet hand, each operation detection is performed for each remote control operation by hand. As an alternative, it is possible to obtain a remote control device capable of transmitting an instruction code converted into a radio signal such as infrared rays without contact.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the database of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the table of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the operation state of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the angle sensor of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the angle sensor of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the operation state of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the angle sensor of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 8 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus and operation target apparatus which concern on Embodiment 9 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 10 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vibration presentation apparatus of the remote control device which concerns on Embodiment 10 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vibration presentation apparatus of the remote control device which concerns on Embodiment 11 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vibration presentation apparatus of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 12 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the vibration presentation apparatus of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 13 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 14 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 14 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 14 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 16 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 16 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 16 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 20 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 22 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 23 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 24 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 25 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the operation state of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 25 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control process part of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control process part of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the time measuring means of the remote control device which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the continuous operation judgment part of the remote control device which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the continuous operation acceptance / rejection judging means of the remote control device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the item display order management means of the remote control device which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control process part of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control processing part of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 9 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control processing part of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 15 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control process part of the remote control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 16 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the light emitting element control circuit of the remote control device based on Embodiment 20 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the light emitting element control circuit of the remote control device based on Embodiment 22 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the light emitting element control circuit of the remote control device based on Embodiment 24 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the control processing part of the remote control apparatus based on Embodiment 25 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  1 Display, 2, 2A, 2B Function item selection switch, 3 Positive button, 4 Negative button, 5, 5A, 5B, 5E Control unit, 6 Communication unit, 6A Transmission unit, 6B Reception unit, 7 Angle sensor, 7A Sensor, 8 Battery box, 9 Battery, 10 Tactile response device, 12 Motor, 12 Operation switch, 13 Person selection switch, 14 Life pattern operation mode selection button, 15 Motion detection sensor, 51, 51A, 51B, 51C, 51D, 51E , 51F control processing unit, 52, 52A, 52B storage unit, 53 timing unit, 54 continuous operation determination unit, 55 continuous operation acceptability determination unit, 56 item display order management unit, 57, 57A, 57C light emitting element control circuit, 58 Operation history storage means, 61 infrared light emitting element, 64 light emitting element, 65 light emitting element, 70 illumination, 71 rotation Sensor, 72 Pendulum, 73 Electrode, 74 Inverter, 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F, 100G, 100H, 100J, 100K, 100L, 100M, 100N, 100P, 100R, 100S Remote control device, 200 TV , 210 Lighting equipment, 220 Ventilation fan, 230 Toilet seat with cleaning function, 230 Toilet seat, 300 Video, 400 Remote operation target device, 400 Air conditioner.

Claims (5)

Display means for displaying a function item selection screen in which a plurality of function items are arranged;
A function item selection means for selecting a function item in the function item selection screen;
A determination instruction input means for determining the selected function item;
Cancellation instruction input means for canceling the selected function item;
When a specific function item is determined and instructed by the determination instruction input means, another function item selection screen in which a plurality of other function items are arranged is displayed on the display means, and the specific function item for which the determination instruction is given Control means for outputting the instruction code of
Communication means for converting the output instruction code into a radio signal and transmitting it to a remote operation target device,
The communication means has a plurality of infrared light emitting elements,
The control means refers to the emission intensity management data in which the emission intensity is set in advance for each remote operation target device, and selects the number of infrared light emitting elements that can obtain the required emission intensity corresponding to the selected remote operation target device. And a light-emitting element control means for controlling the light emission intensity of the infrared signal transmitted from the communication means. Furthermore, it comprises a target device identification means for identifying the remote control target device based on the direction of the device main body directed to the remote control target device,
The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the display unit to display a function item selection screen in which a plurality of setting functions of the remote operation target devices identified by the target device identification unit are arranged as an initial screen. The remote control device according to claim 2, wherein the target device identification means is an angle sensor that identifies a remote operation target device based on an elevation angle of the device main body when directed to the remote operation target device. Each of the plurality of infrared light emitting elements has different light distribution characteristics,
The light emitting element control means refers to a light distribution management database in which light distribution characteristics are set in advance for each remote operation target device, and obtains necessary light distribution and light emission intensity corresponding to the selected remote operation target device. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein a combination of infrared light emitting elements is selected to control light distribution of an infrared signal transmitted from the communication means. The control means further includes an operation history storage means for storing the previously selected remote operation target device and its operation target function,
In the light emitting element control unit, the currently selected remote operation target device and its operation target function are the same as the previously selected remote operation target device and its operation target function stored by the operation history storage unit. In this case, the emission intensity of the infrared signal transmitted from the communication unit is controlled to be higher than the corresponding emission intensity of the emission intensity management data, and the corresponding emission intensity of the emission intensity management data is rewritten. The remote control device described.

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