JP2008042355A - Portable type electronic apparatus and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve sure execution such as an alarm function and a power-saving operation. <P>SOLUTION: A power-saving mode setting section 110 discriminates whether the execution of the alarm function is set, and sets a power-saving level limiting no practice of the alarm function when the execution of the alarm function is set. A power-saving level selector 140 selects either of a level A limiting a specified function containing the alarm function, or the level B capable of operating the alarm function from the limitation of the level A at the level of a set power-saving mode, on the basis of a comparison among the detecting value of a battery residue and three thresholds by a battery-residue discriminating section 120. When the battery residue is lowered up to the level incapable of executing the alarm function under the state in which the level B is selected, the power-saving level selector 140 changes the power-saving level from the level B to the level A. An information processor 170 outputs an information indicating the change of the power-saving level, and informs a user of the information in this case. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a portable electronic device and a program, and more particularly to a portable electronic device and a program suitable for power saving operation.

  In mobile communication terminals such as mobile phones, various functions other than a call function, which is a basic function, have been added and the number of functions has been increasing. Such portable electronic devices are driven by a battery, but the battery consumption rate tends to increase due to multifunctionalization.

In view of such circumstances, the basic function is to inform the battery consumption due to the use other than the call function by setting and monitoring the minimum operating voltage value necessary for the operation of the call function and a voltage value different from that. A method for ensuring the minimum operating voltage required for the call function has been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2001-268183 A

  In mobile communication terminals, it is important to ensure that the basic call function is operated, but the usage of mobile communication terminals has been diversified due to recent multi-functionalization, and functions other than the call function are also available. May be considered important. In particular, in mobile communication terminals that are closer to the user than other devices, the alarm function is often used on a daily basis.For example, the alarm function of the mobile communication terminal is used when waking up. There are many users.

  In such a usage pattern, it is inconvenient for the user that the alarm function does not operate due to a decrease in the remaining battery level. However, since the conventional method of Patent Document 1 provides notification so that the operating voltage necessary for the call operation can be ensured, there may be cases where the battery remaining amount necessary for operating the alarm function or the like cannot be ensured.

  In addition, some electronic devices have a so-called power saving mode that limits the function to be operated and extends the battery usable time as much as possible when the remaining battery level drops to a predetermined level. In the case of a function that operates based on the above, since the relationship between the time until the operation and the remaining battery capacity are not constant, the conventional uniform power-saving mode operation cannot reliably execute the function desired by the user. There was a case.

  In addition, when automatically switching to the power saving mode in response to a decrease in the remaining battery level, the user may be in the power saving mode without realizing it, and the user will recognize that the scheduled function is not executed. There was also the inconvenience that it was not possible.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a portable electronic device and a program that reliably operate a scheduled operation.

In order to achieve the above object, a portable electronic device according to the first aspect of the present invention provides:
Executes the remaining battery level detection means for detecting the remaining battery level, the power saving mode setting means for setting the power saving mode for limiting the function to be operated according to the decrease in the remaining battery level, and the specific function that operates based on the schedule. In a portable electronic device provided with a specific function executing means,
Specific function determining means for determining whether or not execution of the specific function is set;
When execution of the specific function is set, a power saving level selection unit that selects a level of the set power saving mode based on a comparison between the detected remaining battery level and a plurality of threshold values;
A change notification means for outputting information indicating that the power saving level is changed when the power saving level is changed by the selection operation of the power saving level selecting means;
It is characterized by that.

The portable electronic device is
A first threshold value indicating a remaining battery level serving as a trigger for transition to the first power saving level; a second threshold value obtained by adding an amount of power necessary for the operation of the specific function to the first threshold value; and It is desirable to further comprise storage means for storing a third threshold value that is higher than the second threshold value.
The power saving level selection unit compares the remaining battery level detected by the remaining battery level detection unit with the first threshold value, the second threshold value, and the third threshold value stored in the storage unit. Thus, either the first power saving level that restricts a predetermined function including the specific function or the second power saving level that enables the specific function among the restrictions of the first power saving level. It is desirable to select.

In the portable electronic device,
The specific function may be an alarm function.

In the portable electronic device,
The specific function executing means may execute an alarm operation different from a normal alarm operation when an alarm operation by the alarm function is executed in a state where the second power saving level is selected.

In the portable electronic device,
It is desirable that the remaining battery level detection means detect the remaining battery level after the specific function is executed by the specific function execution means.

  The portable electronic device can be a mobile communication terminal.

In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the second aspect of the present invention is:
To the computer that controls the portable electronic device that can set the power saving mode,
A function to set a power saving mode that restricts the function to be operated in response to a decrease in the remaining battery power,
A function for determining whether or not execution of a specific function that operates based on a schedule is set, and
When the execution of the specific function is set, the first power-saving mode level is limited to a predetermined function including the specific function based on a comparison between the remaining battery level and a plurality of threshold values. A function to select either a power saving level or a second power saving level that allows the specific function to operate from the restriction of the first level;
When the power saving level is changed, a function for outputting information indicating that the power saving level has been changed,
It is characterized by realizing.

  According to the present invention, the level according to the presence / absence of restriction of the specific function that operates based on the schedule such as the alarm function is changed according to the remaining battery level, and the user is notified when the level is changed. Functions that operate can be executed more reliably.

(Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a case where the portable electronic device according to the present invention is configured by a mobile communication terminal will be described. The mobile communication terminal 1 according to the present embodiment is a mobile communication terminal device (telephone) such as a mobile phone or a PHS (Personal Handyphone System), and in this embodiment, an arbitrarily set date and time, etc. A function that operates based on the schedule (for example, an alarm function, etc., hereinafter referred to as a “specific function”) can be set, and a power saving mode that restricts a function that operates according to a decrease in the remaining battery level can be set. Shall.

  The configuration of such a mobile communication terminal 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a mobile communication terminal 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the mobile communication terminal 1 according to the present embodiment includes a communication function unit 10, a voice processing unit 20, an operation unit 30, a display unit 40, an alarm operation unit 50, a remaining battery level detection unit 60, a battery 70, The storage unit 80, the control unit 100, and the like are included.

  The communication function unit 10 performs an operation related to a communication function which is a basic function of the mobile communication terminal 1. For example, communication using a communication method such as a CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) method is used. A wireless communication is performed with a nearby base station by performing wireless transmission / reception by the antenna 11 that is configured by a device and is compatible with the communication method.

  The voice processing unit 20 includes, for example, a codec circuit that processes voice data, and performs voice processing related to voice calls. That is, the voice data received by the communication function unit 10 is converted into an analog signal and output from the speaker 21, and the transmission voice input from the microphone 22 is converted into digital data and provided to the communication function unit 10.

  The operation unit 30 includes, for example, a cross cursor key, a character key (numeric keypad) for inputting numbers and characters, a function key for designating various functions, and the like, and is operated by the user of the mobile communication terminal 1. Operated. The operation unit 30 generates an input signal corresponding to the operation of these keys and inputs the input signal to the control unit 100.

  The display unit 40 is a display output device configured from, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays and outputs images and the like under the control of the control unit 100.

  The alarm operation unit 50 includes, for example, an audio output device that outputs an alarm sound, a vibrator mechanism, and the like. Under the control of the control unit 100, an alarm sound is output from the speaker 51 according to a set schedule, or a mobile communication terminal The alarm function of the mobile communication terminal 1 is realized by vibrating 1.

  The remaining battery level detection unit 60 detects the remaining battery level of the battery 70 that supplies the operating power of the mobile communication terminal 1 and inputs it to the control unit 100. The remaining battery level detection unit 60 detects the remaining battery level by a known method. For example, the remaining battery level detection unit 60 detects the remaining battery level of the battery 70 based on the voltage value or current value of the battery 70. In addition, the battery 70 shall be rechargeable batteries, such as a lithium ion battery, for example.

  The storage unit 80 is composed of a storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk device, for example, and stores various data and programs necessary for the operation of the mobile communication terminal 1. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, setting information (specific function setting information) related to a specific function (alarm function), setting information related to a power saving mode (power saving mode setting information), and an operation program executed by the control unit 100 (Program) and the like are stored in the storage unit 80.

  The control unit 100 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like, and controls the operation of each unit of the mobile communication terminal 1. In the present embodiment, the control unit 100 executes the operation program stored in the storage unit 80, thereby realizing each process described below. The RAM configured in the control unit 100 functions as a work memory when the CPU executes processing.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 100 executes a program to perform control when operating the mobile communication terminal 1 in the power saving mode. In this case, the control unit 100 functions as each configuration as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. That is, the control unit 100 includes a power saving mode setting unit 110, a remaining battery level determination unit 120, a specific function setting unit 130, a power saving level selection unit 140, a restriction execution unit 150, a specific function execution unit 160, as illustrated. It functions as the notification processing unit 170 and the like.

  The power saving mode setting unit 110 sets a power saving mode that can be set by the mobile communication terminal 1. In the present embodiment, the power saving mode is set based on the setting operation by the user, and the power saving mode is automatically set based on the setting state of the specific function.

  The remaining battery level determination unit 120 controls the remaining battery level detection unit 60 to detect the remaining battery level of the battery 70 at a predetermined timing. Then, the detection value of the battery remaining amount detection unit 60 is compared with a plurality of threshold values to determine the remaining amount level of the battery 70.

  The specific function setting unit 130 sets a specific function (here, an alarm function). The specific function setting unit 130 sets an alarm function in cooperation with the operation unit 30, the display unit 40, the storage unit 80, and the like. In this embodiment, it is assumed that alarms can be set with a plurality of schedules, and information indicating the date and time of each schedule, the type of alarm sound, and the like is stored in the storage unit 80 as specific function setting information.

  The power saving level selection unit 140 selects the level of the power saving mode (power saving level) set by the power saving mode setting unit 110 according to whether or not the specific function is executed and the determination result of the remaining battery level determination unit 120. . In this embodiment, it is assumed that at least two types of power saving levels are prepared, and any one of the power saving levels selected by the power saving level selection unit 140 is set.

  In the present embodiment, a first power saving level (hereinafter referred to as “level A”) that is limited to only a part of the functions of the mobile communication terminal 1 and a specific function that is designated for execution based on a schedule ( Here, it is assumed that a second power saving level (hereinafter referred to as “level B”) that enables execution of the alarm function is prepared.

  When the power saving mode is set by the power saving mode setting unit 110, the restriction execution unit 150 controls each unit of the mobile communication terminal 1 and performs operation restriction according to the contents of the set power saving mode. For example, the hardware (for example, the communication function unit 10 and the audio processing unit 20) used only by the function to be restricted is suspended, the display state of the display unit 40 and the backlight are controlled, and the power consumption is reduced. In this embodiment, when the level A is set, the alarm operation unit 50 is paused, and when the level B is set, control is performed so that the alarm operation unit 50 can be operated.

  The specific function execution unit 160 executes the specific function with a set schedule based on, for example, a timekeeping function by a timer circuit of the control unit 100 or the like. When the specific function is an alarm function, the alarm operation unit 50 is operated when the set date and time comes.

  When the power saving mode set by the power saving level selection unit 140 is changed by the power saving level selection unit 140, the notification processing unit 170 changes the power saving mode in cooperation with the display unit 40 and the alarm operation unit 50. An output operation for notifying the user of the change is executed.

  In the present embodiment, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 2 is realized by the control unit 100 executing a program. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or the like Each of the above-described configurations may be realized by dedicated hardware.

  Each of the above-described configurations is a configuration necessary for realizing the present invention, and other configurations necessary for a basic function and an additional function as a mobile communication terminal are provided as necessary.

  The operation of the mobile communication terminal 1 having such a configuration will be described below. In this embodiment, an alarm function is assumed as the specific function, and the alarm function is set in advance. That is, it is assumed that information such as the alarm operation date and time desired by the user is stored in the storage unit 80 as specific function setting information by the operation of the specific function setting unit 130.

  As an operation of the mobile communication terminal 1, “power saving mode setting processing” executed when setting the power saving mode of the mobile communication terminal 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This power saving mode setting process is started when the user of the mobile communication terminal 1 operates the operation unit 30 and issues a power saving mode setting instruction.

  When the process is started, the power saving mode setting unit 110 displays a power saving mode setting screen as shown in FIG. 6A on the display unit 40 (step S101). As shown in the figure, the power saving mode setting screen is a screen for selecting and registering the validity / invalidity of the power saving mode. By operating the operation unit 30, the user selects “valid” to enable the power saving mode, and selects “invalid” to disable it, and then selects the “OK” button.

  With this operation, a signal indicating whether to enable or disable the power saving mode is input from the operation unit 30 to the control unit 100. Based on the input signal from the operation unit 30, the power saving mode setting unit 110 determines whether or not an instruction to enable the power saving mode has been issued (step S102).

  Here, the “power saving mode” in the present embodiment means that, when enabled, when the remaining amount of the battery 70 is reduced to a predetermined level, the preset function is not operated to operate the battery. It is intended to extend the time.

  Here, when it is instructed to enable the power saving mode (step S102: Yes), the power saving mode setting unit 110 notifies the power saving level selection unit 140 to that effect and selects the power saving level. . As described above, in the present embodiment, two levels of “level A” and “level B” are prepared as the levels of the power saving mode. Therefore, the power saving level selection unit 140 selects one of these two levels. Select.

  Information indicating the setting contents of level A and level B (hereinafter referred to as “level setting information”) is stored in advance in the storage unit 80 as power saving mode setting information. An example of such level setting information is shown in FIG. As shown in the drawing, the level setting information indicates which function is restricted for each of level A and level B when the power saving mode is valid. Here, level B is obtained by removing restrictions on the alarm function among the restrictions on level A.

  In selecting such a power saving level, the power saving level selection unit 140 determines whether or not execution of the specific function is set (step S103). That is, the power saving level selection unit 140 refers to the specific function setting information in the storage unit 80 to determine whether or not the execution of the alarm function is set.

  Here, when execution of the alarm function (specific function) is set (step S103: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 releases the restriction on the alarm function in order to execute the set alarm function. Level B is selected (step S104).

  On the other hand, if the execution of the alarm function (specific function) is not set (step S103: No), the alarm function may be limited by the power saving operation, so the power saving level selection unit 140 selects level A. (Step S105).

  When the power saving level is selected in this way, the power saving level selection unit 140 notifies the power saving mode setting unit 110 to that effect. In response to the notification from the power saving level selection unit 140, the power saving mode setting unit 110 indicates that the power saving mode is valid and information indicating the currently selected power saving level (hereinafter, “level setting information”). Is stored in the storage unit 80 as power saving mode setting information (step S106).

  Here, the level setting information is assumed to be indicated by a flag (hereinafter referred to as “setting flag SF”). It is assumed that a value from 0 to 2 is set in the setting flag SF. Assume that each value and its setting content have a correspondence relationship as shown in FIG. 7B, for example. That is, “0” indicates that the power saving mode is invalid, “1” indicates that the power saving level is level A, and “2” indicates that the power saving level is level B. .

  Here, when the value of the set flag SF that is set is other than “0”, that is, when the power saving mode is enabled (step S107: Yes), the power saving mode setting unit 110 determines the remaining battery level. The unit 120 is instructed to start the battery remaining amount determining operation (step S108), and the process is terminated.

  When it is instructed to disable the power saving mode on the power saving mode setting screen (step S102: No), the power saving level selection unit 140 sets the value of the setting flag to “0” (step S109). ). In this case (step S107: No), the process is terminated without giving an instruction to the battery remaining amount determination unit 120. That is, the remaining battery level determining operation by the remaining battery level determining unit 120 is not performed.

  When the power saving mode setting unit 110 instructs the battery remaining amount determining unit 120 to start the battery remaining amount determining operation, the battery remaining amount determining unit 120 starts at that time at predetermined time intervals (for example, 1 minute). The battery remaining amount detection unit 60 is periodically controlled to detect the remaining amount of the battery 70, and the detected value is acquired.

  In the present embodiment, the shift to the power saving mode and the change of the power saving level are performed according to the detection value acquired by the remaining battery level determination unit 120. The “power saving mode execution process” executed in this case will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This power saving mode execution process is started every time the remaining battery level determination unit 120 acquires a detection value of the remaining battery level from the remaining battery level detection unit 60.

  When the process is started, the battery remaining amount determination unit 120 compares the detection value Vt acquired from the battery remaining amount detection unit 60 with the first threshold value Vth1, and determines whether or not the detection value Vt is equal to or less than the threshold value Vth1. Is determined (step S201). Here, it is assumed that the first threshold value Vth1 is a battery remaining amount value serving as a trigger for shifting to the level A power saving mode, and is stored in advance in the storage unit 80 as power saving mode setting information.

  When the detection value Vt is equal to or less than the first threshold value Vth1 (step S201: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 sets “1” to the execution flag EF indicating the execution content of the power saving operation (step S202). . The execution flag EF is also set by a value of 0 to 2, and each value and the operation content have a correspondence relationship as shown in FIG. 7B, for example. That is, “0” indicates that the operation is not performed in the power saving mode (normal mode), “1” indicates that the operation is performed in the level A power saving mode, and “2” is performed in the level B power saving mode. It is shown that.

  When the detected value Vt indicating the current battery level is equal to or lower than the first threshold value Vth1 set as the trigger to shift to the level A power saving mode, the specific function (alarm function) can no longer be executed. Since there is no remaining battery power, the power saving level is automatically changed to level A that restricts execution of the specific function.

  When the power saving level is selected by the power saving level selection unit 140 and a change from the previously selected power saving level occurs (step S203: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 performs notification processing to that effect. Notification to the unit 170.

  The notification processing unit 170 controls the display unit 40 on the basis of the notification from the power saving level selection unit 140 and operates the alarm operation unit 50 via the specific function execution unit 160. Information indicating that has been changed is output and notified to the user (step S204).

  When the power saving level is changed from level B to level A, the alarm function that has been set cannot be operated as described above, and therefore the notification processing unit 170 displays a message indicating that on the display unit 40. In addition to displaying, the alarm operation unit 50 is notified by voice or vibration.

  When the set execution flag EF value is other than “0”, that is, when the operation execution in the power saving mode is indicated (step S205: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 also indicates that. Notify In response to the notification from the power saving level selection unit 140, the limit executing unit 150 executes a power saving level limiting operation according to the set value of the execution flag EF (step S206).

  Here, since “1” is set to the execution flag EF in step S202, the mobile communication terminal 1 is operated in the power saving mode of the power saving level A. That is, the mode shifts to the power saving mode in which the operation of the alarm function is also restricted.

  If it is determined in step S201 that the detection value Vt is equal to or less than the first threshold value Vth1, if the execution flag EF is already “1”, the power saving level is not changed (step S203: No), the limiting operation is executed without performing the notification operation by the notification processing unit 170 (step S206).

  On the other hand, when the detection value Vt, which is the current battery remaining amount, is higher than the first threshold value Vth1 (step S201: No), the battery remaining amount determination unit 120 compares the detection value Vt with the second threshold value Vth2, It is determined whether or not the detection value Vt is equal to or less than the second threshold value Vth2 (step S207). Here, the second threshold value Vth2 is a value obtained by adding power required for at least one alarm operation to the value of the first threshold value Vth1, and is stored in advance in the storage unit 80 as power saving mode setting information. It shall be.

  When the detection value Vt is equal to or less than the second threshold value Vth2 (step S207: Yes), the battery remaining amount determination unit 120 notifies the power saving level selection unit 140 to that effect. In this case, the power saving level selection unit 140 determines whether or not the value of the setting flag SF is “2” (step S208), and if it is “2” (step S208: Yes), the above-described step S202. The process of S206 is performed.

  That is, when the power saving level selected so far is level B, the level is changed to level A, the user is notified of this, and the operation proceeds to the level A power saving mode. In other words, since the current battery level is equal to or lower than the second threshold value Vth2 indicating the minimum battery level necessary for executing the alarm operation, power saving is performed when the alarm function is set to execute. Change the mode to level A and notify that.

  On the other hand, when the value of the setting flag SF is “1” (step S208: No), the power saving level selection unit 140 sets “0” as the value of the execution flag EF (step S209). In other words, since the execution of the alarm function is not set, even if the current battery remaining amount is equal to or less than the second threshold value Vth2, it is not necessary to shift to the power saving mode until the current battery remaining amount falls to the first threshold value Vth1. . Therefore, “0” is set to the execution flag EF, and the operation in the normal mode is continued.

  On the other hand, when the detected value Vt is higher than the second threshold value Vth2 (step S207: No), the battery remaining amount determining unit 120 compares the detected value Vt with the third threshold value Vth3, and the detected value Vt is the third threshold value. It is determined whether or not the threshold value is Vth3 or less (step S210). Here, the third threshold value Vth3 is a threshold value that is set as a trigger for shifting to the power saving mode of level B, and at least a value higher than the second threshold value Vth2, and is stored in advance as power saving mode setting information. 80 is stored.

  Here, when the detected value Vt is equal to or less than the third threshold value Vth3 (step S210: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 accesses the power saving mode setting information in the storage unit 80, and the value of the setting flag SF is It is determined whether or not “2”, that is, whether or not the currently selected power saving level is level B (step S211).

  Here, when the value of the setting flag SF is “2” (step S211: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 sets “2” to the execution flag EF (step S212). In other words, since there is still a remaining battery capacity that can perform at least one alarm operation, the execution flag EF for shifting to the operation at the level B enabling the alarm function is set.

  In this case, since the power saving level is not changed, the notification operation is not performed, and the level B restriction operation is performed (step S206).

  When the value of the setting flag SF is “1”, that is, when the power saving level selected so far is level A (step S211: No), the power saving level selection unit 140 sets the execution flag EF to “ “0” is set (step S209). In this case, the notification operation is not performed because the power saving level is not changed. In addition, since the remaining battery level has not decreased to the first threshold value Vth1 serving as a trigger for shifting to the power saving mode of level A, the limiting operation is not performed.

  On the other hand, when the detected value Vt is higher than the third threshold value Vth3 (step S210: No), it is not necessary to shift to any level of the power saving mode, so the power saving level selection unit 140 sets the execution flag EF. Is set to “0” (step S209).

  As described above, the remaining battery level detected periodically and a plurality of (three) threshold values are compared, and the normal mode is switched to the power saving mode according to the comparison result. Change the level automatically. When the power saving level is changed, the user is notified by outputting a message indicating that. As a result, when the execution of the alarm function is set, if the remaining battery level drops to a level at which the alarm function cannot be operated, the user is notified that the level has been changed to level A, so the set alarm operation is performed. It can be made to recognize that it is not possible.

  Next, an operation when the set alarm function (specific function) is executed will be described. Here, “specific function execution processing” executed when the alarm function is operated at the set date and time will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This specific function execution process is started when the current date and time and the set alarm execution date and time match.

  When the process is started, the specific function execution unit 160 accesses the power saving mode setting information in the storage unit 80, and whether the value of the execution flag EF is “0”, that is, a normal mode operation that is not in the power saving mode. It is determined whether it is in the middle (step S301).

  When the value of the execution flag EF is “0” (step S301: Yes), the specific function execution unit 160 controls the alarm operation unit 50, executes a normal alarm operation (step S302), and ends the process. .

  On the other hand, when the value of the execution flag EF is “1”, that is, when the operation is being performed in the power saving mode of level A (step S301: No, step S303: Yes), the specific function execution unit 160 performs an alarm operation. The process is terminated without executing.

  When the value of the execution flag EF is “2”, that is, when the operation is being performed in the power saving mode of level B (step S301: No, step S303: No), the specific function execution unit 160 sets the alarm operation unit 50 to An alarm operation is executed under control, but an alarm operation different from the alarm operation in the normal mode (hereinafter referred to as “special alarm operation”) is executed (step S304). Here, the special alarm operation is, for example, an operation that consumes less power than a normal alarm operation (for example, reporting at a lower volume than normal, shortening the sounding time than normal, or outputting an alarm sound only) And no vibration is performed).

  When such a special alarm operation is executed, the specific function executing unit 160 instructs the battery remaining amount determining unit 120 to execute the battery remaining amount determining operation and notifies the power saving level selecting unit 140 of the instruction. . In response to the instruction from the specific function execution unit 160, the remaining battery level determination unit 120 controls the remaining battery level detection unit 60 to acquire the remaining battery level detection value Vt of the battery 70 (step S305).

  The battery remaining amount determination unit 120 compares the acquired detection value Vt with the second threshold value Vth2, and determines whether or not the detection value Vt is equal to or less than the second threshold value Vth2 (step S306). If Vt is equal to or less than the second threshold value Vth2 (step S306: Yes), the power saving level selection unit 140 is notified accordingly.

  In this case, the power saving level selection unit 140 accesses the power saving mode setting information in the storage unit 80, and sets “1” as the value of the execution flag EF (step S307). That is, the value of the execution flag EF is changed from “2” to “1”, and a notification to that effect is sent to the notification processing unit 170 and the restriction execution unit 150.

  That is, since the remaining battery level detected after the alarm operation in step S304 is equal to or less than the second threshold value Vth2 indicating the remaining battery level necessary for executing the alarm operation, execution of the alarm function is set a plurality of times. If it is, the next alarm action cannot be executed. Therefore, the level of the power saving mode in operation is changed from level B to level A by changing the value of the execution flag EF.

  Therefore, the notification processing unit 170 outputs information indicating that the power saving level has been changed by the same operation as in step S206 described above (step S308). As a notification output in this case, the power saving level is changed by performing a ringing operation different from the alarm ringing (for example, an alarm sound output with a tone different from the alarm sound set by the user in the alarm function). This may be notified to the user.

  Then, the restriction execution unit 150 executes a restriction operation according to the level A power saving mode (step S309), and the process is terminated.

  If the battery remaining amount after the special alarm operation is higher than the second threshold value Vth2 (step S306: No), there is a possibility that the next alarm operation can be executed, so the power saving level selection unit 140 sets the execution flag EF. The process is terminated without changing the value of.

  That is, when the alarm function (specific function) is executed when operating in the power saving mode of level B, if the remaining battery level after execution has dropped to the second threshold value Vth2 or less, the power saving mode Change the level to level A and notify the user to that effect. As a result, when the remaining battery level drops to a level at which the next alarm operation cannot be performed due to the power consumption by the current alarm operation, the mode automatically shifts to the level A power saving mode and notifies the user to that effect. Therefore, the user can recognize that the next alarm operation is not executed.

  As described above, by applying the present invention as in the above embodiment, when a specific function that operates based on a schedule such as an alarm function is set, if the power saving mode is set, the specific function A power saving level (second power saving level) that is not restricted in operation is automatically selected. As a result, even if the user is not conscious of the setting state of the specific function, the user can operate at an appropriate power saving level only by setting the validity / invalidity of the power saving mode.

  In addition, when the power saving level (second power saving level) that does not restrict the operation of the specific function is selected, if the remaining battery level drops to a level where the power required to execute the specific function cannot be supplied, It is automatically switched to a power saving level (first power saving level) that also restricts the operation of the function, and notifies the user that the power saving level has been changed. Thereby, the user recognizes that the set specific function is not executed, and a necessary charging operation is prompted, so that the situation where the set specific function is not executed can be prevented.

  When determining the transition to the power saving mode or the change of the power saving level, three threshold values (the first threshold set as a trigger for shifting to the first power saving level, the execution of a specific function on the first threshold) A determination is made by comparing the current battery remaining amount with a second threshold value obtained by adding necessary power and a third threshold value having a value higher than the second threshold value. As a result, even when the execution of a specific function that does not have a constant relationship between the time until execution and the remaining battery level is set, the transition to the power saving mode and the change of the power saving level are performed at an appropriate timing. This can effectively ensure the battery driving time.

  In addition, when the specific function is executed in a state where the second power saving level is selected, an operation with lower power consumption different from the normal operation of the specific function (for example, normal sound reporting at a volume lower than normal) To make the reporting time shorter or not to activate the vibration function). Thereby, when multiple executions of a specific function are set (for example, an alarm is sounded every day at a predetermined time), the user can be notified that there is a possibility that the next execution cannot be performed. Thereby, since charging operation etc. can be prompted in advance, the situation where the set specific function is not performed can be prevented beforehand.

(Embodiment 2)
In the first embodiment, the alarm function is exemplified as the specific function. However, as long as the function operates based on the schedule, the function is not limited to the alarm function and can be an arbitrary function.

  For example, when the mobile communication terminal 1 has an Internet connection function by the operation of the communication function unit 10, an e-mail reservation transmission function and a web page automatic patrol function may be specified functions according to the present invention. it can.

  In this case, the content that restricts a predetermined function including the communication function is set as level A (first power saving level), and the content that enables the communication function to operate is set as level B (second power saving level). A first threshold value indicating the remaining battery level as a trigger for shifting to the level A power saving mode, and a second threshold value indicating the remaining battery level obtained by adding the power required for executing the communication function to the first threshold value. By comparing the third threshold value indicating the remaining battery level higher than the second threshold value with the actual remaining battery level, as in the case of the alarm function illustrated in the first embodiment, Migration, power saving level change, and notification to the user can be performed.

(Embodiment 3)
In the first embodiment, the user selects only whether the power saving mode is valid / invalid. However, the user may set the power saving level. In this case, in the power saving mode setting process (FIG. 3) described above, a power saving mode setting screen as shown in FIG. 6B is displayed on the display unit 40, and a desired power saving mode (power saving level) is displayed. Let the user choose. In this case, if the power saving level selection unit 140 sets a value in the setting flag SF according to the selected content, the same operation as that of the first embodiment can be performed.

  According to such a configuration, even when various functions can be applied as specific functions as in the second embodiment, the power saving mode can be set according to the specific function that the user desires to execute. it can.

  The said embodiment is an example and the application range of this invention is not restricted to this. That is, various applications are possible, and all embodiments are included in the scope of the present invention.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a mobile communication terminal is illustrated. However, as long as it has a function that operates in a schedule and a function that operates in a power saving mode, the mobile communication terminal However, the present invention can be applied to various portable electronic devices (for example, PDA (Personal Digital Assistants), digital cameras, personal computers, etc.).

  Such a portable electronic device can be provided in a form to which the present invention is applied in advance, like the mobile communication terminal 1 shown in the above embodiment, and is executed by the control unit 100 of the above embodiment. By applying a program similar to the program, an existing portable electronic device can function as the portable electronic device according to the present invention. Such a program can be provided in any form. The program can be provided by being stored in a recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) or a memory card, and can be distributed via a communication medium such as the Internet. It can also be provided. The functions and operations described above are realized by applying the program provided in this way to the apparatus and executing the computer (CPU or the like) of the apparatus.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the mobile communication terminal concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function structure implement | achieved by the control part shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the power saving mode setting process concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the power saving mode execution process concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the specific function execution process concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the power saving mode setting screen concerning embodiment of this invention, (a) shows the example of a display of the power saving mode setting screen concerning Embodiment 1, (b) concerning Embodiment 3. The example of a display of a power saving mode setting screen is shown. It is a figure which shows the example of the power saving mode setting information stored in the memory | storage part shown in FIG. 1, (a) shows the example of level setting information, (b) shows the example of a flag setting value.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Mobile communication terminal, 10 ... Communication function part, 11 ... Antenna, 20 ... Audio | voice processing part, 21 ... Speaker, 22 ... Microphone, 30 ... Operation part, 40 ... Display part, 50 ... Alarm operation part, 51 ... Speaker 60 ... Battery remaining amount detection unit, 70 ... Battery, 80 ... Storage unit, 100 ... Control unit, 110 ... Power saving mode setting unit, 120 ... Battery remaining amount determination unit, 130 ... Specific function setting unit, 140 ... Power saving Level selection unit, 150 ... restriction execution unit, 160 ... specific function execution unit, 170 ... notification processing unit, SF ... setting flag, EF ... execution flag

Claims (7)

Executes the remaining battery level detection means for detecting the remaining battery level, the power saving mode setting means for setting the power saving mode for limiting the function to be operated according to the decrease in the remaining battery level, and the specific function that operates based on the schedule. In a portable electronic device provided with a specific function executing means,
Specific function determining means for determining whether or not execution of the specific function is set;
When execution of the specific function is set, a power saving level selection unit that selects a level of the set power saving mode based on a comparison between the detected remaining battery level and a plurality of threshold values;
A change notification means for outputting information indicating that the power saving level is changed when the power saving level is changed by the selection operation of the power saving level selecting means;
A portable electronic device characterized by that. A first threshold value indicating a remaining battery level serving as a trigger for transition to the first power saving level; a second threshold value obtained by adding an amount of power necessary for the operation of the specific function to the first threshold value; and Storage means for storing a third threshold value higher than the second threshold value;
The power saving level selection unit compares the remaining battery level detected by the remaining battery level detection unit with the first threshold value, the second threshold value, and the third threshold value stored in the storage unit. Thus, either the first power saving level that restricts a predetermined function including the specific function or the second power saving level that enables the specific function among the restrictions of the first power saving level. Select
The portable electronic device according to claim 1. The specific function is an alarm function.
The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the portable electronic device is a portable electronic device. The specific function executing means executes an alarm operation different from a normal alarm operation when an alarm operation by the alarm function is executed in a state where the second power saving level is selected.
The portable electronic device according to claim 3. The battery remaining amount detecting means detects the remaining amount of battery after the specific function is executed by the specific function executing means.
The portable electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the portable electronic device is any one of the above. The portable electronic device is a mobile communication terminal.
The portable electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the portable electronic device is a portable electronic device. To the computer that controls the portable electronic device that can set the power saving mode,
A function to set a power saving mode that restricts the function to be operated in response to a decrease in the remaining battery power,
A function for determining whether or not execution of a specific function that operates based on a schedule is set, and
When the execution of the specific function is set, a first power level limiting the predetermined function including the specific function based on a comparison between the remaining battery level and a plurality of thresholds. A function to select either a power saving level or a second power saving level that allows the specific function to operate from the restriction of the first level;
When the power saving level is changed, a function for outputting information indicating that the power saving level has been changed,
A program characterized by realizing.

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