JP2010232905A - Portable electronic equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide portable electronic equipment that can change over functions and can have improved usability. <P>SOLUTION: A portable phone 1 includes an operation section side casing 2, a rotary dial section 41 rotatably mounted to the operation section side casing 2 with a prescribed rotary axis as a center, a function execution section 73 for executing a designated function in a plurality of functions based on rotary operation of the rotary dial section 41, a change instruction section 75 for instructing the function execution section 73 to interrupt or terminate a first function under execution and to execute a second function designated newly when rotary operation of the rotary dial section 41 designates the second function different from the first function in a state where the function execution section 73 is executing the first function, and a use state storage section 130 for storing information on the use state of the first function when the change instruction section 75 instructs the function execution section 73 to change a function to be executed from the first function to the second function. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a portable electronic device having a rotary dial.

  In mobile phones as portable electronic devices, a more intuitive user interface is required. Here, in a folder type mobile phone having a hinge portion, a mobile phone in which a rotary dial used for volume switching or the like is provided at the hinge portion is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

In recent years, mobile phones have become multi-functional with not only communication / call functions but also functions for viewing television and radio.
Here, in the mobile phone, when a function such as a TV viewing function is not selected, a standby screen for communication / call is displayed as a top screen.
When the user performs a predetermined operation, the screen shifts from the standby screen to a menu selection screen for selecting another function, and the user selects a predetermined function on the selection menu screen to activate a desired function. Can be made.

  However, since a number of functions are listed on the menu selection screen, it is difficult for a user who is unfamiliar to perform a smooth operation, and there is a case where the user feels resistance to using the mobile phone itself.

  By the way, some digital cameras perform menu selection using a rotary dial. A menu for assisting shooting work such as a movie function (function for recording a moving image) and a continuous shooting function (a function for performing a plurality of still image shootings in a short time) is assigned to the rotary dial so as to be selectable (for example, , See Patent Document 2).

JP-A-6-90200 JP 2001-245189 A

Currently, a cellular phone does not employ a multiple menu selection method using a rotary dial as used in digital cameras.
In addition, the mobile phone includes a unique function (communication / call function) that the digital camera does not have, and there is a difference that a standby screen for communication / call as a top screen is displayed.

In addition, there is a difference in specifications such as when a predetermined application different from the communication / call function is operated and then the predetermined function is terminated, a standby screen for communication / call is displayed. To do.
Therefore, simply applying the technology as disclosed in Patent Document 2 to a mobile phone causes inconvenience in operation and use of the mobile phone.

  In addition, when a mobile phone is switched to another function while performing a predetermined work using one function and then returned to the one function again, the one function is activated again. Therefore, there is a problem that the initial state is reached and the work performed with one function before switching is wasted.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a portable electronic device whose function can be switched and which has improved usability.

  The present invention executes a specified function among a plurality of functions based on a rotating operation of the casing, a rotating dial section that is rotatably attached to the casing about a predetermined rotation axis, and the rotating dial section. And when the second function different from the first function is designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit in a state where the first function is being executed by the function execution unit, the function execution unit In response to the function execution unit, the switching instruction unit for instructing to interrupt or end the first function being executed and to execute the newly designated second function, and the switching instruction unit A portable electronic device comprising: a use state storage unit that stores information on a use state of the first function when an instruction to switch a function to be executed from the first function to the second function is made To.

  A display unit capable of displaying an image related to the function being executed, and when the first function is designated again by a rotation operation of the rotary dial unit, the switching instruction unit performs the function execution Instructing the display unit to interrupt or end the second function, and to read out information related to the use state stored in the use state storage unit and display the same image as before switching on the display unit It is preferable to instruct to restart or restart the first function.

  Further, when the first function is designated again by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit, the switching instruction unit instructs the function execution unit to interrupt or end the second function, It is preferable to read out information on the usage state stored in the usage state storage unit and instruct to restart the first function from the same state as before switching.

  In addition, the communication unit, a display unit capable of displaying an image related to the function being executed, and an operation member different from the rotary dial unit, the designation of the function to be executed by the operation member is the display A standby screen related to a standby function for waiting for communication from the outside to the communication unit is displayed on the unit, and a function to be executed by a rotating operation in the rotary dial unit is specified on the display unit. It is preferable to designate a predetermined function without going through the state where the screen is displayed.

  Further, when the first function is being executed by the function execution unit, when the rotary dial unit is rotated and the second function is designated, the switching instruction unit is connected to the use state storage unit. When the first function is included in the function group assigned so as to be designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit, information on the usage state of the first function is stored, and the first function is stored in the function When it is not included in the group, it is preferable not to store information on the usage state of the first function.

  Further, when the switching instruction unit is included in the function group assigned so that the first function can be designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit, and the information on the use state of the first function is stored, When the function execution unit interrupts or terminates the first function, the first function is not included in the function group, and information on the usage state of the first function is not stored, the first function It is preferable to display on the display unit a selection image that allows the user to select whether to end or cancel the switching to the second function.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it is a portable electronic device which can switch a function, Comprising: The portable electronic device with improved usability can be provided.

1 is an external view of a mobile phone according to the present invention. It is an external view when it sees from the display part side housing | casing in the closed state of a mobile telephone. It is an external view when seen from the operation unit side housing in the closed state of the mobile phone. It is an enlarged view near a rotary dial part. It is a figure which shows the function of a rotary dial part. It is the top view seen from the back surface in a rotary dial part. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the position point formed in the rotary dial part, and the count part. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function of a mobile telephone. It is a figure explaining the rotation amount-function table memorize | stored in memory. It is a figure explaining the rotation amount-function table memorize | stored in memory. It is a figure explaining the function group table memorize | stored in memory. It is a flowchart explaining operation | movement in a mobile telephone. It is a figure which shows the structure of a suspend information table typically. It is a figure with which it uses for description about the mode of the screen transition displayed on a display. It is a figure explaining the menu image M (in the case of function switching by the rotary dial part 41). It is a figure explaining menu image M1 (in the case of function change by buttons 13 and 15).

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.
First, the configuration of the mobile phone 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 shows an external view of a mobile phone 1 which is an example of a mobile phone according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows an external view when viewed from the display unit side body 3 in the closed state of the mobile phone 1. FIG. 3 shows an external view when viewed from the operation unit side body 2 in the closed state of the mobile phone 1. FIG. 4 shows an enlarged view of the vicinity of the rotary dial portion 41. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the function of the rotary dial unit. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the rotary dial portion 41 as viewed from the back surface 41c. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the position point 43 formed on the rotary dial unit 41 and the count unit 44.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the mobile phone 1 includes an operation unit side body 2 having a first surface part 10 as a first surface and a display unit side body 3 having a second surface part 20 as a second surface. And comprising. The upper end part of the operation unit side body 2 and the lower end part of the display unit side body 3 are connected via a hinge mechanism 4 </ b> A arranged in the connection part 4.

The mobile phone 1 rotates the operation unit side body 2 and the display unit side body 3 connected via the hinge mechanism 4 </ b> A relative to each other, so that the first surface portion 10 in the operation unit side body 2 The open state where the second surface portion 20 in the display unit side body 3 is separated from each other, and the first surface portion 10 in the operation unit side body 2 and the second surface portion 20 in the operation unit side body 2 face each other. Thus, it is configured to be deformable to a close state arranged close to each other.
Further, the mobile phone 1 is provided with a rotary dial portion 41 that is rotatably attached around a rotation axis Z that is set substantially coaxially with the hinge mechanism 4A.

  The operation unit side body 2 has a first front surface portion 10A and a first back surface portion 10B. On the first surface portion 10A of the operation unit side body 2, as shown in FIG. 1, an operation unit 11 that is hidden in a closed state and a microphone 12 to which a voice uttered by a user during a call is input. The As shown in FIG. 3, the first back surface portion 10 </ b> B in the operation unit side body 2 includes an imaging unit 17 configured by a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera or the like that images a subject, and light emission that outputs a certain amount of light A portion 18 is formed.

The operation unit 11 includes keys for operating various functions (applications) such as various settings, a telephone book function, and a mail function, an off-hook key, a function setting operation button 13 including an on-hook key, a telephone number, mail, and the like The input operation button 14 is used for inputting the characters, the determination operation button 15 is used for determining and scrolling in various operations, and the control button 16 is used for volume control.
Here, in addition to the above-described function setting operation button 13, a rotary dial unit 41, which will be described in detail later, is disposed as an operation member for selecting a predetermined function (application) in the mobile phone 1.

  The operation unit side body 2 includes a key structure, a key substrate, a case body, a circuit board including various electronic components such as a reference potential pattern layer and an RF (Radio Frequency) module for a cellular phone, an antenna, and the like. Unit, a rechargeable battery 80, and a count unit 44 (see FIG. 7) used to detect the amount of rotation in a rotary dial unit 41 described later.

  On the second surface portion 20 of the display unit side body 3, a display 21 as a display unit for displaying various information and an audio output unit 22 for outputting the voice of the other party on the call are arranged.

  The display 21 displays a communication / call standby image as a top screen. In addition, the display 21 is configured to be able to display a menu image (screen) M (see FIG. 14) including an image indicating the function content. Specifically, a menu image is displayed on the display 21 when a touch sensor 200 (contact detection unit 71) described later detects that a conductor such as a finger has contacted the rotary dial unit 41.

  The menu image M (see FIG. 14) includes an image and / or a character indicating the content of a function (application) corresponding to an icon I described later arranged at the selection position S arranged next to the mark 42. The menu image M is configured similarly to the display mode of the function display unit 41B in the rotary dial unit 41 as viewed from the operation unit 11 and the display 21 side in the open state. In the present embodiment, the menu image M includes a function name (abbreviation) corresponding to the application. The menu image M may be configured to include an image similar to (for example, similar to) the icon I in the function display unit 41B. The display 21 is configured to display an image based on an application for operating a predetermined function. The display 21 is disposed at a position hidden in the closed state.

  Here, when an application for operating the camera function is activated, the display 21 is configured to be able to display an image captured by the imaging unit 17. When an application for operating the mail function is activated, the display 21 is configured to be able to display a list of received emails and a mail creation screen. When an application for operating the Web browser function is activated, the display 21 displays a Web browser that accesses the Web server and displays a Web page. When an application for operating the tool function is activated, the display 21 is configured to be able to display icons indicating a plurality of tool functions. When an application for operating the TV function is activated, the display 21 is configured to be able to display an image based on a broadcast signal corresponding to a selected channel among the received broadcast signals. When an application for operating the memo pad function is activated, the display 21 is configured to be able to display an input screen for inputting characters. When an application for operating the address book function is activated, the display 21 is configured to be able to display a plurality of address information stored in a memory (not shown). These applications can be terminated by pressing an on-hook key (end call key).

  When the above-described application is terminated, the display 21 displays a communication / call standby screen as a top screen. A function execution unit 73, which will be described later, operates an application that can use the telephone function. And the operation part 11 receives the input of the telephone number which should be called by pressing down the input operation button 14 to which the function which inputs a number was assigned.

As shown in FIG. 2, the second back surface 20 </ b> B in the display unit side body 3 is disposed at a position where the sub-display 23 for displaying various types of information is exposed to the outside even when it is closed.
Similarly, the sub-display 23 displays an image based on an application that operates the above-described various functions. However, since the screen is smaller than the display 21, a part of the image displayed on the display 21 or a similarity (smaller) Image) is displayed. The sub display 23 is configured not to display an image based on an application that operates a function that is not activated when the mobile phone 1 is in a closed state among various functions.

  Here, each of the display 21 and the sub display 23 includes a liquid crystal panel, a drive circuit that drives the liquid crystal panel, and a light source unit such as a backlight that emits light from the back side of the liquid crystal panel.

  The rotary dial portion 41 is disposed so as to be rotatable about the rotation axis Z. Specifically, the rotary dial portion 41 is attached so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis Z substantially coaxial with the hinge mechanism 4A in the width direction X of the connecting portion 4 which is a part of the housing. As shown in FIG. 1, the rotary dial unit 41 is arranged so that it can be rotated while looking at the operation unit 11 and the display 21 when the mobile phone 1 is in the open state.

  The rotary dial portion 41 includes a contact portion 41A and a function display portion 41B. The contact portion 41 </ b> A is a side surface of the rotary dial portion 41, and is formed on a portion disposed on the end side in the width direction X in a state where the rotary dial portion 41 is attached. The contact portion 41 </ b> A is configured such that irregularities are formed on the surface and the rotary dial portion 41 can be easily rotated.

  The function display part 41B is a side surface of the rotary dial part 41, and is formed in a part disposed on the center side in the width direction X with respect to the contact part 41A in a state where the rotary dial part 41 is attached. The function display unit 41B displays an icon I which is a symbol or a picture indicating a function on the surface. As shown in FIG. 5, the function display unit 41 </ b> B displays an icon I indicating a function for each predetermined angle (for example, 45 degrees) in the rotation direction.

  Specifically, a circle icon Ia indicating neutral as a standard position is displayed on the function display unit 41B. In addition, the function display unit 41B displays a camera icon Ib indicating a camera function formed at a position of 45 degrees (indicating an angle in the direction of rotation a when neutral is used as a reference. The same applies hereinafter). The In addition, a letter icon Ic indicating a mail function formed at a 90-degree position is displayed on the function display unit 41B. In addition, an icon Id indicating a Web browser function formed at 135 degrees is displayed on the function display unit 41B. In addition, a tool icon Ie indicating a tool function formed at a position of 180 degrees is displayed on the function display portion 41B. The function display unit 41B displays a television icon If indicating a television function formed at a position of 225 degrees. Further, a pen icon Ig formed at a position of 270 degrees and indicating a memo pad function is displayed on the function display unit 41B. The function display unit 41B displays a notebook icon Ih formed at a position of 315 degrees and indicating an address function.

  The function display unit 41B is rotated in accordance with the rotation of the contact unit 41A to which the rotation operation is applied. The icon I (index) displayed on the operation unit 11 and the display 21 side when the cellular phone 1 is in the open state is changed as the contact unit 41A rotates. Furthermore, it is arranged at a selection position S, which is a position aligned with the mark 42 formed on the outer surface of the connecting portion 4 and facing the operation portion 11 and the display 21 when the mobile phone 1 is open. The icon I is changed as the rotary dial unit 41 rotates. The icon I placed at the selection position S is determined by the amount of rotation of the rotary dial unit 41. In the present embodiment, the rotation position is indicated by the rotation amount with reference to the standard position.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the standard position refers to a state in which the circle icon Ia in the function display unit 41B is arranged at the selection position S.

  On the side of the connecting portion 4 in the rotary dial portion 41, a rotating shaft portion 45 that is inserted into an insertion portion (not shown) formed in the connecting portion 4 is formed. As shown in FIG. 6, projecting position points 43a to 43h are formed along the circumferential direction (rotation direction) on the back surface 41c, which is the surface on the connecting portion 4 side of the rotary dial portion 41. The position points 43a to 43h are formed at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. The position points 43a to 43h are formed between the icons I indicating the respective functions in the circumferential direction.

The connecting portion 4 is provided with a count portion 44 in which the tongue piece 44a is positioned on the movement locus of the position points 43a to 43h in a state where the rotary dial portion 41 is rotated.
The counting unit 44 counts the number of position points 43a to 43h that are passed by the tongue piece 44a being inclined in the rotation direction. Specifically, the count number is added when the tongue piece 44a is tilted in the rotation a direction, and the count number is subtracted when the tongue piece 44a is tilted in the rotation b direction. The rotation amount in the rotary dial unit 41 is detected by a function designating unit 72 (see FIGS. 9A and 9B), which will be described later, in accordance with the count number based on the standard position, and as a result, the rotational position can be specified.

Furthermore, the rotary dial portion 41 is made of a metal member having conductivity or a resin member processed to have conductivity.
A touch sensor 200 for detecting contact with the rotary dial unit 41 is disposed inside the rotary dial unit 41. The touch sensor 200 is configured to be able to output a change in capacitance when the user's finger comes into contact with the rotary dial unit 41 to the contact detection unit 71.

A contact detection unit 71 described later detects that a user's finger has touched the rotary dial unit 41 based on a change in capacitance in the touch sensor 200.
When contact with the rotary dial unit 41 is detected by the contact detection unit 71, the function designating unit 72 described later is in a state in which rotation (rotation direction and rotation amount) in the rotary dial unit 41 can be detected. Further, when contact to the rotary dial unit 41 is detected by the contact detection unit 71 based on a change in capacitance in the touch sensor 200, the function execution unit 73 described later is a function designated by the function designation unit 72. Can be executed.

  The function specifying unit 72 detects the rotation (rotation amount and rotation direction) of the rotary dial unit 41 during the contact state in which contact is detected by the contact detection unit 71. In this case, the display 21 displays a menu image for notifying the function corresponding to the icon I arranged at the selection position S based on the rotation detected by the function designating unit 72 (enclosed by a frame).

  When contact with the rotary dial unit 41 is no longer detected, the function designating unit 72 designates the function after a predetermined time has elapsed since no contact was detected. The function execution unit 73 executes one function designated by the function designation unit 72. Specifically, the function execution unit 73 activates an application for executing one function designated by the function designation unit 72.

  Here, operations and functions of the rotary dial unit 41 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the rotary dial unit 41 is rotated by applying a force in the rotational direction (the direction of rotation a of the arrow in FIG. 4 and the direction of rotation b of the arrow in FIG. 4) to the contact part 41a. It attaches to the connection part 4 in a housing | casing. As described above, the rotation dial unit 41 is provided with icons I (icons Ia to Ih) at predetermined intervals in the rotation direction. As shown in FIG. 5, the icon I is drawn with symbols and pictures that are easy to understand (image) for the user when selecting an application.

  The user puts his / her finger on the contact portion 41 </ b> A in the rotary dial portion 41 and enters a preparation state for rotating the rotary dial portion 41. In this case, the capacitance of the touch sensor 200 arranged on the rotary dial unit 41 changes. The contact detection unit 71 detects contact with the rotary dial unit 41 based on a change in capacitance in the touch sensor 200. Thereby, as described above, the function specifying unit 72 is in a state where the rotation amount in the rotary dial unit 41 can be detected. Also, the function execution unit 73 is in a state where the specified function specified by the function specifying unit 72 can be executed.

  Then, the user moves the icon I corresponding to the desired function (application) to the selection position S using the icon I as a clue. Thereby, the function designation | designated part 72 will be in the state which can designate the function corresponding to the icon I arrange | positioned in the selection position S. FIG.

  In the state where the icon I corresponding to the application for operating a desired function is arranged at the selection position S, the user separates the finger placed on the contact portion 41A. Thereby, the contact detection unit 71 detects a non-contact state in which the finger is not in contact based on a change in capacitance in the touch sensor 200 and functions as a detection result indicating that the finger is in a non-contact state. The data is output to the designation unit 72.

  The function designation unit 72 designates a function corresponding to the icon I at the selected position when the state detected by the contact detection unit 71 changes from the contact state to the non-contact state. Specifically, the function designating unit 72 is based on the rotation (rotation direction and amount) detected by the function designating unit 72 when the state detected by the contact detection unit 71 changes from the contact state to the non-contact state. Specify the function to be executed.

  The function execution unit 73 executes the function designated by the function designation unit 72. Specifically, the function execution unit 73 detects that contact is detected again by the contact detection unit 71 within a predetermined time after the state detected by the contact detection unit 71 changes from the contact state to the non-contact state. Activates an application that executes the designated function, and activates an application that executes the designated function when contact is not detected again by the contact detection unit 71 within a predetermined time.

In this way, the rotary dial unit 41 enables menu selection that exhibits various functions by operating a physical rotary dial.
In the selection of the menu, specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the user performs a rotation operation with his / her finger in contact with the rotary dial portion 41 and is not operated (neutral (N)) as a reference. As described above, the camera function is designated by rotating 45 degrees in the rotation a direction (315 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22.5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotation operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the camera function of the imaging unit 17 is activated.

  Further, the rotation operation is performed with the finger in contact with the rotary dial portion 41 and the user is not operating (neutral (N)) as a reference 90 degrees in the rotation a direction (270 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22 The mail function is designated by rotating 5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotation operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the camera function is activated.

  Further, the rotation operation is performed with the finger in contact with the rotary dial 41 and the user does not operate (neutral (N)) as a reference 135 degrees in the rotation a direction (225 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22 The web browser function is designated by rotating 5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotation operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the Web browser function is activated.

  Further, the rotation operation is performed with the finger in contact with the rotary dial portion 41, and 180 degrees in the rotation a direction (180 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22 on the basis of no operation (neutral (N)). The tool menu (a menu for performing various settings relating to sound output and the like in the mobile phone 1) function is designated by rotating 5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotation operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the tool menu function is activated.

  Further, the rotation operation is performed with the finger in contact with the rotary dial 41 and the user does not operate (neutral (N)) as a reference. 225 degrees in the rotation a direction (135 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22 The TV function is designated by rotating 5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotating operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the television function is activated.

  Further, the rotation operation is performed with the finger in contact with the rotary dial 41 and the user does not operate (neutral (N)) as a reference, 270 degrees in the rotation a direction (90 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22 The notepad function is designated by rotating 5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotation operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the memo pad function is activated.

  Further, the rotation operation is performed with the finger in contact with the rotary dial 41 and the user does not operate (neutral (N)) as a reference to 315 degrees in the rotation a direction (45 degrees in the rotation b direction) ± 22. The address book function is designated by rotating 5 degrees and separating the finger after the rotation operation. Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) elapses after the user's finger is separated from the rotary dial unit 41, an application for operating the address book function is activated.

  Here, when the rotary dial unit 41 is operated so that the mobile phone 1 switches the first function being executed to the second function and then returns to the original first function, the image displayed at the time of switching is displayed. The same image is displayed on the display 21. After switching the first function being executed to the second function, the mobile phone 1 resumes from the state at the time when the first function is switched when the rotary dial unit 41 is operated to return to the original first function. Let

  For example, when the rotary dial unit 41 is operated so that the mail function is switched to the TV function and the mail function is switched again during the creation of the mail, the mobile phone 1 displays a mail creation screen that is displayed immediately before switching to the TV function. The same screen is displayed on the display 21 and the mail function is resumed from the state at the time of switching. As a result, the user does not need to start from the initial state in switching the function again, can take over the work before the switching, and can smoothly resume the work before the switching. A configuration for realizing the operation will be described in detail later.

Here, in a state in which the rotary dial unit 41 does not operate (the user does not perform an operation), a standby screen that waits for external communication is displayed on the display 21 as a standby screen.
When the user's finger contacts the rotary dial unit 41 and contact is detected by the contact detection unit 71, a menu image M (see FIG. 14) is displayed on the display 21. In the menu image M, indicators (characters, images, etc.) indicating functions that can be switched by the rotary dial unit 41 are displayed. When the function is switched by operating the rotary dial unit 41, the function can be switched directly while viewing the menu image M. When the function is switched by operating the rotary dial unit 41, the function designating unit 72 can directly switch from one function to another without going through the state where the standby image is displayed.

  When a function is selected or switched using an operation member (for example, the function setting operation button 13) different from the rotary dial unit 41, the display 21 has another menu image M1 (see FIG. 15) different from the menu image M. Is displayed. In the menu image M1, an index indicating a function that can be switched by different operation members is displayed. When switching functions by operating different operating members, it is necessary to display the menu image M1 by operating different operating members after setting the standby state in which the standby screen is displayed once. That is, when switching functions by operating different operation members, the function designating unit 72 displays the menu image M1 through a state in which a standby screen based on the standby function is displayed, and switches functions.

  Specifically, first, the call end button is pressed down to terminate the function being executed. As a result, the function is switched to the standby function, and a standby screen is displayed on the display 21. Subsequently, the menu image M1 is displayed on the display 21 by pressing the determination operation button 15. Subsequently, after the function setting operation button 13 is scrolled to select a predetermined function, the determination operation button 15 is pressed to confirm the function to be selected. By selecting a function with the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15 in this way, the function designating unit 72 designates the selected function as a function to be executed. The function execution unit 73 activates the function designated by the function designation unit 72.

Here, when a function activated and executed by another operation member is switched to another function by the rotary dial unit 41, the mobile phone 1 can display a selection image described later on the display 21 in a predetermined case. .
Specifically, when the function being executed is not a function that can be switched by the rotary dial unit 41, the mobile phone 1 selects the display 21 to select whether to terminate the function being executed or cancel the function switching. Display an image. Specifically, when the function execution unit 73 described later determines that the function being executed is not a function that can be switched by the rotary dial unit 41, the function execution unit 73 displays the above-described selection image on the display 21.
In other words, for the function that cannot be restored by operating the rotary dial unit 41, the mobile phone 1 allows the user to select whether to end the function being executed and continue the switching process or cancel the switching process. .

  Next, a functional configuration of the mobile phone 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing functions of the mobile phone 1. FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating a rotation amount-function table stored in the memory. FIG. 9B is a diagram for explaining the rotation amount-function table stored in the memory. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a function group table stored in the memory. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating usage state information (suspend information table) stored in the usage state storage unit.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the mobile phone 1 converts a communication unit 60 that communicates with an external terminal, a rechargeable battery 80, a power supply voltage supplied from the rechargeable battery 80 into a predetermined voltage, and converts the converted voltage. A power supply circuit unit 90 supplied to the communication unit 60, the CPU 70, etc., an operation unit 11, a display 21 for displaying predetermined information, a rotary dial unit 41 rotated by a user operation, a touch sensor 200, and a CPU 70 And a memory 100.

  The communication unit 60 includes a main antenna 61 that communicates with an external device using a predetermined use frequency band, and a communication processing unit 62 that performs signal processing such as modulation processing or demodulation processing.

  The main antenna 61 communicates with an external device (base station) in a predetermined use frequency band (for example, 800 MHz). In the present embodiment, the predetermined use frequency band is 800 MHz, but other frequency bands may be used. Further, the main antenna 61 may have a so-called dual band compatible type capable of supporting a second used frequency band (for example, 2 GHz) in addition to a predetermined used frequency band. You may be comprised by the multiple band corresponding | compatible type | mold which can respond | correspond more than a use frequency band.

  The communication processing unit 62 demodulates the signal received by the main antenna 61 and supplies the processed signal to the CPU 70. On the other hand, the communication processing unit 62 modulates the signal supplied from the CPU 70. To the base station).

  The power supply circuit unit 90 transforms the power supply voltage supplied from the rechargeable battery 80 to a predetermined voltage value, and supplies the power supply voltage after the transformation to the communication unit 60, the CPU 70, and the like.

The operation unit 11 includes a rotary dial unit 41, a function setting operation button 13 and a determination operation button 15 as other operation members.
The display 21 as a display unit can display an image related to the function being executed.

  The memory 100 stores many programs executed by the CPU 70, predetermined parameters, various tables, and the like. Specifically, the memory 100 includes a large number of application programs that are activated, terminated, interrupted, etc. by the CPU 70, parameters used in the plurality of applications, OS programs for operating the plurality of application programs, and the like. Remember. The plurality of application programs include application programs for each application that the mobile phone 1 has, such as a reference application, a music player, a camera, and mail.

In addition, the memory 100 includes a rotation amount-function table storage unit 110, a function group table storage unit 120, and a use state storage unit 130.
The rotation amount-function table storage unit 110 stores a rotation amount-function table (111, 112) indicating a correspondence relationship between the rotation amount (count number) detected by the function specifying unit 72 and a plurality of functions (applications). To do. The rotation amount-function tables (111, 112) are tables indicating functions (applications) distributed in accordance with the rotation direction and rotation amount of the rotary dial unit 41.
As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the rotation amount-function table storage unit 110 is configured such that the first table 111 and the rotary dial unit 41 are rotated in the rotation b direction when the rotary dial unit 41 is rotated in the rotation a direction. The second table 112 is stored.

  As illustrated in FIG. 10, the function group table storage unit 120 stores a function group table 121. The function group table 121 includes information on whether or not assignment is made by the rotary dial unit 41 as the operation member, the function setting operation button 13, and the determination operation button 15. Specifically, for each function, information on whether or not assignment is possible by the rotary dial unit 41 and information on whether or not assignment is made by the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15 are included. . The function group table 121 is referred to by a switching instruction unit 75 described later.

  When the switching instruction unit 75 instructs the function execution unit 73 to switch the function to be executed from the first function to the second function, the usage state storage unit 130 includes information on the usage state of the first function (described later). Corresponding to the suspend information table). That is, when the function being executed is switched from the first function to another second function, the use state storage unit 130 stores use state information related to the use state of the first function before switching. Thereby, after switching to a 2nd function, when it returns to a 1st function again, a 1st function can be restarted or restarted with the image and state before switching to a 2nd function.

  Further, in the state where the first function is being executed by the function execution unit 73 described later, the use state storage unit 130 is rotated when the rotary dial unit 41 is rotated and the second function is specified by the function specifying unit 72. When the first function is included in the function group assigned so as to be specified by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41, information on the use state of the first function is stored, and when the first function is not included in the function group Stores information on the use state of the first function.

In the present embodiment, when the rotary dial unit 41 is switched from the first function assigned to the rotary dial unit 41 so that it can be specified, to the second function also assigned to the rotary dial unit 41 so that it can be specified. The use state storage unit 130 stores use state information related to the state before switching in the first function. On the other hand, when the rotary dial unit 41 switches from the first function not assigned to the rotary dial unit 41 so that it can be specified, the use state memory is stored. The unit 130 does not store use state information for the first function.
That is, when the first function is a function that cannot be switched by the rotary dial unit 41, the usage state information in the first function is not stored in the usage state storage unit 130.

  In addition, the usage state information for each function stored in the usage state storage unit 130 is deleted at a predetermined timing. For example, the usage state information for each function stored in the usage state storage unit 130 is stored for a predetermined time after a predetermined time has elapsed since the storage, after the completion of a predetermined operation, or after continuous switching of functions by the rotary dial unit 41. It is erased at a predetermined timing such as after the elapse of time or after a call process is performed.

The CPU 70 performs activation processing for various functions according to the rotation amount supplied from the rotary dial unit 41.
Here, the configuration and operation of the CPU 70 will be described.
The CPU 70 detects a contact of a conductor (for example, a user's finger) with the rotary dial unit 41, a function designation unit 72, a function execution unit 73, a switching instruction unit 75, and display control. Part 78.

The contact detection unit 71 detects whether a predetermined conductor is in contact with the rotary dial unit 41 based on a change in capacitance detected by the touch sensor 200 disposed inside the rotary dial unit 41. In other words, the contact detection unit 71 is in a contact state where a predetermined conductor is in contact with the rotary dial unit 41 due to a change in capacitance detected by the touch sensor 200, or a predetermined conductor is connected to the rotary dial unit 41. It is detected whether or not is in a non-contact state.
When the contact detection unit 71 detects that a predetermined conductor is in contact with the rotary dial unit 41 based on the change in capacitance detected by the touch sensor 200, the contact detection unit 71 and the function execution unit 73 and the switching instruction unit 75.

  The function designating unit 72 designates a function for executing a predetermined function among a plurality of functions based on the rotation in the rotary dial unit 41. The function designation unit 72 designates a function to be executed based on the rotation of the rotary dial unit 41 in a state where contact is detected by the contact detection unit.

The function specifying unit 72 detects the amount of rotation in the rotary dial unit 41.
By receiving the detection signal from the contact detection unit 71, the function specifying unit 72 is in a state where the rotation in the rotary dial unit 41 can be detected. The function designation unit 72 is maintained in a state in which the rotation in the rotary dial unit 41 can be detected until the detection signal from the contact detection unit 71 is not received or the non-detection signal is received.

  As described above, the function designating unit 72 detects the amount of rotation in the rotary dial unit 41 based on the number of position points 43a to 43h counted by the counting unit 44. For example, when the rotation a direction is +, and the count number of the position points in the count unit 44 is “+1”, the function specifying unit 72 has the rotation amount from 22.5 degrees to 67.5 degrees. Is detected. Then, the function designating unit 72 determines the rotation amount when the count number of the position points in the counting unit 44 does not change for a certain time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds). The function designating unit 72 detects the rotation direction based on the tilt direction of the tongue piece 44 a in the counting unit 44.

  The function designation unit 72 designates a predetermined function based on the detected rotation (rotation direction and rotation amount) in the rotary dial unit 41. Specifically, when the state detected by the contact detection unit 71 changes from the contact state to the non-contact state, the function specifying unit 72 specifies a function based on the detected rotation. Specifically, when the state detected by the contact detection unit 71 changes from a contact state to a non-contact state, the function designation unit 72 functions (application) corresponding to the icon I at the selected position based on the detected rotation. Is specified.

  The function designating unit 72 refers to the rotation amount-function table (111, 112) stored in the memory 100 and designates the function. Specifically, the function designating unit 72 selects and refers to either the first table 111 or the second table 112 according to the detected rotation direction, and determines a function to be designated based on the detected rotation amount. In addition, when a predetermined function is specified, the function specifying unit 72 outputs information on the specified function to the function executing unit 73.

Here, the function designation unit 72 designates a function to be executed by the operation of the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15 as other operation members in addition to designating a function to be executed by the rotation operation in the rotary dial unit 41. be able to.
When the function specifying unit 72 specifies a function to be executed by the operation of the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15, a standby screen related to a standby function for waiting for communication from the outside to the communication unit 60 is displayed on the display 21. A predetermined function is specified through the state.
On the other hand, as described above, the function designating unit 72 designates a predetermined function without going through the state in which the standby screen is displayed on the display 21 when designating a function to be executed by the rotation operation in the rotary dial unit 41. . According to the rotary dial unit 41, the function can be directly switched without going through the state in which the standby screen is displayed on the display 21.

The function execution unit 73 executes the function designated by the function designation unit 72.
The function execution unit 73 specifies the specified function when the contact detection unit 71 does not detect another contact within a predetermined time after the state detected by the contact detection unit 71 changes from the contact state to the non-contact state. Start the application that executes.

  The function execution unit 73 interrupts the second function when the first function is designated again by the function designation unit 72 due to the operation of the rotary dial unit 41 after the first function is switched to the second function. Alternatively, the information on the usage state stored in the usage state storage unit 130 is read out, the same image (screen) as before switching is displayed on the display 21, and the first function is resumed or restarted. By displaying the same image as the image before switching on the display 21, the user can smoothly resume the work.

  Further, the function execution unit 73 is configured such that when the first function is designated again by the function designation unit 72 due to the operation of the rotary dial unit 41 after the first function is switched to the second function, the second function Is interrupted or terminated, information on the usage state stored in the usage state storage unit 130 is read, and an instruction is given to restart the first function from the same state as before switching. Thereby, the work before switching is not wasted, and the user can resume the work smoothly.

When the rotary dial 41 is rotated while the first function is being executed by the function executing unit 73 and the second function is specified by the function specifying unit 72, the function executing unit 73 indicates that the first function is the rotary dial. When it is included in the function group assigned to be specified by the rotation operation of the unit 41, the first function is interrupted (suspended state) or terminated. In this case, the usage state information in the first function is stored in the usage state storage unit 130. That is, in this case, the first function is stopped or terminated in a state where it can be restarted or restarted in the same state as before switching.
When the first function is being executed by the function execution unit 73 and the rotary dial unit 41 is rotated and the second function is specified by the function specifying unit 72, the function execution unit 73 is When the first function is not included in the function group, a selection image for selecting the end of the first function or the cancellation of switching to the second function is displayed on the display 21.

  Further, when the mobile phone 1 is powered on, the function execution unit 73 first starts an OS program and starts a reference application program under OS management. At this time, the display control unit 78 can display a standby screen on the display 21. Thereafter, each time an application to be started is generated, the reference application program is terminated or interrupted under OS management to start a new application program. In response to this processing, the display control unit 78 causes the display 21 to display a screen based on the newly started application instead of the standby screen.

  Based on the instruction from the function specifying unit 72, the switching instruction unit 75 instructs the function executing unit 73 to switch the function being executed to another function. Specifically, the switching instruction unit 75, when the function execution unit 73 is executing the first function, when the function specifying unit 72 specifies a second function different from the first function, the function execution unit 73 is instructed to interrupt or end the first function being executed and execute the newly designated second function.

  Further, the switching instruction unit 75 causes the function execution unit 73 to interrupt or end the second function when the first function is designated again by the function designation unit 72 due to the operation of the rotary dial unit 41. And instructing the display 21 to display the same image as before switching and instructing to restart or restart the first function. As described above, by displaying the same image as the image before switching on the display 21, the user can smoothly resume the work.

  Further, the switching instruction unit 75 causes the function execution unit 73 to interrupt or end the second function when the first function is designated again by the function designation unit 72 due to the operation of the rotary dial unit 41. And instructing to restart the first function from the same state as before switching, by reading the information on the usage state stored in the usage state storage unit 130. Thereby, as described above, the work before switching is not wasted and the user can smoothly resume the work.

  When the first function is being executed by the function executing unit 73, when the rotary dial unit 41 is rotated and the second function is specified by the function specifying unit 72, the switching instruction unit 75 stores the use state memory. The use state information in the first function is stored in the unit 130 or is not stored. Specifically, the switching instruction unit 75 determines that the first function is included in the use state storage unit 130 when the first function is included in the function group assigned so as to be designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41. When the first function is not included in the function group, the information regarding the usage state of the first function is not stored. That is, for the functions that may be specified again by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41, the use state information is stored in the use state storage unit 130 and is not specified again by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41. Regarding the function, the usage status information is not stored in the usage status storage unit 130. Here, the switching instruction unit 75 refers to the function group table 121 illustrated in FIG. 10 and determines whether or not the first function is included in the function group.

  Further, when the first function is executed by the function execution unit 73, the switching instruction unit 75 rotates the rotary dial unit 41 and designates the second function by the function designation unit 72. When it is included in the function group assigned so as to be designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41, the function execution unit 73 is interrupted or terminated. Then, when the first function is executed by the function execution unit 73, the switching instruction unit 75 rotates the rotary dial unit 41 and designates the second function by the function designation unit 72. When not included in the function group, the display control unit 78 causes the display 21 to display a selection image for selecting the end of the first function or the cancellation of the switching to the second function.

  The display control unit 78 controls the display on the display 21. When the contact detection unit 71 detects that a conductor has contacted the rotary dial unit 41 based on a change in capacitance, the display control unit 78 displays a menu image M (screen) including images showing a plurality of functions. It is displayed on the display 21. Specifically, the display control unit 78 causes the display 21 to display a menu image M including an image indicating the function specified by the function specifying unit 72 (see FIG. 14).

  The display control unit 78 also displays an image based on the function (application) that started the image displayed on the display 21 when the activated application is terminated (for example, when the on-hook key is pressed). To a standby image (reference image).

  Further, when designating a function to be executed by the operation of the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15, the display control unit 78 displays the menu image M1 (see FIG. 15) via the standby screen. When the function executed by the rotary dial unit 41 is designated, the display control unit 78 directly displays the menu image M (see FIG. 14) without using the standby screen.

  When the first function is being executed by the function executing unit 73, when the rotary dial unit 41 is rotated and the second function is specified by the function specifying unit 72, the display control unit 78 has the first function If it is not included in the function group assigned by the rotary dial unit 41 so that it can be specified, a selection image for selecting termination of the first function or cancellation of switching to the second function is displayed on the display 21. That is, after switching to the second function by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41, it is not possible to return to the first function by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit 41. Therefore, the selected image is displayed on the display 21 and the first function is displayed. The user is allowed to select whether to end the function or cancel the switching to the second function. In this case, the usage state information in the first function is not stored in the usage state storage unit 130.

  Next, the operation of the mobile phone 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the mobile phone 1 is switched from one function (application A) to another function (application B) and then switched from application B to application A again, the mobile phone 1 selects whether to suspend or terminate the application A. . Here, when the application A is suspended, the mobile phone 1 resumes (resumes) the application A when the application B is switched from the application B to the application A again. In addition, when the application A is terminated, the mobile phone 1 restarts the application A when the application B is switched from the application B to the application A again.

  Here, the operation of the CPU 70 that executes function switching control in accordance with application switching will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In the following embodiments, a description will be given assuming that a predetermined function (hereinafter referred to as application A) is currently activated.

  In step ST1, the CPU 70 detects that the rotary dial unit 41 has rotated. Specifically, the CPU 70 detects whether a predetermined conductor is in contact with the rotary dial unit 41 based on a change in capacitance detected by the touch sensor 200 disposed inside the rotary dial unit 41.

  In step ST2, the CPU 70 detects application switching based on the rotation of the rotary dial unit 41 in the process of step ST1. Specifically, the CPU 70 designates an application other than the currently activated application A (hereinafter referred to as application B) based on the rotation in the rotary dial unit 41.

  In step ST 3, the CPU 70 determines whether the currently activated application A is an application that can be selected by the rotary dial unit 41, that is, an application that can be selected only by the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15. Judge whether there is no. When it is determined that the application can be selected by the rotary dial unit 41 (Yes), the process proceeds to step ST5, and when it is determined that the application is not selectable by the rotary dial unit 41 (No), the step Proceed to ST4.

  In step ST4, the CPU 70 confirms with the user whether or not the application A can be terminated. For example, the CPU 70 pops up a message such as “Do you want to finish executing application A?” On the display 21 and confirms the user's intention. When the CPU 70 determines that the execution of the application A is to be terminated by the user's intention display (Yes), the CPU 70 proceeds to step ST5. If the CPU 70 determines that the execution of the application A is not finished (No), the CPU 70 finishes the process and continues the execution of the application A.

  In step ST5, the CPU 70 determines whether or not the currently executing application A needs to be suspended. If it is determined that it is necessary to suspend (Yes), the process proceeds to step ST6. If it is determined that it is not necessary to suspend (No), the process proceeds to step ST7.

  Here, the CPU 70 refers to the suspend information table shown in FIG. In the suspend information table, a flag “suspend / presence flag” for determining the presence / absence of suspend for each function (application) assigned to the rotary dial unit 41 and a flag “suspending flag” indicating whether or not the suspend is being performed. And “suspend information” in which suspend information is stored. The suspend information table is stored in the memory 100, for example.

  In step ST6, the CPU 70 suspends the application A currently being executed. The CPU 70 stores the information of the application A in “suspend information” of the suspend information table. If the application A is E-mail, the screen type (transmission / reception list screen, mail creation screen, browsing screen, etc.), display position information, mail creation information (subject, TO address (destination address), CC address, BCC address, text (BODY), attached file information, etc.) are stored as suspend information.

  In step ST7, the CPU 70 ends the application A currently being executed.

  In step ST8, the CPU 70 determines whether or not the application B to be started is in the suspended state with reference to the “suspending flag” in the suspend information table. When it is determined that it is in the suspended state (Yes), the process proceeds to step ST9, and when it is determined that it is not in the suspended state (No), the process proceeds to step ST10.

  In step ST9, the CPU 70 resumes the application B to be activated with reference to “suspend information” in the suspend information table. Therefore, the application B is started from the middle of the previous end, not from the initial screen.

  In step ST10, the CPU 70 activates the application B that is the activation target. Therefore, the application B is started from the initial screen.

  Next, the state of the screen transition displayed on the display 21 accompanying the operation of the CPU 70 described above will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the state where the mail application is activated and the screen for creating a mail is displayed (13 (a)), the mobile phone 1 displays the screen when the web browser is selected by operating the rotary dial unit 41. (FIG. 13B). Here, when switching to the Web browser, the mobile phone 1 confirms that the “suspend / presence flag” of the mail application is in the “ON” state, and sets the state of the mail application in the “suspending flag” of the suspend information table. To save.

  Then, when the mail application is selected again by the user's operation using the rotary dial unit 41, the mobile phone 1 confirms that the “suspending flag” in the suspend information table is in the “ON” state. The mail application is resumed with reference to the “suspend information” (FIG. 13C). Thus, in the cellular phone 1, the state of the mail application before switching (FIG. 13A) and the state of the mail application when switched again (FIG. 13B) are the same.

  In the mobile phone 1, an application (hereinafter referred to as an application XX) is selected by the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15 from the state in which the Web browser is displayed on the screen (FIG. 13B). In this case, the application XX is displayed on the screen (FIG. 13 (d)). The application XX is an application that is assigned so as to be designated only by the function setting operation button 13 and the determination operation button 15.

  When the mail application is selected by the operation of the user's rotary dial unit 41 while the application XX is displayed, the mobile phone 1 displays “Do you want to finish executing application A?” On the display 21. Etc. are displayed in a pop-up and the user's intention is confirmed (FIG. 13 (e)). When “NO” is selected by the user, the mobile phone 1 does not perform the function of the mail application. Further, when “YES” is selected by the user, the mobile phone 1 confirms that the “suspending flag” in the suspend information table is in the “ON” state, and refers to the “suspend information”. The mail application is resumed (FIG. 13 (f)). In this manner, in the cellular phone 1, the state of the mail application before switching (FIG. 13A) and the state of the mail application when switched again (FIG. 13F) are the same.

  According to the present embodiment, by directly operating the rotary dial unit 41, various functions assigned to the rotary dial unit 41 can be directly activated under certain conditions. It is not necessary to go through, and a desired application can be started easily.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a mobile phone 1 whose function can be switched and which has improved usability.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, when the first function being executed is switched to the second function, the use state information in the use state of the first function is stored. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the user's work (in the first function) performed before switching to the second function from being wasted.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, when the second function switched from the first function is returned to the first function, the same image (screen) as the image before switching in the first function is displayed on the display 21. For this reason, the user can restart the interrupted work without a sense of incongruity.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, when the second function switched from the first function is returned to the first function again, the first function can be resumed in the same state as before the switching in the first function. For this reason, the user can restart the interrupted work without a sense of incongruity.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the function can be switched by using the rotary dial unit 41 without going through the state in which the standby screen is displayed. Thereby, the usability in the mobile phone 1 can be improved.

  According to the present embodiment, when the first function is a function that cannot be specified by the rotary dial unit 41 when the rotary dial unit 41 switches from the first function to the second function, the switching instruction unit 75 21 displays a selection image for selecting whether to cancel switching or to end the first function. Thereby, since the user can select whether to cancel the switching / end the first function, it is possible to prevent the work in the first function from being wasted unexpectedly.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, when switching from the first function to the second function by the rotary dial unit 41, the switching instruction unit 75 is a function in which the first function can be designated by the rotary dial unit 41. Stores information related to the usage state of the first function, and does not store information related to the usage state of the first function when designation by the rotary dial unit 41 is impossible. Thereby, the use state storage unit 130 is suppressed from storing useless information.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment was described, this invention can be implemented with a various form, without being limited to embodiment mentioned above. For example, in the present embodiment, the mobile phone 1 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be a PHS (registered trademark), a personal digital assistant (PDA) navigation device, or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the cellular phone 1 that can be folded by the connecting portion 4 is described. However, the cellular phone 1 is not foldable, and the operation unit side body 2 and the display unit side body 3 are overlapped. One of the casings is centered on an axis along the overlapping direction of the operation unit side casing 2 and the display unit side casing 3 so that one casing is slid in one direction from the combined state. A rotation (turn) type that is rotated, or a type (straight type) in which the operation unit side body 2 and the display unit side body 3 are arranged in one housing and do not have a connecting portion may be used. The mobile phone 1 may be a so-called biaxial hinge type that can be opened and closed and rotated.

  In the present embodiment, the rotary dial 41 is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis Z that is substantially coaxial with the opening / closing axis of the hinge mechanism 4A, but is not limited thereto, and is rotatable by a user operation. Any configuration may be used. For example, the rotary dial unit 41 may be configured to be rotatable around a predetermined rotation axis orthogonal to the rotation axis Z.

  In the present embodiment, the functions that can be selected by the rotary dial unit 41 are as described above. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the menu that the user frequently uses may be registered. In addition, by registering a desired Web address and selecting the Web address by the rotary dial unit 41, the Web browser is activated and the Web page of the Web address can be browsed. Good. Also, the number of menus is not limited to the number (seven) described above.

  In the present embodiment, the function designating unit 72 detects the amount of rotation based on the number of position points counted by the counting unit 44. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the rotary dial unit 41 is detected by a predetermined sensor. The amount of change in the rotation angle may be detected as the amount of rotation. Further, the function designating unit 72 may be configured to detect the rotation amount based on, for example, a change in resistivity.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Cellular phone 2 Operation part side body 3 Display part side body 4 Hinge mechanism 11 Operation part 13 Function setting operation button 15 Determination operation button 21 Display 41 Rotation dial part 70 CPU
71 Contact detection unit 72 Function designation unit 73 Function execution unit 75 Switching instruction unit 100 Memory 130 Usage state storage unit

Claims (6)

A housing,
A rotary dial portion attached to the housing to be rotatable around a predetermined rotation axis;
A function execution unit that executes a specified function among a plurality of functions based on the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit;
In a state where the first function is being executed by the function execution unit, when a second function different from the first function is designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit, the function execution unit is currently executing A switching instruction unit for instructing to interrupt or end the first function and to execute the newly designated second function;
When the switching instruction unit instructs the function execution unit to switch the function to be executed from the first function to the second function, a use state storage that stores information on the use state of the first function A portable electronic device. A display unit capable of displaying an image related to the function being executed,
When the first function is designated again by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit,
The switching instructing unit, with respect to the function execution unit,
Instructing to interrupt or terminate the second function;
Read the information on the usage state stored in the usage state storage unit, instruct the display unit to display the same image as before switching,
The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein an instruction is given to resume or restart the first function. When the first function is designated again by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit,
The switching instructing unit, with respect to the function execution unit,
Instructing to interrupt or terminate the second function;
3. The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein information relating to the usage state stored in the usage state storage unit is read out and the first function is instructed to restart from the same state as before switching. A communication department;
A display unit capable of displaying an image related to the function being executed;
An operation member different from the rotary dial part,
The function to be executed by the operation member is designated as follows:
Performing through a state where a standby screen related to a standby function for waiting for communication from the outside to the communication unit is displayed on the display unit,
The designation of the function to be executed by the rotation operation in the rotary dial unit is as follows:
The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein a predetermined function is designated without going through a state in which the standby screen is displayed on the display unit. In a state where the first function is executed by the function execution unit, when the rotary dial unit is rotated and the second function is designated,
The switching instruction unit, with respect to the use state storage unit,
When the first function is included in the function group assigned so as to be designated by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit, information on the usage state of the first function is stored.
5. The portable electronic device according to claim 4, wherein when the first function is not included in the function group, information on a usage state of the first function is not stored. The switching instruction unit
When the first function is included in the function group assigned so as to be specifiable by the rotation operation of the rotary dial unit and information on the usage state of the first function is stored, Interrupting or terminating the first function;
When the first function is not included in the function group and information regarding the use state of the first function is not stored, a selection image for selecting termination of the first function or cancellation of switching to the second function The portable electronic device according to claim 5, wherein: is displayed on the display unit.

Images