JP2010204728A - Interface - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an interface, which facilitates use of a device of operation target for both a person with difficulty in performing complicate operation and a person capable of performing complicate operation. <P>SOLUTION: When a release button is determined to be ON (S1215 YES), and each of function buttons is determined to be OFF (S1230 NO), a unit is shifted to a released state (S1240). The unit then inputs an operation signal corresponding to a function button which is turned ON most recently to a bathroom controller. Thus, control of bathroom equipment according to the ON function button is attained. The unit directly inputs, when any one of function buttons is ON in the released state, the operation signal corresponding to the ON function button to the bathroom controller. After one minute after setting the released state, the unit is returned to a limited state (S1260). When it is determined that a timer exceeds 1.5 seconds (S1235 NO), switching of ON/OFF of bathroom lighting equipment is executed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  It relates to an interface for user-friendly operation.

  In recent years, aging is progressing. On the other hand, the operation of home appliances has become complicated. For the elderly, not only complicated operations are unnecessary, but it also causes erroneous operations. Therefore, for the purpose of preventing the elderly from operating, a system that does not operate unless a complicated operation is performed has been proposed (Patent Document 1). This system is effective in nursing and nursing situations. However, it is inconvenient for independent elderly people. Therefore, devices for the elderly (such as mobile phones) that have been simplified in operation by narrowing the functions to the minimum have already been implemented.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-296739

  The problem of the above-mentioned device for elderly people is that it is inconvenient for non-elderly people because all but the minimum functions are removed. In addition, even for devices used by the elderly, it is necessary to be able to set detailed operation methods and function ranges. Simply narrowing down to the minimum functions will cause a difference in performance from normal products. There is a problem that the product is too sticky, or there is a problem that a normal product has to be redesigned greatly and the manufacturing cost is increased. Therefore, people who have difficulty in complex operations of elderly people (including infants and persons with disabilities) (hereinafter referred to as “subjects”) and those who can perform complex operations (hereinafter referred to as “non-subjects”) It may be unsuitable for the device used by both of them, or it may be inconvenient or expensive even if the device is used only by the subject.

  In view of this problem, an object of the present invention is to provide an interface that makes it easy to use an operation target device for both a target person and a non-target person. It is another object of the present invention to provide an interface capable of setting detailed operation methods and functions while making it difficult for erroneous operations to occur even when used only by the subject. In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide an interface that does not greatly increase the cost in order to solve the above problems.

  In order to achieve this object, the invention according to claim 1 is the first input means for the user to input operation information for specifying the operation of the operation target device, and the operation information is input to the first input means. A second input means for inputting an operation signal to the operation target device, and the operation of the operation target device includes an authorized operation pre-authorized by the second input means and an unauthorized operation that is not authorized. The first input means allows the user to input application information for allowing the second input means to authorize the unauthorized operation, and the second input means includes operation information corresponding to the authorized operation. Is input to the first input means, an operation signal corresponding to the input operation information is input, and operation information corresponding to an unauthorized operation is input to the first input means. If the input When the application information is input to the first input means at a determined time, the unauthorized operation corresponding to the input operation information is authorized and the operation signal corresponding to the unauthorized operation is input. When the operation information corresponding to one operation signal input means and the unauthorized operation is input to the first input means, if the application information is not input to the first input means at the above time, it corresponds to the authorized operation And a second operation signal input means for inputting the operated signal.

  According to the present invention, the operation target device is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. Further, even when only the target person uses it, the target person can use it without error, and fine setting changes can be made. Give the reason. First, set the length of the “time determined based on the input time” to a time sufficient for information input for non-subjects, and a short time until the target person determines whether or not the desired action has been performed. Set. Then, the non-target person can operate the operation target apparatus as desired by inputting the operation information and inputting the application information at that time.

  On the other hand, the target person who does not want complicated operation and only cares about obtaining a desired function is intended only for obtaining the desired function. Since the user can feel that the desired function has been activated, only the operation information is input without inputting the application information. Then, whatever the input operation information is, an operation signal corresponding to the authorized operation is input to the operation target device. Therefore, the operation necessary for the target person is set as the authorized operation. Then, whatever the subject inputs, the operation necessary for the subject is eventually realized. Therefore, the subject can not only be concerned about erroneous operations, but also can easily input necessary operations.

In addition, the provision of the convenient functions described above can be realized simply by adding the interface of claim 1 to the conventional apparatus, so that an increase in manufacturing cost can be minimized.
By the way, it is desirable that an operation necessary for the target person is realized only by inputting one piece of information. Therefore, the following should be done. According to the invention of claim 2, the second operation signal input means inputs the operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation to the first input means at a time determined based on the time when the application information is input to the first input means. If not, an operation signal corresponding to the authorized operation is input.

  According to the present invention, in addition to the same operational effects as the interface of claim 1, the operation required for the target person can be realized even if only the application information is input. Is easier to use. In other words, the judgment ability of the target person is reduced, and only interest in obtaining the desired function is shown, and it is conceivable that the application information is input by performing the operation in a chaotic manner until the function is obtained. Even in that case, according to the present invention, an operation necessary for the subject or an operation for obtaining the function desired by the subject is realized. Note that the length of “time” here and “time” in claim 1 need not be the same.

  By the way, when inputting a lot of operation information, for example, to change the setting or to make a new setting, even if it is a non-target person with high judgment ability and operation ability, all of them are inputted in the configuration of claim 1 or claim 2 Sometimes it is difficult to do. Then, it is necessary to input application information every time one piece of operation information is input, and the operation is troublesome. Therefore, the following should be done.

  In the invention of claim 3, the first operation signal input means, when the operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation is input to the first input means within a predetermined time after the unauthorized operation is approved, 3. The interface according to claim 1, wherein an operation signal specified by the input operation information is input.

  According to the present invention, in addition to obtaining the same operational effect as the interface of claim 1 or 2, it is within a predetermined time after the operation signal of the unauthorized operation is input to the operation target device. The desired operation can be realized only by inputting the operation information. Thereby, it becomes easy for a non-target person to change a setting or to make a new setting.

  By the way, for example, even if the subject has a reduced judgment ability, when he / she wants a plurality of functions, he / she may want to turn on / off the power and change the strength. In such a case, it may be inconvenient if there is only one authorized operation. Therefore, the following should be done. In the invention of claim 4, there are a plurality of authorized operations, one of the plurality of authorized operations is predetermined as a specific authorized operation, and the second operation signal input means is an unauthorized operation. When the corresponding operation information is input to the first input means and the application information is not input to the first input means at the above time, an operation signal corresponding to a specific authorized operation is input. The interface according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

  According to the present invention, in addition to obtaining the same effects as the interface of any one of claims 1 to 3, it is easy for the subject to input the most necessary operation while providing a plurality of authorized operations. You can Thereby, for example, when the target person desires to change the strength, priority is given to turning on / off the power supply most desired by the target person, and it is also possible to execute it.

  By the way, when it is necessary to turn off the operation target apparatus during normal operation, the power supply is always turned off. Therefore, it is necessary to perform the power operation before inputting the operation information. However, for example, a subject whose judgment ability has decreased may not have the concept of power on / off, and power operation may be difficult. Therefore, the following should be done. According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the second input means operates the power source of the operation target device based on at least one of the operation information and the application information input to the first input means, and the state of the power source of the operation target device. 5. An interface according to claim 1, further comprising third operation signal input means for inputting an operation signal for the operation.

  According to the present invention, in addition to obtaining the same operational effects as the interface of any one of claims 1 to 4, the authorized operation and the power operation can be performed simply by inputting the operation information. Since it is realized, for example, the operation of the power source and the operation for obtaining the desired function are performed simultaneously only by performing an operation in order to obtain the function desired by the subject who has reduced judgment ability. Further, an operation in which a non-target person first operates the power supply and then changes the setting is also possible. Therefore, the convenience of both the target person and the non-target person is improved.

  By the way, the intended purpose can be achieved as follows. The invention according to claim 6 is the first input means for the user to input operation information for specifying the operation of the operation target device, and the operation signal is input to the operation target when the operation information is input to the first input means. A second input means for inputting to the device, and the operation of the operation target device includes an authorized operation pre-authorized by the second input means and an unauthorized operation that is not authorized. , The user can input application information for authorizing the unauthorized operation to the second input means, and the second input means performs the unauthorized operation based on the application information input to the first input means. A first switching means for switching from a restricted state that does not authorize an unauthorized operation to a released state that authorizes an unauthorized operation, and a second switching means for returning to the restricted state after a predetermined time since switching to the released state by the first switching means. Together with the first When operation information is input to the force means, an operation signal corresponding to the authorized operation is input in the restricted state, while an operation signal specified by the input operation information is input in the release state. Is an interface characterized by

  According to the present invention, the operation target device is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. Give the reason. First, the “predetermined time” is set to a time sufficient for information input for non-target persons and a short time for target persons.

  Then, the non-target person can operate the operation target device as desired by inputting information within a predetermined time after switching to the release state. On the other hand, since it is difficult for the subject to input information within a predetermined time after switching to the release state, the target person inputs information in the restricted state. In the restricted state, only the operation signal corresponding to the authorized operation is input to the operation target device regardless of the information input by the user. Therefore, an operation necessary for the subject is set as the authorized operation.

  Then, whatever the subject inputs, the operation necessary for the subject is eventually realized. Therefore, the subject can not only be concerned about erroneous operations, but also can easily input necessary operations.

The block block diagram of a bathroom control apparatus. The external view of the operation panel of a bathroom control apparatus. The flowchart which shows a relay control process. The flowchart which shows a bathroom control process. The external view of the operation panel in a modification. The block block diagram of a remote control. External view of remote control. The flowchart which showed the power supply control process. The flowchart which showed the remote control process. The flowchart which showed the remote control process. The block block diagram of an air conditioner. The external view of the operation panel of an air conditioner. The flowchart which shows an air-conditioner control process. The flowchart which shows an air-conditioner control process. The block block diagram of a mobile telephone. FIG. The flowchart which shows a mobile telephone control process. The flowchart which shows a mobile telephone control process. The flowchart which shows a mobile telephone control process. The flowchart which shows a mobile telephone control process. The block block diagram of a rice cooker. The external view of the operation panel of a rice cooker. The flowchart which shows a rice cooker control process. The flowchart which shows a rice cooker control process. The block block diagram of a washing machine. The external view of the operation panel of a washing machine. The flowchart which shows a washing machine power supply control process. The flowchart which shows a washing machine control process. The flowchart which shows a washing machine control process. The flowchart which shows a washing machine control process. The flowchart which shows a washing machine control process. The flowchart which shows a washing machine control process. The flowchart which shows a washing machine control process.

  Examples of the present invention will be described.

  The first embodiment relates to a bathroom control device 1 to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 1 is a block configuration diagram of the bathroom control device 1. The bathroom control device 1 includes an input / output interface / holding / switching unit (hereinafter simply referred to as “unit”, the same applies to other embodiments) 130, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) 140, a bathroom controller 150, and a bathroom lighting device 180. The bathroom equipment operation panel 199 is provided. The bathroom device operation panel 199 includes an operation button group 110, a release button 111, display lamps 112 and 113, and a release lamp 160.

  The operation button group 110 includes a plurality of operation buttons to be described later, and each operation button corresponds to each function of bathroom equipment that performs ventilation and supply of hot air (not shown) (except for the release button 111). (See FIG. 2). The lighting operation panel 120 includes a bathroom lighting lamp 122 for indicating lighting on / off and a bathroom lighting on / off button 123 for switching lighting on / off (see FIG. 2). When these buttons are pressed, the operation signals S1, S2, and S3 are input to the bathroom controller 150, the release lamp 160, and the relay 170 via the unit 130 and / or the MCU 140, and the bathroom lighting device 180, the release lamp 160, The display lamps 112 and 113 are turned on / off and the bathroom device is operated. That is, the operation button group 110, the illumination operation panel 120, the unit 130, and the MCU 140 function as a man-machine interface as a unit.

The bathroom controller 150 controls the bathroom equipment via the bathroom equipment wiring 151 based on the operation signal S <b> 1 input from the unit 130. In addition, the relay 170 is switched between driving / off in accordance with the operation signal S3 input from the MCU 140, and the bathroom lighting apparatus 180 is switched on / off in response to the driving / off. ing. (Relay 170 may be an inexpensive electromagnetic contact type or a highly durable solid state type.)
Incidentally, the unit 130 that performs input / output and signal holding has two states, a restricted state and a released state (the default is a restricted state). When any one button of the operation button group 110 is pressed and turned on, the unit 130 inputs the operation signals S1 and S4 corresponding to the turned-on button to the MCU 140 in the restricted state and in the released state. Is input to the bathroom controller 150. (However, the operation signal S4 corresponding to the release button 111 is input to the MCU 140 but not to the bathroom controller 150. The same applies to the other embodiments (however, the release button 111 It is necessary to replace the sign and bathroom controller 150 as appropriate.))
Based on the operation signal S4 from the unit 130 and the button signal S5 from the lighting operation panel 120, the MCU 140 switches the restriction state / release state of the unit 130, turns on / off the release lamp 160, and drives / removes the relay 170. Turn off and switch on / off the bathroom lighting lamp 122 (see FIG. 2) on the lighting operation panel 120 (details will be described together with FIGS. 3 and 4). (Note that the MCU 140 may be a program type or a logic type (the same applies to MCUs in other embodiments).)
Therefore, in the restricted state, even if the operation button group 110 is operated, the bathroom device cannot be controlled through the bathroom controller 150, and the release lamp 160 and the relay 170 are operated instead (the details are shown in the figure). 3. Explanation with FIG.

  In the restricted state, the unit 130 holds only one operation signal S6 corresponding to the latest input from the operation button group 110. That is, the retained information is overwritten by the latest input from the operation button group 110. Then, the unit 130 is configured to input the held operation signal S6 as the operation signal S1 to the bathroom controller 150 when the operation signal S6 shifts from the restricted state to the released state.

  The release lamp 160 is a back lamp of the release button 111. Then, the operation signal S2 is input from the MCU 140 so that the release lamp 160 is turned on (lit) when the unit 130 is in the released state and turned off (turned off) when the unit 130 is in the restricted state.

  FIG. 2 is an external view of the bathroom operation panel 199 and the lighting operation panel 120. As shown in the figure, the bathroom device operation panel 199 includes a bathroom controller 150 inside, and the operation button group 110 located on the surface includes “filter reset” “off” “timer setting” “bathroom off” “ventilation” “ There are buttons 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, and 168 corresponding to the functions of the bathroom equipment of “dry cool breeze”, “preliminary heating”, and “24-hour continuous ventilation”. Each button is associated with two display lamps 112 and 113 for displaying an operation state or a selection state.

  Below the operation button group 110 is a release button 111. The release button 111 is disposed so as to be separable from the operation button group 110, and is used to switch the restricted state of the unit 130 to the release state (details will be described with reference to FIG. 4).

  Moreover, the lighting operation panel 120 located side by side below the bathroom equipment operation panel 199 includes a unit 130, an MCU 140, and a relay 170 inside, and the bathroom indicates on the surface whether the bathroom lighting equipment 180 is on or off by lighting. An illumination lamp 122 and a bathroom lighting on / off button 123 for switching on / off the bathroom lighting device 180 are provided. The bathroom illumination lamp 122 is switched on / off by an operation signal S7 from the MCU 140.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the relay control process. This process is a process that is executed by the MCU 140 by time interruption (that is, periodically).
First, the bathroom lighting on / off button 123 is turned on (the button signal S5 indicating that the bathroom lighting on / off button 123 has been pressed has been input. Speaking that the button signal S6 corresponding to the button or the operation signal S4 from the unit 130 has been input, or “the button is off”, the button signal S6 or the operation signal S4 corresponding to the button is not input. This is the same in other embodiments.) (S1110), and if it is determined to be off (NO in S1120), the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it determines with it being ON (S1120 YES), ON / OFF of the bathroom lighting lamp 122 is reversed (S1130). Then, it is determined whether the switch has been switched from OFF to ON (S1140). If it is determined from OFF to ON (S1140 YES), the relay 170 is driven (S1150), and this process ends. Then, the bathroom lighting device 180 is turned on.

On the other hand, if it is determined from on to off (NO in S1140), the relay 170 is turned off (S1160), and this process ends. Then, the bathroom lighting device 180 is turned off.
The default is that the relay 170 is off. The relay 170 is controlled by a processing routine (not shown) so that the relay 170 is turned off after five hours have elapsed since driving.

  With the above relay control process, each time the bathroom lighting on / off button 123 is operated, the bathroom lighting device 180 is turned on or off. Moreover, the monitor lighting by the bathroom illumination lamp 122 is performed.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing bathroom control processing. This process is repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 140. The feature of this process is that if any one of the function buttons (buttons 161 to 168 belonging to the operation button group 110) and the release button 111 are not operated quickly, the relay 170 is driven regardless of which button is operated. The point is to execute off. This is, for example, the only function that a subject with reduced judgment ability, such as an elderly person, wants or needs is to turn on / off the bathroom lighting device 180, and does not require bathroom ventilation or bathroom drying. It is based on the design philosophy of “almost no”.

  First, the operation signal S4 from the unit 130 is read (S1205). Then, it is determined whether the release button 111 is on (S1215). If it is determined that the cancel button 111 is on (YES in S1215), the timer built in the MCU 140 itself is cleared / started (S1220).

  Then, the operation signal S4 from the unit 130 is read (S1225), and if any of the function buttons 161 to 168 is determined to be off (S1230 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 1.5 seconds or less (S1235). If it is determined that the time is 1.5 seconds or less (S1235 YES), the process returns to the operation signal S4 reading process of S1225.

  If any one of the function buttons 161 to 168 (for example, the button 165) is determined to be on (YES in S1230), the unit 130 is shifted to the release state (S1240). Based on the fact that the function buttons 161 to 168 for performing setting etc. are operated quickly after the release button 111 is operated, it is determined that the person who is operating now wants to change the setting consciously, The setting can be changed. This is because a person with reduced judgment ability such as an elderly person does not want an operation that does not lead to a direct change in appearance such as a setting change, so the target person can press the function buttons 161 to 168 or the release button 111 for a while. For example, about 2 seconds is based on the design concept that the button is not continuously pressed.

  Then, as described above, the unit 130 inputs the operation signal S1 corresponding to the function buttons 161 to 168, for example, the button 165 turned on in S1225, to the bathroom controller 150. Further, as described above, when any one of the function buttons 161 to 168 is turned on in the released state, the unit 130 directly inputs the operation signal S1 corresponding to the turned on function button to the bathroom controller 150.

  Then, the release lamp 160 is turned on (S1250). Then, one minute after entering the release state, the unit 130 is returned to the restricted state, the release lamp 160 is turned off (S1260), and this process ends. This is because operations such as setting changes are completed within one minute.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1.5 seconds (NO in S1235), this process is terminated and a relay control process (see FIG. 3) is executed from S1130. Then, on / off switching of the bathroom lighting device 180 is executed. (Based on the fact that any of the function buttons 161 to 168 has not been pressed for a predetermined time after the release button 111 is turned on, the user is considered to be a target person who expects only lighting on / off. .)
On the other hand, after starting the bathroom control process, after reading the operation signal S4 (S1205), if the release button 111 is determined to be off (S1215 NO), it is determined whether any one of the function buttons 161 to 168 is on (S1265). . If none is determined to be off (NO in S1265), no button operation has been performed, and thus this process ends. On the other hand, if any one of the function buttons 161 to 168 is determined to be on (YES in S1265), the timer is cleared / started (S1270). Then, the operation signal S4 from the unit 130 is read (S1275), and if it is determined that the release button 111 is off (NO in S1280), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S1285). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (YES in S1285), the process returns to reading of the operation signal S4 in S1275. That is, the operation of the release button 111 is waited for one second after any of the function buttons 161 to 168 is operated.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the time exceeds 1 second (NO in S1285), this process ends and the relay control process is executed from S1130. (Based on the fact that the release button 111 is not turned on for a predetermined time after any one of the function buttons 161 to 168 is turned on, the user is regarded as a target person who does not want to change the setting. )
On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 111 is on (YES in S1280), the process proceeds to S1240 to place the unit 130 in the release state. (Based on the quick operation of the release button 111, the user is regarded as a non-target person.) When the process proceeds from S1280, the reading result of S1205 held in the unit 130 is the bathroom controller. 150 is input.

  Note that the purpose of setting the timer to 1.5 seconds in S1235 while 1 second in S1285 is to make the determination criteria more strict. The reason is that the process proceeds to S1265 YES and the process proceeds to S1280 YES because it is an exceptional operation (the reason why there is a difference in the set time of the timer in the other embodiments is the same as this reason). Note that an appropriate value for the value of 1.5 seconds or 1 second is set by experiment according to the position of the release button 111. For example, if the release button 111 is far away from the function buttons 161 to 168, the time is lengthened.

  State the effect. According to the bathroom control device 1, the bathroom equipment is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. If any one of the buttons is pressed and waits for a predetermined time, the bathroom lighting device 180 is turned on / off. As described above, the subject can also obtain the desired action. On the other hand, since it is not performed by the subject to operate the operation information so that the operation signal S1 is input from the unit 130 to the bathroom controller 150 as described above, an erroneous operation such as unintended ventilation is activated. Less likely to be done.

  In addition, if a quick operation is performed by combining the release button 111, the bathroom device can be operated in the same way as an existing device. It remains almost unchanged from existing equipment. Therefore, the above-described convenient function can be obtained without greatly changing the design of the existing apparatus, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  In addition, the release button 111 and the function buttons 161 to 168 are in the same panel or the same operation area, and the usage can be understood with only a slight explanation. In addition, because the position of the group of function buttons 161 to 168 and the release button 111 are separated, or the release button 111 is large, the non-target person once sees how to use, and then only sees the button arrangement. You can remember how to use it, and it is easy to use. What was described in this paragraph as the effect of the first embodiment is the same in other embodiments described later.

  FIG. 5 shows a bathroom equipment operation panel 198 as a modification of the bathroom equipment operation panel 199. The bathroom device operation panel 198 includes an operation button group 118, display lamps 112 and 113, and a bathroom controller 150, and does not include a release button 111 so that an existing apparatus can be used as it is. The release button 111 is attached to the release button mounting plate 169 as a separate body from the bathroom equipment operation panel 198. Inside the release button mounting plate 169, the relay 170, the unit 130, and the MCU 140 are disposed. Thereby, the existing bathroom equipment operation panel 198 and the lighting operation panel 120 can be used as they are with almost no change, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. The structure is substantially the same except that the release button mounting plate 169 is provided.

Examples 2 to 6 are based on the same concept as that of Example 1. Therefore, in Examples 2 to 6, detailed descriptions and reference numerals in the drawings are omitted as appropriate.
The second embodiment relates to a remote controller 2 to which the present invention is applied. The remote controller 2 is for operating a TV (television). FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the remote controller 2. As shown in FIG. 6, the remote controller 2 includes an operation button group 210, a release button 211, a unit 230, an MCU 240, a TV remote controller / controller 250, a release lamp 260, a light emitting element 290, and a transmission indicator 295.

  Each function button of the operation button group 210 corresponds to each function of the TV (see FIG. 7). The unit 230 has a restricted state / released state, like the unit 130 of the first embodiment. When the operation button is pressed and turned on, the unit 230 inputs an operation signal corresponding to the on operation button to the MCU 240 in the restricted state and to the TV remote controller 250 in the released state.

  In the restricted state, the unit 230 is configured to hold an operation signal corresponding to the most recent input from the operation button group 210, and when the held operation signal shifts from the restricted state to the released state, the TV is displayed. Input is made to the remote controller 250. The default is a restricted state.

  Upon receiving an operation signal from the unit 230, the MCU 240 turns on / off the release lamp 260 and corresponds to a predetermined function (TV power on / off, etc., details will be described together with FIGS. 9 and 10). An operation signal is input to the TV remote controller / controller 250, or the restriction state / release state of the unit 230 is switched.

  The TV remote controller / controller 250 causes the light emitting element 290 to emit light based on the operation signal input from the unit 230 and lights the transmission indicator 295 for a predetermined time.

  FIG. 7 is an external view of the remote controller 2. As shown in the figure, the operation button group 210 includes “mute”, “input switching”, “channel (1-9)”, “number (10-12)”, “channel selection +”, “channel selection-”, “volume up”, “volume”. Each button is provided with a number corresponding to each function. As described above, the remote controller 2 includes the release button 211, the transmission indicator 295, and the release lamp 260.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the power supply control process. This process is a process repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 240.
First, an operation signal from the unit 230 is read (S2110), and if it is determined that the power button is off (NO in S2120), this process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power button is on (S2120 YES), the unit 230 is shifted from the restricted state to the released state (S2130).

  Then, the power button operation signal held in the unit 230 is input to the TV remote controller 250. Then, light for switching on / off of the power is emitted from the light emitting element 290. Then, the unit 230 is returned from the released state to the restricted state (S2140), and this process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the remote control process. This process is repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 240. In this process, operations other than turning on / off the TV are restricted in the restricted state. In some cases, only the mute, input switching, and operation of numbers (10 to 12) are restricted (second restriction state).

  First, an operation signal from the unit 230 is read (S2205). Then, it is determined whether the release button 211 is on (S2215). If it is determined that the release button 211 is on (YES in S2215), the timer built in the MCU 240 itself is cleared / started (S2220). Then, an operation signal from the unit 230 is read (S2225), and it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is on (S2230). If it is determined that all are OFF (NO in S2230), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S2235). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (YES in S2235), the process returns to S2225.

If any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (YES in S2230), the unit 230 is shifted to the release state (S2245).
Then, as described above, the unit 230 inputs the operation signal corresponding to the function button turned on in S2225 to the TV remote controller 250. In the released state, the unit 230 inputs an operation signal corresponding to the ON function button to the TV remote controller 250.

  Then, the release lamp 260 is turned on (S2250). Then, one minute after entering the release state, the unit 230 is returned to the restricted state, and the release lamp 260 is turned off (S2260).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1 second (NO in S2235), the information held in the unit 230 is rewritten with the operation signal of the power supply (S2240). Then, this process is finished, and the power control process is executed from S2130.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 211 is off (NO in S2215), it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is on (S2265). If any of them is determined to be off (NO in S2265), this process is finished.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that any one of the function buttons is ON (S2265 YES), the timer is cleared / started (S2270). Then, an operation signal is read (S2275), and if it is determined that the release button 211 is off (S2280 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 0.7 seconds or less (S2285). If it is determined that the time is 0.7 seconds or less (YES in S2285), the process returns to S2275.

If it is determined that the release button is on (YES at S2280), the process proceeds to S2245. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time exceeds 0.7 seconds (NO in S2285), the process moves to FIG. 10 to read the operation signal (S2310), and whether it corresponds to mute, input switching, or numbers (10-12). Determination is made (S2320). If it is determined that it corresponds to mute, input switching, or numbers (10 to 12) (YES in S2320), the information held in the unit 230 is rewritten to the operation signal of the power source (S2330). Then, this process is finished, and the power control process is executed from S2130. (This rewrite creates a second restricted state.)
On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not mute, input switching, or numbers (10 to 12) (NO in S2320), this process ends and the power supply control process is executed from S2130. Then, in the power supply control process, a process for an operation other than the power supply operation is executed.

  State the effect. As with the bathroom control device 1, the remote controller 2 is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. In other words, the channel selection, volume, and power source are convenient because they can be used without limitation because they are frequently used. Since mute, input switching, and numbers are used less frequently, they are replaced with power operations in a restricted state, and erroneous operations by the subject can be prevented.

  The MCU 240 and the TV remote controller / controller 250 may be composed of the same element. The configuration of the remote controller 2 is arbitrary, and may be used in combination with a video deck, audio, or home appliance remote controller.

  The third embodiment relates to an air conditioner 3 to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the air conditioner 3. The air conditioner 3 includes an MCU 340, an air conditioner control device 350, an operation lamp 380, and an air conditioner operation panel 399. The air conditioner operation panel 399 includes an operation button group 310, a release button 311, a release lamp 360, and a display 390.

  Each function button of the operation button group 310 corresponds to each function of the air conditioner (see FIG. 12). In other words, the MCU 340 has both the functions of the MCU and the unit in the first and second embodiments. That is, when any one of the operation buttons of the operation button group 310 is turned on, an operation signal for switching the operation / stop of the air conditioner in the restricted state, and an operation signal corresponding to the on operation button in the released state, Input to the air conditioner controller 350. (Details are described in FIGS. 13 and 14). Then, if necessary, operation signals are input to the operation lamp 380 and the release lamp 360.

  Hereinafter, an MCU having a unit function like the MCU 340 is called an integrated MCU, and an MCU having no unit function is called a separate MCU. The integrated MCU is advantageous in terms of cost and the like when designing by applying the present invention from the beginning as compared with the separate MCU. On the other hand, when the present invention is applied to an existing product as a retrofit, a separate MCU is more advantageous.

The air conditioner control device 350 controls an air conditioner (not shown) such as an outdoor unit and the display 390 based on the operation signal input from the MCU 340.
FIG. 12 is an external view of the air conditioner operation panel 399. As shown in the figure, the air conditioner operation panel 399 corresponds to buttons (dials) corresponding to the functions of “setting storage”, “morning automatic operation”, “sleeping automatic stop”, “operation / stop”, and “setting dial”. There are an operation button group 310 including each function button, a display 390, and a release button 311. Note that the release lamp 360 is a back lamp of the release button 311.

  The automatic operation start time can be set by pressing in the order of setting memory → morning automatic operation → dial → setting memory. If you start driving in the morning automatically, stop driving one hour later. Also, the automatic driving stop time can be set by pressing in the order of setting memory → sleeping automatic stop → dial → setting memory.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the air conditioner control process. This process is repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 340.
First, a button signal from the operation button group 310 is read (S3205). Then, it is determined whether the release button 311 is on (S3215). If it is determined to be on (YES in S3215), the timer built in the MCU 340 itself is cleared / started (S3220). Then, a button signal is read from the operation button group 310 (S3225), and it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is on (S3230). If it is determined that all are OFF (NO in S3230), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S3235). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (YES in S3235), the process returns to S3225.

  If it is determined that any one of the function buttons is on (YES in S3230), an operation signal corresponding to the function button that is on is input to the air conditioner control device 350 (S3240). Then, the state shifts to the release state (S3245). Then, the release lamp 360 is turned on (S3250). Then, one minute after entering the release state, the state returns to the restriction state and the release lamp 360 is turned off (S3260).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1 second (NO in S3235), the process proceeds to FIG. 14 to check the operating state of the air conditioner (S3310). That is, information indicating whether the air conditioner is operating or stopped is acquired from the air conditioner control device 350. And if it determines with having stopped (S3320NO), an operation signal will be input into the air conditioning machine control apparatus 350 so that the driving | running of an air conditioning machine may be started (S3330), and this process will be complete | finished.

On the other hand, if it determines with driving | running (S3320YES), an operation signal will be input into the air conditioning machine control apparatus 350 so that the driving | running of an air conditioning machine may be stopped (S3340), and this process will be complete | finished.
Returning to FIG. 13, if it is determined that the release button 311 is OFF (NO in S3215), it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is ON (S3265). If any of them is determined to be off (NO in S3265), this process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that any one of the function buttons is on (S3265 YES), the timer is cleared / started (S3270). Then, a button signal from the operation button group 310 is read (S3275), and if it is determined that the release button 311 is off (S3280 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 0.8 seconds or less (S3285). If it is determined that the time is 0.8 seconds or less (YES in S3285), the process returns to S3275. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has exceeded 0.8 seconds (NO in S3285), S3310 to S3340 in FIG. 14 are executed, and this process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button is on (S3280 YES), the process proceeds to S3240. If the process proceeds from S3280, the reading result of S3205 is input in S3240.
As with the bathroom control device 1, the air conditioner 3 is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. Furthermore, since the air conditioner 3 does not use a unit, the apparatus is simplified.

  Example 4 relates to a mobile phone 4 to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 15 is a block diagram of the mobile phone 4. The mobile phone 4 includes an operation button group 410, a release button 411, a unit 430, an MCU 440, and a central control device 450. Since the MCU 440 is a separate MCU, the unit 430 is required.

  The function buttons of the operation button group 410 correspond to numbers and functions of the mobile phone (see FIG. 16). The unit 430 has a restriction state and a release state. When the operation button is pressed and turned on, an operation signal corresponding to the operation button is input to the MCU 440 in the restriction state, and in the release state, the central control unit Input to 450.

  In the restricted state, the unit 430 holds an operation signal corresponding to the most recent input from the operation button group 410, and when the held operation signal shifts from the restricted state to the released state, the unit 430 The data is input to the control device 450. The default is a restricted state.

  When the MCU 440 receives an operation signal from the unit 430, the MCU 440 turns on / off the release lamp 460 and centrally controls an operation signal corresponding to a predetermined function (such as a call start. Details will be described together with FIGS. 17 to 20). The data is input to the device 450, or the restriction state / release state of the unit 230 is switched. The central controller 450 controls the display 490 based on the operation signal input from the unit 430 or the MCU 440 and realizes functions such as communication and telephone call.

  FIG. 16 is an external view of the mobile phone 4. As shown in the figure, the mobile phone 4 includes function buttons such as a one-touch dial 412 and a dial 413 belonging to the operation button group 410, and a release button 411. The mobile phone 4 has a display 490 and a release lamp 460. When the release lamp 460 is off, it indicates a restricted state, and when it is on, it indicates a released state.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the mobile phone control process. This process is repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 440. In this process, operations other than the start / end of a call are restricted in the restricted state.

  First, based on the information from the central controller 450, it is determined whether an incoming call or a call is in progress (S4201). If it is determined that an incoming call or a call is in progress (YES in S4201), the process moves to FIG. 18 to read an operation signal from the unit 430 (S4305). Then, it is determined based on information from the central controller 450 whether or not a call is in progress (S4310). If it is determined that a call is in progress (YES in S4310), it is determined whether the release button 411 is turned on via the unit 430 (S4315). If it is determined to be on (S4315 YES), the timer built in the MCU 440 itself is cleared / started (S4320).

  Then, an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4325), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4330 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S4335). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (YES in S4335), the process returns to S4325.

  If any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (YES in S4330), the unit 430 is brought into a release state (S4340). Then, the release lamp 460 is turned on (S4350). Then, one minute after entering the release state, the unit 430 is returned to the restricted state, and the release lamp 460 is turned off (S4360), and this process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded one second (NO in S4335), an operation signal for ending the call or outgoing call (an operation signal for ending the call if proceeding from S4335NO, or outgoing if terminating from S4565 YES in FIG. 20). An operation signal) is input to the central controller 450 (S4337), and this process ends.

  On the other hand, if the release button 411 is determined to be off (S4315 NO), the operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4362 YES), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4365 NO), the process is terminated. On the other hand, if any one is determined to be on (S4365), the process proceeds to S4337.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the call is not in progress (NO in S4310), the process moves to FIG. If it is determined that the timer is on (YES in S4415), the timer is cleared / started (S4420). Then, the operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4425), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4430 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 1.2 seconds or less (S4435). If determined to be 1.2 seconds or less (YES in S4435), the process returns to S4425.

  On the other hand, if any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (YES in S4430), the process proceeds to S4340 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1.2 seconds (NO in S4435), an operation signal for starting a call or outgoing call is input to the central controller 450 (S4480), and this process ends.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the release button 411 is off (S4415), an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4462), and when any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4465 NO), this process ends. On the other hand, if any one is determined to be on (S4465 YES), the process proceeds to S4480.

  Returning to FIG. If it is determined that no incoming call or call is in progress (NO in S4201), an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4205). It is then determined whether a call is being made (S4210). If it is determined that the call is not being made (NO in S4210), it is determined whether the release button 411 is on (S4215). If it is determined that the cancel button 411 is on (YES in S4215), the timer is cleared / started (S4220).

  Then, an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4225), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4230 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S4235). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (YES in S4235), the process returns to S4225.

  On the other hand, if any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (YES in S4230), the process proceeds to S4340 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1 second (NO in S4235), the process proceeds to S4480 in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 411 is off (S4215), an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4262), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4265 NO), this process ends.

  On the other hand, if any of them is determined to be on (S4265 YES), the timer is cleared / started (S4270). Then, an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4275), and if it is determined that the release button 411 is off (S4280 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 0.7 seconds or less (S4285). If determined to be 0.7 seconds or less (YES in S4285), the process returns to S4275.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 411 is on (YES in S4280), the process proceeds to S4340 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 0.7 seconds (NO at S4285), the process proceeds to S4480 in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the call is being made (S4210 YES), the process proceeds to FIG. 20 and an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4505). . Then, an operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4525), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S4530 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S4535). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (S4535 YES), the process returns to S4525.

  On the other hand, if any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (YES in S4530), the process proceeds to S4340 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1 second (S4535 NO), the process proceeds to S4337 in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 411 is off (NO in S4510), the operation signal from the unit 430 is read (S4562). If any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (S4565 YES), the process proceeds to S4337 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that all are OFF (NO in S4565), this process is terminated.

  Similar to the bathroom control device 1, the mobile phone 4 is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. Furthermore, the mobile phone 4 can be pressed when starting / ending a call, so it is convenient for a non-target person to panic. Note that the MCU 440 and the central controller 450 may be configured by the same control element.

  Example 5 relates to a rice cooker 5 to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 21 is a block diagram of the rice cooker 5. The rice cooker 5 includes an MCU 540, a rice cooker control device 550, a rice cooker 565, and a rice cooker operation panel 599.

  The rice cooker operation panel 599 includes an operation button group 510, a release button 511, a release lamp 560, a heat retention lamp 570, a reservation lamp 580, a rice cooker lamp 585, and a display 590.

  The MCU 540 is an integrated MCU, and switches the restriction state / release state based on the button signal from the operation button group 510 and information from the rice cooker control device 550, or operates the rice cooker control device 550 and the release lamp 560. Input signals. In the restricted state, operations other than on / off of the rice cooking operation of rice cooker 565 are restricted.

The rice cooker control device 550 controls the rice cooker 565, the heat retaining lamp 570, the reservation lamp 580, the rice cooking lamp 585, and the display 590.
FIG. 22 is an external view of the rice cooker operation panel 599. As shown in the figure, the rice cooker operation panel 599 has various functions corresponding to the functions of “off”, “heat retention”, “rice selection”, “menu”, “reservation”, “setting”, and “rice cooking” belonging to the operation button group 510. There are a function button, a release button 511, and a display 590. Each lamp described above is a back lamp of a corresponding function button.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the rice cooker control process. This process is repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 540.
First, a button signal from the operation button group 510 is read (S5205). Then, it is determined whether the release button 511 is on (S5215). If it is determined that the release button 511 is turned on (YES in S5215), the timer built in the MCU 540 itself is cleared / started (S5220). Then, a button signal from the operation button group 510 is read (S5225), and if any of the function buttons is determined to be off (S5230 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 1 second or less (S5235). If it is determined that the time is 1 second or less (YES in S5235), the process returns to S5225.

  On the other hand, if any one of the function buttons is determined to be on (S5230 YES), an operation signal corresponding to the function button that is on is input to the rice cooker control device 550 (S5240). Then, the state shifts to a release state (S5245). Then, the release lamp 560 is turned on (S5250). Then, one minute after the release state is set, the limit state is restored and the release lamp 560 is turned off (S5260).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1 second (NO in S5235), the process moves to FIG. 24, and it is determined whether the “OFF” button has been turned on by the predetermined time (S5305). If it is determined that the “OFF” button is off (NO in S5305), the operating state of the rice cooker is examined (S5310). That is, the information which shows whether it is during rice cooking is acquired from the rice cooker control apparatus 550. FIG. And if it determines with not cooking rice (S5320NO), an operation signal will be input into the rice cooker control apparatus 550 so that rice cooking may be started (S5330), and this process will be complete | finished.

  On the other hand, if it determines with cooking rice (S5320YES), an operation signal will be input into the rice cooker control apparatus 550 so that rice cooking may be stopped (S5340), and this process will be complete | finished. On the other hand, if it is determined that the “OFF” button is ON (S5305), the process proceeds to S5340.

  Returning to FIG. If it is determined that the release button 511 is OFF (NO in S5215), it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is ON (S5265). If any of them is determined to be off (NO at S5265), this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if any one is determined to be ON (S5265 YES), the timer built in the MCU 540 itself is cleared / started (S5270). Then, a button signal from the operation button group 510 is read (S5275), and if it is determined that the release button 511 is off (S5280 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 0.8 seconds or less (S5285). If it is determined that the timer is 0.8 seconds or less (YES in S5285), the process returns to S5275.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 511 is on (S5280 YES), the process proceeds to S5240. On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 0.8 seconds (NO in S5285), the process proceeds to S5305 in FIG.

  As with the bathroom control device 1, the rice cooker 5 is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person.

  Example 6 relates to a washing machine 6 to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 25 is a block configuration diagram of the washing machine 6. The washing machine 6 includes an MCU 640, a washing machine control device 650, and a washing machine operation panel 699. The washing machine operation panel 699 includes an operation button group 610, a release button 611, a release lamp 660, and a liquid crystal panel 690.

  The MCU 640 is an integrated MCU, and inputs an operation signal to the washing machine control device 650 or the release lamp 660 based on a button signal from the operation button group 610. The washing machine control device 650 controls the drive circuit / motors (not shown) and the liquid crystal panel 690.

  FIG. 26 is an external view of the washing machine operation panel 699. As shown in the figure, on the washing machine operation panel 699, there are function buttons for “water amount”, “washing”, “rinsing”, “dehydration”, “hot water removal”, “drying room”, “laundry”, “start / pause”, and “power”. There are a release button 611 and a liquid crystal panel 690. The release lamp 660 is a back lamp for the release button 611.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the washing machine power control process. This process is a process repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 640.
First, information indicating the operating state of the drive circuits / motors is acquired from the washing machine control device 650 (S6110), and it is determined whether the power supply of the drive circuits / motors should be maintained (S6120). The specific determination method includes information indicating the obtained operation state of the drive circuit / motors, whether the power button is on, and / or steps related to power operation in the washing machine control process (see FIG. 28). Determine based on whether or not.

  If it is determined that it should be maintained (YES in S6120), control (self-holding) is performed to maintain power-on of the drive circuits and motors (S6130), and this process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that it should not be maintained (NO in S6120), control for turning off the power of the drive circuits and motors (self-holding release) is performed (S6140), and this process is terminated.

In this process, the above-described steps are executed regardless of the restricted state / release state. Self-holding is canceled after the washing operation is completed or 30 seconds after no operation.
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the washing machine control process. The washing machine control process is repeatedly executed mainly by the MCU 640. In this process, operations other than the power on / off of the drive circuits and motors and the start / stop of the washing operation are restricted in the restricted state. The reason why the power supply for the drive circuit / motors can be turned on / off in the restricted state is that the power supply for the drive circuit / motors is turned off when not in use to save power.

  Therefore, it is possible to operate the power supply even in a restricted state in the washing machine process so that it is not necessary to impose two operations, “power on in the washing machine power control process shown in FIG. 27 → start washing in the washing machine process”. It has become. For example, washing can be started with one touch from the power-off state of the drive circuits and motors (details will be described together with the flowchart).

  First, it is determined whether the power of the washing machine control device 650 is on (S6201). If it is determined to be on (YES in S6201), a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6205). Then, it is determined whether the release button 611 is on (S6215). If it is determined that the release button 611 is turned on (YES in S6215), the timer built in the MCU 640 itself is cleared / started (S6220). Then, a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6225), and all of them are off (except for those caused by the power button. Hereinafter, the same is true whether it is on or off. The power button is used for the power control processing of the washing machine. If it is determined that the timer is 1 second or less (S6235). If it is determined that it is 1 second or less (S6235 YES), the process returns to S6225.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that any one of the function buttons is on (YES in S6230), an operation signal corresponding to the function button that is on is input to the washing machine control device 650 (S6240). Then, the state shifts to a release state (S6245).

  Then, the release lamp 660 is turned on (S6250). Then, one minute after entering the release state, the process returns to the restriction state, and the release lamp 660 is turned off (S6260), and this process is completed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 1 second (NO in S6235), the process proceeds to FIG. 29, in which a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6310), and the release button 611 is turned on continuously (pressed). (S6320). If it is determined that the timer has continued (YES in S6320), it is determined whether the timer cleared / started in S6220 is 2 seconds or less (S6370). If it is determined that it is 2 seconds or less (YES in S6370), the process returns to S6310.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 611 has not been turned on since S6205 (S6320 NO), the operating state of the drive circuit / motors is checked (S6330). (S6350), the process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that washing is not in progress (NO in S6340), washing is executed (S6360), and this process ends. That is, when the release button 611 is pressed for 2 seconds or less when the power is turned on, washing is executed or paused.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 2 seconds (NO in S6370), the power source of the drive circuit / motors is turned off to the washing machine control device 650 (S6380), and this process is terminated. That is, if the release button 611 is pressed for more than 2 seconds when the power is turned on, the power is turned off.

  Returning to FIG. 28, if it is determined that the release button 611 is off (NO in S6215), it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is on (S6265). If any of them is determined to be off (NO in S6265), this process is finished. On the other hand, if any of them is determined to be ON (S6265 YES), the timer is cleared / started (S6270).

  Then, the button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6275), and if the release button 611 is determined to be off (S6280 NO), it is determined whether the timer is 0.8 seconds or less (S6285). If it is determined that the time is 0.8 seconds or less (S6285 YES), the process returns to S6275. On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 611 is turned on (YES in S6280), the process proceeds to S6240.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 0.8 seconds (NO in S6285), the process proceeds to FIG. 30 to read a button signal from the operation button group 610 (S6410), and if it is determined in S6265 that the ON function button is still ON. (YES in S6420), it is determined whether the timer cleared / started in S6270 is 2 seconds or less (S6470). If it is determined that it is 2 seconds or less (YES in S6470), the process returns to S6410.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S6265 that the ON function button is not continuously ON (NO in S6420), the operation state of the drive circuit / motors is checked (S6430). (S6450), this process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that washing is not in progress (NO in S6440), washing is executed (S6460), and this process ends. That is, when the function button is pressed for 2 seconds or less when the power is turned on, washing is executed or paused.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 2 seconds (NO in S6470), the washing machine control device 650 is powered off for the drive circuits and motors (S6480), and the process is terminated. In other words, if the function button is pressed for more than 2 seconds when the power is turned on, the power is turned off.

  Returning to FIG. 28, when it is determined that the power of the washing machine control device 650 is off (NO in S6201), the process proceeds to FIG. Then, it is determined whether the release button 611 is on (S6515). If it is determined that the cancel button 611 is on (YES in S6515), the timer is cleared / started (S6520). Then, a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6525), and it is determined whether the release button 611 is kept on (S6535). If it is determined that the ON state is continuing (YES in S6535), it is determined whether the timer is 2 seconds or less (S6540). If it is determined that the timer is 2 seconds or less (YES in S6540), the process returns to S6525. If it is determined that ON is not being continued (NO in S6535), this process is terminated. That is, nothing happens when the release button 611 is pressed for 2 seconds or less when the power is turned off.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 2 seconds (NO at S6540), the washing machine control device 650 turns on the drive circuit / motors (S6545).
Moving to FIG. 32, a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6610), and it is determined whether or not the release button 611 is kept on (S6620). If it is determined that the on-state is not continuing (NO in S6620), an operation signal is input to the washing machine control device 650 so that washing is executed (S6630), and this process ends. That is, when the release button 611 is pressed for more than 2 seconds and not more than 4 seconds when the power is turned off, the power is turned on and washing is started.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the release button 611 is kept on (S6620 YES), it is determined whether the timer is 4 seconds or less (S6640). If it is determined that it is 4 seconds or less (YES in S6640), the process returns to S6610. If it is determined that it has exceeded 4 seconds (NO at S6640), the washing machine control device 650 turns off the drive circuit / motors (S6650), and the process ends. That is, if the release button 611 is pressed for more than 4 seconds when the power is turned off, the power is kept off. The purpose is to prevent misoperation.

  Returning to FIG. 31, when it is determined that the release button 611 is OFF (NO in S6565), it is determined whether any one of the function buttons is ON (S6565). If any of them is determined to be off (NO in S6565), this process ends. On the other hand, if any of them is determined to be on (YES in S6565), the timer is cleared / started (S6570).

  Then, a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6575), and it is determined whether or not the function button that is turned on in S6565 is kept on (S6580). If it is determined that ON is continuing (YES in S6580). It is determined whether the timer is 2 seconds or less (S6585). If it is determined that it is 2 seconds or less (YES in S6585), the process returns to S6575. On the other hand, if it is determined in S6565 that the on-function button is not on (S6580), the process ends. In other words, nothing happens when the function button is pressed for 2 seconds or less when the power is turned off.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the timer has exceeded 2 seconds (NO in S6585), the washing machine control device 650 turns on the power of the drive circuits and motors (S6590). Then, moving to FIG. 33, a button signal from the operation button group 610 is read (S6710), and it is determined whether or not the function button turned on in S6505 is kept on (S6720). If it is determined that ON is continuing (S6720 YES), it is determined whether the timer cleared / started in S6570 is 4 seconds or less (S6740 YES). If it is determined that the time is 4 seconds or less (YES in S6740), the process returns to S6710.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that ON is not continuing (NO in S6720), washing is executed (S6730), and this process ends. That is, when the function button is pressed for more than 2 seconds and less than 4 seconds when the power is turned off, washing is executed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that it has exceeded 4 seconds (NO in S6740), the washing machine control device 650 is turned off the drive circuit / motors (S6750), and the process is terminated. That is, if the function button is pressed for more than 4 seconds when the power is off, the power is off.

  As with the bathroom control device 1, the washing machine 6 is easy to use for both the target person and the non-target person. Furthermore, the washing machine is easy to use for the subject despite the fact that the standby power of the drive circuits and motors can be saved. This is because, in principle, the target person can easily command “power on → start washing” while keeping the power of the drive circuit and motors off.

  A modification will be described. Information can be input without using buttons. For example, speech can be considered. Any device can be used, for example, an automobile operation panel or a computer can be considered.

  Moreover, it may be possible to always be in a released state. This is more convenient in situations where it is clear that the subject will not use it. In this case, since the release button is not necessary, it is desirable to be able to prevent the release button from being used.

  The correspondence between the embodiments and the claims will be described. The operation button group in each embodiment corresponds to the first input means, and (unit + separate type MCU) or integrated MCU in each embodiment corresponds to the hardware of the second input means.

  S1240 / S2245 / S3240 / S4340 / S5240 / S6240 are the first operation signal input means, S1150 / S1160 / S2130 / S2320 / S3330 / S3340 / S4337 / S4480 / S5340 / S5330 / S6350 / S6360 / S6450 / S6460 / S6630 / S6730 Is the second operation signal input means, S6380 / S6480 / S6545 / S6590 / S6650 / S6750 is the third operation signal input means, S1240 / S2245 / S3240 / S4340 / S5240 / S6240 is the first switching means, S1260 / S2260 / S3260 / S4360 / S5260 / S6260 correspond to the software of the second switching means. The button signal of the release button corresponds to application information. Further, the button signal of the bathroom lighting on / off button 123 in the first embodiment corresponds to the authorized operation.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the structure of the Example mentioned above, A various aspect can be implemented in the range which does not change the summary of this invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Bathroom control apparatus, 2 ... Remote control, 3 ... Air conditioner, 4 ... Mobile phone, 5 ... Rice cooker, 6 ... Washing machine, 110 ... Operation button group, 111 ... Release button, 112 ... Display lamp, 113 ... Display lamp 118 ... Operation button group, 120 ... Lighting operation panel, 122 ... Bathroom lighting lamp, 123 ... Bathroom lighting on / off button, 130 ... Unit, 150 ... Bathroom controller, 160 ... Release lamp, 170 ... Relay, 180 ... Bathroom lighting Equipment: 198 ... Bathroom equipment operation panel, 199 ... Bathroom equipment operation panel, 210 ... Operation button group, 211 ... Release button, 230 ... Unit, 250 ... TV remote controller / controller, 260 ... Release lamp, 290 ... Light emitting element, 295 ... Transmission indicator, 310 ... operation button group, 311 ... release button, 350 ... air conditioner control device, 360 ... release button 380 ... running lamp, 390 ... display, 399 ... air conditioner operation panel, 410 ... operating button group, 411 ... release button, 430 ... unit, 450 ... central control unit, 460 ... release lamp, 490 ... display, 510 ... Operation button group, 511 ... Release button, 530 ... Rice cooker operation panel, 550 ... Rice cooker controller, 560 ... Release lamp, 565 ... Rice cooker, 570 ... Insulation lamp, 580 ... Reservation lamp, 585 ... Rice cooker lamp, 590 ... Display, 599 ... Rice cooker operation panel, 610 ... Operation button group, 611 ... Release button, 650 ... Washing machine control device, 660 ... Release lamp, 690 ... Liquid crystal panel, 699 ... Washing machine operation panel

Claims (6)

A first input means for a user to input operation information for specifying an operation of the operation target device;
When the operation information is input to the first input means, the second input means for inputting an operation signal to the operation target device,
The operation of the operation target device includes an authorized operation that has been previously authorized by the second input means, and an unauthorized operation that has not been authorized,
The first input means allows a user to input application information for allowing the second input means to authorize the unauthorized operation,
The second input means includes
When operation information corresponding to the approved operation is input to the first input means, an operation signal corresponding to the input operation information is input,
When operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation is input to the first input means, when the application information is input to the first input means at a time determined based on the input time, the input A first operation signal input means for authorizing an unauthorized operation corresponding to the operated information and inputting an operation signal corresponding to the unauthorized operation;
When operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation is input to the first input means, and the application information is not input to the first input means at the time, an operation corresponding to the approved operation An interface comprising: second operation signal input means for inputting a signal. The second operation signal input means has not input the operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation to the first input means at a time determined based on the time when the application information is input to the first input means. In the case, an operation signal corresponding to the authorized operation is input. The first operation signal input means is input when operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation is input to the first input means by a predetermined time after the unauthorized operation is approved. The interface according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an operation signal specified by the operation information is input. There are a plurality of the authorized operations, and one of the plurality of authorized operations is predetermined as a specific authorized operation,
The second operation signal input means, when the operation information corresponding to the unauthorized operation is input to the first input means, when the application information is not input to the first input means at the time The interface according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein an operation signal corresponding to the specific authorized operation is input. The second input unit operates the power source of the operation target device based on at least one of the operation information and the application information input to the first input unit, and a power state of the operation target device. The interface according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising third operation signal input means for inputting the operation signal. A first input means for a user to input operation information for specifying an operation of the operation target device;
When the operation information is input to the first input means, the second input means for inputting an operation signal to the operation target device,
The operation of the operation target device includes an authorized operation that has been previously authorized by the second input means, and an unauthorized operation that has not been authorized,
The first input means allows a user to input application information for allowing the second input means to authorize the unauthorized operation,
The second input means includes
Based on the application information input to the first input means, a first switching means for switching from a restricted state that does not authorize the unauthorized operation to a release state that authorizes the unauthorized operation;
A second switching means for returning to the restricted state after a predetermined time after being switched to the release state by the first switching means;
When the operation information is input to the first input means, an operation signal corresponding to the approved operation is input in the restricted state, while in the released state, the operation information is specified by the input operation information. An interface characterized by inputting operation signals.

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