JP2008011575A - Portable information processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a portable information processing apparatus with improved operability which can easily display a specified display content on a display part provided in an externally exposed area in the state that a first and a second movable parts are mutually faced and folded. <P>SOLUTION: An external display part 16 is provided in the externally exposed area of the first movable part 12 while the first and the second movable parts 12 and 13 are mutually faced and folded. An external operation part 17 is provided in a remaining area that an area which is a backward of the external display part 16 is removed in the externally exposed area of the first and the second movable parts 12 and 13, and can input specified information related to a specified display content which is to be displayed on the external display part 16. Even if the first and the second movable parts 12 and 13 are folded, an operator can input the specified information through the external operation part 17 with viewing the external display part 16. Thereby, its operability is improved. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a foldable portable information processing apparatus, and more particularly to a portable information processing apparatus having a display unit on both the inner side and the outer side in a folded state.

  As a first conventional technique, a first liquid crystal display device and a second liquid crystal display device are provided. The first liquid crystal display device is provided inside the cover when the machine body is opened. There is a mobile phone device in which a liquid crystal display device is arranged at a position where information can be confirmed without opening the machine body. In such a cellular phone device, the machine body is opened and predetermined information is input from the operation unit (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the mobile phone device 1 which is a portable information processing device according to the second prior art as seen from one side, and FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the mobile phone device 1 as seen from the other side. . 29 shows the cellular phone device 1 in an unfolded state, and FIG. 30 shows the cellular phone device 1 in a folded state.

  The mobile phone device 1 includes a hinge portion 4 in which the first movable portion 2 and the second movable portion 3 are in a folded state in which the first movable portion 2 and the second movable portion 3 are opposed to each other and in a deployed state in which a region facing the folded state is exposed to the outside. Are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable. In the folded state in which the first and second movable parts 2 and 3 are opposed to each other, an operation part 5 for inputting predetermined information is provided in a region facing the first movable part 2 of the second movable part 3. In the region of the first movable part 2 facing the second movable part 3, an internal display unit 6 is provided.

  In a folded state in which the first and second movable parts 2 and 3 are opposed to each other, the area is exposed to the outside of the first movable part 2 and is viewed from the internal display unit 6 side when the mobile phone device 1 is viewed. An external display unit 7 is provided in an area behind the side display unit 6. The first movable unit 2 is provided with an imaging unit 8 facing the same side as the side on which the display surface of the external display unit 7 faces.

  In the cellular phone device 1, in response to predetermined information input by the operation unit 5, predetermined display content, for example, an image is captured by the imaging unit 8 on at least one of the internal display unit and the external display unit. Displayed images.

  The first movable part 2 is provided with a shutter button 9 on its side. The cellular phone device 1 has a memory inside, and when an operator operates the shutter button 9, the image captured by the imaging unit 8 can be stored in the memory.

JP 2002-141993 A

  In the cellular phone device of the first prior art described above, the operation unit cannot be operated when the body of the cellular phone device is folded, and a predetermined display content that the operator faces is displayed on the second liquid crystal display device. It cannot be displayed.

  In the mobile phone device 1 according to the second technology described above, only the shutter button 9 is provided in a region exposed to the outside in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts 2 and 3 are opposed to each other. In a state where the first and second movable parts 2 and 3 are opposed to each other, the operation part 5 is covered with the first movable part 2 and is not exposed to the outside, so the operator inputs predetermined information through the operation part 5 Therefore, like the first conventional mobile phone device, it is impossible to display the predetermined display content desired by the operator on the external display unit 7.

  In order to display the predetermined display content desired by the operator on the external display unit 7, the first and second movable units 2 and 3 are changed from the folded state to the expanded state and are displayed on the external display unit 7. It is necessary to input predetermined information regarding the display contents through the operation unit 5. In addition, with the first and second movable parts 2 and 3 in the unfolded state, the operation part 5 is provided facing the side opposite to the external display part 7, so that the operator can operate while looking at the external display part 7. It is difficult to input predetermined information by the unit 5, and even when the predetermined display content is displayed on the external display unit 7, the operation unit 5 needs to face the operator side. As described above, in the portable communication device 1, in order to display the predetermined display content on the external display unit 7, the first and second movable units 2 and 3 are set in the expanded state, and the operation unit 5 is further moved to the operator. There is a problem that the operation is troublesome because it is necessary to input predetermined information on the side. In addition, when inputting predetermined information with the operation unit 5 facing the operator side, the operator cannot visually observe the external display unit 7 on which the predetermined display content is displayed. In order to confirm the display content displayed on the display 7, it is necessary to invert the mobile phone device 1, and it often takes a long time to display the display content desired by the operator on the external display unit 7.

  For example, an image picked up by the image pickup unit 8 is displayed on the external display unit 7 and the external display unit 7 is used as a camera finder, and a camera such as exposure correction setting, zoom / wide setting, image size setting, image quality selection, etc. When it is necessary to input predetermined information related to an image that is a display content displayed on the external display unit 7 for function setting in shooting, the operator faces the side opposite to the external display unit 7. It must be input by the operation unit 5, and it is difficult to input predetermined information while looking at the external display unit 7. Therefore, it is necessary for the operator to invert the cellular phone device 1 every time it is necessary to input predetermined information, and it is difficult to input predetermined information by the operation unit while looking at the external display unit. Yes, operability is bad.

  An object of the present invention is to make it possible to easily display predetermined display contents on a display unit provided in a region exposed to the outside, with the first and second movable units facing each other and being folded. An improved portable information processing apparatus is provided.

The present invention includes a first and a second movable part that are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable over a folded state facing each other and a developed state in which a region facing the folded state is exposed to the outside,
An internal operation unit that is provided in a region facing the first movable part of the second movable part in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, and inputs predetermined information;
In a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, provided in a region facing the second movable part of the first movable part, in response to predetermined information input by the internal operation unit An internal display for displaying predetermined display contents;
An external display for displaying predetermined display contents provided in a region exposed to at least one of the first and second movable parts in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other. And
In the folded state with the first and second movable parts facing each other, it is provided in the remaining area of the first and second movable parts that are exposed to the outside except for the area behind the external display section. And an external operation unit for inputting predetermined information relating to predetermined display contents displayed on the external display unit,
The area exposed to the outside is provided facing the same side as the side on which the display surface of the external display unit faces, and the predetermined information input by either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit An imaging unit for imaging in response is provided,
The image captured by the imaging unit is an internal display unit and an external display unit corresponding to one of an internal operation unit and an external operation unit that input predetermined information to be captured by the image capture unit. It is displayed on either one of these, It is a portable information processing apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to the present invention, even in the folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, the area exposed to the outside of the movable part of the first and second movable parts is provided in this area. Since an external operation unit for inputting predetermined information related to predetermined display contents displayed on the external display unit is provided, the first and second movable units are opposed to each other in the folded state of the first and second movable units. Even if the area is not exposed to the outside, predetermined information can be input by the external operation unit and predetermined display content can be displayed on the external display unit.

  The external side operation unit excludes a region behind the external display unit from a region exposed to the outside of the first and second movable units in a folded state in which the first and second movable units are opposed to each other. Since it is provided in the remaining area, the external operation unit is arranged in an area where the operator can operate while viewing the external display unit. Therefore, since the operator can input predetermined information through the external operation unit while viewing the external display unit, it is possible to easily display the predetermined display content desired by the operator on the external display unit. it can.

  The imaging unit captures an image in response to predetermined information input from either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit. When predetermined information is input by the internal operation unit for imaging by the imaging unit, at least an image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the internal display unit corresponding to the internal operation unit, and is captured by the imaging unit. Therefore, when predetermined information is input by the external operation unit, at least an image captured by the image capturing unit is displayed on the external display unit corresponding to the external operation unit.

  In addition, since the imaging unit is provided facing the same side as the side where the display surface of the external display unit faces, even when the operator images the operator himself, the imaging unit captures an image on the external display unit. By displaying the image to be captured, it is possible to capture an image while confirming the range that can be captured by the imaging unit.

The present invention also includes a first and a second movable part that are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable over a folded state facing each other and a developed state in which a region facing the folded state is exposed to the outside.
An internal operation unit that is provided in a region facing the first movable part of the second movable part in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, and inputs predetermined information;
In a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, provided in a region facing the second movable part of the first movable part, in response to predetermined information input by the internal operation unit An internal display for displaying predetermined display contents;
An external display that is provided in a region exposed to the outside of at least one of the first and second movable parts and displays predetermined display contents in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other. And
In the folded state with the first and second movable parts facing each other, it is provided in the remaining area of the first and second movable parts that are exposed to the outside except for the area behind the external display section. And an external operation unit for inputting predetermined information relating to predetermined display contents displayed on the external display unit,
An imaging unit provided facing the outside in the area exposed to the outside;
In response to predetermined information input from either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit, the image capturing unit is caused to capture an image, and the image captured by the image capturing unit is input to the internal information. A portable information processing device including an internal display unit corresponding to one of the external operation unit and an external display unit, and a control unit to display on the external display unit.

  According to the present invention, the imaging unit captures an image in response to predetermined information input from either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit. Since the imaging unit is provided facing the outside in a region where the first movable unit and the second movable unit are exposed to the outside in a folded state, a desired image can be captured even in the folded state.

  According to the present invention, the control unit sets the external operation unit to a command input function capable of inputting a command related to imaging in a state where the image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the external display unit. It is characterized by doing.

  According to the present invention, the control unit is configured to capture an instruction related to imaging, for example, when the imaging unit captures an image of the external operation unit in a state where the image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the external display unit. Is set to a command input function that can input an imaging magnification change command. Thus, for example, settings related to imaging can be changed by the external operation unit in a state where the image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the external display unit, and the convenience is further improved.

Further, according to the present invention, the control unit includes a plurality of function display buttons for setting a desired function from among a plurality of functions related to imaging on either the internal display unit or the external display unit. Display
The internal operation unit and the external operation unit are provided with a plurality of function setting operation buttons corresponding to the plurality of function display buttons, respectively.

  According to the present invention, a plurality of function display buttons for setting a function desired by the operator from among a plurality of functions related to imaging are displayed on the internal display unit and the external display unit. By operating the function setting operation button of the internal operation unit, it is possible to set a function corresponding to the function display button displayed on the internal display unit. Further, by operating the function setting operation button of the external operation unit, it is possible to set a function corresponding to the function display button displayed on the external display unit.

  According to the present invention, the control unit displays the function setting display button on the external display unit in a state where functions that can be set are limited as compared to the plurality of function display buttons displayed on the internal display unit. It is characterized by that.

  According to the present invention, the control unit may limit the number of function display buttons to be displayed and display the button on the external display unit. For example, a setting such as a self-timer time is set at a predetermined time. The function level that can be set may be limited and displayed on the external display unit.

  In addition, the present invention is characterized by having a setting information storage unit for storing information set by the function setting operation buttons.

  According to the present invention, since the information set by the function setting operation button is stored in the information setting storage unit, the information once set can be maintained.

  According to the present invention, even when the first and second movable parts are in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, the predetermined information is input from the external operation part and the first and second movable parts are folded. Thus, predetermined display contents can be displayed on the external display section exposed to the outside.

  Since the external operation unit is arranged in an area where the operator can operate while viewing the external display unit, the operator can easily obtain predetermined information by using the external operation unit while viewing the external display unit. Since it is possible to input and predetermined information can be input by the external operation unit while viewing the predetermined display content displayed on the external display unit, the operability is improved and the operator is displayed on the external display unit. The desired display content desired can be displayed in a short time.

  In addition, even when the first movable unit and the second movable unit are in the folded state, the operator can input predetermined information through the external operation unit while viewing the external display unit. Predetermined display contents desired by the operator can be easily displayed, and convenience is improved. In addition, even when the operator captures the operator himself / herself, the imaging unit can capture an image while confirming a range that can be imaged by the external display unit, and the degree of freedom of imaging is improved.

  According to the present invention, the internal operation unit is made to correspond to the internal display unit, and the external operation unit is made to correspond to the external display unit, whereby the internal display unit or the external display unit is visually observed, and the imaging unit Predetermined information can be input from the internal side operation unit or the external side operation unit while viewing the state of the image captured in step S2. Therefore, for example, it is possible to input predetermined information regarding the setting of the imaging function of the imaging unit such as the exposure correction setting, the zoom / wide setting, the image size setting, and the image quality selection while viewing the display unit. improves.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to change settings relating to imaging, for example, the setting of imaging magnification, by the external operation unit in a state where the image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the external display unit. Therefore, it is not necessary to change the setting relating to imaging after changing the display state of the external display unit, and the setting relating to imaging can be changed by a short operation, and the convenience is further improved.

  Further, according to the present invention, the function setting operation buttons formed by hardware such as the internal operation unit and the external operation unit are used and displayed on the internal display unit and the external display unit and formed by software. By selecting a function display button to be set and setting a function corresponding to the function display button, the number of function setting operation buttons can be reduced. Therefore, the hardware configuration of the apparatus can be simplified, the number of parts can be reduced, and the apparatus can be easily assembled.

  Further, according to the present invention, when performing detailed setting, the setting is performed by using a plurality of function display buttons displayed on the internal display unit, and when performing simple setting, a plurality of functions are displayed on the external display unit. Set with the function display button. As a result, the external operation unit is provided with fewer function setting buttons than the internal operation unit, and simple settings can be easily performed.

  As a result, when detailed setting is not performed, the setting can be performed in the folded state, and it is not necessary to change from the folded state to the unfolded state for setting, so that the operation procedure can be simplified. The set time can be shortened.

  In addition, according to the present invention, once set information is maintained, the trouble of changing the setting for each imaging is eliminated, and convenience is improved.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable information processing apparatus 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one side, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the portable information processing apparatus 11 as viewed from the other side. 1 shows the portable information processing apparatus 11 in the unfolded state, and FIG. 2 shows the portable information processing apparatus 11 in the folded state. The portable information processing apparatus 11 according to the present embodiment is a communication terminal device, and specifically a mobile phone device. In the present invention, imaging and shooting are synonymous.

  The portable information processing apparatus 11 includes first and second movable parts that are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable between a folded state facing each other and a developed state where a corresponding region is exposed to the outside in the folded state. 12, an internal operation unit 14 for inputting predetermined information, an internal display unit 15 for displaying predetermined display contents in response to the predetermined information input by the internal operation unit 14, and a predetermined An external display unit 16 for displaying the display content, an external operation unit 17 for inputting predetermined information regarding the predetermined display content displayed on the external display unit, an imaging unit 18, and an antenna 19. .

  The first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are generally formed in a hollow box shape, and the base end part 21 of the first movable part 12 and the base end part 22 of the second movable part 13 are connected by a hinge part 23. They are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable. The first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are in a virtual plane including the hinge part 23 and the free end part 24 of the first movable part 12, the hinge part 23, and the second movable part from the folded state facing each other. The angle between the imaginary plane including the 13 free end portions 25 and the imaginary plane is approximately 180 °, and the angular displacement between the hinge portions 23 is freely possible.

  The internal operation unit 14 is a first operation unit, and is opposed to the first movable unit 12 of the second movable unit 13 in a folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are opposed to each other. Provided in the region. The internal operation unit 14 has a plurality of operation keys for inputting predetermined information such as numeric data, character data, and an instruction to the portable information processing device 11, and will be described later by operating the operation keys. An instruction signal corresponding to each operation key is given to the control unit 31.

  Further, an operation switching key for activating one of the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 and disabling the other one of the plurality of operation keys of the internal operation unit 14. 26 is assigned.

  The internal display unit 15 is provided in a region of the first movable unit 12 that faces the second movable unit 13 in a folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are opposed to each other. The internal display unit 15 is realized by a transflective liquid crystal display element capable of color display.

  When the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are set in the unfolded state by providing the inner side display part 15 and the inner side operation part 14 in areas where the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 face each other. The operator can input predetermined information through the internal operation unit 14 while viewing the internal display unit 15. In the present embodiment, the unfolded state is a state in which the regions facing each other are exposed to the outside in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are opposed to each other, and the operator displays the internal side. This is a state in which the portion 15 can be seen and the internal operation portion 14 can be operated.

  The external display unit 16 is in a region exposed to at least one of the first and second movable units 12 and 13 in a folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are opposed to each other. Provided. In the present embodiment, the external display section 16 is an area exposed to the outside of the first movable section 12 and is provided in an area behind the first movable section 12 when viewed from the internal display section 15 side. . Therefore, the display surface of the internal display unit 15 and the display surface of the external display unit 16 face away from each other. The external display unit 16 is realized by a transflective liquid crystal display element capable of color display.

The internal display unit 15 and the external display unit 16 described above are realized by a transflective liquid crystal display element capable of color display. However, in another embodiment of the present invention, color display or monochrome display is possible. Transmission type liquid crystal display element, reflection type liquid crystal display element, electroluminescence (
It may be realized by any one of an electro luminescent (EL) element and a transflective liquid crystal display element capable of monochrome display. In the present embodiment, the display surface of the external display unit 16 is formed smaller than the display surface of the internal display unit 15.

  The external operation unit 17 is a second operation unit, and is exposed to the outside of the first and second movable units 12 and 13 with the first and second movable units 12 and 13 facing each other. Of the remaining areas, the remaining display area 16 is provided in the remaining area excluding the area behind the external display section 16. That is, in the configuration in which the external display unit 16 is provided as described above, the external display unit 16 of the portable information processing apparatus 11 is provided in a folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are opposed to each other. Assuming that the region is a front surface, it is provided on any of the side surface portion and the free end surface portion of the second movable portion 13 excluding the back surface portion, and the front surface portion, the side surface portion and the free end surface portion of the first movable portion 12. In the present embodiment, when the area where the external display unit 16 of the portable information processing apparatus 11 is provided in the folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are opposed to each other, the first movable unit An external operation unit 17 is provided between the external display unit 16 and the hinge unit 23 on the front surface of the unit 12. The external side operation unit 17 has a plurality of operation keys for inputting predetermined information such as an instruction to the portable information processing apparatus 11, and operates each operation key to control each of the control units 31 described later. An instruction signal corresponding to the operation key is given.

  The imaging unit 18 is provided facing the outside in a region exposed to the outside in a folded state. Specifically, the imaging unit 18 is provided facing the same side as the side on which the display surface of the external display unit 16 faces. By providing the imaging unit 18 in this manner, a desired image can be captured by the imaging unit 18 even in the folded state. The imaging unit 18 converts incident light into an electrical signal and generates image data. The imaging unit 18 is provided at the free end 24 of the first movable unit 12, and is provided closer to the free end 24 than the external display unit 16. The imaging unit 18 includes an imaging lens, an imaging device such as a charge coupled device (abbreviated as CCD) image sensor and a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (abbreviated as CMOS) image sensor, red (R), green ( G), blue (B) color filters, and a microlens array. The imaging unit 18 converts the light reflected by the subject and incident on the imaging lens into three color lights of R, G, and B through a color filter, and converts the three color lights of R, G, and B into electrical signals by the imaging device, respectively. .

  The antenna 19 is provided in the first movable part 12. The antenna 19 is realized by a telescopic rod antenna. In a state where the antenna 19 is contracted, most of the antenna 19 is accommodated in the first movable portion 12, and the tip portion protrudes from the free end portion 24 of the first movable portion 12 to the outside. When the antenna 19 is extended, most of the antenna 19 protrudes from the first movable portion 12 to the outside.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the portable information processing apparatus 11. The portable information processing apparatus 11 includes the first and second movable units 12 and 13, the internal operation unit 14, the internal display unit 15, the external display unit 16, the external operation unit 17, the imaging unit 18, and an antenna. 19, control unit 31, image processing unit 32, first memory 33, second memory 34, first display driver unit 35, second display driver unit 36, first backlight unit 37, second backlight unit 38, a state detection switch 39, a wireless unit 40, a communication control unit 41, a voice input unit 42, and a voice output unit 43.

The control unit 31 is realized including a central processing unit (abbreviated as CPU), and controls each part of the portable information processing device 11 based on a control program stored therein. The control unit 31 gives a control signal to each unit constituting the portable information processing device 11 in response to predetermined information input by the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 and a state detection switch 39 described later. To control its operation. The control program includes a program for sending and receiving e-mails. The control unit 31 transmits e-mails to a predetermined notification destination via a communication control unit 41 and a radio unit 40 described later, and electronic You can receive mail.

The image processing unit 32 includes an amplification unit, an analog / digital (abbreviated as A / D) conversion unit, and a signal processing unit. The amplifying unit amplifies the electrical signals corresponding to each of the three color lights of R, G, and B given from the imaging unit 18 and gives them to the A / D conversion unit. The A / D conversion unit converts the analog electrical signals corresponding to R, G, and B amplified by the amplification unit into digital electrical signals, generates image data, and supplies the image data to the signal processing unit.

  The signal processing unit performs signal processing such as pixel interpolation processing on the image data given from the A / D conversion unit. Further, the signal processing unit supplies the first memory 33 with the image data subjected to the signal processing based on the control signal supplied from the control unit 31.

The first memory 33 is a storage unit and temporarily stores image data continuously given from the image processing unit 32. The first memory 33 stores image data for a plurality of screens. Of the image data stored in the first memory 33, the oldest image data in time is deleted, or the oldest image data in time is overwritten with the newest image data in time. Temporarily stores image data. The first memory 33 is, for example, a static random access memory (abbreviated as SRAM).
It is realized by volatile memory.

  The second memory 34 is a storage means, and inputs predetermined information input by either the internal operation unit 14 or the external operation unit 17, here an instruction to save an image captured by the image capturing unit 18. If the image data is stored, predetermined image data among the image data stored in the first memory 33 is stored based on a control signal given by the control unit 31 in response to this instruction. The second memory 34 stores predetermined information such as character data input by the internal operation unit 14 and image data and character data received via the communication control unit 41 described later. The second memory 34 is realized by a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory.

  A shutter key for inputting predetermined information for storing an image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34 is assigned to any of the plurality of operation keys of the internal operation unit 14 described above. . The operator can save the image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34 by operating the shutter key.

  In addition, a shutter key for inputting predetermined information for storing an image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34 is assigned to any of a plurality of operation keys of the external operation unit 17. . The operator can save the image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34 by operating the shutter key.

  The control unit 31 responds to predetermined information for imaging by the imaging unit 18 that is input by any one of the internal side operation unit 14 and the external side operation unit 17, and performs predetermined processing for imaging by the imaging unit 18. When information is input by the internal operation unit 14, an image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the internal display unit 15 corresponding to the internal operation unit 14 and is captured by the imaging unit 18. When predetermined information is input by the external operation unit 17, the image captured by the image capturing unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16 corresponding to the external operation unit 17. Therefore, the operator visually observes the internal display unit 15 or the external display unit 16 and receives predetermined information from the internal operation unit 14 or the external operation unit 17 while viewing the state of the image captured by the imaging unit 18. Since input is possible, operability is improved.

  When predetermined information for imaging by the imaging unit 18 is input by the internal operation unit 14, the control unit 31 transmits the image data stored in the first memory 33 to at least the first display driver unit 35. When the predetermined information for imaging by the imaging unit 18 is input by the external operation unit 17, the control unit 31 provides at least the first memory 33 to the second display driver unit 36.

  The first and second driver sections 35 and 36 are temporarily stored in the first memory 33 or stored in the second memory 34, and are displayed on the first and second display sections 32 and 33. Based on at least one of the data, a drive voltage is applied to each pixel electrode of the first and second display units 32 and 33. Accordingly, a predetermined display is provided on at least one of the first and second display units 32 and 33, that is, the first display unit 32, the second display unit 33, or the first and second display units 32 and 33. The contents are displayed.

  The first display driver unit 35 is a drive circuit for the internal display unit 15, and is used for at least one of image data supplied from the first memory 33 or image data and character data supplied from the second memory 34. Based on this, a drive voltage is applied to each pixel electrode of the internal display unit 15. The second display driver unit 36 is a driving circuit for the external display unit 16, and applies at least one of image data supplied from the first memory 33 or image data and character data supplied from the second memory 34. Based on this, a drive voltage is applied to each pixel electrode of the external display unit 16.

  The internal display unit 15 described above is driven by the first display driver unit 35 and can display at least the image captured by the imaging unit 18, and the external display unit 16 is driven by the second display driver unit 36. Then, at least the image data captured by the imaging unit 18 can be displayed.

  The first backlight unit 37 is provided behind the internal display unit 15 from the display surface side, and irradiates the internal display unit 15 with light. The second backlight unit 38 is provided behind the external display unit 16 from the display surface side, and irradiates the external display unit 16 with light. The first and second backlight units 37 and 38 are so-called sidelight type backlight units, and include a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode and a light guide plate formed of an optical filter. It arrange | positions in the side part of the direction perpendicular | vertical to the thickness direction of a light-guide plate, the light which the light emitting element emits is guided to a display surface with the pattern formed in the light-guide plate, and is irradiated as a backlight. The first and second backlight units 37 and 38 receive a control signal from the control unit 31 to turn on / off the light emitting element and adjust the brightness. By providing the first and second backlight units 37 and 38, a predetermined information displayed on at least one of the internal display unit 15 and the external display unit 16 even when the periphery of the portable information processing apparatus 11 is dark. The display content can be made easier to see, and the visibility is improved.

  The first and second backlight units 37 and 38 described above are independently controlled by the control unit 31. When the predetermined display content is displayed on the internal display unit 15, the control unit 31 turns on the light emitting element of the first backlight unit 37, and the predetermined display content is displayed on the external display unit 16. If it is, the control unit 31 turns on the light emitting element of the second backlight unit 38. Note that, for each light emitting element of the first and second backlight units 37 and 38, predetermined information for turning off the light emitting elements by the operator is input by the internal operation unit 14 or the external operation unit 17. It will be configured to light up to. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting elements of the first and second backlight units 37 and 38 may be configured to be turned off by the control unit 31 after a predetermined time has elapsed since turning on.

  The state detection switch 39 constitutes a part of a state detection unit that detects the folded state and the unfolded state of the first and second movable parts 12 and 13. The state detection unit includes a protrusion 145 provided in the first movable unit 12, a hole 46 formed in the second movable unit 13, a state detection switch 39, and the control unit 31.

  4A and 4B are sectional views showing the state detection switch 39. FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of the state detection switch 39 when the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are in the unfolded state, and FIG. 4B shows that the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are A sectional view of state detection switch 39 in the folded state is shown.

  The projecting portion 145 is provided between the inner side display portion 15 and the hinge portion 23 in the vicinity of the hinge portion 23 of the first movable portion 12, and makes the first and second movable portions 12 and 13 face each other. It protrudes toward the second movable part 13 in the folded state.

  The hole 46 is provided in a region facing the protruding portion 145 in a state where the first movable portion 12 and the second movable portion 13 are folded to face each other in the vicinity of the hinge portion 23 of the second movable portion 13. It is formed by inserting the inside and the outside of the hollow box-like first movable portion 12.

  The state detection switch 39 is provided on a substrate 47 made of an electrically insulating material provided in the first movable portion 12. The state detection switch 39 includes a pattern contact portion that is an individual contact portion 44 made of a conductive material, a common contact portion 48 made of a conductive material such as carbon, and a support portion 49 that supports the common contact portion 48. The support portion 49 is made of an elastic body such as rubber, and the individual contact portion 45 is separated by a predetermined distance between the hole portion 46 and the individual contact portion 45 and the common contact portion 48 and the individual contact portion 45. To support.

  One individual contact 44 </ b> A and the other individual contact 44 </ b> B of the individual contact unit 44 are electrically connected to the control unit 31 individually by conducting wires formed on the substrate 47.

  When the portable information processing apparatus 11 is in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are opposed to each other, the protrusion 145 of the first movable part 12 is inserted into the hole 46 of the second movable part 13, The common contact portion 48 whose front end portion 51 is supported by the support portion 49 of the state detection switch 39 is pressed against the individual contact portion 44, and one individual contact 44A and the other individual contact 44B of the individual contact portion 44 are connected to the common contact portion 44. It is electrically connected via 48. As a result, current can flow between the individual contacts.

  The control unit 31 detects the current flowing between the individual contacts, and determines that the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are in the folded state if the current flows.

  When the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are in the unfolded state, the protrusion 145 of the first movable part 12 is separated from the common contact part 48, and the common contact part 48 is individually separated by the elastic force of the support part 49. The contact part 44 is separated. At this time, since no current can flow between the individual contacts, the control unit 31 determines that the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are not in the unfolded state, that is, the first and second movable units 12 and 13. Is determined to be in a folded state. As described above, in the portable information processing apparatus 11, the control unit 31 is based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39, so that the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are expanded and folded, that is, the first and second states. Whether the movable parts 12 and 13 are in the expanded state or the folded state can be easily detected with a simple configuration.

  FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the individual contact portion 44 of the state detection switch 39. The individual contact portion 44 is formed in a state in which one individual contact 44 </ b> A formed in a comb shape and the other individual contact 44 </ b> B are engaged with each other at an interval in the surface direction of the substrate 47. Since the common contact portion 48 is connected to the plurality of tongue-like portions 52 included in the one and the other comb-like individual contacts 44A and 44B, when some of the tongue-like portions 52 do not contact the common contact portion 48. Even if it exists, the other tongue-like part 52 is kept in contact with the common contact part 48, and can electrically connect one and the other individual contacts 44A and 44B reliably. Contact failure between the individual contact portion 44 and the common contact portion 48 in a pressed state where the pressing to the contact portion 48 is incomplete is prevented. Therefore, the control unit 31 can reliably detect the folded state and the unfolded state of the first and second movable units 12 and 13 with a simple configuration.

  In still another embodiment of the present invention, the state detection switch 39 is not limited to the above-described structure, and may be configured by, for example, a membrane switch. The configuration of the state detection unit including the state detection switch 39 is also described above. Any structure that can detect the folded state and the unfolded state of the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 is acceptable.

  The antenna 19 described above transmits and receives voice data, character data, image data, and the like when performing wireless communication with a base station via wireless radio waves.

  The radio unit 40 demodulates character data, image data, and voice data received from the base station via the antenna 19, and modulates character data, image data, voice data, and the like sent from the communication control unit 41 described later. Then, the signal is amplified and transmitted to the base station via the antenna 19.

  The communication control unit 41 sends received data such as character data and image data demodulated by the radio unit 40 to the control unit 31 based on a predetermined communication protocol, and sends the audio data demodulated by the radio unit 40 to the audio output unit 43. . Received data such as character data and image data from the other party received via the wireless unit 40 and the communication control unit 41 is stored in the second memory 34. The communication control unit 41 also sends transmission data such as character data and image data stored in the second memory 34 and audio data input from the audio input unit 42 described later to the radio unit 40.

  The voice input unit 42 is realized by a microphone, for example, and inputs voice data. The voice input unit 42 is provided in the center of the free end 25 in the internal space of the second movable unit 13. In the folded state in which the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are opposed to each other, the voice input part 42 is provided in the free end 25 of the second movable part 13 in the region facing the first movable part 12. An insertion hole 54 is formed through which the internal space and the external space of the second movable portion 13 are inserted.

  The audio output unit 43 is realized by a speaker, for example, and generates sound based on audio data provided from the communication control unit 41. The audio output unit 43 is provided in the center of the free end 24 in the internal space of the first movable unit 12. In the folded state in which the first and second movable portions 12 and 13 are opposed to each other, the sound output portion 43 is provided at the free end portion 24 of the region of the first movable portion 12 facing the second movable portion 13. An insertion hole 53 is formed through which the internal space and the external space of the first movable portion 12 are inserted.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating display contents when an image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16. When the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16 and the external display unit 16 is used as a camera finder, the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16. In addition to being displayed, content 55 representing a setting state related to imaging is displayed at the end of the display screen. In the present embodiment, description will be given with the free end portion 24 of the first movable portion 12 as the upper side and the hinge portion 23 as the lower side.

  The content 55 indicating the setting state related to the imaging represents, for example, the imaging mode setting state, the exposure correction setting state, the zoom / wide setting state, and the like, which are displayed in this order on the upper end portion of the external display unit 16. Is done. If the shooting mode is set to a standard setting state, for example, the letter N (Normal) is displayed. For example, when the exposure correction is set to 0 as the default and is set to be brighter than the default, a numerical value + N (N is a positive integer) is displayed. -N (N is a positive integer) is displayed. The exposure correction can be adjusted at a predetermined stage, and each time it is brightened, a numerical value representing the exposure correction setting state is displayed so as to increase by one, and each time it is darkened, it represents the exposure correction setting state. The numerical value is displayed so as to decrease by one. In the zoom / wide setting state, a numerical value × N (N is a zoom magnification) is displayed in the zoom state, and the letter W is displayed in the wide state in which imaging is performed at a wide angle. The user can confirm and clearly grasp the current setting state by looking at the contents 55 representing the setting state relating to the imaging described above.

  When viewed from the external operation unit 17 side, the operation keys of the external operation unit 17 are an upper key 61 located above, a lower key 62 located below, a left key 63 located on the left, and a right key. The right key 64 positioned and the center key 65 positioned at the center of the upper key 61, the lower key 62, the left key 63, and the right key 64 are arranged in a cross shape. Each operation key can input predetermined information corresponding to each operation key by pressing the operation key. In the present embodiment, each operation key of the external side operation unit 17 is a press-type key that allows predetermined information to be input by being pressed.

  For example, the exposure correction setting state can be changed by pressing the up key 61 or the down key 62, and the zoom / wide setting state can be changed by pressing the left key 63 or the right key 64. For example, by pressing the center key 65 for a predetermined time, a function menu screen 68 to be described later can be displayed on the external display unit 16, for example, by pressing the center key 65 for a time shorter than the predetermined time. In order to store the image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34, that is, to input predetermined information corresponding to each operation key so as to function as a shutter key. An operation key is assigned.

  Since the portable information processing apparatus 11 includes the external operation unit 17 described above, the portable information processing apparatus 11 is displayed on the external display unit 16 even in the folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are opposed to each other. It is possible to easily input predetermined display contents, here, information related to the image captured by the imaging unit 18, for example, information related to the above-described setting state related to imaging, while confirming the image captured by the imaging unit 18.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a function menu screen 68 displayed on the external display unit 16. The function menu screen 68 is displayed on the external display unit 16 by pressing the above-described center key 65 for a predetermined time. The function menu screen 68 includes items 1. Size selection, item 2. 2. Image quality selection, item 3. Self-timer, item 4. 4. Camera image list, item 5. Items for setting functions relating to imaging such as image editing are displayed. The operator can select each item using the external operation unit 17.

  When the item 1 size selection is selected, for example, the size of an image captured by the imaging unit 18 can be selected from a plurality of types. When the image quality selection of item 2 is selected, for example, the number of gradations of an image captured by the imaging unit 18 can be changed, and the size of the image data can be changed. When the item 3 self-timer is selected, for example, when a predetermined time elapses, the image data captured by the imaging unit 18 can be automatically stored in the second memory 34, and the operator operates the center key 65 as a shutter key. The image can be stored in the second memory 34 without operating the. When the item 4 camera image list is selected, the image data stored in the second memory 34 can be displayed in a list. When the item 5 image editing is selected, the image data stored in the second memory 34 can be erased.

  Each function displayed on the function menu screen 68 described above can be set by the external operation unit 17 described above. When the function menu screen 68 is displayed on the external display unit 16, by pressing the up key 61 and the down key 62, the cursor 69 displayed on the function menu screen 68 is moved to select an item. It is set so that predetermined information is input corresponding to each operation key so that the item selected by the cursor 69 can be determined or canceled by pressing the center key 65. .

  Even when the image captured by the image capturing unit 18 is displayed on the internal display unit 15, the function setting related to the image capturing is performed as in the case where the image is displayed on the external display unit 16 as shown in FIG. 6. The status is displayed. Similar to the external operation unit 17, the internal operation unit 14 is provided with operation keys for inputting information related to the setting state related to imaging.

  The above-described control unit 31 switches the display unit that displays an image based on the image data temporarily stored in the first memory 33 to the switching state of the state detection switch 39 when the imaging unit 18 captures an image. Switch based on. That is, when the control unit 31 detects that the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are in the unfolded state, the first control unit 31 supplies the first display driver unit 35 with the image data stored in the first memory 33. A control signal is given to the memory 33 to cause the internal display unit 15 to display an image based on the image data.

  As described above, the imaging unit 18 is provided in a region exposed to the outside in the folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 face each other. When the operator captures a subject other than the operator with the imaging unit 18, the portable information processing device 11 is set in the unfolded state, and the imaging unit 18 faces in a direction away from the operator to perform imaging. Since the control unit 31 detects that the portable information processing device 11 is in the unfolded state and the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the internal display unit 15, the internal display unit 15 is used as a camera finder. Can be used.

  On the other hand, when the operator himself / herself is imaged by the imaging unit 18, the operator is in a folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 of the portable information processing device 11 are opposed to each other. By capturing 18 with the operator facing the operator, the control unit 31 detects that the portable information processing apparatus 11 is in a folded state, and an image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16. Therefore, the external display unit 16 can be used as a camera finder.

  The camera finder display is switched from the internal side display unit 15 to the external side display unit 16 from the unfolded state where the internal side display unit 15 is used as a camera finder. This is performed by the control unit 31 by setting the folded state to face each other, or by operating an operation key specifically assigned in the internal operation unit 14.

  Further, the camera finder display is switched from the external display unit 16 to the internal display unit 15 by changing the folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 face each other to the expanded state. 31 or when the external display unit 16 is used as a camera finder in the unfolded state, when the operator operates an operation key specifically assigned in the internal operation unit 14.

  As described above, in the portable information processing apparatus 11, the operator easily selects which display unit of the internal display unit 15 and the external display unit 16 is to display the image captured by the imaging unit 18. For example, when changing from a state where the image pickup unit 18 faces the operator to pick up an image to a state where the image pickup unit 18 faces away from the operator and picks up an image, or vice versa. Even if it exists, the image imaged with the imaging part 18 can be rapidly displayed on the display part which an operator can visually recognize.

  Further, the control unit 31 described above detects the switching state of the state detection switch 39, and based on the detection result, activates one of the internal side operation unit 14 and the external side operation unit 17, and either one of them. The operation unit for inputting predetermined information is switched.

  When the control unit 31 detects that the portable information processing device 11 is in the folded state, the control unit 31 disables the internal operation unit 14 and invalidates the input by each operation key of the internal operation unit 14. The operation unit 17 is activated to enable input by each operation key of the external operation unit 17. In addition, when the control unit 31 detects that the portable information processing device 11 is in the unfolded state, the control unit 31 activates the internal operation unit 14 to validate input by each operation key of the internal operation unit 14, The operation unit 17 is disabled and input by each operation key of the external operation unit 17 is invalidated.

  In order to invalidate the input by the operation keys of the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17, for example, the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 are mechanically fixed so that the operator cannot operate them. The internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 are not mechanically fixed, and the instruction signal from the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 to the control unit 31 is not output, or the control unit 31 Can be realized by a method such as not to process the instruction signals given from the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17.

  As described above, when the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the internal side display unit 15 and the internal side display unit 15 is used as a camera finder, the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are in the unfolded state. Is detected by the control unit 31 and the internal operation unit 14 is activated, so that an input from an operation key assigned to change a setting state related to imaging becomes valid. Accordingly, the operator inputs predetermined information through the internal operation unit 14 arranged on the same side as the internal display unit 15 while viewing the image captured by the imaging unit 18 displayed on the internal display unit 15. can do. Further, at this time, the control unit 31 disables the external operation unit 17, so that it is possible to prevent the external operation unit 17 from undesirably contacting an object and malfunctioning.

  In addition, as described above, when the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16 and the external display unit 16 is used as a camera finder, the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are folded. It is detected by the control unit 31 that the state is in the state, the external side operation unit 17 is activated, and the input from the operation key assigned to change the setting state relating to imaging becomes valid. Therefore, the operator inputs predetermined information through the external operation unit 17 arranged on the same side as the external display unit 16 while viewing the image captured by the imaging unit 18 displayed on the external display unit 16. can do.

  The internal operation unit 14 is provided with an operation switching key that activates one of the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 and disables the other. The operation switching key is realized by specifically assigning one of the plurality of key switches of the internal operation unit 14. By providing the operation switching key, it is possible to change which one of the internal side operation unit 14 and the external side operation unit 17 is valid, and the first and second movable units 12 and 13 can be changed. Even in the unfolded state, it becomes possible to input predetermined information from the external side operation unit 17, so that the operability is further improved.

  In still another embodiment of the present invention, the operation switching key may be provided in the external operation unit 17, or may be provided in either the internal operation unit 14 or the external operation unit 17.

  Since the protrusion 145, the hole 46 and the state detection switch 39 described above are provided in the vicinity of the hinge 23, the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are slightly angled around the hinge 23 from the folded state. Since the switching state of the state detection switch 39 changes even in the displaced state, the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are expanded from the folded state to 90 ° or more and 180 ° or less around the hinge portion. In the state, the setting of the operation unit that activates the internal operation unit 14 and disables the external operation unit 17 is completed. Accordingly, when the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are changed from the folded state to the expanded state, the switching of the operation parts is good and the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are folded from the expanded state. In this case, since the operation unit does not switch at an early stage, erroneous operation can be prevented.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the control unit 31 when imaging is performed by the imaging unit 18. The process proceeds from step S1 to step S2, and based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39, it is determined whether or not the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are in the deployed state. In step S2, if it is determined that the first and second movable parts 12, 13 are in the deployed state, the process proceeds to step S3, and if it is determined that the first and second movable parts 12, 13 are not in the deployed state, Control goes to step S11.

  In step S3, the internal operation unit 14 is activated and the external operation unit 17 is disabled. As a result, only the input operation from the internal operation unit 14 is valid.

  In step S4, the camera photographing mode is activated, that is, a control signal is given to the image processing unit 32, the image data is stored in the first memory 33, and the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, a control signal is given to the first memory 33, the image data stored in the first memory 33 is given to the first display driver unit 38, and the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the internal display unit 15. Then, the process proceeds to step S6. Thereby, the internal side display part 15 can be used as a camera finder.

  In step S <b> 6, it is determined whether or not a shutter button that is provided in the internal operation unit 14 and that inputs an instruction to store image data of the image generated by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34 has been operated. If it is determined in step S6 that the shutter button has been operated, the process proceeds to step S7. If it is determined that the shutter button has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S7, a control signal is given to the second memory 34, the image data of the image captured by the imaging unit 18 is stored in the second memory 34, and the process proceeds to step S8. In step S <b> 8, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to end the shooting mode, that is, whether or not an instruction to stop imaging by the imaging unit 18 is input by the internal operation unit 14. If it is determined in step S8 that there is an instruction to end the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step S9 and the processing operation is ended. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S8 that there is no instruction to end the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step S4. The instruction to end the shooting mode is given by the operator operating, for example, a shooting end key assigned to one of the operation keys of the internal operation unit 14.

  In step S10, it is determined whether or not the display unit for displaying the image captured by the imaging unit 18 on the external display unit 16 has been switched. Here, whether or not the display unit is switched from the internal display unit 15 to the external display unit 16 is determined based on whether or not the switching state of the above-described state detection switch 39 has changed or a display provided on the internal display unit 15. This is performed depending on whether or not the switching key is operated. If it is determined in step S10 that the display unit has been switched, the process proceeds to step S11. If it is determined that the display unit has not been switched, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S11, the external operation unit 17 is activated and the internal operation unit 14 is disabled. As a result, only the input operation from the external operation unit 17 is valid.

  In step S12, the camera photographing mode is activated, that is, a control signal is given to the image processing unit 32, the image data is stored in the first memory 33, the imaging unit 18 performs imaging, and the process proceeds to step S13. In step S 13, a control signal is given to the first memory 33, the image data stored in the first memory 33 is given to the second display driver unit 36, and the image data captured by the imaging unit 18 on the external display unit 16. An image based on is displayed, and the process proceeds to step S14. Thus, the external display unit 16 can be used as a camera finder.

  In step S <b> 14, a shutter for inputting a control signal to the second memory 34 and inputting an instruction for saving the image data of the image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the second memory 34 provided in the external operation unit 17. It is determined whether or not the button has been operated. If it is determined in step S14 that the shutter button has been operated, the process proceeds to step S15. If it is determined that the shutter button has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S17.

  In step S15, the image data captured by the imaging unit 18 is stored in the second memory 34, and the process proceeds to step S16. In step S <b> 16, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to end the shooting mode, that is, whether or not an instruction to stop imaging by the imaging unit 18 is input by the external operation unit 17. If it is determined in step S16 that there is an instruction to end the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step S9 and the processing operation is ended. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S16 that there is no instruction to end the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step S12. An instruction to stop imaging by the imaging unit 18 is performed, for example, when the operator continuously presses the center key 65 of the external operation unit 17.

  In step S <b> 17, it is determined whether or not the display unit for displaying the image captured by the imaging unit 18 on the internal display unit 15 has been switched. Here, whether or not the display unit is switched from the external display unit 16 to the internal display unit 15 is determined based on whether or not the switching state of the state detection switch 39 has been changed or a display provided on the internal display unit 15. This is performed depending on whether or not the switching key is operated. If it is determined in step S17 that the display unit has been switched, the process proceeds to step S3. If it is determined that the display unit has not been switched, the process proceeds to step S13.

  The internal side operation unit 14 cannot be operated by the operator because the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are covered with the first movable unit 12 when the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are folded. Therefore, in still another embodiment of the present invention, the internal operation unit 14 may remain activated in step S3 described above.

  In still another embodiment of the present invention, when the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 are in the unfolded state, the external operation part 17 may be activated without being disabled. In this case, it is possible to input predetermined information using any of the operation units of the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portable information processing device 71 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. The portable information processing device 71 includes first and second movable parts that are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable between a folded state facing each other and a developed state where a corresponding region is exposed to the outside in the folded state. 12, 13, an internal operation unit for inputting predetermined information, an internal display unit for displaying predetermined display content in response to the predetermined information input by the internal operation unit, and predetermined display content The external display unit 16 for displaying the image, the external operation unit 72 for inputting predetermined information related to the predetermined display content displayed on the external display unit, the imaging unit 18, and the antenna 19. The portable information processing device 71 of the present embodiment has a configuration in which the external operation unit 17 of the portable information processing device 11 of the above-described embodiment is replaced with an external operation unit 72, and the other configurations are the same. Therefore, in the portable information processing device 71 shown in FIG. 9, the same components as those of the above-described portable information communication processing device 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. In the present embodiment, description will be given with the free end portion 24 of the first movable portion 12 as the upper side and the hinge portion 23 as the lower side.

  The external side operation unit 72 is provided on the side portion of the first movable unit 12. The external operation unit 72 has the same configuration as that of the external operation unit 17 of the portable information processing apparatus 11 according to the above-described embodiment, and includes a plurality of operation keys, and includes an upper key 61, a lower key 62, and a center key. 65. For example, by pressing the up key 61 or the down key 62, the exposure correction setting state and the zoom / wide setting state can be changed.

  The external operation unit 72 is disposed on the right side when viewed from the external display unit 16 side. When the operator holds the portable information processing device 71 with the right hand and points the imaging unit 18 toward the operator himself, the operator can operate the external operation unit 17 with the thumb while holding the entire device. Therefore, the operability is improved and the portable information processing device 71 can be prevented from dropping undesirably.

  FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portable information processing device 81 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. The portable information processing device 81 includes first and second movable parts that are connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable between a folded state facing each other and a developed state where a corresponding region is exposed to the outside in the folded state. 12, 13, an internal operation unit for inputting predetermined information, an internal display unit for displaying predetermined display content in response to the predetermined information input by the internal operation unit, and predetermined display content The external display unit 16 for displaying the image, the external operation unit 72 for inputting predetermined information related to the predetermined display content displayed on the external display unit, the imaging unit 18, and the antenna 19. The portable information processing device 81 of the present embodiment has a configuration in which the external operation unit 17 of the portable information processing device 11 of the above-described embodiment is replaced with an external operation unit 82, and other configurations are the same. Therefore, in the portable information processing apparatus 81 shown in FIG. 10, the same components as those in the above-described portable information communication processing apparatus 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. In the present embodiment, description will be given with the free end portion 24 of the first movable portion 12 as the upper side and the hinge portion 23 as the lower side.

  The external side operation part 82 is provided on the side part of the second movable part 13. The external operation unit 82 has the same configuration as that of the external operation unit 17 of the portable information processing apparatus 11 according to the above-described embodiment. The external operation unit 82 includes a plurality of operation keys, and includes an upper key 61, a lower key 62, and a center key. 65. For example, by pressing the up key 61 or the down key 62, the exposure correction setting state and the zoom / wide setting state can be changed.

  The external operation unit 82 is disposed on the right side of the second movable unit 13 when viewed from the external display unit 16 side in a state where the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are folded so as to face each other. When the operator holds the portable information processing device 81 with the right hand and points the imaging unit 18 toward the operator himself, the operator can operate the external operation unit 17 with the thumb while holding the entire device. Therefore, the operability is improved and the portable information processing device 81 can be prevented from dropping undesirably.

  In each of the embodiments described above, the internal display unit 15 and the external display unit 16 are provided in the first movable unit. However, in still another embodiment of the present invention, the internal display unit 15 includes the first and Provided in a region where the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 face each other when the second movable parts 12 and 13 are folded, and the external display unit 16 is in the folded state of the first and second movable parts 12 and 13 Thus, any configuration may be used as long as it is provided in each of the regions exposed to the outside.

  In the above-described embodiments, the imaging unit 18 is provided closer to the free end 24 than the external display unit 16 provided on the free end 24 of the movable unit 12 with respect to the position of the imaging unit 18 and the position of the antenna 19. However, the imaging unit 18 may be disposed closer to the hinge unit 23 than the external display unit 16, and the antenna 19 is provided in the first movable unit 12, but the second movable unit 13 is configured. Even if it is the structure which provided the antenna 19 in the direction, it does not care.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the external display unit 16 and the back key of the external operation unit 17 of the portable information processing apparatus 100 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating one surface portion including the imaging unit 18 of the portable information processing device 100 in a folded state. FIG. 13 is a view of the portable information processing device 100 in the unfolded state as viewed from one side in the thickness direction. FIG. 14 is a side view of the portable information processing apparatus 100 in a folded state. FIG. 15 is another side view of the portable information processing telephone device 100 in a folded state. The portable information processing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment has the same configuration as the portable information processing apparatus 11 of the above-described embodiment, and only a part thereof is different. A repetitive description will be omitted.

  The portable information processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment is an example of a case where the portable information processing apparatus 100 is applied to a foldable portable telephone device equipped with a small camera. The first movable unit 12 is slidably displaced relative to and substantially parallel to the second movable unit 13. The first movable unit 12 is moved to the second movable unit 13 around an axial direction parallel to the thickness direction. The present invention can be applied to various mobile phone devices that selectively combine a rotary type that rotates and displaces, a foldable type, a slide type, and a rotary type structure.

  An external operation unit 17 is provided on the back side (see FIG. 11) of the internal display unit 15 in the first movable unit 12 and on one side surface (see FIG. 14) of the first movable unit 12. In other words, the external operation unit 17 is provided in a region exposed to the outside of the first movable unit 12 in a folded state in which the first and second movable units 12 and 13 are folded. The external operation unit 17 includes a key operation unit 109 provided on the back side and a shutter key 110 (see FIG. 14) provided on the one side surface.

  The key operation unit 109 includes three rear keys 109a, 109b, and 109c arranged at appropriate intervals. Each back key 109a, 109b, 109c shown in FIG. 11 corresponds to an operation piece. Moreover, one of the back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c is close to the middle of one side 112 of the rectangular display area in the external display unit 16 near the free end of the first movable unit 12. Arranged. The back key 109a is defined as a center key 109a. Another back key 109b is disposed in proximity to one of the four corners of the rectangular display area, that is, the intersection of the side 112 and the side 113 adjacent to the side 112. The back key 109b is defined as the left key 109b. The remaining back key 109c is disposed close to the intersection of one of the four corners of the rectangular display area, that is, one side 112 of the rectangular display area and the other side 114 adjacent to the one side 112. The back key 109c is defined as a right key 109c. As will be described later, by selectively operating the center key 109a, the left key 109b, the right key 109c, and the shutter key 110, the captured image is zoomed up or down, the image data is temporarily stored and stored, and the standby display screen. Registration, e-mail transmission, and the like. The center key 109a is provided slightly closer to the free end portion 25 of the first movable portion 12 than the left key 109b and the right key 109c. Thus, when the center key 109a is operated, the operator's fingers are prevented from unnecessarily coming into contact with the left key 109b and the right key 109c. The back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c correspond to function setting operation buttons.

  An imaging unit 18 and an antenna 19 are provided behind the inner operation unit 14 in the second movable unit 13. The imaging unit 18 is a remaining area excluding a region exposed to the outside in a folded state in which the first movable unit 12 and the second movable unit 13 are folded, that is, a region where the first movable unit 12 and the second movable unit 13 are opposed to each other in the folded state. This area is provided facing the outside. The imaging unit 18 is provided near the hinge unit 23 of the second movable unit 13 and faces the display surface of the external display unit 16 in the folded state. That is, the imaging lens 18 of the imaging unit 18 is provided facing the side opposite to the internal operation unit 14.

  The shutter key 110 is provided on one side surface of the second movable portion 13 in the present embodiment. In another embodiment of the present invention, the shutter key 110 may be provided on one side surface portion of the first movable portion 12. By providing the shutter key 110 on one side surface portion of the portable information processing device 100, for example, when the portable information processing device 100 is folded, the operator places the one side surface portion upward and the other side surface portion faces downward. The processing apparatus 100 can be held and imaged, and operability can be improved.

  A light emitting unit 201 is provided in the vicinity of the imaging unit 18. The light emitting unit 201 emits light facing the side opposite to the display surface of the external display unit 16 in the folded state, and can illuminate the area imaged by the imaging unit 18. A removable memory mounting hole 202 for mounting a removable memory is formed on the other side surface of the second movable portion 13.

  The operation keys 14a of the internal operation unit 14 include at least a left key 129, a right key 130, an F key 131, a mail key 133, a camera key 134, a power key 135, and a clear key 136, for example. The left key 129, the right key 130, the F key 131, the mail key 133, the camera key 134, the power key 135 and the clear key 136 are provided near the hinge part 23 of the second movable part 13. A left key 129 is provided on the left side of the F key 131, and a right key 130 is provided on the right side of the F key.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the portable information terminal device 100. The portable information terminal device 100 includes the first and second movable units 12 and 13, the internal operation unit 14, the internal display unit 15, the external display unit 16, the external operation unit 17, the imaging unit 18, and the antenna. 19, control unit 31, image processing unit 32, first memory 33, second memory 34, first display driver unit 35, second display driver unit 36, first backlight unit 37, second backlight unit 38, state In addition to the detection switch 39, the radio unit 40, the communication control unit 41, the audio input unit 42 and the audio output unit 43, a light emitting unit 201 and a detachable memory connector 203 are further included.

The light emitting unit 201 emits light based on a control signal given by the control unit 31. The light emitting unit 201 is a light for assisting imaging when the surroundings are dark. Hereinafter, the light emitting unit 201 may be referred to as a picture light. The light emitting unit 201 includes, for example, a light emitting diode (
Light Emitting Diode 1: abbreviated as LED).

  The detachable memory connector 203 is an interface for detachably attaching a detachable memory. The removable memory is realized by a nonvolatile recording medium such as a semiconductor memory. The semiconductor memory is, for example, a flash memory. The removable memory connector 203 is electrically connected to the control unit 31. The control unit 31 stores predetermined information including, for example, image data obtained by the imaging unit 18 in the removable memory attached to the removable memory connector 203 or reads predetermined information from the removable memory 18. The detachable memory inserted into the detachable memory mounting hole 202 described above is detachably attached to the detachable memory connector 203.

  For example, by storing captured images in the removable memory connected to the removable memory connector 203, the number of image data that can be saved is increased, and the image data via the removable memory is transferred to other devices. It can be easily moved, and convenience is improved.

  The control unit 31 includes a setting information storage unit 204 realized by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The setting information storage unit 204 stores information related to the settings of the portable information processing apparatus, such as information related to the imaging magnification, information related to the standby image, and information related to the location where the captured image is stored.

  17 to 22 are flowcharts showing operations related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100. The external display unit 16 is referred to as a sub LCD in FIGS. 17 and 21, and the internal display unit 15 is referred to as a main LCD in FIGS. 19 and 22. The operations shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 17 to 22 are executed based on a program stored in the control unit 31 in advance. The program is executed by a central processing unit.

  When the operator operates the shutter key 110 for a predetermined time in a standby state waiting for a telephone, an e-mail, or the like, specifically, for example, when the shutter key 110 is pressed for 2 seconds, steps a0 to step in the flowchart shown in FIG. Move to a1.

  In step a1, the control unit 31 shifts the portable information processing apparatus 100 to the camera mode, that is, the photographing state. That is, the control unit 31 activates the imaging unit 18, gives a control signal to the image processing unit 32 and the first memory 33, and starts imaging by the imaging unit 18. When the process of step a1 is completed, the process proceeds to step a2.

  In step a2, the controller 31 determines whether or not it is in the folded state based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39. If it is determined here that the state is the folded state, the process proceeds to step a <b> 3, and the control unit 31 displays the image obtained by the imaging unit 18 on the external display unit 16. Hereinafter, an image obtained by the imaging unit 18 may be referred to as a captured image.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the display screen 150 of the external display unit 16 in the camera mode. FIG. 23 shows the display screen 150 in the initial setting, that is, in the default state. The above-described rear keys 109a, 109b, and 109c are provided below the display screen 150 in FIG. A state display region 151 for displaying the state of the portable information processing device 100 is provided in an end region near the hinge portion 23 of the display screen 150. In the state display area 151, the state of the portable information processing apparatus 100 is represented by a predetermined image, symbol, and the like. A predetermined image and symbol representing the state of the portable information processing apparatus 100 may be described as a pictograph. The pictograph represents, for example, an imaging magnification or a place where a captured image is stored.

  In the lower area of the display screen 150, that is, the end area near the back key 109, an operation key explanation area 152 indicating the explanation of the left key 109b, the right key 109c, and the center key 109a of each back key 109 is displayed. In the operation key explanation area 152, characters “zoom down”, “zoom up”, and “menu” are displayed. The “zoom down” is displayed close to the left key 109b, the “zoom up” is displayed close to the right key 109c, and the “menu” is displayed close to the center key 109a. Thus, the corresponding character is displayed in the display area of the external display unit 16 adjacent to each key, so that the operator can operate a desired key while checking the character. In the present embodiment, a captured image display region 153 is provided in the region between the state display region 151 and the operation key explanation region 152, and the control unit 31 is provided in the captured image display region 153 by the imaging unit 18. The captured image is displayed. The captured image displayed in the captured image display area 153 is updated at predetermined intervals based on the image data provided from the imaging unit 18.

  In addition, an imaging magnification state display bar 154 indicating the imaging magnification state is displayed near the operation key explanation area 152 in the captured image display area 153. The imaging magnification state display bar 154 extends in parallel with the one side 112 of the rectangular display area described above, that is, in parallel with the horizontal direction in FIG. For example, one end 155 of the imaging magnification state display bar 154 is made to correspond to the minimum imaging magnification, and the other end 156 is made to correspond to the maximum imaging magnification, from one end or the other end to a portion corresponding to the current imaging magnification. As shown in FIG. 23, this area is displayed in a color different from other areas, for example. As a result, the operator can immediately grasp the current imaging magnification state.

  In step a3, in the camera mode, the control unit 31 displays the image captured by the image capturing unit 18 on the external display unit 16, and the left key 109b and the right key 109c are image capturing magnifications that are functions related to image capturing. Set the command input function to input the command to be changed.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a4, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the left key 109b for inputting a zoom-down command. If it is determined that the left key 109b has been operated, the process proceeds to step a5. If it is determined that the left key 109b has not been operated, the process proceeds to step a6.

  In step a <b> 5, the control unit 31 causes the external display unit 16 to zoom-down display a part of the entire captured image captured by the imaging unit 18. That is, the imaging magnification is reduced. In the portable information processing apparatus 100, each time the operator operates the left key 109b, the captured image can be zoomed down stepwise, and the operator can press and hold the left key 109b to hold the captured image. It is also possible to zoom down continuously. When the operator operates the left key 109b continuously for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds), the control unit 31 determines that the left key 109b has been pressed for a long time. However, the predetermined time is not limited to 2 seconds.

  When the process of step a5 ends, the process proceeds to step a6. In step a6, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the right key 109c corresponding to zooming up. If it is determined that the right key 109c has been operated, the process proceeds to step a7. If it is determined that the right key 109c has not been operated, the process proceeds to step a8.

  In step a <b> 7, the control unit 31 zooms up and displays a part of the entire captured image captured by the imaging unit 18 on the external display unit 16. That is, the imaging magnification is increased. In the portable information processing apparatus 100, each time the operator operates the right key 109c, the captured image can be zoomed in stepwise, and the operator can press and hold the right key 109c for a long time. It is also possible to zoom up continuously. When the operator operates the right key 109c for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds), the control unit 31 determines that the right key 109c has been pressed for a long time. However, the predetermined time is not limited to 2 seconds.

  When the process of step a7 is completed, the process proceeds to step a8. In step a8, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the center key 109a for displaying the menu on the external display unit 16. If it is determined that the center key 109a has been operated, the process proceeds to step a9. In step a9, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the center key 109a has been released. In other words, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the state in which the operator operates the center key 109a is released. If it is determined that the center key 109a is released, the process proceeds to step a10 (subroutine in FIG. 21). When the process of step a10 is completed, the process proceeds to step a1.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 31 determines in step a9 that the center key 109a is not opened, the process proceeds to step a11. The control unit 31 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, about 5 seconds) has elapsed in step a11. However, the predetermined time is not necessarily limited to 5 seconds. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step a9. If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step a12, and the portable information processing apparatus 100 enters a standby state for waiting for a telephone call, an e-mail, and the like.

  If the control unit 31 determines that the center key 109a is not operated in step a8, the process proceeds to step a13. In step a13, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the shutter key 110. If it is determined that the shutter key 110 is not operated, the process proceeds to step a2. Conversely, if it is determined that the shutter key 110 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a14.

  In step a14, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the shutter key 110 halfway. The half-press may be a state where the shutter key 110 is pressed by half of the amount that the operation piece moves, or a state where the shutter key 110 is pressed once. In the present embodiment, a state in which the shutter key 110 is pressed half the amount by which the operation piece moves is referred to as a half-press.

  If the control unit 31 determines in step a14 that the shutter key 110 has been operated halfway, the process proceeds to step a15. In step a15, the control unit 31 causes the external display unit 16 to display the focus-locked captured image.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the display screen 150 of the external display unit 16 after the focus is locked. When the focus is locked, an image obtained by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16. In the operation key explanation area 152 of the display screen 150, characters “zoom down” and “zoom up” are displayed. The “zoom down” is displayed near the left key 109b, and the “zoom up” is displayed near the right key 109c. The image displayed in the captured image display area 153 is an image displayed on the external display unit 16 when the shutter key 110 is pressed, and the image data given from the image capture unit 18 thereafter is the external display unit. 16 is not displayed.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a16, and the controller 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the left key 109b for inputting a zoom-down command. If it is determined that the left key 109b has been operated, the process proceeds to step a17. If it is determined that the left key 109b has not been operated, the process proceeds to step a18.

  In step a <b> 17, the control unit 31 zooms down and displays a part of the entire captured image displayed on the external display unit 16 on the external display unit 16. That is, the imaging magnification is reduced. In the portable information processing apparatus 100, each time the operator operates the left key 109b, the captured image can be zoomed down stepwise, and the operator can press and hold the left key 109b to hold the captured image. It is also possible to zoom down continuously. When the operator operates the left key 109b continuously for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds), the control unit 31 determines that the left key 109b has been pressed for a long time. However, the predetermined time is not limited to 2 seconds.

  When the process of step a17 ends, the process proceeds to step a18. In step a18, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the right key 109c for inputting a zoom-up command. If it is determined that the right key 109c has been operated, the process proceeds to step a19. If it is determined that the right key 109c has not been operated, the process proceeds to step a20.

  In step a <b> 19, the control unit 31 zooms up and displays a part of the entire captured image displayed on the external display unit 16 on the external display unit 16. That is, the imaging magnification is increased. In the portable information processing apparatus 100, each time the operator operates the right key 109c, the captured image can be zoomed in stepwise, and the operator can press and hold the right key 109c for a long time. It is also possible to zoom up continuously. When the operator operates the right key 109c for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds), the control unit 31 determines that the right key 109c has been pressed for a long time. However, the predetermined time is not limited to 2 seconds.

When the process of step a19 is completed, the process proceeds to step a20. In step a20, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the shutter key 110 by fully pressing it. The full press may be a state where the operation key of the shutter key 110 is fully pressed or a state where the shutter key 110 is pressed twice. In the present embodiment, the state where the operation piece of the shutter key 110 is fully depressed is assumed to be fully depressed.

  In step a20, when the control unit 31 determines that the shutter key 110 is fully pressed, the process proceeds to step a21. When the control unit 31 determines that the shutter key 110 is not fully pressed, the process proceeds to step a16. If the control unit 31 determines that the shutter key 110 is not half-pressed in step a14, the process proceeds to step a21.

  In step a <b> 21, the control unit 31 temporarily stores in the first memory 33 the image data obtained by the imaging unit 18 with a preset size. Information regarding the size of the image data is stored in advance in the setting information storage unit 204 of the control unit 31.

  As described above, in the camera mode, the imaging magnification can be easily changed only by operating the left key 109b or the right key 109c, so that the operability during imaging is improved. In addition, since the imaging magnification can be changed after the focus is locked, the imaging magnification can be easily changed even if the image is captured at a preset imaging magnification. Further improve.

  When the process of step a21 is completed, the process proceeds to step a22. In step a22, the control unit 31 causes the external display unit 16 to display the captured image temporarily stored in step a21.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a display screen 150 of the external display unit 16 on which a temporarily stored captured image is displayed. By the process of step a21, an image based on the temporarily stored image data is displayed on the display screen 150 of the external display unit 16. In the operation key explanation area 152 of the display screen, characters “mail transmission”, “save”, and “screen setting” are displayed. “Mail transmission” is displayed near the left key 109b, “save” is displayed near the center key 109a, and “screen setting” is displayed near the right key 109c.

  When the process of step a22 is completed, the process proceeds to step a23 shown in FIG. In step a23, based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the portable information processing device 100 is in the folded state. If it is determined that the portable information processing apparatus 100 is not in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a49 shown in FIG. If it is determined in step a23 that the portable information processing device 100 is in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a24. In step a24, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the right key 109c has been operated. In step a24, the right key 109c functions as a standby display screen registration key.

  If it is determined in step a24 that the right key 109c has been operated, the process proceeds to step a25, and the control unit 31 compresses the image data temporarily stored in step a21 described above by, for example, a predetermined compression method. In the present embodiment, for example, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is used as the compression method, and the temporarily stored image data is converted into JPEG data. In this step of converting to JPEG data, a compression rate is determined based on the image data size obtained by the imaging unit 18 and the transmission data size that can be transmitted by the communication unit 40, and the image data temporarily stored by the compression rate is converted to JPEG. It is synonymous with the step of converting to data.

  Next, the process proceeds to step a26, and the control unit 31 stores the JPEG data obtained by the process of step a25 in the second memory 34 or the removable memory, for example, based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 204. Save as. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a27, and after the standby display screen of the internal display unit 15, that is, the standby image is registered, the process proceeds to step a12 in FIG. In the folded state and in the standby state, the control unit 31 displays an image registered as a standby image captured on the external display unit 16. The control unit 31 includes a setting information storage unit 204 realized by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example, and stores information on an image registered as a standby image in the setting information storage unit 204. .

  If the control unit 31 determines in step a24 that the right key 109c has not been operated, the process proceeds to step a28. In step a28, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the left key 109b has been operated. In step a28, the left key 109b corresponds to a JPEG data storage key and a mail transmission key. If it is determined that the left key 109b has been operated, the process proceeds to step a29, and the control unit 31 converts the image data temporarily stored in step a21 into, for example, JPEG data. Next, the process proceeds to step a23, and the control unit 31 stores the JPEG data as a library in the second memory 34 or the removable memory, for example, based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 204. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a31, where the image data stored in the second memory 34 in step a23 is attached to the e-mail and transmitted to a predetermined notification destination, and the process proceeds to step a12 in the flowchart shown in FIG. . The predetermined notification destination is stored in the setting information storage unit 204. The operator can register a predetermined notification destination in the setting information storage unit 204 using the internal operation unit 14. As described above, the captured image can be transmitted to a predetermined notification destination by a simple operation such as operating the right key 109c, and the use range of the captured image can be expanded.

  In step a28, when the control unit 31 determines that the left key 109b is not operated, the process proceeds to step a32 and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the center key 109a is operated. In step a32, the center key 109a corresponds to a JPEG data storage key and a key for returning to the shooting state. If it is determined that the center key 109a is not operated, the process proceeds to step a23. If it is determined in step a32 that the center key 109a has been operated, the process proceeds to step a33. In step a33, the control unit 31 determines whether the center key 109a has been released. When the controller 31 determines that the operator has released the state of operating the center key 109a, the process proceeds to step a34.

  In step a34, the image data temporarily stored in step a21 is converted into, for example, JPEG data. Next, the process proceeds to step a35, and the control unit 31 stores the JPEG data obtained in step a34 as a library, for example, in the second memory 34 or the removable memory based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 204. To do. When the process of step a35 is completed, the process proceeds to step a1 of the flowchart shown in FIG.

  If the control unit 31 determines in step a33 that the center key 109a is not opened, the process proceeds to step a36. The control unit 31 determines whether or not the time predetermined in step a36 has elapsed. The predetermined time is, for example, about 5 seconds. However, the predetermined time is not necessarily limited to 5 seconds. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step a33. If it is determined in step a36 that a predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step a12 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step a2 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 17 that the portable information processing device 100 is not in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a37 in the flowchart shown in FIG. Here, the control unit 31 determines again whether or not the portable information processing device 100 is in the folded state. If it is determined in step a37 that it is in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a2 in the flowchart shown in FIG. In step a37, when the control unit 31 determines that the portable information processing device 100 is not in the folded state, that is, in the unfolded state, the process proceeds to step a38.

  In step a <b> 38, the control unit 31 displays the captured image on the internal display unit 15. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a39, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the left key 129 included in the operation key 14a that gives a zoom-down command. If it is determined that the left key 129 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a40, and the control unit 31 displays the captured image on the internal display unit 15 by zooming down, ie, reducing it.

  Next, the process proceeds to step a41, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the right key 130 that gives a zoom-up command. If it is determined that the right key 130 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a42, and the control unit 31 zooms up, that is, enlarges and displays the captured image on the internal display unit 15. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a43, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the camera key 134 (see FIG. 13) included in the operation key 14a. If the controller 31 determines that the camera key 134 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a44 (subroutine in FIG. 22).

  If the controller 31 determines that the camera key 134 is not operated in step a43, the process proceeds to step a45. In step a45, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the power key 135 included in the operation key 14a. If the control unit 31 determines that the power key 135 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a46. The process proceeds to step a46, and the portable information processing apparatus 100 enters a standby state for waiting for telephone calls, e-mails, and the like.

  When the control unit 31 determines that the power key 135 is not operated in step a45, the process proceeds to step a47. In step a47, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the F key 131 included in the operation key 14a. If the control unit 31 determines that the F key 131 is not operated, the process proceeds to step a37. On the other hand, when the control unit 31 determines that the F key 131 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a48.

  In step a <b> 48, the control unit 31 temporarily stores image data captured in a preset size in the first memory 33. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a49, and the control unit 31 displays the temporarily stored captured image on the internal display unit 15.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a50 shown in FIG. 20, and based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the portable information processing device 100 is in the folded state. If it is determined that the portable information processing device is in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a22 in the flowchart shown in FIG. When it is determined that the portable information processing device 100 is not in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a51. In step a51, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the camera key 134.

  If it is determined that the camera key 134 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a52, and the control unit 31 converts the image data temporarily stored in step a48 into, for example, JPEG data. Next, the process proceeds to step a53, and the control unit 31 stores the JPEG data obtained in step a52 as a library in the second memory 34 or the removable memory, for example, based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 204. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a54, and after registering a standby display screen of the external display unit 16, that is, a standby image, the process proceeds to step a46 of the flowchart shown in FIG. In the unfolded state and in the standby state, the control unit 31 displays an image registered as a standby image captured on the internal display unit 15. Information of an image registered as a standby image is stored in the setting information storage unit 204.

  If the control unit 31 determines in step a51 that the camera key 134 has not been operated, the process proceeds to step a55. In step a55, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the mail key 133 included in the key operation unit 14a. The mail key 133 corresponds to a JPEG data storage key and a mail transmission transfer key. If it is determined in step a48 that the mail key 133 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a56, and the control unit 31 converts the image data temporarily stored in step a48 into, for example, JPEG data. Next, the process proceeds to step a57, and the control unit 31 stores the JPEG data obtained in step a56 as a library in the second memory 34 or the removable memory, for example, based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 204. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a58, the e-mail attached with the image data stored in step a57 is transmitted to a predetermined notification destination, and the process proceeds to step a1 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In step a55, when the control unit 31 determines that the mail key 133 is not operated, the process proceeds to step a59, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the F key 131. The F key 131 corresponds to a JPEG data storage key and a key for moving to a shooting state. If it is determined that the F key 131 is not operated, the process proceeds to step a50. If it is determined in step a59 that the F key 131 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a60. In step a60, the image data temporarily stored in step a48 is converted into, for example, JPEG data. Next, the process proceeds to step a61, and the control unit 31 stores the JPEG data obtained in step a60 as a library in the second memory 34 or the removable memory, for example, based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 204. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a1 of the flowchart shown in FIG.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a sub-routine of the shooting submenu in step a10 of FIG. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 19, when a transition is made from the step a9 to the shooting submenu of the step a10, the routine proceeds from the step a70 to the step a71. In step a <b> 71, the control unit 31 displays the sub menu 301 on the external display unit 16.

  26 and 27 are diagrams showing the display screen 150 of the external display unit 16 on which the sub menu 301 is displayed. The sub menu 301 is displayed in the captured image display area 153 of the display screen 150. The submenu 301 includes a plurality of items, and the items are function display buttons for setting a desired function from among a plurality of functions related to imaging. The plurality of items are displayed side by side in order in the vertical direction of the display screen in the default state, in other words, in the direction from the hinge portion 23 toward the free end portion 24 of the first movable portion 12.

  In the key operation explanation area 152, characters “upper”, “lower” and “decision” are displayed. The “up” is displayed in proximity to the left key 109b, the “down” is displayed in proximity to the right key 109c, and the “decision” is displayed in proximity to the center key 109a. Thus, the corresponding character is displayed in the display area of the external display unit 16 adjacent to each key, so that the operator can operate a desired key while checking the character.

  Next, the process proceeds to step a72, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the folding state is established based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39. If it is determined that it is not in the folded state, the process proceeds to the shooting main menu in step a44 of the flowchart shown in FIG. If it is determined in step a72 that the portable information processing device 100 is in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a73, and the control unit 31 selects a desired item from the plurality of items. Any one of the plurality of items is displayed separately from other items by the cursor 157, for example. As a result, the operator can grasp the item to be selected from among the plurality of items.

  When the left key 109b or the right key 109c is operated, the control unit 31 moves the cursor 157 in response to the command information input by the operation of the left key 109b or the right key 109c. As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, in the present embodiment, not all of the plurality of items of the submenu 301 can be displayed on the display screen 150 at one time, but by moving the cursor 157, for example, FIG. Items that are not displayed on the display screen 150 can be displayed on the display screen 150 shown in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, the plurality of items are (1) finder direction switching, (2) shooting mode switching, (3) continuous shooting, (4) self-timer, (5) picture light setting, (6) memory switching, (7) Pictogram display switching, (8) Button operation list, and (9) Shooting end.

  “(1) Finder direction switching” is an item for setting the display on the display unit by switching between the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. The display on the display unit is set in the vertical direction in a default state, for example. When the display on the display unit is set in the vertical direction, the vertical direction of characters and the like displayed on the external display unit 16 when the hinge 23 is on the top and the free end 24 of the first movable unit 12 is on the bottom. Coincides with the vertical direction. When the display on the display unit is set in the horizontal direction, the vertical direction of characters and the like displayed on the external display unit 16 when the one side surface portion of the first movable portion 12 is on the top and the other side surface portion is on the bottom is Match the vertical direction.

“(2) Shooting mode switching” is an item for switching and setting whether to shoot a still image or a moving image. When the shooting mode is set to a moving image, for example, a moving image of a predetermined time can be shot by operating the shutter button 110 or the camera key 134. In the case of shooting a moving image, the control unit 31 uses, for example, MPEG.
The image data obtained by the imaging unit 18 is compressed by (Moving Picture Coding Experts Group) and stored as a library in the second memory 34 or the removable memory, for example.

  “(3) Continuous shooting” is an item for switching and setting the continuous number of images picked up by operating the shutter button 110. For example, when continuous shooting is set, a plurality of predetermined images can be taken by operating the shutter button 110 once. The predetermined number of continuous images to be taken is, for example, 6 in the case of default.

  “(4) Self-timer” is an item for switching and setting the switching state of the self-timer. For example, when the switching state of the self-timer is turned on, the shutter key 110 is automatically operated after a predetermined time after setting.

  “(5) Picture light setting” is an item for switching and setting whether or not the light emitting unit 201 emits light.

  “(6) Memory switching” is a removable memory in which image data captured by the imaging unit 18 is detachably attached to the second memory 34 that is a built-in memory of the portable information processing apparatus 100 and the removable memory connector 203. It is an item for setting which is stored.

  “(7) Pictogram display switching” is an item for setting whether or not to display a pictogram representing the state of the portable information processing apparatus 100.

  “(8) Button operation list” is an item for selecting a setting as to whether or not to display information related to the description of the operation of the back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c.

“(9) Shooting end” is an item for selecting the end of shooting by the imaging unit 18.
Next, the process proceeds to step a74, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the center key 109a corresponding to the determination key. If the control unit 31 determines that the center key 109a is not operated, the process proceeds to step a72. When the control unit 31 determines that the center key 109a has been operated, the process proceeds to step a75. Here, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the center key 109a has been released. If the control unit 31 determines that the center key 109a is released in step a75, the process proceeds to step a76.

  In step a76, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the item “(9) End of photographing” is selected in step a73. In step a76, when the control unit 31 determines that “(9) photographing end” is selected, the process proceeds to step a12 of the flowchart shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the control unit 31 determines in step a76 that “(9) photographing end” has not been selected, the process proceeds to step a77, and the setting is changed for the item selected in step a76. As described above, the control unit 31 has the setting information storage unit 204 realized by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, and stores the set information in the setting information storage unit 204 in step a77. . Thus, since the set information is stored, it is not necessary to change the set information for each shooting, and convenience is improved.

  If “(1) Finder direction switching” is selected in step a73, in step a77, if the display on the display unit is in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction is set, and if the display on the display unit is in the horizontal direction. For example, the vertical direction is set.

  FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating the display screen 150 of the external display unit 16 in which the display state setting is changed. For example, when the display state setting is changed in step a77, the display state shown in FIG. 26 is changed to the display state shown in FIG. The display state is maintained even in the camera mode. Accordingly, since the display state can be changed, the degree of freedom in imaging is further improved.

  If “(2) Shooting mode switching” is selected in step a73, in step a77, if the shooting mode is a still image, the shooting mode is set to a moving image. If the shooting mode is a moving image, shooting is performed. Set the mode to still image.

  If “(3) continuous shooting” is selected in step a73, in step a77, if the number of continuous shots is 1, the number of continuous shots is set to a predetermined number, and the number of continuous shots is set in advance. If the number is a predetermined number, the continuous shooting number is set to one.

  If “(4) self-timer” is selected in step a73, in step a77, if the self-timer switching state is ON, this switching state is turned OFF, and the self-timer switching state is OFF. If this is the case, this switching state is set to ON.

  In step a74, when “(5) Picture light setting” is selected, in step a77, when the switching state of the light emitting unit 201 is ON, this switching state is turned OFF, and the switching state of the light emitting unit 201 is changed. If it is OFF, this switching state is set to ON. Thus, the light emitting unit 201 can be turned on or off.

  In step a74, when “(6) Memory switching” is selected, in step a77, the image data captured by the imaging unit 18 is set to be stored in the second memory 34. When the image data is set to be stored in the removable memory and the image data captured by the imaging unit 18 is set to be stored in the removable memory, the image data is stored in the second memory 34. Set.

  When “(7) Pictogram display switching” is selected at step a74, when pictogram is displayed at step a77, setting is made so that this pictogram is not displayed, and pictogram is not displayed. , Set to display this pictograph.

  If “(8) Button operation list” is selected in step a74, in step a77, if the information about the button operation is not displayed, the information about the button operation is displayed.

  When the process of step a77 is completed, the process proceeds to step a78, the subroutine is terminated, and the process proceeds to step a1 in the flowchart shown in FIG. If the control unit 31 determines that the center key 109a is not released in step a75, the process proceeds to step a79. Here, the controller 31 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, about 5 seconds) has passed. When the control unit 31 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step a75. In step a79, if the control unit 31 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step a78, the subroutine is terminated, and the process proceeds to step a1 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the shooting main menu. When the shooting main menu at step a44 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 19 is entered, the process moves from step a80 to step a81 shown in FIG. In step a81, the control unit 31 causes the internal display unit 15 to display the main menu. The main menu is the same as the submenu 301 described above.

  Next, the process proceeds to step a <b> 82, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not it is in the folded state based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39. If it is determined that it is in the folded state, the process proceeds to the shooting submenu at step a10 in the flowchart shown in FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined in step a82 that the portable information processing device 100 is not in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a83, and a plurality of items included in the main menu are based on the command information input by the internal operation unit 14. The desired item is selected.

  The plurality of items displayed on the internal display unit 15 include, for example, (1) finder direction switching, (2) photographing mode switching, and (3), similar to the items displayed on the external display unit 16 described above. There are continuous shooting, (4) self-timer, (5) picture light setting, (6) memory switching, (7) pictogram display switching, (8) button operation list, and (9) shooting end.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a84, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the clear key 136 included in the operation key 14a. When the control unit 31 determines that the clear key 136 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 17, and the control unit 31 puts the portable information processing apparatus 100 into the camera mode, that is, the photographing state. If the control unit 31 determines that the clear key 136 is not operated in step a84, the process proceeds to step a85. The controller 31 determines whether or not the F key 131 has been operated in step a85.

  In step a85, when the control unit 31 determines that the F key 131 is not operated, the process proceeds to step a82, and when the control unit 31 determines that the F key 131 is operated, the process proceeds to step a86. In step a86, the control unit 31 determines whether or not “(9) photographing end” is selected in the selection of the item in step a83. In step a86, when the control unit 31 determines that “(9) photographing end” is selected, the process proceeds to step a97, and the process proceeds to step a46 in the flowchart illustrated in FIG.

  If the control unit 31 determines in step a86 that “(9) photographing end” has not been selected, the process proceeds to step a87. In step a87, the control unit 31 determines whether there is a lower menu. The lower menu includes a plurality of items for setting in detail functions corresponding to the items of the main menu.

  When the control unit 31 determines that there is no lower menu in step a87, the process proceeds to step a88, and the setting of the function corresponding to the item selected in step a83 is changed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a1 of the flowchart shown in FIG.

  When the control unit 31 determines that there is a lower menu in step a87 described above, the process proceeds to step a91 and the lower side menu is displayed on the internal display unit 15. The control unit 31 displays a selection display button for setting function details as a lower menu. For example, in the submenu of “(3) continuous shooting”, the number of continuous shots is displayed, that is, a function display button corresponding to the number of continuously shot images such as 2, 9, 25, etc. is displayed. . Further, for example, in the lower menu of “(4) Self-timer”, the time of the timer is displayed, that is, a function display button corresponding to the time of the timer such as 5 seconds, 10 seconds and 15 seconds is displayed.

  Next, the process proceeds to step a92, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the state detection switch 39 is in the folded state based on the switching state of the state detection switch 39. If it is determined that it is in the folded state, the process proceeds to the shooting submenu in step a10 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined in step a92 that the portable information processing apparatus 100 is not in the folded state, the process proceeds to step a93, and a desired one of the plurality of items is selected based on the command information input by the external operation unit 17. Select an item.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a94, and the control unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has operated the clear key 136 included in the operation key 14a. When the control unit 31 determines that the clear key 136 has been operated, the process proceeds to step a81. On the other hand, when the control unit 31 determines that the clear key 136 is not operated in step a94, the process proceeds to step a95. The controller 31 determines whether or not the F key 131 has been operated in step a95.

  In step a95, if the control unit 31 determines that the F key 131 is not operated, the process proceeds to step a92. If the control unit 31 determines that the F key 131 is operated, the process proceeds to step a96. In step a96, the function setting corresponding to the item selected in step a93 is changed. As described above, the control unit 31 can change more detailed setting of the function set by the function selection button displayed on the external display unit 16 by the function display button displayed on the internal display unit 15. The changed setting information is stored in the setting information storage unit 204. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step a97, and the process proceeds to step a1 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Table 1 shows a state in which an image captured by the imaging unit 18 in the camera mode shown in the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 17 to 22 is displayed on the external display unit 16, and the submenu 301 is displayed on the external display unit. 16 corresponding to each operation key of the external side operation unit 17 in the state displayed on the display unit 16 and the preview display after shooting, that is, in the state where the temporarily stored image is displayed on the external side display unit 16 The commands to be executed are shown together.

  For example, when the left key 109b is operated in the camera mode, a zoom-down command can be given to the control unit 31.

  According to the portable information processing apparatus 100 described above, at least a part of the entire captured image is selected by the key operation unit 19. In this way, it is possible to easily select a part of the entire captured image desired by the operator, and the degree of freedom in imaging is improved. Further, according to the portable information processing apparatus 100, the external side operation unit 17 includes the back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c that are operation pieces, and the back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c are used to store images. The standby display command for setting the captured image as the standby display screen can be performed substantially simultaneously. As described above, since it is not necessary to perform the storage command and the standby display command independently by the respective rear keys 109a, 109b, and 109c, the setting of the standby display screen itself can be further simplified.

  According to the present embodiment, the three back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c are arranged at appropriate intervals, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to this form. One of the three back keys 109a, 109b, 109c is disposed close to one side of the rectangular display area, and another one of the back keys is close to one side adjacent to the one side. Arrange. Furthermore, the remaining back keys can be arranged close to the other side adjacent to one side of the rectangular display area. By increasing the distance between the back keys 109a, 109b, and 109c in this way, it is possible to prevent another back key from being operated undesirably. In yet another embodiment of the present embodiment, the lower menu item may include a lower menu.

  In the present embodiment, the function setting operation buttons formed by hardware such as the internal operation unit 14 and the external operation unit 17 are used to display the software on the internal display unit 15 and the external display unit 16. The number of function setting operation buttons can be reduced by selecting the function display buttons formed by and setting functions corresponding to the function display buttons. Therefore, the hardware configuration of the apparatus can be simplified, the number of parts can be reduced, and the apparatus can be easily assembled.

  The control unit 31 described above causes the external display unit 16 to display items in a state where the settable functions are limited as compared to the items displayed on the internal display unit 15. That is, when a detailed setting is performed, a plurality of function display buttons displayed on the internal display unit 15 are set. When a simple setting is performed, a plurality of function display buttons displayed on the external display unit 16 is set. Can be set.

  Therefore, when detailed settings are not performed, the settings can be performed in the folded state, and it is not necessary to change from the folded state to the unfolded state in order to set the shooting-related functions. Therefore, the operation procedure can be simplified. In addition, the setting time can be shortened. Since the setting is performed using the external display unit 16 having a smaller display surface than the internal display unit 15, the power consumption of the portable information processing apparatus 100 can be reduced as much as possible. Therefore, the portable processing apparatus 100 can be driven for a longer time by a power source such as a rechargeable battery that supplies power to each unit of the portable information processing apparatus 100. Further, the control unit 31 may limit the number of function display buttons to be displayed on the external display unit 16 as compared with the items to be displayed on the internal display unit 15.

  In the present embodiment, the operation key explanation area 152 is provided on the display screen 150 as shown in FIG. 23. However, in another embodiment of the present invention, the operation key explanation area 152 is not provided. Good. In this case, the range of the captured image display area 153 can be increased, and the operator can easily confirm the captured image.

In the present embodiment, image data is converted into JPEG data, but is not necessarily limited to JPEG data. For example, PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
) Data may be converted. In addition, various partial changes may be made to the embodiment without departing from the scope of the claims.

  Furthermore, in each embodiment of the present invention, a mobile phone device has been described as a portable information processing device. However, in another embodiment of the present invention, a portable information processing device is, for example, a laptop personal computer, An information portable terminal (Personal Digital Assistant; abbreviated PDA) may be used.

The following embodiments are possible for the present invention.
(1) having a state detection unit for detecting the folded state and the unfolded state of the first and second movable parts, and activating the internal operation unit when the first and second movable parts are in the unfolded state; A portable information processing apparatus that disables the side operation unit, disables the internal side operation unit, and activates the external side operation unit when the first and second movable units are in the folded state. .

  When the first and second movable parts are in the unfolded state, the internal operation unit is activated and the external operation unit is disabled, and when the first and second movable parts are in the folded state, Since the internal operation unit is disabled and the external operation unit is activated, predetermined information for selecting which operation unit to perform input from the internal operation unit and the external operation unit is provided on the external side Even if there is no input from the operation unit or the external operation unit, the first and second movable units can be angularly displaced from each other, so that they can be folded or unfolded, and either from the internal operation unit or the external operation unit. It is possible to easily select whether to input.

  In order to input predetermined information from the internal operation unit, when the first and second movable units are in the unfolded state, only the input by the internal operation unit is valid, so the external operation unit is undesirably changed to another Even if it comes into contact with an object, an input operation is not performed, and a malfunction can be prevented. Further, when the first and second movable parts are in the folded state in order to input predetermined information from the external side operation unit, only the input by the external side operation unit is valid, and there is no need to perform an operation for selecting the operation unit. Predetermined information can be input from the external operation unit.

  By simply angularly displacing the first and second movable parts and setting them in a folded state or an unfolded state, it is possible to easily select which of the internal operation unit and the external operation unit is used for input. Therefore, it is not necessary to operate the internal operation unit or the external operation unit in order to select the operation unit, and the operability is further improved.

  When the first and second movable parts are in the unfolded state, only the input by the internal operation unit is valid. Therefore, when the first and second movable parts are in the folded state, only the input by the external operation unit is valid. Therefore, even when an operator's finger or the like undesirably touches the other operation unit when the operation is performed by one operation unit, this operation becomes invalid and an erroneous operation can be prevented.

  (2) An operation in which at least one of the internal operation unit and the external operation unit activates either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit and disables the other A portable information processing apparatus having a switching unit.

  The operation switching unit included in at least one of the internal operation unit and the external operation unit activates one of the internal operation unit and the external operation unit and disables the other. Therefore, it is possible to easily select an operation unit for inputting predetermined information, and by activating only one of the internal operation unit and the external operation unit, the internal operation unit and the external operation unit are activated. It is possible to prevent the other of the side operation units from coming into contact with another object and malfunctioning.

  An operation unit for inputting predetermined information can be easily selected, and by activating only one of the internal operation unit and the external operation unit, the internal operation unit and the external operation unit can be activated. It can be prevented that either one of them contacts another object and malfunctions.

(3) The state detection unit
An individual contact portion formed in a state in which one individual contact formed in a comb-like shape and the other individual contact are meshed with each other at an interval in the surface direction of the substrate;
A common contact portion for electrically connecting the individual contacts to each other in a folded state in which the first and second movable portions are opposed to each other, or in a developed state in which a region facing in the folded state is exposed to the outside. A portable information processing apparatus.

  In the folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other or in the unfolded state in which the region facing in the folded state is exposed to the outside, one individual contact formed in a comb shape and the other individual contact are A common contact portion that is electrically connected to each individual contact is connected to the individual contact formed in a state of being meshed with each other in the plane direction of the substrate. It is possible to easily detect whether the first and second movable parts are in the folded state or in the unfolded state.

  Since the common contact portion is connected to the plurality of tongue-shaped portions of the one and the other comb-shaped individual contacts, even if some of the tongue-shaped portions do not contact the common contact, other tongue shapes The contact state with the common contact portion is maintained, and one and the other individual contact can be reliably connected. Even in an incomplete contact state, the folded state of the first and second movable portions and The deployed state can be reliably detected.

  It is detected whether the first and second movable parts are in the folded state or in the unfolded state depending on the open / closed state of the contact. As described above, since the folded state and the unfolded state are detected by the physical contact point, the state detection unit can be manufactured with a simple configuration, and highly reliable detection can be performed.

  Since the common contact portion is connected to the plurality of tongue-like portions of the one and the other comb-like individual contacts, the folded state and the unfolding of the first and second movable portions even in an incomplete contact state Since the state can be reliably detected, malfunction of the apparatus can be prevented.

It is the perspective view which looked at the portable information processing apparatus 11 of one Embodiment of this invention from the one side. It is the perspective view which looked at portable information processor 11 from the other side. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a portable information processing apparatus 11. FIG. 4A and 4B are sectional views showing the state detection switch 39. FIG. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the individual contact portion 44 of the state detection switch 39. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating display contents when an image captured by the imaging unit 18 is displayed on the external display unit 16. It is a figure which shows the function menu screen 68 displayed on the external side display part 16. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing operation of the control unit 31 when imaging is performed by the imaging unit 18. It is a perspective view of the portable information processing apparatus 71 of the further another form of implementation of this invention. It is a perspective view of the portable information processing apparatus 81 of the further another form of implementation of this invention. It is a figure showing the relationship between the external side display part 16 of the portable information processing apparatus 100 of further another form of implementation of this invention, and the back key of the external side operation part 17. FIG. It is a figure showing one surface part containing the image pick-up part 18 of the portable information processing apparatus 100 of a folded state. It is the figure which looked at the portable information processor 100 of the unfolded state from the thickness direction one side. 1 is a side view of a portable information processing apparatus 100 in a folded state. 4 is another side view of the portable information processing telephone device 100 in a folded state. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a portable information terminal device 100. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100.

4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to imaging of the portable information processing apparatus 100. It is a figure which shows the display screen 150 of the external side display part 16 in camera mode. It is a figure which shows the display screen 150 of the external side display part 16 after carrying out focus lock. It is a figure which shows the display screen 150 of the external side display part 16 on which the captured image temporarily stored was displayed. It is a figure which shows the display screen 150 of the external side display part 16 on which the submenu 301 was displayed. It is a figure which shows the display screen 150 of the external side display part 16 on which the submenu 301 was displayed. It is a figure which shows the display screen 150 of the external side display part 16 by which the display state was switched. It is the perspective view which looked at the mobile telephone apparatus 1 which is a portable information processing apparatus of a prior art from the one side. It is the perspective view which looked at the mobile telephone apparatus 1 from the other side.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11, 71, 81,100 Portable information processing apparatus 12 1st movable part 13 2nd movable part 14 Internal side operation part 15 Internal side display part 16 External side display part 17, 72 External side operation part 18 Imaging part 31 Control part 39 State detection switch 204 Setting information storage unit

Claims (6)

First and second movable parts connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable over a folded state opposed to each other and a developed state in which a region facing the folded state is exposed to the outside,
An internal operation unit that is provided in a region facing the first movable part of the second movable part in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, and inputs predetermined information;
In a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, provided in a region facing the second movable part of the first movable part, in response to predetermined information input by the internal operation unit An internal display for displaying predetermined display contents;
An external display for displaying predetermined display contents provided in a region exposed to at least one of the first and second movable parts in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other. And
In the folded state with the first and second movable parts facing each other, it is provided in the remaining area of the first and second movable parts that are exposed to the outside except for the area behind the external display section. And an external operation unit for inputting predetermined information relating to predetermined display contents displayed on the external display unit,
The area exposed to the outside is provided facing the same side as the side on which the display surface of the external display unit faces, and the predetermined information input by either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit An imaging unit for imaging in response is provided,
The image captured by the imaging unit is an internal display unit and an external display unit corresponding to one of an internal operation unit and an external operation unit that input predetermined information to be captured by the image capture unit. A portable information processing device, characterized in that it is displayed on one of them. First and second movable parts connected to each other so as to be angularly displaceable over a folded state opposed to each other and a developed state in which a region facing the folded state is exposed to the outside,
An internal operation unit that is provided in a region facing the first movable part of the second movable part in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, and inputs predetermined information;
In a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other, provided in a region facing the second movable part of the first movable part, in response to predetermined information input by the internal operation unit An internal display for displaying predetermined display contents;
An external display for displaying predetermined display contents provided in a region exposed to at least one of the first and second movable parts in a folded state in which the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other. And
In the folded state with the first and second movable parts facing each other, it is provided in the remaining area of the first and second movable parts that are exposed to the outside except for the area behind the external display section. And an external operation unit for inputting predetermined information relating to predetermined display contents displayed on the external display unit,
An imaging unit provided facing the outside in the area exposed to the outside;
In response to predetermined information input by either the internal operation unit or the external operation unit, the image capturing unit captures an image, and an image captured by the image capturing unit is input to the predetermined information. A portable information processing apparatus, comprising: a control unit configured to display on any one of the internal display unit and the external display unit corresponding to any one of the display unit and the external operation unit.   The control unit sets the external operation unit to a command input function capable of inputting a command related to imaging in a state where an image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the external display unit. The portable information processing apparatus according to claim 2. The control unit displays a plurality of function display buttons for setting a desired function from among a plurality of functions related to imaging on either the internal display unit or the external display unit,
4. The portable information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a plurality of function setting operation buttons corresponding to the plurality of function display buttons are provided on the internal operation unit and the external operation unit, respectively.   The control unit displays a function setting display button on the external display unit in a state where functions that can be set are limited as compared to the plurality of function display buttons displayed on the internal display unit. The portable information processing apparatus according to claim 4.   6. The portable information processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a setting information storage unit that stores information set by the function setting operation button.