JP2010026604A - Input device, electronic apparatus, mobile terminal and input control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an excellent-operability and low-cost input device allowing input using a fingertip, easy in input of authentication information, and allowing high-security and certain authentication, to provide an electronic apparatus and a mobile terminal, having the input device, and to provide an input control method easy in the input of the authentication information, allowing the high-security and certain authentication. <P>SOLUTION: This input device includes: an operation panel formed with a plurality of protrusions; a decision means 20a2 distinguishing an allocated key when the protrusion is pressed; a first display part 18a displaying distinguished information as temporary information in real time; and a decision part for deciding contents of the temporary information. When key lock setting or key lock release, the authentication information is generated based on decision information wherein both the press of the protrusion and input of a decision signal thereof are present together, the temporary information wherein only the press is present, and a character string obtained by distinguishing a non-press and by a combination of the press and the non-press, and the input of the decision signal by the decision part. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention is an inexpensive input device that can be input using a fingertip, is easy to input authentication information, has excellent operability, can perform high-security and reliable authentication, an electronic device equipped with this input device, a portable terminal, The present invention also relates to an input control method that allows easy input, high security, and reliable authentication.

  In recent years, the spread of mobile terminals such as mobile phones has been remarkable. Although the portable terminal is required to be downsized, it is desirable that the display is as large as possible, and that the keys for input have good operability.

  In a conventional general portable terminal, an input is often performed by pressing a key such as a numeric keypad arranged under a display. Considering the operability, there is a limit to the reduction of the key size, but the display is inevitably reduced when downsizing. For this reason, the present applicant has proposed a fingertip tactile sense input device that can input a fingertip only by movement (Patent Document 1).

  The fingertip tactile sense input device of Patent Document 1 is provided with an input plate in which a plurality of convex portions are interspersed, an input substrate, and check means that can confirm input contents in advance. The location of the convex part is searched and input with the tactile sensation of the fingertip, and the input content from this convex part is not confirmed as it is as the desired input content, but this content is confirmed on the display unit by the checking means and confirmed. If the entered content is different from the expected input content, check the content again by changing the position of the fingertip, and confirm the input content when the content matches the expected input content. Is.

  When the key is the minimum size, the position of pressing the convex portion is changed by a slight movement of the fingertip, and the input content is changed, resulting in a deviation between the user's recognition and the actually input information. For this reason, the fingertip tactile sense input device of Patent Document 1 is confirmed while confirming the input content on the display unit by the check means.

  The processing performed by the checking means does not immediately associate the key with the input result in a one-to-one manner, but temporarily displays some candidates searched for with the fingertip, and the displayed contents are displayed from the displayed candidates. A method is used to determine candidates that match the desired one. In a sense, this fingertip tactile input device is an input device having an interactive character.

  Thereby, the area of the input plate which occupies the surface of the portable terminal can be reduced, and the display of the portable terminal can be increased by this area. If the input plate is placed on the back, the entire front surface of the portable terminal can be used for the display, and the confirmation by the checking means can be performed not only by the display but also by sound using a speaker.

  By the way, recently, there has been a risk of unauthorized peeping into or unauthorized use of a mobile terminal. In order to prevent this, a mobile terminal having a key lock function has been proposed.

  In a portable terminal equipped with this key lock function, a multi-digit number or alphabet is input, registered as a password for releasing the key lock function, and when the key lock function is set, the password is requested during standby. If the entered password does not match the registered password, the key lock function is not released and functions such as calling cannot be used.

  However, in the case of such a key lock function, human memory is limited, so it is not easy to use, or an unauthorized person can check the combination of numbers and alphabets to release the key lock function. There is a danger to do.

  As a technique for improving such a problem, biometric authentication using a fingerprint, an iris of an eye or the like is known (for example, Patent Document 2). For example, the fingerprint of the person who operates the mobile terminal is read to recognize whether or not the user is a legitimate user, and the use of the mobile terminal is permitted only when the legitimate user is recognized.

  However, this biometric authentication requires advanced processing for authentication, and a dedicated device for this is expensive, which may increase the price of the mobile terminal.

  Therefore, in order to avoid this, the data generated from the trajectory input by handwriting from the touch panel is acquired, and compared with the data registered in advance in this way in the memory unit, the key lock state is released when they match. A portable electronic device has been proposed (see Patent Document 3).

  The password input screen is provided with 16 point areas P1 to P16 and area areas A1 to A5 that are spaced between them, and a locus drawn by the input pen, for example, an area area that is the starting point from the point area P4. When a substantially S-shaped trajectory is drawn up to A1, a data string of area information, P4, A4, P3, A3,..., P10, A2, P9, A1 are generated in order. The generated series of data strings is written in the memory unit 14, and key lock setting / canceling is performed by detecting the coincidence / mismatch of the data string and the registered data string.

  Therefore, in the case of this portable electronic device, complicated and expensive authentication such as biometric authentication need not be performed.

Japanese Patent No. 3708508 JP 2003-143290 A JP 2007-257140 A

  A conventional key lock function using a password has limited combinations of numbers and the like that can be used. Moreover, it is troublesome to memorize numbers and alphabets and input them by key operation every time the portable terminal is used. In this regard, the biometric authentication disclosed in Patent Document 2 can save such time, but the price of the mobile terminal itself increases.

  In addition, the portable electronic device of Patent Document 3 is more convenient than the password input method, but the direction of handwriting movement is limited and it is extremely difficult to perform reliable input with a handwritten input locus. It cannot be corrected in the middle when it is entered incorrectly. In such a case, it is necessary to repeat this until input is possible.

  For example, there is a possibility that the locus may be recognized erroneously only by the side of the pen tip moving slightly. However, if the area of the area areas A1 to A5 is enlarged, the point areas P1 to P16 are reduced and the input itself becomes difficult. And it is difficult to input using a large fingertip. Moreover, there is a possibility of misrecognizing that the writing pressure is weakened even a little.

  If there is a misrecognition, it is troublesome to input again and again to release the key lock. It may even become impossible to cancel due to difficult input. To unlock the key lock, the input device must be simple and highly reproducible.

  Even on a small screen, it has excellent operability and can be input while walking or in an unstable place.The number of passwords to be generated is rich and the user can choose any number of unique passwords. There is a need for an input device with excellent reproducibility that does not need to be hard and memorized, and that does not misrecognize or cause an error when a password is input.

  Therefore, the present invention is an inexpensive input device that can be input using a fingertip, can easily input authentication information, has excellent operability, can perform secure and reliable authentication, and an electronic apparatus including the input device, It is an object of the present invention to provide a portable terminal and an input control method that allows easy authentication information input, high security, and reliable authentication.

  An input device according to the present invention is discriminated between an operation panel having a plurality of convex portions and a determination unit that acquires position information when the convex portions are pressed and determines information assigned to the convex portions. An input device comprising a display unit for displaying the information in real time as provisional information and a confirmation unit for inputting a confirmation signal for confirming the contents of the provisional information, at the time of key lock setting or key lock release, The control unit discriminates the confirmation information in which both the pressing of the convex part and the input of the confirmation signal exist, the provisional information in which only the pressing exists, and the non-pressing state, and the convex part is traced in order with a predetermined locus. When a confirmation signal is input to some of the convex portions, if there is provisional information between the preceding and following confirmation information, the provisional information is processed to generate an information string, and When there is no pressure between Information and generates authentication information based on next without generating a sequence of information until pressing the confirmation signal is input, the information sequence is determined processing certain information in the case of only one point.

In addition, an electronic device according to the present invention is an electronic device including the input device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and an operation panel is provided on the surface of the housing, and another position on the surface of the housing. Is provided with a display unit for displaying provisional information in real time, and the device control unit performs key lock setting or key lock release with the authentication information generated by the input device. A portable terminal comprising a communication circuit and any one of the first to third forms of input device, wherein an operation panel is provided on the surface of the housing, and provisional information is real-time at another position on the surface of the housing. A display unit for displaying is provided, and key lock setting or key lock release is performed using authentication information generated by the input device.

  Furthermore, the input control method of the present invention sequentially presses a plurality of convex portions of the operation panel, determines information assigned to the convex portions, displays the determined information as provisional information in real time, and This is an input control method for determining the contents of provisional information and converting it to fixed information. When setting or releasing key lock, trace input in order with a predetermined trajectory and confirm input at some protrusions. If there is provisional information between the confirmation information before and after dividing the input information into the confirmation information that is confirmed with the pressing of the convex part, the provisional information that is only pressed, and the non-pressed state An information string is generated by performing the process of confirming the provisional information, and when there is no pressing between the preceding and following determined information or when there is only one confirmed information, the information string is input until the next pressing and confirming signal is input. Without generating And generating the authentication information for the key lock setting or the key unlock the confirmation process information sequence based on distribution.

  According to the input device of the present invention, authentication information can be easily input, excellent in operability, secure and reliable authentication can be performed, and unauthorized use by a third party can be prevented. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string. By simply mounting an input device, it becomes a compact input device and a large display can be used.

  In addition, according to the electronic device and the portable terminal of the present invention, authentication information can be easily input, operability is excellent, security is high, reliable authentication can be performed, and unauthorized use by a third party can be prevented. An electronic device or a portable terminal having a large display can be provided. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string.

  Furthermore, according to the input control method of the present invention, authentication information can be easily input, and high security and reliable authentication can be performed. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string.

  In the first aspect of the present invention, determination means for acquiring position information and determining information assigned to the convex portion when the double convex portion is pressed, and displaying the determined information as provisional information in real time An input device including a display unit for determining and a confirmation unit for inputting a confirmation signal for confirming the contents of the provisional information. The confirmation information in which the input of the confirmation signal exists, the provisional information in which only the pressure exists, and the non-pressed state are discriminated, and the convex portions are traced in order with a predetermined locus, and the confirmation signal is obtained in some convex portions. When there is provisional information between the preceding and following confirmed information, the provisional information is processed to generate an information string, and when the preceding and following confirmed information is not pressed or confirmed information If there is only one point, press next Without generating a sequence of information until confirmation signal is input, an input device and generates authentication information based on determination processing information string with certain information.

  With this configuration, authentication information can be easily input, excellent operability, high security and reliable authentication can be performed, and unauthorized use by a third party can be prevented. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string. It becomes a compact input device, and a large display can be used.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the input device according to the first aspect, when provisional information exists between preceding and following confirmation information, a process for determining the provisional information is performed to generate an information string. Instead, the provisional information is replaced with a unique information string associated with the confirmation information, and the input information is confirmed.

  With this configuration, even if provisional information is not input with a stable trajectory, a stable information string can be formed between two pieces of definite information by a unique information string, and high security and reliable authentication can be performed. The unauthorized use of the three parties can be prevented.

  The 3rd form of this invention is a form which is subordinate to the 2nd form, Comprising: The information sequence of the convex part which exists on the straight line which connected the convex part corresponding to the unambiguous information sequence corresponding to two fixed information It is the input device characterized by being.

  By this configuration, pressing between the two convex portions corresponding to the two definite information at the shortest distance is replaced with an information sequence that connects the two convex portions as they are, and the movement on the physical plane corresponds to the information sequence Thus, the authentication information can be easily input, is easy to understand, and has excellent operability.

  A fourth form of the present invention is a form subordinate to any one of the first to third forms. The operation panel is provided with convex portions arranged in a matrix and is sequentially pressed by a predetermined locus. The convex part is composed of convex parts arranged only in two orthogonal directions, and when the confirmation signal is inputted by pressing the diagonal convex part, the control part does not perform the provisional information corresponding thereto. Is an input device.

  With this configuration, the figure memorized by the user is a figure consisting only of two orthogonal directions that do not have diagonal components, and the trajectory is composed of lines and points in two orthogonal directions. The trajectory is uniquely determined. If only the end of the line is confirmed, a large number of provisional information can be confirmed, and a multi-digit information string can be automatically generated. In addition, the unstable finger operation in the middle of the line is different from the user's consciousness. Thus, provisional information such as input can be replaced with a reliable information string that is uniquely determined by a line trajectory.

  A fifth form of the present invention is a form subordinate to the fourth form, wherein the convex parts arranged in one direction are pressed in order, and when the direction of drawing the locus in the certain convex part is changed, When the confirmation signal is input while the convex portion is pressed, the control unit determines the provisional information corresponding to the convex portion connected to the convex portion.

  With this configuration, when a figure consisting of only two orthogonal directions with no diagonal component is input with a curved trajectory or when the direction is reversed, it is continuous with this convex part sandwiched only by inputting a confirmation signal. An information sequence can be generated. A large number of provisional information can be processed into fixed information, and a multi-digit information string can be automatically generated.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electronic apparatus including the input device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein an operation panel is provided on the surface of the housing, and another position on the surface of the housing. The electronic device is provided with a display unit for displaying provisional information in real time, and the device control unit performs key lock setting or key lock release using the authentication information generated by the input device.

  With this configuration, it is easy to input authentication information, has excellent operability, can perform secure and reliable authentication, can prevent unauthorized use by a third party, and is a small device that has a large display. can do. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string.

  A seventh aspect of the present invention is a form subordinate to the sixth aspect, and includes a memory for storing authentication information to be registered, and the device control unit stores the generated authentication information in the memory when the key lock is set. The electronic device is characterized in that when the key lock is released, the registered authentication information is compared with the authentication information generated at this time, and the key lock release or release invalidation processing is performed.

  With this configuration, the electronic device can perform key lock setting and key lock release functions, and unauthorized use by a third party can be prevented when a person using the electronic device turns on the power.

  The eighth form of the present invention is a form subordinate to the sixth form, wherein when the authentication information is generated, the device control unit displays the authentication information on the display unit or the second display unit. It is a featured electronic device.

  With this configuration, the display unit can display real-time display and authentication information generation processing at the time of key lock setting or key unlock, and display the generated authentication information on the display unit or the second display unit. It becomes an easy-to-use electronic device.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a portable terminal including the communication circuit and the input device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the operation panel being provided on the surface of the case, The portable terminal includes a display unit that displays provisional information in another position in real time, and performs key lock setting or key lock release using authentication information generated by the input device.

  With this configuration, it is easy to input authentication information, has excellent operability, secure and reliable authentication, can prevent unauthorized use by a third party, and is a small device with a large display and a large display. can do. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string.

  A tenth aspect of the present invention is a form subordinate to the ninth aspect, and includes a memory for storing authentication information to be registered, and the device control unit stores the generated authentication information in the memory when the key lock is set. The portable terminal is characterized in that when it is registered and the key lock is released, the registered authentication information is compared with the authentication information generated at this time to perform the key lock release or release invalidation processing.

  With this configuration, the mobile terminal can perform key lock setting and key lock release functions, and can prevent unauthorized use by a third party when a person using the mobile terminal turns on the power.

  An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a form subordinate to the ninth aspect, and when authentication information is generated, the device control unit displays the authentication information on the display unit or the second display unit. This is a featured mobile terminal.

  With this configuration, the display unit can display real-time display and authentication information generation processing at the time of key lock setting or key unlock, and display the generated authentication information on the display unit or the second display unit. It becomes an easy-to-use portable terminal.

  In the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of convex portions of the operation panel are pressed in order to determine information assigned to the convex portions, and the determined information is displayed in real time as provisional information. This is an input control method for confirming the contents of information and making it into definite information. When setting or unlocking the key lock, trace the projections in order with a predetermined trajectory and input the confirmation for some projections. The input information is divided into confirmation information that is confirmed together with the pressing of the convex portion, provisional information that is only pressed, and non-pressed state. A process for confirming provisional information is performed to generate an information string. If there is no pressing between the preceding and following confirmation information, or if there is only one confirmation information, the information string is displayed until the next pressing and confirmation signal is input. Without generating definite information and confirmation An input control method characterized by processing information string based on generating the authentication information for the key lock setting or the key unlock.

  With this configuration, it is easy to input authentication information, and high-security and reliable authentication can be performed. It is not necessary to store the authentication information as a character string of several digits, and a figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the input control method of the twelfth aspect, when provisional information exists between successive confirmation information, a process for confirming the provisional information is performed to generate an information string. Instead of this, the provisional information is replaced with a unique information string associated with the fixed information, and the input control method is fixed.

  With this configuration, even if provisional information is not input with a stable trajectory, a stable information string can be formed between two pieces of definite information by a unique information string, and high security and reliable authentication can be performed. The unauthorized use of the three parties can be prevented.

  The fourteenth form of the present invention is a form subordinate to the thirteenth form, wherein the unique information sequence is an information sequence of convex portions existing on a straight line connecting the convex portions corresponding to two confirmed information. It is an input control method characterized by being.

  By this configuration, pressing between the two convex portions corresponding to the two definite information at the shortest distance is replaced with an information sequence that connects the two convex portions as they are, and the movement on the physical plane corresponds to the information sequence Thus, the authentication information can be easily input, is easy to understand, and has excellent operability.

  A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is a form subordinate to any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects, in which convex portions arranged in a matrix are provided on the operation panel, and the convex portions that are sequentially pressed by a predetermined locus are orthogonal to each other. The input control method is characterized in that it includes convex portions arranged only in two directions, and when a confirmation input is made by pressing the diagonal convex portions, provisional information is not confirmed.

  With this configuration, the figure memorized by the user is a figure consisting only of two orthogonal directions that do not have diagonal components, and the trajectory is composed of lines and points in two orthogonal directions. The trajectory is uniquely determined. If only the end of the line is confirmed, a large number of provisional information can be confirmed, and a multi-digit information string can be automatically generated. In addition, the unstable finger operation in the middle of the line is different from the user's consciousness. Thus, provisional information such as input can be replaced with a reliable information string that is uniquely determined by a line trajectory.

  A sixteenth aspect of the present invention is a form subordinate to the fifteenth aspect, and sequentially presses convex portions arranged in one direction, while pressing when changing the direction of drawing a locus in a certain convex portion. In the case of confirmation, an input control method is characterized in that provisional information corresponding to a convex portion connected to the convex portion is confirmed.

  With this configuration, when a figure consisting of only two orthogonal directions with no diagonal component is input with a curved trajectory or when the direction is reversed, it is continuous with this convex part sandwiched only by inputting a confirmation signal. An information sequence can be generated. A large number of provisional information can be processed into fixed information, and a multi-digit information string can be automatically generated.

(Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, an input device, an electronic device including the input device, a mobile terminal, and an input control method at the time of key lock setting or key lock release according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. Hereinafter, although a portable terminal will be described in the first embodiment, any electronic device that can be equipped with an input device capable of inputting a fingertip as well as the portable terminal may be used. For example, there are small personal computers and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants).

  1A and 1B are perspective views showing the external appearance of the portable terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention from the front side and the rear side, and FIG. 2 is an internal configuration diagram of the portable terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the operation unit of the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the operation unit of the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram of input display under the authentication registration mode or the authentication input mode of the mobile terminal in FIG. 1, FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram in the case of displaying overlapping lines and points individually in the display of FIG. 6A is an explanatory diagram of signals of the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6B is a time chart of touch signals of the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6C is the present invention. Of the output signal of the key from the input device in the first embodiment Chart, FIG. 6 (d) is a time chart of the determination signal from the input device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

  FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views showing the external appearance of the portable terminal 1 as an electronic device from the front side and the back side. A display 2 such as a large LCD is provided in front of the casing of the mobile terminal 1, and the user grips and uses the lower part from the back side of the casing of the mobile terminal 1. An operation panel 3 of the input device having a size of about 50 mm or less in length and width as a whole is arranged on the rear surface of the housing. On the operation panel 3, convex portions having a height of 0.5 mm and a diameter of about 2.0 mm or less are regularly arranged vertically and horizontally at intervals of about 4 mm to 5 mm.

  These convex portions are not only associated with the numeric keys “1” to “9”, “0”, “*”, “#”, but also functions such as a power key, a transmission key, an end key, and mode switching. It is also associated with the key. The earpiece 4 and the mouthpiece 5 are provided on the front, and the display 2 is provided with a first display portion 18a and a second display portion 18b. The first display unit 18a is a region that performs provisional display in real time, and the second display unit 18b is a region that displays definite contents. The first display unit 18a and the second display unit 18b may be independent display units, but one display 2 is divided into a region A and a region B, and the region A is divided into the first display unit 18a. The region B can also be used as the second display portion 18b. Rather, it is more realistic to use one display 2 and share it as two display units in this way. Furthermore, the screen of one display 2 can be used by switching over time instead of the area. In the following description, the first display unit 18a and the second display unit 18b will be described separately. However, an embodiment in which one display 2 is used selectively in terms of area or time is extremely effective.

  When using the mobile terminal 1, the user places a palm on the back side of the casing of the mobile terminal 1, holds the lower part of the casing with the thumb and other fingers, operates within the range where the fingertip moves while fixing the wrist It touches the convex part of the panel 3 and operates. The convex part that is in strongest contact with the fingertip is temporarily displayed on the display 2 so that the user can recognize it. The position of the operation panel 3 is not limited to the back surface as long as such a fingertip operation can be performed.

  Next, FIG. 2 shows an internal configuration of the mobile terminal 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the portable terminal 1 of Embodiment 1, transmission / reception is performed via the antenna 12, and the communication circuit 13 performs modulation / demodulation of the transmission / reception signal. When the received data is call data, the call data is sent to the voice processing unit 14 via the data line d, and the other received data is sent to the control unit 11 (device control unit in the present invention). Thereafter, each part is processed.

  When a call data signal is supplied from the communication circuit 13, the voice processing unit 14 decodes this signal, outputs the decoded call data to the speaker 15, and outputs it as voice. The audio signal input via the microphone 16 is amplified, A / D converted, sent to the audio processing unit 14, encoded, then modulated by the communication circuit 13, and transmitted from the antenna 12. The

  When the compressed and encoded image data is supplied, the image processing unit 17 performs a reproduction process such as decompression decoding of the image data, and the image data after the decompression decoding is sent to the display unit via the data line d. send.

  The display unit 18 includes a display 2 including a first display unit 18a and a second display unit 18b, and a display drive circuit thereof. The first display unit 18a can be input in a mode used at that time. And a cursor indicating that it is currently touched (provisional information display according to the present invention) is displayed in real time, and the second display unit 18b performs display after the confirmation of the input characters and images. . In the first embodiment, the first display unit 18a is driven by a second processor dedicated to input processing mounted on the input device 20. On the other hand, the 2nd display part 18b is driven by the processor of the control part 11 demonstrated below.

  The control unit 11 is configured as a function implementation unit by reading a program into a processor as hardware, and controls communication in the communication circuit 13 and controls the audio processing unit 14 and the image processing unit 17 via the control line s. Further, control and calculation processing of other units of the mobile terminal 1 are performed. The memory 19 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores the program and the like, and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

  The first display unit 18a and the second display unit 18b are independent for their respective purposes. However, as shown in FIG. 1, one display 2 is shared and divided into two regions A and B. Can also be displayed. Further, instead of dividing, one display 2 can be divided and used in time by switching.

  Now, the input device 20 of the portable terminal 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The input device 20 includes a digitizer 21 that can detect the position as a position on the xy coordinates when the fingertip touches the operation panel 3 disposed on the surface of the housing, and a position below the digitizer 21. It is provided with a confirmation switch 30 (determining unit in the present invention) provided for performing deterministic input.

  The digitizer 21 is provided with a resistance film composed of two pieces of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) or the like, and although not shown, the two resistance films are opposed to each other with a space through an insulating resist and a spacer. Yes. One of the resistance films is for specifying the x-coordinate, and a pair of electrodes is provided on a pair of opposing sides. The other of the resistance films is for specifying the y coordinate, and a pair of electrodes are provided on a pair of opposing sides. When a voltage is applied to each of the electrodes and the digitizer 21 is pressed, the x-coordinate resistive film and the y-coordinate resistive film come into contact with each other, the x-coordinate resistive film detects through the y-coordinate side, The y-coordinate resistance film is detected through the x-coordinate side, and each coordinate is determined by partial pressure.

  By the way, the digitizer 21 of the first embodiment is smaller than the opening provided on the upper side of the frame 23, and the upper surface side (the pressing side) is covered with the upper surface sheet 22 as shown in FIGS. The actuator plate 25 is attached. The output of the digitizer 21 is output from the flat cable 24.

  On the surface of the upper surface sheet 22, for example, a convex portion bulging to a height of 0.5 mm or less is formed so that a key corresponding area can be easily searched and input with a fingertip. The top sheet 22 has a thickness of about 0.2 mm, for example, and the actuator plate 25 has a thickness of about 0.2 mm, for example. However, these sizes are examples and can be selected as appropriate.

  The confirmation switch 30 below the digitizer 21 is a film substrate on which a projecting action portion 25a provided on the lower surface (opposite side of the digitizer) of the actuator plate 25 and a switch circuit pattern for outputting a confirmation signal are formed. 26 and a metal dome spring 27 to which a resilient force is applied to give a click feeling. The dome spring 27 makes the switch circuit of the contact pattern of the film substrate 26 conductive by contact when the convex part of the upper surface sheet 22 is pressed stronger than a predetermined pressure and the actuator plate 25 is pressed down and pressed by the action part 25a. .

  This conduction signal is output to the input control unit 20a through the flat cable 28 (FPC or the like), and this is output from the input control unit 20a to the control unit 11 of the portable terminal 1 as a confirmation signal. At this time, it is determined that the confirmation switch 30 is turned on. If the switch circuit is not conductive, the confirmation switch 30 is in an off state.

  By the way, even when the switch circuit of the film substrate 26 is not conductive, when the convex portion of the input device 20 is touched or lightly pressed with a fingertip, the pressure is applied to the digitizer 21 so that the position information is input to the input control unit 20a (this It is electrically detected by the control unit of the invention. The input control unit 20a constantly monitors changes in the digitizer 21, and the voltage change caused by the user touching the convex part with the fingertip is converted into digital information by the A / D converter and the input is in an event waiting state. When an event indicating that the determination unit 20a2 of the control unit 20a is touched is acquired, it is determined based on the input from the digitizer 21 to which key the convex portion touched corresponds. For this determination, the mode being used is referred to, and the key currently pressed is determined by referring to the mode / key correspondence table.

  The input control unit 20a eliminates unstable data and performs chattering processing, sets a flag indicating that there is a touch, and determines the key information (provisional information in the present invention) in the internal memory in time series. Remember. Further, the first display unit 18a is controlled via the control line s, and a cursor is displayed using this information. Further, the control unit 11 is notified of information on the key that has received the confirmation signal (confirmation information in the present invention). This is done continuously during the operation. The control unit 11 stores the notified key information in the memory 19 and simultaneously displays it on the second display unit 18b if display is necessary. As described above, one display 2 can be shared, or the processor of the control unit 11 can perform processing including input processing.

  By the way, in the authentication registration mode (when the key lock is set according to the present invention) and the authentication input mode (when the key lock is released according to the present invention), the authentication information generating means 20a1 provided in the input control unit 20a performs the following processing. That is, based on the stored time-series temporary key information and the confirmation signal from the confirmation switch 30, the touch and the confirmation signal thereof are referred to by referring to the presence or absence of the current touch (press in the present invention) by the flag. It is determined whether there is deterministic key information indicating that there is an input, provisional key information with only touch, and no touch (no press in the present invention).

  Then, the authentication information generation unit 20a1 performs a process of confirming provisional key information when there is provisional key input between keys to which a confirmation signal is input. If there is no touch immediately after the confirmation signal is input, such processing is not performed. Then, the key to which the confirmation signal is input is complemented with provisional key information to generate a large number of character strings.

  Further, in the first embodiment, when a convex part deviating from the shortest line (vertical and horizontal lines of the matrix) connecting both ends in the middle of pressing is pressed, this is the shortest line (straight line connecting the convex parts at both ends). It is automatically corrected as the above key information (unique information string of the present invention). That is, it is possible to generate a corrected character string as well as completion. Even if the input is unstable, a stable information string can be formed by a unique information string between two pieces of definite information. In this case, the movement assumed on the physical surface of the fingertip (order of the notional keys) matches the information string (character string of the key to be corrected) corrected by the input device.

  Further, in the first embodiment, when a confirmation signal is input when the locus of a certain convex portion is changed, a process of continuously confirming the information on the key of the convex portion connected to the convex portion in succession. Do. As a result, it is possible to generate a character string that is continuous across the convex portion only by inputting a confirmation signal.

  When the user confirms the character string generated by the input control unit 20a by inputting the confirmation signal (the determination key 18c is pressed) after that, the control unit 11 explicitly displays the character string on the second display unit 18b. It may be displayed as a column or displayed as “***” etc. It can also be displayed as a graphic (for example, as a line). In the authentication registration mode, this character string is registered in the memory 19 as a password, and in the authentication input mode, the authentication means 11a compares this character string with the already registered character string to release the key lock.

  In addition, the process in the input control part 20a and the control part 11, and the display in the 1st display part 18a and the 2nd display part 18b can be appropriately shared between the input control part 20a and the control part 11, and can be processed. . It is also possible to omit the input control unit 20a and allow the control unit 11 to perform all these processes.

  With the above function, the user touches the operation panel 3 of the portable terminal 1 and looks at the cursor display on the first display unit 18a to confirm what key is currently touched. If so, confirm with the confirm switch 30, and if it is different from the expected key, move the fingertip to change the position of the cursor, and continue until it matches. As a result, a key corresponding to the mode can be input.

  Instead of repeating fixed input while confirming input and confirmation on a one-on-one basis as in the prior art, the confirmation switch 30 confirms when it is determined to be confirmed while displaying the touched key in real time. To do. Compared to the conventional case of inputting one key at a time in order of one key, the portable terminal 1 and the input device can be greatly reduced in size, and input based on a large display displayed on the display 2 in real time can be obtained. It becomes possible.

  When the operation panel 3 is small, the interval between the convex portions is narrow, and even if one convex portion is intended to be pushed, another adjacent convex portion is pushed depending on the position of the fingertip or the force, or two or more convex portions are pressed. I push it at the same time. However, the input device 20 according to the first embodiment solves such a problem by an interactive operation. In addition, feedback by announcement using the speaker 15 is easy instead of visual feedback.

  Now, the portable terminal 1 of Embodiment 1 is provided with a key lock function. At the time of key lock setting, the mobile terminal 1 is set to the authentication registration mode, traces on the convex portion, draws a locus with the cursor on the first display portion 18a, and inputs this as registration information. The portable terminal 1 automatically converts this into a character string (password) and registers it.

  When it is desired to release the key lock of the portable terminal 1, in the authentication input mode, the convex portion is pressed and input to the first display portion 18 a while drawing a locus due to the movement of the cursor. The portable terminal 1 automatically converts this into a character string and reproduces the password. Therefore, the user only needs to store a locus (movement of the fingertip) instead of a character string, and the mobile terminal 1 automatically replaces the locus with a character string.

According to the first embodiment, the cursor on the first display unit 18a is also moved in synchronization with the movement of the touched fingertip. The provisional key information of each convex portion can be changed to deterministic key information by pressing the convex portion on which the display is performed (determining switch 30 is turned on). In this state, there is a touch confirmation signal. With a pressing force larger than about 30 g / cm ² at which it can be detected that the contact has been detected, and with a contact that does not turn on the confirmation switch 30 (a pressing force smaller than the elastic force of the dome spring 27), there is a touch and no confirmation signal. to decide. Moreover, it can be made a non-touch state by releasing the fingertip from the convex portion or by setting the pressing pressure at which the indication of contact disappears to about 30 g / cm ² or less.

  When the convex portion of the operation panel 3 is traced in order with a predetermined locus for authentication and a confirmation signal is input at a convex portion at some two points, it is provisional between the keys to which the confirmation signal is input. In the first embodiment, the authentication information generating unit 20a1 determines the temporary key information as it is or automatically uses a unique information string between two pieces of determined information. A process of substituting the information string corrected in the above and confirming is performed.

  In Embodiment 1, if there is no touch immediately after the key to which the confirmation signal is input, the information string generation processing is not performed until the key is touched next and the confirmation signal is input. The same applies when only one key is input with the confirmation signal.

  As a result, it is possible to generate a character string in which the information of the key to which the confirmation signal is input is supplemented with the provisional key information. It is also possible to generate a unique multi-digit character string automatically corrected.

  The operation panel 3 is provided with convex portions arranged in a matrix. When a diagonal convex portion is selected or a confirmation signal is input from a misaligned convex portion, the authentication information generating means 20a1 Refuses to confirm.

  As a result, even if an unstable finger movement is performed, it is possible to always replace the character string uniquely defined between the keys to which the confirmation signal is input.

  Furthermore, when pressing the convex parts arranged in one direction in order and changing the direction of pushing the convex part with a certain convex part (direction in which the locus is drawn), when confirming at the end while continuing pressing, First, the provisional information corresponding to the convex portion that has performed the definite input, the convex portion that has changed direction, and the convex portion that is connected to the convex portion can be determined in series. Thereby, a continuous character string can be generated with the convex portion interposed therebetween.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, by combining the operation of drawing a line by pressing the convex portion of the upper surface sheet with a fingertip, the determination operation by the determination switch 30, and the presence or absence of touching the convex portion, Or you can create and reproduce complex passwords simply by drawing points. The fluctuation of the finger is absorbed in the process of determination, and a certain character string can be reliably reproduced with a trajectory. At this time, the number of times the confirmation switch 30 is pressed is much smaller than the number of automatically generated characters.

  Here, the feature of the operation of the convex portion of the input device 20 will be described. There is a mouse as a typical pointing device, but with a mouse, a click and a confirmation operation are input by double-clicking. On the other hand, on the touch panel or the like, an operation (tap) that is merely a finger-pick is performed, and there is no method for inputting a confirmation operation, and therefore an operation of once releasing the pen tip is performed. When inputting a trajectory, it cannot be corrected.

  On the other hand, according to the first embodiment, an input is performed while displaying in real time by an operation of touching the convex portion with a fingertip, or a tracing operation, and a confirming operation is an operation of strongly pressing the fingertip while touching the convex portion. The real-time display is provisional and can be input with correction. Therefore, this popular device has both the ease of use of a touch panel and the like, and the function of accurate and simple input that cannot be performed with a touch panel or the like. Moreover, it can be miniaturized to the limit, can be easily operated, can be manufactured at low cost, and can be easily mounted on conventional electronic devices.

  FIG. 5A shows that the portable terminal 1 is turned on, and in the authentication registration mode or the authentication input mode, a line or a locus of a point is drawn starting from a predetermined convex portion and a confirmation switch is pressed, and this operation is repeated. An example of generating and reproducing a password is shown below. FIG. 5B shows a case where overlapping lines and points are displayed on individual screens.

  When the starting point is input and the fingertip is moved in a state where this is displayed on the first display unit 18a, the cursor moves in synchronization with the movement of the finger, and the locus (movement state) is displayed. . When the confirming operation is performed in units of lines, it is preferable to change the confirmed trajectory as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B from the cursor display which is a provisional display to the confirmed line display. In other words, a temporary cursor display indicating the current state and a display of a line that has already been determined are mixed. In addition, it is good also to display not the locus | trajectory by the movement of the cursor as a point but the extensible line from the starting point to an end point.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the confirmation switch 30 is not individually pressed with respect to the key corresponding to the convex portion existing in the middle of each line, but the authentication information generating unit 20a1 connects both ends. Complements the key information on the shortest line and automatically corrects it. The corrected key information is displayed as a locus display.

  When it is thought that the input of all the trajectories has been completed, if the convex portion at the position of the enter key 18c displayed on the first display portion 18a is strongly pressed, the key lock setting or key lock is set in the control portion 11 in the first embodiment. Request release. This can be processed by the input control unit 20a.

  On the other hand, the control unit 11 registers in the memory 19 in the authentication registration mode, reads out the registered character string and compares it with the automatically generated character string in the authentication input mode. The key lock function is released only when the two match. In other cases, the key lock function is continued.

  Next, a specific input example of the authentication registration mode or the authentication input mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 (a) and 5 (b).

  FIG. 5A shows an example in which a line is displayed on the first display unit 18 a of the input device 20. 5 (a) and 5 (b), the numbers “1” “2” “3” “4” “5” “6” “7” “8” “9” “0” and symbols “*” “#” are included. Numbers and projections in which 12 keys are respectively associated with the projections are arranged in a 3 × 4 matrix arrangement in an orderly manner at appropriate pitches in the vertical and horizontal directions. The positions of these numbers and symbols correspond to these positions in FIG. “1” “2” “3” is the first row, “4” “5” “6” is the second row, “7” “8” “9” is the third row, “*” “0” “#” Is arranged in the fourth row. The bottom line is provided with an input stop key 18d for stopping input and a determination key 18c for determining input contents. When performing “Kana” input or “Romaji” input using the same operation panel 3, the correspondence table between the convex portion and the key differs for each mode, and the information is converted into information of another key. .

  In FIG. 5A, after the key “1” of the first display unit 18a is determined as the starting point, the fingertip is moved from “1” to “3” without releasing the fingertip from the operation panel 3, and this “3” ”And confirm the trajectory when the point is entered again as“ 7 ”separately from this series of actions. ing. Note that the fingertips until the starting point is determined fluctuate, but these movements are provisional and are not displayed.

  Here, for example, when “x” indicates that the convex portion corresponding to the key x is touched and “·” is an operation for determining “x”, “x” · → “y” · becomes “x”. It is confirmed that the line is confirmed by tracing the operation panel 3 up to “y”. When the fingertip is moved away from the convex portion without being confirmed, it is determined that the starting point and the ending point are the same point, not the confirmed line. Even if the fingertip moves unstablely between “x” and “y”, the authentication information generating unit 20a1 generates a character string on the shortest line.

  That is, the confirmed line is uniquely replaced with one character string. After confirming “y” of “x” · → “y” ·, further moving the fingertip to confirm “z”, “x” to “z” are connected and recognized as one character string. Is replaced with a string. At this time, “x” and “y” must be on either vertical or horizontal lines, and “y” and “z” must also be on either vertical or horizontal lines. This is because if the line connects the convex portions in the diagonal direction, the position of the convex portions may not coincide with the line, and the character string is not uniquely determined.

  For this reason, when the starting point is determined, the authentication information generation unit 20a1 refers to a list of candidates qualified as end points on the vertical and horizontal lines (stored as a table in the memory), and this is the point that has been confirmed. If it is not included in the candidate, it is rejected as the end point. As a result, a stable password can be input even in an unstable posture on the train or an operation while walking. A trajectory composed only of vertical and horizontal lines is easy to store and operate. A unique character string can be generated, and an unstable fingertip blur can be absorbed.

  In the case of FIG. 5A, “1” · → “3” · → “#” ·, “7” ·, but the user touches the surface of the operation panel 3 and touches the surface of the first display unit 18a. Looking at the cursor, the user knows that his / her fingertip is at the convex portion at the position “4”, for example, and moves to “1” using the fingertip as the starting point of input. On the first display portion 18a, the cursor moves from “4” to “1”, confirms that the cursor has moved to “1”, and pushes the convex portion.

  At this time, pressing the “1” turns on the confirmation switch 30 and recognizes it as the starting point. Here, when the fingertip is separated from “1”, the input becomes a point instead of a line. On the other hand, if the operation panel 3 is moved in a horizontal line or a vertical line while touching the fingertip, the cursor moves or expands. If the confirmation switch is pressed after confirming that the current position of the cursor is “3”, the line is determined to be a line connecting “3” and “1”, and “2” is not the confirmation switch 30 being pressed. , It is recognized that the character string “123” has been input.

  Furthermore, when the convex part is pushed at “3” and the confirmation operation is performed, the fingertip is folded from “3” without moving from the convex part and moved to the vertical line, the cursor moves from “3” to “#” side. And draw a polyline. When the current position of the cursor is confirmed to be “#” when the fingertip reaches “#” and the confirmation switch 30 is turned on, it is determined that the line is drawn continuously from “3”. The When the fingertip is then released, the character string corresponding to the locus from “1” to “3” and further to “#” is converted. “2”, “6”, and “9” are recognized as the character string “12369 #” being input although the confirmation switch 30 is not pressed. If it is confirmed with “#” and then moved to the “3” side or “*” side without further releasing the fingertip, the number of characters can be increased.

  In FIG. 5 (a), after inputting "1"-> "3"-> "#", release your fingertip from "#", touch "7" again, and press the confirm switch here. Yes. When the finger is released here, “7” is input as a point (one character). By this series of operations, the character string “12369 # 7” in which the partial character string of the locus from “1” to “3” and further “#” and the subsequent partial character string of “7” are connected to one is obtained. Converted. “12369 # 7” is the password. The characters “2”, “6”, and “9” are automatically complemented.

  Even if “2”, “6”, and “9” are pressed with a slight deviation, the character string is generated by correcting it to “12369 # 7”. If the fingertip is mistakenly pressed, for example, pressing “4” or “5” instead of “2”, or pressing two or three of “2”, “4” and “5” simultaneously, or completely Even if it reaches “3” via “5” instead of “2”, it is corrected if it is finally determined at “3”. Unstable trajectories along the way can be absorbed with a deterministic action.

  Therefore, instead of storing a specific character string, the user moves the fingertip from the upper left end to the upper right end on the operation panel 3, and moves the fingertip from the upper right end to the lower right end. Just remember to draw. You can enter a 7-digit password using only a broken line and dots. Even if one character is not inputted, if the authentication information is stored as a drawing and drawn as a locus, a character string can be automatically generated. For example, if “H” is drawn on the operation panel 3, “14745636369” or the like can be adopted as a password. Only one letter “H” needs to be stored.

  Images of signals output from the input device 20 described above are shown in FIGS. 6 (a), (b), (c), and (d). FIG. 6A is an explanatory diagram in which all signals are superimposed, FIG. 6B is a time chart of a touch signal, FIG. 6C is a time chart of an output signal of a discriminated key, and FIG. 6 (d) is a time chart of the confirmation signal.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, when a touch signal is generated on the operation panel 3, key information is displayed on the first display unit 18a as a cursor at the timing shown in FIG. 6C. The display stops when it is no longer touched. When the confirmation switch 30 is further pressed, a confirmation signal is output at the timing as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 5B, the trajectory of the first display unit 18a is divided for each line and all lines are displayed on the thumbnail. When this display is performed, when the cursor is moved while overlapping the same line, the overlapping line can be displayed separately, so that it is easy to understand.

  Subsequently, a key lock setting process and a key lock releasing process performed by the mobile terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the key lock setting process performed by the mobile terminal according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the key lock release process performed by the mobile terminal according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  First, the key lock setting process will be described. In FIG. 7, the authentication registration mode is set by pressing the start button of the portable terminal 1 (step 1). At this time, the first display unit 18a displays a list of keys, and the authentication information generation unit 20a1 enters an input standby state in which it waits to be touched with a fingertip (step 2). When the convex portion is touched in this state (step 3), the key touched on the first display portion 18a is displayed as a cursor (step 4).

  The authentication information generation unit 20a1 first confirms whether or not the touch is continued in order to determine the subsequent processing (step 5). If the touch on the operation panel 3 has disappeared, the process proceeds to step 14 to stop the processing.

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not a confirmation signal is input (step 6). If there is no confirmation signal, the process returns to step 5, and if there is a confirmation signal, it is confirmed whether there is a touch (step 7). If there is a touch, in order to confirm that the key for which the confirmation signal has been pressed is not a diagonal line, it is determined whether or not the key corresponds to one of the allowable key candidates for the starting point (step 8). If there is no touch at step 7, proceed to step 10.

  In step 8, if it corresponds to an acceptable key candidate, it is confirmed again whether there is a touch (step 9). When it does not correspond to a candidate, it returns to step5. If there is a touch in step 9, the process returns to step 5, and if there is no touch, a partial character string is generated (step 10). When the confirmation signal is once, it becomes a point, and when it is twice or more, a partial character string of a line connected to one is generated.

  The authentication information generation unit 20a1 displays the line of the past so far on the first display unit 18a until the determination key 18c is pressed (step 11).

  If the cancel key 18d is input before the determination key 18c is pressed (step 12), the cancel process is performed (step 13), and if the stop key 18d is not input, whether or not the determination key 18c is pressed. Is determined (step 14). If the enter key 18c is not pressed, the process returns to step 5 and the above procedure is repeated until the input is completed. If the enter key 18c is input, this character string is registered in the memory 19 (step 15). This completes the key lock setting.

  Next, the key lock release process will be described. In FIG. 8, the authentication registration mode is set by pressing the start button of the portable terminal 1 (step 21). At this time, the first display unit 18a displays a list of keys, and the authentication information generation unit 20a1 enters an input standby state waiting for touching with a fingertip (step 22). When the convex portion is touched in this state (step 23), the key touched on the first display portion 18a is displayed as a cursor (step 24).

  The authentication information generation unit 20a1 first checks whether or not the touch is continued in order to determine the subsequent processing (step 25). If the touch on the operation panel 3 has disappeared, the process proceeds to step 33 to stop the processing.

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not a confirmation signal is input (step 26). If there is no confirmation signal, the process returns to step 25, and if there is a confirmation signal, it is confirmed whether there is a touch (step 27). If there is a touch, in order to confirm that the key for which the confirmation signal is pressed is not a diagonal line, it is determined whether or not the key corresponds to one of the allowable key candidates for the starting point (step 28). If there is no touch in step 27, the process proceeds to step 30.

  In step 28, if it corresponds to an acceptable key candidate, it is confirmed again whether there is a touch (step 29). When it does not correspond to a candidate, it returns to step25. If there is a touch in step 29, the process returns to step 25, and if there is no touch, a partial character string is generated (step 30). When the confirmation signal is once, it becomes a point, and when it is twice or more, a partial character string of a line connected to one is generated.

  The authentication information generation means 20a1 displays the line of the past so far on the first display unit 18a until the determination key 18c is pressed (step 31).

  If the cancel key 18d is input before the determination key 18c is pressed (step 32), the cancel process is performed (step 33). If there is no input of the cancel key 18d, whether or not the determination key 18c is pressed. Is determined (step 34). If the enter key 18c is not pressed, the process returns to step 25 and the above steps are repeated until the input is completed. If the enter key 18c is input, the registered character string stored in the memory 19 is read. Then, the read character string is compared with the input character string of the key unlock information, and it is determined whether or not they match (step 35).

  If the two match, the key lock function of the portable terminal 1 is released (step 36). If the two do not match, the key lock release operation is invalidated (step 37), and the key lock release processing is terminated.

  As described above, according to the input device of Embodiment 1 of the present invention, even a password with a large number of digits can be easily input, high-security and reliable authentication can be performed, and unauthorized use by a third party can be prevented. There is no need to store the password as a multi-digit character string, and the figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string. It becomes a password that does not need to remember the character string. Only by additionally installing an input device, it is a combination of an operation panel with a convex portion and a real-time display, so that it becomes a compact size input device and a large display can be used.

  The memory as a graphic is stored in a pattern by repetition, and there are few input mistakes, and only the person can cancel it very easily when releasing the key lock. It is also possible to capture color as a graphic attribute. By specifying the color of the figure, it is possible to easily add data types as many as the color types without bothering the user. The input device is composed of an operation panel and a control board and is extremely inexpensive.

  In addition, according to the electronic device, the portable terminal, and the input control method according to the first embodiment of the present invention, it is easy to input even a password with a large number of digits, security is high, and reliable authentication can be performed. Since an input device comprising a combination of an operation panel with a convex portion and a real-time display can be used, an electronic device or a portable terminal having a small and large display can be obtained. There is no need to store the password as a multi-digit character string, and the figure can be stored and reproduced as a character string. It becomes a password that does not need to remember the character string.

  The memory as a figure is repeatedly patterned and stored in the human brain, and there are few input mistakes, and only the person can release it easily when releasing the key lock. It is also possible to capture color as a graphic attribute. By specifying the color of the figure, it is possible to easily add data types as many as the color types without bothering the user.

  The present invention can be applied to an input device and an electronic device such as a portable terminal equipped with the input device.

1 (a) and 1 (b) are perspective views showing appearances from the front side and the back side of the portable terminal according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The internal block diagram of the portable terminal in Embodiment 1 of this invention Sectional drawing of the principal part of the operation part of the input device in Embodiment 1 of this invention. 1 is an exploded view of an operation unit of an input device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. (A) Explanatory drawing of the display of the input in the authentication registration mode or authentication input mode of the portable terminal in Embodiment 1 of this invention, (b) When displaying the line and point which overlap in the display of (a) separately Illustration of (A) An explanatory diagram of signals of the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, (b) a time chart of touch signals of the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and (c) from the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. (D) Time chart of the determination signal from the input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention Flowchart of key lock setting processing performed by the mobile terminal according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Flowchart of key lock release processing performed by portable terminal in Embodiment 1 of the present invention

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Mobile terminal 2 Display 3 Operation panel 4 Earpiece 5 Mouth mouth 11 Control part 11a Authentication means 12 Antenna 13 Communication circuit 14 Voice processing part 15 Speaker 16 Microphone 17 Image processing part 18 Display part 18a 1st display part 18b 2nd Display unit 19 memory 20 input device 20a input control unit 20a1 authentication information generation unit 20a2 determination unit 21 digitizer 22 upper surface sheet 23 frame 24, 28 flat cable 25 actuator plate 25a operation unit 26 film substrate 27 dome spring 30 determination switch

Claims (16)

An operation panel formed with a plurality of convex portions, a determination means for acquiring position information when the convex portions are pressed and determining information assigned to the convex portions, and the determined information as provisional information An input device comprising a display unit for displaying in real time and a confirmation unit for inputting a confirmation signal for confirming the contents of the provisional information,
At the time of key lock setting or key lock release, the control unit discriminates the confirmation information in which both the pressing of the convex part and the input of the confirmation signal exist, the provisional information in which only the pressing exists, and the non-pressing state, and a predetermined When the projecting part is traced in order and a confirmation signal is input to some of the projecting parts, if the provisional information exists between preceding and following confirmation information, a process is performed to confirm the provisional information. When a line is generated and there is no pressing between the determined information before and after or when the determined information is only one point, the information string is not generated until the next pressing and confirming signal is input, and the confirmed information and confirmed An input device that generates authentication information based on a processed information sequence.   The input device according to claim 1, wherein when the provisional information exists between preceding and following confirmation information, the provisional information is determined in place of performing processing for determining the provisional information and generating an information string. An input device characterized by substituting an unambiguous information string associated with information for confirmation.   The input device according to claim 2, wherein the unique information sequence is an information sequence of convex portions existing on a straight line connecting convex portions corresponding to two definite information.   The operation panel is provided with convex portions arranged in a matrix, and the convex portions that are sequentially pressed according to the predetermined locus are composed of convex portions arranged only in two orthogonal directions, and the diagonal convex portions are pressed. 4. The input device according to claim 1, wherein when the confirmation signal is input, the control unit does not perform provisional processing on the provisional information corresponding thereto. 5.   When a convex signal lined up in one direction is pressed in sequence and the direction of drawing a locus in a certain convex portion is changed, when the confirmation signal is input while the convex portion is pressed, the control unit 5. The input device according to claim 4, wherein the provisional information corresponding to the convex portion connected to the portion is determined.   An electronic device comprising the input device according to claim 1, wherein an operation panel is provided on a surface of the housing, and provisional information is real-time at another position on the surface of the housing. An electronic device comprising a display unit for displaying, wherein the device control unit performs key lock setting or key lock release using authentication information generated by the input device.   A memory for storing authentication information to be registered, and the device control unit registers the authentication information generated at the time of key lock setting in the memory, and the authentication information generated at the time of key lock release and the authentication generated at this time 7. The electronic device according to claim 6, wherein the information is compared to perform a key lock release or release invalidation process.   The electronic device according to claim 6, wherein when the authentication information is generated, the device control unit displays the authentication information on the display unit or the second display unit.   A portable terminal comprising a communication circuit and the input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an operation panel is provided on a surface of the housing, and provisional information is provided at another position on the surface of the housing. A portable terminal comprising: a display unit that displays the information in real time, wherein key lock setting or key lock release is performed using authentication information generated by the input device.   A memory for storing authentication information to be registered, and the device control unit registers the authentication information generated at the time of key lock setting in the memory, and the authentication information generated at the time of key lock release and the authentication generated at this time 10. The mobile terminal according to claim 9, wherein information is compared to perform a key lock release or release invalidation process.   The portable terminal according to claim 9, wherein when the authentication information is generated, the device control unit displays the authentication information on the display unit or the second display unit. By pressing a plurality of convex portions of the operation panel in order, the information assigned to the convex portions is discriminated, the discriminated information is displayed in real time as provisional information, and the content of the provisional information is confirmed and confirmed information An input control method for performing processing
At the time of key lock setting or key unlock, let the convex part be traced in order with a predetermined trajectory and make a certain input at some convex part,
The input information is divided into confirmation information that is confirmed together with the pressing of the convex portion, provisional information that is only pressed, and a state where there is no pressing,
If the provisional information exists between the preceding and following confirmation information, a process for confirming the provisional information is performed to generate an information string, and there is no pressing between the preceding and following confirmation information, or the confirmation information is only one point In this case, the information sequence is not generated until the next press and confirmation signal is input, and authentication information for key lock setting or key lock release is generated based on the confirmed information and the confirmed information sequence. An input control method characterized by the above.   13. The input control method according to claim 12, wherein, when the provisional information exists between preceding and following confirmation information, the provisional information is replaced with the provisional information instead of performing a process of confirming the provisional information and generating an information string. An input control method characterized by substituting a unique information string associated with confirmation information for confirmation.   The input control method according to claim 13, wherein the unique information sequence is an information sequence of convex portions existing on a straight line connecting convex portions corresponding to two definite information.   Protrusions arranged in a matrix are provided on the operation panel, and the convex parts that are pressed in order according to the predetermined locus are composed of convex parts arranged only in two orthogonal directions, and the diagonal convex parts are pressed to confirm the input. The input control method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the provisional information is not confirmed when the operation is performed.   When the convex parts arranged in one direction are pressed in order and confirmed while pressing when changing the direction of drawing a locus in a certain convex part, provisional information corresponding to the convex part connected to this convex part is confirmed. The input control method according to claim 15.

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