JP2007257103A - Input device and method using keyboard - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the operation feel of a user and the transmission of a key signal, and to reduce a load in an analog operation to continuously depress keys in the case of operating a keyboard. <P>SOLUTION: In each phase when keys are depressed (Ctrl+1, Ctrl+2)/released (Ctrl+Q, Ctrl+W)/continuously depressed (Ctrl+1, Ctrl+2), the set of codes to specify the keys is prepared/transmitted and collated. Then, in each phase when the keys are depressed/released/continuously depressed, the keys are recognized. In addition, it is not necessary to prepare/transmit codes when the keys are continuously depressed (Ctrl+1, Ctrl+2) for every key by using codes to discriminate when any key has been continuously depressed (Ctrl+P)/released (Ctrl+L). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to an input device and an input method using a keyboard, and in particular, an input that improves an operation response of an operation (hereinafter referred to as an analog operation) that executes an arbitrary process at a fixed period while a key is continuously pressed. The present invention relates to an apparatus and an input method.

  In a distributed control system (DCS) such as a plant monitoring control system, a dedicated keyboard is used as an HMI (human machine interface) means for an operator to perform monitoring and operation. In a dedicated keyboard used in such a system, a change in key input data due to noise or the like may lead to an accident, and thus high reliability is required for data between transmission and reception.

  In recent years, in DCS, a system is often constructed using a personal computer, and a PS / 2 interface has been used as an interface for the dedicated keyboard. However, the PS / 2 interface does not have data for guaranteeing transmission data such as cyclic redundancy check and checksum in the communication message, so the special keyboard is installed at a position away from the PC main body. When the cables connecting them become long, there is a possibility that a highly reliable key code cannot be obtained in the personal computer body.

Therefore, a technique is proposed in which a key code is transmitted to a computer when a key is pressed, authentication data relating to the key code is transmitted to a computer when the key is released, and the key code data and the authentication data are collated on the computer side. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1). According to this technique, for example, when the key code changes due to noise, it is possible to determine an error of the key input data on the computer side.
JP 2004-192605 A

  In the above-described conventional technical method, since the key press release time is the key code input time, the operator may feel discomfort or stress when operating the keys. Further, it cannot cope with the determination process of whether or not an analog operation is being performed.

  In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an input device and an input method using a keyboard that enables analog operation while ensuring transmission quality of a key code.

  As means for solving the above problems, the present invention is configured as follows.

  First, when an arbitrary key on the keyboard is pressed, first data including a key code for specifying the pressed key and a second code in which an identification code is added to the key code are provided. First key code generating means for generating and transmitting data, and when the pressed key is released, the third data including the key code for specifying the released key and the key code Second key code creating means for creating and transmitting the fourth data to which the identification code is added, and the first data and the second data are cycled while an arbitrary key is kept pressed. And a third key code creating means for creating and transmitting the first and second data, or the third and fourth data, and receiving the key code included in the data. The key code is checked against each other A first judging means for judging appropriateness, configured to cause the function.

  Second, a keyboard is provided, and any key of the keyboard includes a key code that identifies the pressed key from when it is pressed until it is released, or from when it is pressed until the next key is pressed. The fourth key code creating means for periodically creating and transmitting the data No. 5 and the sixth data obtained by adding the identification code to the key code; and when the pressed key is released, the released key Fifth key code creating means for creating and transmitting seventh data including a key code for specifying a key and eighth data obtained by adding an identification code to the key code; and one or more of the keyboard While the key is continuously pressed, ninth data including a key code for specifying that the key is pressed and tenth data obtained by adding an identification code to the key code are periodically generated and transmitted. 6th -Eleventh data including a key code for specifying that a key has been released when the one or more keys are released, and a twelfth data having an identification code added to the key code. And a seventh key code generating means for generating and transmitting the data, and the fifth and sixth data, the seventh and eighth data, the ninth and tenth data, or Second determination means for receiving the eleventh and twelfth data and comparing the key codes included in the data with each other to determine the suitability of the key code; and the fifth and sixth Data, or the seventh and eighth data, the ninth and tenth data, or the eleventh and twelfth data, and according to the time series received. By returning the key code is configured to a determination unit configured to determine either whether the key is not whether / have continues to be pressed, the function.

  Third, in addition to the first and second described above, a special key of the keyboard, a non-special key, or a combination of a special key and a non-special key is assigned to a special key provided as a dedicated key on the keyboard. The means for assigning the code and the receiving means for ignoring the input of the other keys are operated while the assigned dedicated key is being pressed.

  Fourth, when an arbitrary key on the keyboard is pressed, first data including a key code for specifying the pressed key and second data in which an identification code is added to the key code are generated. When the pressed key is released, third data including a key code for specifying the released key and fourth data in which an identification code is added to the key code are generated. The first data and the second data are periodically generated and transmitted while an arbitrary key is continuously pressed, and the transmitted first and second data are transmitted, Alternatively, the third and fourth data are received, and the key codes included in the data are compared with each other to determine whether the key code is appropriate.

  Fifth, when an arbitrary key on the keyboard is pressed, fifth data including a key code specifying the pressed key and sixth data in which an identification code is added to the key code are created. The fifth and sixth data are periodically generated and transmitted while the key is being pressed, and when another key of the keyboard is pressed or the key being pressed is released. When the key is released, the seventh data including the key code for specifying the released key and the eighth data with the identification code added to the key code are generated and transmitted, and the arbitrary key or the other key is transmitted. While the key is continuously pressed, the ninth data including the key code specifying that the key is pressed and the tenth data obtained by adding the identification code to the key code are periodically generated and transmitted. When all keys are released, the keys are released. The eleventh data including the key code for specifying the above and the twelfth data with the identification code added to the key code are generated and transmitted, and the fifth and sixth data, or the seventh and The eighth data, the ninth and tenth data, or the eleventh and twelfth data are received, the key codes included in the data are collated, and the key code It is determined whether or not the key is kept pressed by determining the suitability and returning the data received based on the determination result to the key code in time series.

  Sixth, in addition to the above fourth and fifth, a special key of the keyboard, a non-special key, or a combination of a special key and a non-special key is assigned to a special key provided as a dedicated key on the keyboard. A code is assigned, and input of other keys is ignored while the assigned dedicated key is being pressed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to determine whether or not the key input data is appropriate at the same time as the key pressing operation. Therefore, there is no sense of incongruity or stress associated with a delay in key data input. In addition, the reliability of the key input data is increased because the suitability of the key input data is determined at each time point when the key is pressed, during pressing, or when the key is released. In addition, during the analog operation, key input data is periodically transmitted, so that it is possible to determine whether the analog operation is in progress.

  Furthermore, when analog operation is being performed for a plurality of keys, the key input data during all analog operations is not transmitted periodically, but only necessary key input data is transmitted. Less. In addition, during analog operation, normal key operations are not accepted and erroneous operations are avoided.

  FIG. 3 shows an HMI applied to the input device according to the present invention, that is, an interface device between a monitored facility and an operator.

  The HMI 30 includes a monitoring monitor 32, a dedicated keyboard 34, a computer 36 as an HMI main body, a PS / 2 interface cable 38 for connecting the dedicated keyboard 34 and the computer 36, and a control LAN 40. On the monitoring monitor 32, data input with the dedicated keyboard 34, data indicating the operation state of the monitoring target device collected via the control LAN 40, and the like are displayed.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of a key code generation mechanism of the input device according to the present invention. When an arbitrary key 42 is pressed or released, a switch (not shown) attached to the key 42 is turned on / off, and a signal is transmitted. In response to this signal, a key code generator is transmitted. From 44, data including a key code is generated.

  FIG. 5 shows an example of assignment of key names and key codes in the input device according to the present invention. FIG. 6 shows an example of the relationship between the key code and the data created by the present invention. Here, dedicated keys for UP-1, UP-2, UP-3, UP-4, etc. for the purpose of increasing the value of the instrument by holding down the key for a certain period of time, also decreasing the value of the instrument A dedicated key group of DOWN-1, DOWN-2, DOWN-3, DOWN-4, etc. is provided for the purpose. On the dedicated keyboard 34, for example, by setting these dedicated keys as a set up and down, the operator can be made aware of the analog operation. An existing key code is assigned to these dedicated keys. The key code here is usually assigned to all keys on the keyboard, and is a special key mainly used in combination with other keys such as “Shift”, “Ctrl”, “Alt”, etc. And other non-special keys (for example, alphanumeric keys and function keys F1 to F12). In the example of assignment in FIG. 5, for example, the special key “Ctrl” and the non-special key “1” are used as the key code when pressed, and the special key “Ctrl” is used as the key code when released. And the special key "Q" is assigned. Although a dedicated key is prepared for analog operation here, any key of a conventional keyboard may be used for analog operation.

  By the way, in the keyboard interface, there are three types of code sets “Scan Code Set 1”, “Scan Code Set 2”, and “Scan Code Set 3” as code sets for transmitting and receiving keyboard signals. Here, “Scan Code Set 2” that is generally used in a PC / AT compatible machine is used. In “Scan Code Set 2”, when 1 byte is used for the first data, 2 bytes are used for the second data. Specifically, for example, when the operator presses “1” as the key 42, a 1-byte key code 16 is created as the first data as shown in FIG. A 2-byte key code F0 · 16 obtained by adding a 1-byte identification code F0 to the code 16 is created as second data. FIGS. 6B and 6C are examples when special keys and non-special keys are combined. When “Ctrl” and “1” are pressed, the key code 14 and the key code 16 are created as the first data, and the key code F0 · 14 and the key code F0 · 16 with the identification code F0 added thereto are the first data. 2 data is created. Therefore, 2 bytes are used for the first data and 4 bytes are used for the second data. Thereafter, data is created in the same manner for FIGS. 6D, 6E, 6F, and 6G. Here, the order of the key codes 14 and 16 is changed in the second data F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 with respect to the first data 14 · 16. Although it is in consideration of mitigating, it may be in order, and this does not limit the invention.

The first embodiment of the present invention can be roughly divided into a key code creation / transmission unit and a reception unit. Here, as an example, a case where an analog operation of an arbitrary dedicated key is described.
(1) First, the key code creation / transmission unit will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the relationship between the analog operation of the dedicated key and the generation timing of data corresponding to the key code. Here, the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed at time T1 and released at time T2. The dedicated key UP-1 is assigned “Ctrl” and “1” as key codes when pressed, and “Ctrl” and “Q” as key codes when released (see FIG. 5).

  After the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed, the key code generator 44 creates and transmits data including the key code when the key assigned to the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed. Here, the data that can specify the key codes “Ctrl” and “1” when pressed are 14 · 16, and the data with the identification code added are F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 (FIG. 6). (See (b)). Since these data are extensions of MAKE / BREAK of public technology and are transmitted in pairs, they will be described as 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14.

  The solid up arrow in FIG. 2 indicates the timing at which the data is transmitted. These data are transmitted periodically until the key is released at time T2. This period can be arbitrarily set. For example, it may be set at an equal interval of 1 msec, or may be set according to a certain rule such as 10 msec, 100 msec, 10 msec,. After the key is released at time T2, the key code generator 44 creates and transmits data including the key code when the key assigned to the dedicated UP-1 is released. Here, the data that can specify “Ctrl” and “Q”, which are the key codes when released, are 14 · 15, and the data to which the identification code is added are F0 · 15 · F0 · 14 (FIG. 6). (See (c)).

Through the above steps, the code is transmitted as data.
(2) Next, a key code receiving unit will be described.

  Since 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 or 14 · 15 / F0 · 15 · F0 · 14 is sent from the above-mentioned creating / transmitting unit, the receiving unit extracts the key code from these data. To do.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a flow for extracting a key code in the receiving unit. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the storage data in the storage area. The Shift flag, Ctrl flag, and Alt flag in FIG. 9 are used to input information for determining whether the “Shift”, “Ctrl”, and “Alt” keys are pressed, respectively. A key code value is input to the storage area. For example, 0 is substituted when initialized.

  By the way, when there is no change in data during transmission on the transmission line with the cable 38 or the like shown in FIG. 3, the aforementioned 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 or 14 · 15 / F0 · 15 · F0 · 14 is used. Receive. Since both the flows are the same, here, the processing when 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 is sent will be described.

  First, as an initial operation, the storage area 60 shown in FIG. 9 provided in the computer 36 is initialized (step 502). Thereafter, the first one-byte code is received, and whether or not the received code is an identification code. (Steps 504 and 506). The first one-byte code is 14. Here, 14 is not an identification code, so the determination result in step 506 is NO. Therefore, it is next determined whether or not 14 relates to a special key (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 518). Since 14 is not related to the special key, the determination result in step 518 is NO. Therefore, the key code 14 is stored in the key code storage area of the storage area 60 (step 522). When the process of step 522 is completed, it is determined whether there is a next code (step 512). Here, since 16 continues, the determination result in step 512 is YES, and the processing is continued.

  The procedure is returned to step 504 to receive the next 1-byte code and determine whether the received code is an identification code (steps 504 and 506). The next one-byte code is 16. Here, since 16 is not an identification code, the determination result of step 506 is NO. Therefore, it is next determined whether or not 16 relates to a special key (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 518). Since the key code 16 relates to a special key, the determination result in step 518 is YES. Therefore, since the key code 16 is “Ctrl” in the storage area 60, the Ctrl flag is set to 1 (step 520). When the process of step 520 is completed, it is determined whether or not there is a next code (step 512). Since F0 continues here, the determination result in step 512 is YES, and the process continues.

  The procedure is returned to step 504 to receive the next 1-byte code and determine whether the received code is an identification code (steps 504 and 506). The next 1-byte code is F0. Here, since F0 is an identification code, the determination result in step 506 is YES. Therefore, the next one-byte key code is received (step 508). The received 1-byte code is 16. Therefore, next, it is determined whether or not 16 relates to special keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 510). Here, since 16 does not relate to the special key, the determination result in step 510 is NO. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the received key code 16 is the same as the key code stored in the key code storage area of the storage area 60 in step 522 (step 514). Since the key code stored in the storage area is 16 and the received key code is 16, the determination result in step 514 is YES. Therefore, 16 is received as a key code. Further, in each flag in the storage area 60, it is determined that the special key whose value is 1 is pressed (step 516).

Through the above steps, the data is collated, and “Ctrl” and “1” are specified on the receiving side.
(3) Another example of the key code receiving unit will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a flow for extracting a key code in the receiving unit. The difference from FIG. 7 is that the reliability is improved by continuing the processing until all the special keys are received. In the flowchart of FIG. 8, steps 702 to 710 correspond to steps 502 to 510 of FIG. 7, respectively, steps 730 and 732 correspond to steps 518 and 522 of FIG. 7, respectively, and steps 720 and 726 correspond to FIG. Corresponds to steps 514 and 516 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the storage data in the storage area, and a key flag is added to FIG. In the key flag, information for determining whether or not a non-special key is pressed is input, and for example, 0 is substituted when initialized.

  Here, the processing when 14.16 / F0.16.F0.14 is sent will be described.

  First, as an initial operation, the storage area 80 shown in FIG. 10 provided in the computer 36 is initialized (step 702). After that, the first one-byte code is received, and whether the received code is an identification code. It is determined whether or not (steps 704 and 706). The first one-byte code is 14. Here, since 14 is not an identification code, the determination result of step 706 is NO. Therefore, the key flag, which is a corresponding flag, is set to 1 in the storage area 80 (step 728). Next, it is determined whether 14 is related to special keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 730). Since the key code 14 does not relate to a special key, the determination result in step 730 is NO. Therefore, the key code 14 is stored in the key code storage area of the storage area 80 (step 732). When the processing in step 732 is completed, it is determined whether or not there is a next code (step 734). Here, since 16 continues, the determination result of step 734 is YES, and the processing is continued.

  The procedure is returned to step 704 to receive the next 1-byte code and determine whether the received code is an identification code (steps 704 and 706). The next one-byte code is 16. Here, since 16 is not an identification code, the determination result of step 706 is NO. Therefore, the Ctrl flag, which is a corresponding flag, is set to 1 in the storage area 80 (step 728). Next, it is determined whether or not 16 relates to special keys (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 730). Since the key code 16 relates to a special key, the determination result in step 730 is YES. Therefore, it is determined whether or not there is the next code (step 734). Since F0 continues here, the determination result in step 734 is YES, and the process continues.

  The procedure is returned to step 704 to receive the next 1-byte code and determine whether the received code is an identification code (steps 704 and 706). The next 1-byte code is F0. Here, since F0 is an identification code, the determination result in step 706 is YES. Therefore, the next 1-byte key code is received (step 708). It is determined whether or not the received 1-byte code relates to a special key (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 710). Since the received key code 16 does not relate to a special key, the determination result in step 710 is NO. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the received 16 is the same as the key code stored in the key code storage area of the storage area 80 in step 732 (step 720). Since the key code stored in the storage area is 16 and the received key code is 16, the determination result in step 720 is YES. Therefore, the key flag, which is a corresponding flag, is set to 2 in the storage area 80 (step 722). Next, it is determined whether or not all the special key flags are 0 (step 724). Here, since the flags of all the special keys stored in the key code storage area of the storage area 80 are not 0, the determination result in step 724 is NO. Therefore, it is determined whether or not there is the next code (step 734). Since F0 continues here, the determination result in step 734 is YES, and the process continues.

  The procedure is returned to step 704 to receive the next 1-byte code and determine whether the received code is an identification code (steps 704 and 706). The next 1-byte code is F0. Here, since F0 is an identification code, the determination result in step 706 is YES. Therefore, the next 1-byte key code is received (step 708). It is determined whether or not the received 1-byte code relates to a special key (Shift, Ctrl, Alt, etc.) (step 710). Since the received key code 14 relates to a special key, the determination result in step 710 is YES. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the corresponding flag is 0 (step 712). Here, in the storage area 80, the corresponding flag, the Ctrl flag, is 1, so the determination result in step 712 is NO. Next, it is determined whether or not it is the last code (step 714). Since this is the last code, the decision result in step 714 is YES. Therefore, reception processing is performed. First, 16 stored in the key code storage area of the storage area 80 is received as a key code. Further, in each flag in the storage area 80, it is determined that the special key whose flag is 1 or more is pressed (step 716). Thereafter, it is determined whether there is a next code (step 734). Since there is no code to follow, the determination result in step 734 is NO, and the process ends.

  Through the above steps, the data is collated, and “Ctrl” and “1” are specified on the receiving side.

The second embodiment of the present invention can be broadly divided into functions: a key code creation / transmission unit and a reception unit. The receiving unit has a determining unit as to whether the key code has been normally received. Here, as an example, a case where an analog operation of an arbitrary dedicated key is described.
(1) First, the key code creation / transmission unit will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the analog operation of a dedicated key and the generation timing of data corresponding to the key code. The dedicated key UP-1 is pressed at time T1, the dedicated key UP-2 is further pressed at time T2, the dedicated key UP-2 is released at time T3, and finally the dedicated key UP-1 is released at time T4. Dedicated key UP-1 is assigned “Ctrl” and “1” as key codes when pressed, “Ctrl” and “Q” as key codes when released, and dedicated key UP-2 "Ctrl" and "2" are assigned as key codes when pressed, and "Ctrl" and "W" are assigned as key codes when released (see FIG. 5). Further, an internal key for determining that a key unique to an analog operation is being pressed is referred to as a “Repeat key”. This Repeat key is not attached to a specific key, and is intended for the case where any one of the keys is kept pressed. The “Repeat” key is assigned “Ctrl” and “P” as key codes when pressed, and “Ctrl” and “L” as key codes when released (see FIG. 5).

Similar to the first embodiment, the data shown in FIGS. 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, and 6G are created corresponding to the operation of each key. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a flow of creating / transmitting data from a key code. The analog keys shown in the flow are intended for analog keys, and are dedicated keys here. However, as described above, any key of a conventional keyboard may be used as an analog key. Hereinafter, the processing of the flow of FIG. 11 will be described for the analog operation as shown in FIG.
・ Time T1
First, at time T1, the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed. Since the key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is YES (step 202). Further, since the analog key is pressed here, the determination result in step 204 is YES (step 204). Since the dedicated key UP-1 is a newly pressed key, the determination result in step 206 is YES (step 206). Here, the key code generator 44 transmits 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 which are key codes when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed as a new analog key (step 208). Next, as a start of the Repeat key, 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 which is a code when pressed is transmitted (step 210). Here, it waits until the above-mentioned period (for example, it may be set at an equal interval of 1 msec, or may be set according to a certain rule such as 10 msec, 100 msec, 10 msec. Step 232).
・ Time T1-Time T2
After the period has elapsed, the procedure returns to step 202. It is assumed that the time at this time is between time T1 and time T2. Since the key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is YES (step 202). Further, since the analog key is pressed here, the determination result in step 204 is YES (step 204). Since the dedicated key UP-1 and the subsequent keys are not newly pressed, the determination result in step 206 is NO (step 206). Since the dedicated key UP-1 has been pressed since the previous transmission, the determination result in step 212 is YES (step 212). Here, the key code generator 44 transmits 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 which is a key code when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed as an analog key (step 214). Since the dedicated key is not released, the determination result in step 216 is NO (step 216). Next, 14 * 4D / F0 * 4D * F0 * 14, which is the code when pressed, is transmitted as the Repeat key (step 210). Here, the process waits until a predetermined time elapses (step 232).
・ Time T2
After the period has elapsed, the procedure returns to step 202. It is assumed that the time at this time is time T2. Here, the dedicated key UP-2 is newly pressed. Since the key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is YES (step 202). Further, since the analog key is pressed here, the determination result in step 204 is YES (step 204). Since the dedicated key UP-2 is a newly pressed key, the determination result in step 206 is YES (step 206). Here, the key code generator 44 transmits 14 · 26 / F0 · 26 · F0 · 14 which are key codes when the dedicated key UP-2 is pressed as a new analog key (step 208). Next, 14 * 4D / F0 * 4D * F0 * 14, which is the code when pressed, is transmitted as the Repeat key (step 210). Here, the process waits until a predetermined time elapses (step 232).
・ Time T2 ~ T3
After the period has elapsed, the procedure returns to step 202. It is assumed that the time at this time is between time T2 and time T3. Since the key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is YES (step 202). Further, since the analog key is pressed here, the determination result in step 204 is YES (step 204). Since the dedicated key UP-2 and the subsequent keys are not newly pressed, the determination result in step 206 is NO (step 206). Since the dedicated key UP-2 has been pressed since the previous transmission, the determination result in step 212 is YES (step 212). Here, the key code generator 44 transmits 14 · 26 / F0 · 26 · F0 · 14 which are key codes when the dedicated key UP-2 is pressed as an analog key (step 214). Since the dedicated key is not released, the determination result in step 216 is NO (step 216). Next, 14 * 4D / F0 * 4D * F0 * 14, which is the code when pressed, is transmitted as the Repeat key (step 210). Here, the process waits until a predetermined time elapses (step 232).
・ Time T3
After the period has elapsed, the procedure returns to step 202. It is assumed that the time at this time is time T3. Here, the dedicated key UP-2 is released. Since the key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is YES (step 202). Further, since the analog key is pressed here, the determination result in step 204 is YES (step 204). Since the dedicated key UP-2 and the subsequent keys are not newly pressed, the determination result in step 206 is NO (step 206). Since the dedicated key UP-2 has been released from the previous transmission, the determination result in step 212 is NO (step 212). Since the dedicated key UP-2 has been released, the determination result of step 216 is YES (step 216). Here, the key code generator 44 transmits 14 · 1D / F0 · 1D · F0 · 14 which is a key code when the dedicated key UP-2 is released as an analog key (step 218). Next, 14 * 4D / F0 * 4D * F0 * 14, which is the code when pressed, is transmitted as the Repeat key (step 210). Here, the process waits until a predetermined time elapses (step 232).
・ Time T3 ~ T4
After the period has elapsed, the procedure returns to step 202. It is assumed that the time at this time is between time T3 and time T4. Since the key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is YES (step 202). Further, since the analog key is pressed here, the determination result in step 204 is YES (step 204). Since the dedicated key UP-2 and the subsequent keys are not newly pressed, the determination result in step 206 is NO (step 206). Since the dedicated key UP-2 has been released from the previous transmission, the determination result in step 212 is NO (step 212). Since the dedicated key is not released, the determination result in step 216 is NO (step 216). Next, 14 * 4D / F0 * 4D * F0 * 14, which is the code when pressed, is transmitted as the Repeat key (step 210). Here, the process waits until a predetermined time elapses (step 232).
・ Time T4
After the period has elapsed, the procedure returns to step 202. It is assumed that the time at this time is time T4. Here, the dedicated key UP-1 is released. Since no key is pressed here, the determination result in step 202 is NO (step 202). Since the dedicated key UP-1 has been released, the determination result in step 224 is YES (step 224). Here, the key code generator 44 transmits 14 · 15 / F0 · 15 · F0 · 14 which are key codes when the dedicated key UP-1 is released as an analog key (step 226). Here, since the dedicated key UP-1 was pressed last time, the determination result in step 228 is YES (step 228). Next, as the end of the repeat key, 14 · 4B / F0 · 4B · F0 · 14 which is the code when released is transmitted (step 230). Here, the process waits until a predetermined time elapses (step 232).

Through the above steps, the code is transmitted as data.
(2) Next, a key code receiving unit will be described.

  Data including a key code is sent from the above-described creating / transmitting unit. Data is sent to these as a pair of data. A method for confirming whether or not an error has occurred during transmission by comparing these data with each other is the same as that described in the receiving section of the first embodiment. How to receive a key code from data determined to be normal without error will be described.

When the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed, when released, data when the dedicated key UP-2 is pressed, when released, or when the Repeat key is pressed Data, or data when released, is transmitted. Respectively,
14 ・ 16 / F0 ・ 16 ・ F0 ・ 14
14 ・ 15 / F0 ・ 15 ・ F0 ・ 14
14 ・ 26 / F0 ・ 26 ・ F0 ・ 14
14.1D / F0.1D.F0.14
14.4D / F0.4D.F0.14
14 ・ 4B / F0 ・ 4B ・ F0 ・ 14
Corresponds. The receiving unit extracts the key code from these, and determines which key is being pressed.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a flow for extracting a key code. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of the reception status flag of the dedicated key. Here, the dedicated key reception status flag 90 is, for example, an address number for storing bit information in the storage area. The dedicated keys UP-1 to 4 are assigned to the address numbers 4 to 7, and the address numbers 12 to 15 are assigned to the dedicated keys. Is assigned the dedicated key DOWN-1 ~ 4. Each address stores bit information, T represents True, F represents False, and F is stored in all addresses in the initial state or at the stage of initialization. Therefore, the state of the reception status flag 90 in FIG. 13 means that the code when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed and the code when the dedicated key UP-2 is pressed are being received.
・ Time T1
First, at time T1, the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed. If there is no error during transmission, 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14, which is data transmitted by the transmission unit when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed, is received (step 102). 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 are processed by the above-described determination unit when “Ctrl” and “1” are normally received, so that the determination result in step 104 is YES (step 104). When a key operation is processed for the first time, the reception status flag 90 is in an initial state, and since this is an initialized state, the determination result in step 106 is NO (step 106). Here, as shown in FIG. 5, the assignment of the dedicated key and the key code is set, and “Ctrl” and “1” are analog operations on the dedicated key UP-1, so the determination result in step 112 is YES (step 112). ). Here, processing is performed according to the received key code, but “Ctrl” and “1” are the key codes when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed, and the process branches to step 116 (step 114). Since this means that the key code when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed is received, the address number 4 of the reception status flag 90 is set to T (step 116). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

Subsequently, 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 which is data transmitted by the transmission unit when the Repeat key is pressed is received (step 102). 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 is processed by the above-described determination unit when “Ctrl” and “P” are normally received, so the determination result in step 104 is YES (step 104). The reception status flag 90 is not in the initial state because at least the address number 4 is T. Therefore, the determination result at step 106 is YES (step 106). Here, as the elapsed time since the key was last pressed, it is confirmed whether n seconds have elapsed since the key code when the key was pressed is received. The elapsed time is measured by, for example, an internal counter (not shown). It is assumed that the elapsed time since the key code at the time of pressing has passed through step 104 at the end is measured. In addition, n seconds can be arbitrarily set as the threshold, and a value that is normally determined to be reset due to a transmission error or the like, for example, n = 3 is set. Here, it is assumed that n seconds have not elapsed, and the determination result of step 108 is NO (step 108). Since “Ctrl” and “P” are one of analog operations using the Repeat key, the determination result in Step 112 is YES (Step 112). Here, although processing is performed according to the received key code, “Ctrl” and “P” are the key codes when the Repeat key is pressed, and the process branches to step 120 (step 114). Here, in the reception status flag 90, it is determined that all the keys whose key address number is T when pressed are being pressed. Since only address number 4 is T, it is determined that dedicated key UP-1 is pressed. (Step 120). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.
・ Time T1-T2
Next, it is assumed that it is between time T1 and time T2. When 14 · 16 / F0 · 16 · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, step 114 is pressed, as described above. Since the key code when the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed is received, the target address number 4 of the reception status flag 90 is maintained at T (step 116). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

When 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, and step 114 is When the key is pressed, the key code (Repeat) is obtained. Here, in the reception status flag 90, it is determined that all the keys having the address number T when pressed are pressed. Since only the address number 4 is T, it is determined that the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed (step 120). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.
・ Time T2
Next, at time T2, when 14 · 26 / F0 · 26 · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, and step 112 is YES, as described above. Step 114 is the key code when the key is pressed, and since the key code when the dedicated key UP-2 is pressed is received, the address number 5 of the reception status flag 90, which is the object, is set to T (step 116). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

When 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, and step 114 is When the key is pressed, the key code (Repeat) is obtained. Here, in the reception status flag 90, it is determined that all the keys having the address number T when pressed are pressed. Since the address numbers 4 and 5 are T, it is determined that the dedicated key UP-1 and the dedicated key UP-2 are pressed (step 120). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.
・ Time T2 ~ T3
Next, it is assumed that it is between time T2 and time T3. When 14 · 26 / F0 · 26 · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, step 114 is pressed, as described above. Since the key code when the dedicated key UP-2 is pressed is received, the target address number 5 of the reception status flag 90 is maintained at T (step 116). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

When 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, and step 114 is When the key is pressed, the key code (Repeat) is obtained. Here, in the reception status flag 90, it is determined that all the keys having the address number T when pressed are pressed. Since the address numbers 4 and 5 are T, it is determined that the dedicated key UP-1 and the dedicated key UP-2 are pressed (step 120). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.
・ Time T3
Next, at time T3, when 14 · 1D / F0 · 1D · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, as described above. Step 114 becomes the key code when the key is released, and since the key code when the dedicated key UP-2 is released is received, the address number 5 of the reception status flag 90, which is the object, is set to F (step 118). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

When 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, and step 114 is When the key is pressed, the key code (Repeat) is obtained. Here, in the reception status flag 90, it is determined that all the keys having the address number T when pressed are pressed. Since only the address number 4 is T, it is determined that the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed (step 120). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.
・ Time T3 ~ T4
Next, it is assumed that it is between time T3 and time T4. If 14 · 4D / F0 · 4D · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, step 114 is pressed, as described above. In this case, it is determined that all keys whose address number is T in the reception status flag 90 are pressed. Since only the address number 4 is T, it is determined that the dedicated key UP-1 is pressed (step 120). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.
・ Time T4
Next, at time T4, when 14 · 15 / F0 · 15 · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, as described above. Step 114 becomes the key code when the key is released, and since the key code when the dedicated key UP-1 is released is received, the address number 4 of the reception status flag 90, which is the object, is set to F (step 118). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

  When 14 · 4B / F0 · 4B · F0 · 14 is received (step 102), step 104 is YES, step 106 is YES, step 108 is NO, step 112 is YES, and step 114 is It becomes the key code (Repeat) when released, and here, the reception status flag 90 is initialized (step 126). Thereafter, the procedure is returned to step 102.

  Through the above steps, the data is received as a key code, and the state of the analog operation at the time when the data is received is also specified on the receiving side.

  As is clear from the above description, in the first embodiment, the key code included in the received first data is collated with the received second data, and the key code is obtained only when the matching key code is confirmed. Finally, the reception process is performed.

  In addition, since the key code is input when the keyboard key is pressed, there is an effect that the operator does not feel uncomfortable or stress associated with the delay in key data input. In addition, analog operation is enabled by periodically creating and transmitting a key code while the key is pressed.

  In the second embodiment, in addition to the above, a plurality of analog operations can be realized. At this time, by sharing the key press itself with a key code called the Repeat key, a high-load processing such as periodically generating and transmitting the key codes of all the pressed keys is performed. There is an effect of avoiding.

In addition, the processing after the transmission processing step 204 in FIG. 11 has the effect of avoiding the operation of the normal key and avoiding an erroneous operation while the analog key is pressed.

Schematic diagram showing data generation timing for multiple key operations Schematic showing the timing of data generation in response to key operations The block diagram which shows embodiment of the input interface in this invention Schematic showing the connection between the key and key code transmitter Diagram showing the relationship between key names and key code assignments The figure which shows the relationship between the key code and the data which is created with this invention The figure explaining the flow which extracts the key code in the receiving part of this invention The figure explaining the flow which extracts the key code in the receiving part of this invention Schematic showing storage data in the storage area Schematic showing storage data in the storage area The figure explaining the flow which produces and transmits data from the key code in the transmission part of this invention The figure explaining the flow which extracts the key code in the receiving part of this invention The figure explaining the reception status flag in the storage area

Explanation of symbols

N ... Network 30 ... HMI
32 ... Monitoring monitor 34 ... Dedicated keyboard 36 ... Computer 38 ... PS / 2 interface cable 40 ... Control LAN
42 ... key 44 ... key code generator 60, 80 ... storage area 90 ... reception status flag

Claims (6)

Provided on the keyboard,
When an arbitrary key on the keyboard is pressed, first data including a key code for specifying the pressed key and second data obtained by adding an identification code to the key code are generated and transmitted. First key code creating means;
When the pressed key is released, the third data including the key code specifying the released key and the fourth data with the identification code added to the key code are generated and transmitted. 2 key code creation means;
A third key code creating means for periodically creating and transmitting the first data and the second data while an arbitrary key is being pressed;
The first and second data, or the third and fourth data are received, and the key codes included in the data are compared with each other to determine whether the key code is appropriate A determination means;
An input device using a keyboard, comprising: Provided on the keyboard,
In any key of the keyboard, from when the key is pressed until it is released, or from when the key is pressed until the next key is pressed, the fifth data including the key code specifying the pressed key and the key code Fourth key code creating means for periodically creating and transmitting sixth data to which an identification code is added;
When the pressed key is released, the fifth data including the key code for specifying the released key and the eighth data with the identification code added to the key code is generated and transmitted. Key code creation means;
While one or more keys of the keyboard continue to be pressed, the ninth data including the key code specifying that the key is pressed and the tenth data with the identification code added to the key code Sixth key code creating means for periodically creating and transmitting;
When all of the one or more keys are released, eleventh data including a key code for specifying that the key has been released and twelfth data in which an identification code is added to the key code are created. A seventh key code creating means for transmitting;
Receive the fifth and sixth data, or the seventh and eighth data, or the ninth and tenth data, or the eleventh and twelfth data, Second determination means for determining whether the key code is appropriate by collating the included key codes with each other;
The fifth and sixth data, the seventh and eighth data, the ninth and tenth data, or the eleventh and twelfth data are received, and those data are received. A judging means for judging which key is kept pressed by returning to the key code according to the received time series;
An input device using a keyboard, comprising: In the input device using the keyboard according to claim 1 or 2,
Means for assigning a key code to a dedicated key provided as a dedicated key on the keyboard, a special key of the keyboard, or a non-special key, or a combination of a special key and a non-special key;
An input device using a keyboard, comprising: receiving means for ignoring input of other keys while the assigned dedicated key is pressed. When an arbitrary key on the keyboard is pressed, first data including a key code for specifying the pressed key and second data obtained by adding an identification code to the key code are transmitted.
When the pressed key is released, the third data including the key code for specifying the released key and the fourth data with the identification code added to the key code are generated and transmitted.
While the arbitrary key is kept pressed, the first data and the second data are periodically created and transmitted,
The transmitted first and second data, or the third and fourth data are received, and the key codes included in those data are collated with each other to determine whether the key code is appropriate. An input method using a keyboard characterized by the above. When an arbitrary key on the keyboard is pressed, the fifth data including the key code for specifying the pressed key and the sixth data with the identification code added to the key code are generated and transmitted.
While being pushed, the fifth and sixth data are periodically created and transmitted,
When another key of the keyboard is pressed, or when the key being pressed is released, seventh data including a key code specifying the released key and an eighth code in which an identification code is added to the key code Create and send data with
While the arbitrary key or the other key is continuously pressed, the ninth data including the key code specifying that the key is pressed and the tenth data including the identification code added to the key code. The eleventh data including a key code for specifying that the key has been released and the twelfth data having an identification code added to the key code when the keys are all released are periodically generated and transmitted. Create and send,
Receive the fifth and sixth data, or the seventh and eighth data, or the ninth and tenth data, or the eleventh and twelfth data, By comparing the key codes included in each other to determine the suitability of the key codes and returning the received data to the key codes according to the determination result, which key is being pressed / An input method using a keyboard characterized by determining whether there is any. In the input method using the keyboard according to claim 4 or 5,
A special key of the keyboard, a non-special key, or a combination of a special key and a non-special key is assigned to a special key provided as a special key on the keyboard, and the assigned special key is pressed. An input method using a keyboard characterized by ignoring other key inputs.

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