JP2011124718A - Remote control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device excellent in operability in comparison with a conventional one in a remote control device in which a plurality of functions are allocated to the same button key. <P>SOLUTION: The remote control device includes a button key function display part 3 for performing electronic information display, and a plurality of function variable button keys 2 configured to protrude from surroundings to be depressible, where the button key function display part 3 has a plurality of display areas for displaying information, and electronically displays function contents allocated to the function variable button keys 2 existing at the closet positions of the display areas. When one function variable button key 2 is pressed down, a signal for operation corresponding to specific operation contents allocated to the depressed function variable button key 2 is created and transmitted to an operation target device. When a switching instruction of function contents allocated to the function variable button key 2 is given, display contents of the button key function display part 3 are switched together with the function contents allocated to the function variable button keys 2 in accordance with the switching instruction. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a remote control device that remotely operates various electronic devices such as AV equipment and home appliances from a remote location, and more particularly to a remote control device configured to be able to switch operation contents assigned to the same button key.

  In recent electronic devices, a remote control (remote control) device for remote operation is attached. For example, there are separate remote control devices for electronic devices such as televisions, video cameras, CD players, MD / CD decks, disc players, video decks, video CD / DVD players, radio cassettes, and game machines.

  When multiple such electronic devices are present in a room, the number of remote control devices increases, and as a result, it is necessary to store and appropriately store these remote control devices so that it is not possible to know which remote control device belongs to which home appliance. It became necessary to manage and was very troublesome for the user.

  In response to this, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2004-228688 discloses a technique in which a plurality of electronic devices can be operated separately using a single remote control device.

JP 2002-152863 A

  Patent Document 1 discloses a multi-remote controller that uses a liquid crystal panel with a touch panel and displays operation keys, function keys, and the like corresponding to various electronic devices on the liquid crystal panel. 15A and 15B are display examples of operation keys of a remote control capable of operating both the TV and the VTR. FIG. 15A shows a display mode for TV operation, and FIG. 15B shows a display mode for VTR operation. . By changing the device to be operated, the content displayed on the liquid crystal panel 101 can be switched between (a) and (b).

  However, in the configuration of FIG. 15, since all the operation keys and function keys are displayed on the liquid crystal panel, an operation feeling such as a click feeling at the time of key operation is less than that of a normal button key. For this reason, it is difficult to perform key operation by blind touch, and it is necessary to confirm the portion to be touched by looking at the remote control screen one by one.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a remote control device in which a plurality of functions are assigned to the same button key, which is superior in operability compared to the conventional one.

In order to achieve the above object, a remote control device of the present invention is a remote control device capable of remote operation with respect to an operation target device,
A plurality of function variable button keys configured to protrude from the periphery and can be pressed;
A button key function display unit for displaying the function content assigned to the function variable button key separately in association with the arrangement position of the function variable button key;
A transmission unit that creates an operation signal including the operation content of the operation target device and transmits the operation signal to the operation target device; and
In the case where the operation content for the operation target device is assigned to the plurality of function variable button keys, when one function variable button key is pressed, the transmission unit displays the pressed function variable button key. Is configured to create the operation signal corresponding to the specific operation content assigned to and transmit to the operation target device,
When an instruction to switch the function contents to be assigned to the function variable button keys is given, the display contents of the button key function display unit are switched in accordance with the function contents to be assigned to the function variable button keys. It is characterized by that.

  When configured in this way, information on the function assigned to the function variable button key can be recognized by confirming the display content of the button key function display section. If a location where a function corresponding to the desired operation content is displayed is visually detected, the target operation can be executed by pressing the button key function display section closest to the display area. At this time, what is pressed is a “button key” formed so as to protrude from the periphery, and does not touch the touch panel on the liquid crystal panel as in Patent Document 1, so that the click feeling of key operation is more than the conventional configuration. Secured and improved operational feeling.

  On the other hand, when the function content assigned to each function variable button key is switched, the display content of the button key function display section corresponding to the button key is switched accordingly. The function contents assigned to the button keys can be visually confirmed.

  That is, according to the remote control device according to the present invention, in the configuration in which the function assigned to each button key is changed, the function of Patent Document 1 that can confirm the function content assigned to the button key is secured. Thus, it is possible to obtain an effect that the operational feeling can be improved as compared with the technique of Patent Document 1.

  It should be noted that the function contents assigned to the function variable button keys existing at the closest position can be displayed in each display area of the button key function display section.

  Furthermore, each button key function display unit and the function variable button key can be integrated. As an example, the surface of each function variable button key is constituted by a small liquid crystal panel, and each button key function display unit is realized by this liquid crystal panel. As a result, it is not necessary to provide an area for disposing the button key function display unit separately from the area for disposing the function variable button keys, and thus the size of the remote control device can be reduced. Furthermore, since the function contents assigned to the button key are displayed on each function variable button key, the user presses the function variable button key displaying the display contents corresponding to the desired operation contents. All you have to do is make it more intuitive.

In addition to the above features, the remote control device of the present invention includes a data memory in which a data table in which the function variable button key is associated with the function content to be assigned is recorded
A display processing device for creating display data to be displayed on the button key function display unit and outputting the display data to the button key function display unit;
An internal control device for controlling the entire device,
When a display content switching instruction is given, the internal control device gives the display data change instruction to the display processing device,
The display processing device reads out the function content to be assigned to each function variable button key after the change from the data table, newly creates the display data, and outputs the display data to the button key function display unit. To do.

In addition to the above features, the remote control device of the present invention further includes a button key recognition device that recognizes pressing of the function variable button key,
When the function variable button key is pressed, the button key recognition device gives the internal control device information about the specific button key that is the pressed function variable button key,
The internal control device reads the function content currently assigned to the specific button key from the data table and recognizes whether or not the function content to be assigned to each function variable button key needs to be changed. If necessary, another feature is that an instruction to change the display data is given to the display processing device.

In addition to the above features, the remote control device of the present invention is further configured to be capable of remote operation with respect to a plurality of operation target devices, and the data table includes the function variable button key for each operation target device. The function contents to be assigned are related,
When the internal control device reads the function content currently assigned to the specific button key from the data table, and the assigned function content is information indicating that the operation target device is switched to the specific device. Provides an instruction to change the display data to the display processing device in order to display the function content to be assigned to the function variable button key as an operation control application of the specific device on the button key function display unit. .

In addition, the remote control device of the present invention includes a function fixing button key that does not change the assigned function content,
A function of switching to a screen for selecting the operation target device is assigned to a first button key which is one of the function fixing button keys,
When the first button key is pressed, the button key recognition device gives the internal control device information about that,
The internal control device is characterized by giving an instruction to the display processing device to display the display data according to an initial state in which a user selects the operation target device.

  In addition, a power button is provided as one of the function fixed button keys whose assigned function contents do not change, and when the power button is pressed, the power on / off control of the currently operated device is performed. It can be.

  Further, a return button is provided as one of the function fixed button keys whose assigned function contents do not change, and each button key function display unit returns to the previous display state when the return button is pressed. be able to. In this case, the immediately preceding display content may be held inside the remote control control device, and this held content may be read out by the button key function display unit when the return button is pressed.

In addition to the above features, the remote control device of the present invention is characterized in that the display processing device includes:
In the initial state, the button key function display in which an image including the name or identifiable character string or code of the operation target device to be assigned to each function variable button key is present at a position closest to each function variable button key Another feature is that the display data to be displayed in the display area is output to the button key function display unit.

In addition to the above features, the remote control device of the present invention includes a function display switching button key that does not change the assigned function content,
When the button key recognizing device recognizes that the function display switching button key has been pressed, the button key recognizing device gives information to that effect to the internal control device,
Another feature is that the internal control device gives an instruction to change the display data to the display processing device to change the display data in accordance with a switching rule assigned to the function display switching button key.

  In this case, it is preferable that the button key function display unit and the function variable button key are provided on the front surface, and the function display switching button key is provided on the side surface.

  According to the remote control device of the present invention, while assigning a plurality of functions to the same button key and ensuring the function of visually displaying the function currently assigned to each button key, Further, an operation by pressing a button key formed so as to protrude further can be executed, and the operability is improved.

Conceptual diagram of the first embodiment of the remote control device of the present invention One display mode of the first embodiment of the remote control device of the present invention Another display mode of the first embodiment of the remote control device of the present invention Another display mode of the first embodiment of the remote control device of the present invention Example of data table Example of display data in the initial state Example of display data other than the initial state Example of display data other than the initial state Example of display data other than the initial state The conceptual diagram of 2nd Embodiment of the remote control apparatus of this invention. One display mode of the second embodiment of the remote control device of the present invention Example of display data in the initial state The conceptual diagram of another embodiment of the remote control apparatus of this invention The conceptual diagram of another embodiment of the remote control apparatus of this invention Conceptual diagram of a conventional multi-remote control device

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a first embodiment of a remote control device according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “device of the present invention”), (a) is an external view thereof, and (b) is a schematic block diagram showing an internal configuration. is there. Each functional means shown in (b) is built in the inventive device 1 shown in (a). In the specification, the remote control device is abbreviated as “remote controller” as appropriate.

  The device 1 of the present invention includes a plurality of function variable button keys 2 configured so that assigned functions can be switched. A button key function display unit 3 is disposed in the vicinity of the function variable button key 2. In addition to the function variable button key 2, the device 1 of the present invention includes a function fixing button key 5 to which a previously assigned function is fixed. Furthermore, function display switching button keys 8 and 9 are provided. The function display switching button keys 8 and 9 will be described later.

  In this specification, the terms “function” and “operation” are consciously distinguished and described. The “function” refers to the operation content assigned to each button key (particularly the function variable button key 2). On the other hand, “operation” refers to the control content instructed to the predetermined target device by the device 1 of the present invention. In addition, a device that is going to perform some operation control using the device 1 of the present invention is called an “operation target device”, and a group of control contents that can be instructed by the device 1 of the present invention to the operation target device is “ This is called an “operation content group”. As will be described later, the function variable button key 2 may be assigned information on the operation content for the operation target device, or may be assigned device information to allow the user to select which device to operate. Sometimes.

  The device 1 of the present invention includes an information display unit 6 for displaying various information separately from the button key function display unit 3. The button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6 are constituted by, for example, a liquid crystal panel.

  In FIG. 1A, symbols a, b,..., L are attached according to the place where the function variable button key 2 is arranged. Similarly, symbols m, n, and o are assigned according to the location where the function fixed button key 5 is arranged, and D1, D2, D3, D4 are assigned according to the location arranged as the button key function display unit 3. The code | symbol is attached | subjected. In the following description, the function variable button key 2 will be described as “function variable button key a” using the symbols a, b,... In the following description, the function variable button key 2 is generically referred to. Similarly, when the button key function display unit 3 is described by specifying an arrangement location, it is described using, for example, “button key function display unit D1” using symbols D1,..., D4. Is described as “button key function display unit 3”.

  FIG. 2 shows one display mode of the device 1 of the present invention, and shows a screen displayed when the selection of the operation target device is on standby. In FIG. 2, the sign of each button key is displayed outside the apparatus in order to avoid confusion due to the mixed sign and display content. In addition, since the function fixed button key 5 does not change the assigned function, the assigned function is displayed on each button m, n, o (“power”, “top”). ","Return"). In the following description, when the location of the fixed function button key 5 is specified and described, it is described using, for example, “function variable button key m” by using symbols m, n, and o to specify the location. In the following description, they are collectively referred to as “function fixing button key 5”.

  The information display unit 6 displays the current state of the device 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 2, “TOP” is displayed on the information display unit 6 to indicate that the display is in a state where the operation target device is not selected (hereinafter referred to as “initial state”). The function fixing button key n (“top” button) is a button key for shifting to the initial state.

  Each button key function display unit 3 directly displays information indicating what functions are currently assigned to the function variable button keys 2 arranged immediately below the button key function display unit. . For example, paying attention to the button key function display portion D1, “TV1”, “TV2”, and “TV3” are displayed in order from the left in the drawing. As a result, among the function variable button keys a, b, and c arranged immediately below the button key function display unit 3 (D1), the button key a is “TV1”, the b is “TV2”, c It can be seen that “TV3” is assigned to. Similarly, information regarding functions assigned to the function variable button keys 2 existing immediately below is also displayed on the other button key function display unit 3.

  In the initial state, each button key function display unit 3 may display image data including a character string, a code, and the like that can identify each device to be operated.

  In the present embodiment, one button key function display unit 3 corresponds to one row (three) of function variable button keys 2, and a display interval is appropriately provided in each button key function display unit 3. Thus, information related to the button key assignment function is displayed in the display area immediately above each function variable button key 2. Of course, an individual button key function display unit 3 may be provided for each button key. In this case, the button key function display sections 3 are provided as many as the function variable button keys 2.

  FIG. 3 shows the display contents of the device 1 of the present invention whose state has changed from FIG. (A) is a display mode when the function variable button key a, that is, the “TV1” button is pressed from the state of FIG. 2 (initial state). 2B shows a display mode when the function variable button key d, that is, the “air conditioner 1” button is pressed from the state of FIG. 2 (initial state).

  In the state of FIG. 3A, the device 1 of the present invention functions as a remote controller for operating a television corresponding to “TV1”. Each function variable button key 2 is assigned various functions for television operation. Further, in the state of FIG. 3B, the device 1 of the present invention operates as a remote controller for operating an air conditioner corresponding to “air conditioner 1”. Each function variable button key 2 is assigned various functions for operating the air conditioner.

  When the function fixing button key n (“top” button) is pressed, the device 1 of the present embodiment shifts to an initial state (FIG. 2), and each button key function display unit 3 has a function variable immediately below. Information about the “operation target device” assigned to the button key 2 is displayed. After the state of FIG. 2, the user confirms the display of the device desired to be operated from the display content of the button key function display unit 3, and presses the function variable button key 2 arranged immediately below the displayed position. Press. As a result, the display contents of the button key function display unit 3 and the function contents assigned to the function variable button key 2 are switched, that is, the state in which the target operation target device can be operated, that is, the operation contents It becomes a mode to select.

  For example, in the case of the TV 1 shown in FIG. 3A, each button key function display unit 3 displays various operation contents for operating the television, and the function variable button key 2 immediately below the function key button 2 Functions corresponding to the displayed operation contents (for example, volume up, program guide display, etc.) are assigned. If the user wants to increase the volume, the user can press the function variable button key h.

  Note that there are many types of operation contents in the device to be operated, and the case where the number of function variable button keys 3 is not sufficient is considered. Assuming such a case, the operation content assigned to each function variable button key 3 can be switched even if the operation target device is selected.

  For example, it is assumed that there are many types of operation contents for the TV 1, and the number of function variable button keys 3 is not enough. In this case, the state shown in FIG. 3A is switched to the state shown in FIG. 4A by pressing the function display switching button key 8. Further, when the function display switching button key 8 is pressed, switching is performed sequentially as shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, and when the function display switching button key 8 is pressed again, the state shown in FIG. Return. The function display switching button key 9 is a button key for switching the function display in the reverse direction. When the button key is pressed, the function display switching button key 9 is switched in the order of FIGS. 4C, 4B, and 4A. Return to 3 (a). 4 (a), 4 (b), and 4 (c) show “Page 2” and “Page 3” in the information display unit 6 to indicate that the display contents are sequentially switched from the state of FIG. 3 (a). , “Page 4” is displayed.

  When the operation target device is the TV 1, when the function display switching button key 8 is pressed from the state shown in FIG. 3A, the display mode of the device 1 of the present invention is switched to FIG. 4A. At this time, when the function variable button key 3 is pressed, an instruction of the operation content displayed on the button key function display unit 3 at the position directly above is transmitted to the TV 1. For example, when it is desired to change to the channel 4, the function variable button key d may be pressed in the state of FIG.

  Hereinafter, the control contents of the device 1 of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1B, the device 1 of the present invention includes an LCD unit 11, a data memory 12, an LCD control device 13, a display memory 14, a microcomputer 15, a transmission unit 16, and a key matrix 17.

  The LCD unit 11 is for displaying various information (image information, character information, etc.) in the device 1 of the present invention, and is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel. This corresponds to the button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6 in FIG.

  The microcomputer 15 is a microcomputer and controls the entire apparatus 1 of the present invention. The microcomputer 15 corresponds to an internal control device. The data memory 12 stores a program for controlling the microcomputer 15 and various image information to be displayed on the LCD unit 11.

  The LCD control device 13 creates data (display data) that is actually displayed on the LCD unit 11 based on various information stored in the data memory 12, and holds this data in the display memory 14. Let Then, the display data is read from the display memory 14 and transferred. The LCD control device 13 corresponds to a display processing device.

  The transmission unit 16 is composed of, for example, an infrared signal transmission unit, and is for transmitting a signal (operation signal) to a device (operation target device) to be controlled by the device 1 of the present invention.

  The key matrix 17 is an analysis means for recognizing which button key is pressed in the device 1 of the present invention, and the user presses the button key (2, 5, 8, 9) in the device 1 of the present invention. Then, which button key is pressed is analyzed, and the information is transmitted to the microcomputer 15. The key matrix 17 corresponds to a button key recognition device.

  FIG. 5 is an example of a data table stored in the data memory 12. In this data table, functions to be assigned to the function variable button keys 2 and information to be displayed on the button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 5 are associated. Although not shown, it is assumed that information (frequency, etc.) related to the operation signal to be transmitted corresponding to the operation content is separately registered in the data memory 12 for each operation device.

  When the “top” button n is pressed, the device 1 of the present invention controls the information display unit 6 and the button key function display units 3 (D1,..., D4) in the initial state when the LCD controller 13 is controlled by the microcomputer 15. Data to be displayed (display data) is read from the display memory 14 and transferred to the LCD unit 11. FIG. 6 schematically shows display data in the initial state. Information (image information) to be displayed on each display unit is associated with each display unit (6, D1,..., D4).

  This display data may be stored in the display memory 14 in advance, or each time the “top” button n is pressed, the LCD control device 13 performs display data creation processing and stores the display data in the display memory 14. It is good as a thing. The device 1 of the present invention at this time has a display mode as shown in FIG.

  The device 1 of the present invention waits for selection of the operation target device after the “top” button n is pressed. Thereafter, when the function variable button key 2 is pressed, the operation target device is selected, and the selection of the operation content is awaited. At this time, as in the example of the TV 1 described above, in the case where the operation content can be switched in one target device, the function variable button key a is pressed after the initial state in FIG. When the function display switching button key 8 is pressed down in the configuration of (a), the system waits in the configuration of FIG. It is assumed that the microcomputer 15 can recognize the standby state of the device 1 of the present invention.

  The microcomputer 15 includes an internal memory M that can be appropriately rewritten, and reads information indicating the current standby state of the device 1 of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “standby state information”) held in the internal memory M. The standby state can be recognized. The microcomputer 15 can recognize whether the device 1 of the present invention is in the selection standby state for the operation target device or the operation instruction standby state for the specific operation target device by reading the standby state information. Further, in the case where the operation content group displayed on the apparatus 1 of the present invention can be switched in one target device as in the TV 1 described above, the operation instruction belonging to which operation content group may be on standby. The configuration is also recognizable.

  For example, immediately after the device 1 of the present invention is turned on, or when the “top” button n is pressed, the microcomputer 15 indicates that the operation target device is in a selection standby state (that is, an initial state). “Standby information” is stored in the internal memory. Thereafter, until the standby state information is rewritten, the microcomputer 15 confirms that the operation target device has not yet been selected by checking the internal memory.

  Assume that the user operates the TV 1 under this situation. When the user confirms that “TV1” is displayed at the leftmost position of the button key function display section D1, the function variable button key a located immediately below the displayed area is displayed. Press.

  When the function variable button key a is pressed, the key matrix 17 detects this and transmits information to the effect that the button key a is pressed to the microcomputer 15. The microcomputer 15 reads the standby state information from the internal memory, confirms that it is in the selection standby state (initial state) of the operation target device, and stores the contents corresponding to the variable button key a in the initial state from the data memory 12 in the data table. 21 is recognized as “TV1”.

  The microcomputer 15 further stores “standby state information” indicating that the operation instruction belonging to the operation content group relating to the first group (first group) among the plurality of operation content groups of the TV 1 has been shifted to the internal memory. Hold on. Specifically, the content of the standby state information is added to the effect that the operation target device is “TV1” and the current operation content group is “first group”, and is stored in the internal memory. In the drawing, the “first group” is described as “Page1”, but this is as if the user switched the display contents by pressing the function display switching button keys 8 and 9 as if the book Since it can be performed as if turning a page, “Page1” is described for convenience. Any display mode may be used.

  Further, the microcomputer 15 instructs the LCD control device 13 to create display data to be displayed on the LCD unit 11 when the operation target device is “TV1” and the operation content group is “first group”. give. The LCD control device 13 uses the data table 21 to describe the relationship between the operation content and each function variable button key 2 when the operation target device is “TV1” and the operation content group is “first group” (Page1). Data to be read and displayed on each button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6 (display data) is created so as to have a display mode as shown in FIG.

  The LCD control device 13 reads the display data held in the display memory 14 and transfers it to the LCD unit 11. The LCD unit 11 (button key function display unit 3, information display unit 6) performs display based on the display data 22, whereby the device 1 of the present invention is in a state as shown in FIG.

  At this point, the user recognizes that the device 1 of the present invention is in a state in which an operation instruction for the TV 1 is possible. And the display content of each button key function display part 3 is confirmed, and the thing corresponding to the desired operation content is searched. For example, if it is desired to increase the volume, the function variable button key h located immediately below the display area is recognized after recognizing that there is a notation “volume +” near the center of the button key function display portion D3. You can press.

  When the function variable button key h is pressed, the key matrix 17 detects this, and transmits information indicating that the button key h is pressed to the microcomputer 15. The microcomputer 15 reads the standby state information from the internal memory, confirms that the operation target device is “TV1” and the operation content group is “first group”, and also reads “TV1, first group (Page1) from the data memory 12. ) ”Is referred to the data table 21 for the content corresponding to the variable button key h, and“ volume + ”is recognized.

  The microcomputer 15 reads information related to an operation signal for giving a “volume +” instruction to “TV 1” from the data memory 12 and gives the information to the transmission unit 16. The transmission unit 16 creates and transmits an operation signal based on this information. When this signal is received by the TV 1, the TV 1 detects that the signal includes an instruction to increase the volume, and control for increasing the volume is performed by the control unit of the TV 1. In this way, a target operation can be executed on a target device.

  Subsequently, when the user wants to switch the channel of the TV 1 to “2 channels”, the channel can be changed by pressing the function variable button key g or j in the display mode as it is (the state shown in FIG. 3A). Although switching may be performed sequentially, it may be quicker to change to the direct channel selection mode and specify “2”. In order to perform such an operation, the user presses the function display switching button key 8.

  When the function display switching button key 8 is pressed, the key matrix 17 detects this, and transmits information indicating that the button key 8 has been pressed to the microcomputer 15. The microcomputer 15 reads the standby state information from the internal memory, confirms that the operation target device is “TV1”, and the operation content group is “first group”, and does not change the operation target device, and the operation content group Is replaced with the standby state information to that effect. That is, as the contents of the standby state information, the fact that the operation target device is “TV1” and the current operation content group is “second group” is added and stored in the internal memory.

  Further, the microcomputer 15 instructs the LCD control device 13 to create display data to be displayed on the LCD unit 11 when the operation target device is “TV1” and the operation content group is “second group”. give. The LCD control device 13 uses the data table 21 to show the relationship between the operation content and each function variable button key 2 when the operation target device is “TV1” and the operation content group is “second group” (Page 2). Data to be read and displayed on each button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6 (display data) is created so as to have a display mode as shown in FIG.

  The LCD control device 13 reads the display data held in the display memory 14 and transfers it to the LCD unit 11. The LCD unit 11 (the button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6) performs display based on the display data 22, whereby the device 1 of the present invention is in a state as shown in FIG.

  At this point, the user recognizes that the apparatus 1 of the present invention is in a state in which a channel selection instruction can be given to the TV 1. Then, the display content of each button key function display unit 3 is confirmed, and it is recognized that the notation “2” corresponding to “2 channels” exists in the vicinity of the center of the button key function display unit D1. What is necessary is just to press the function variable button key b located just below.

  When the function variable button key b is pressed, the key matrix 17 detects this, and transmits information indicating that the button key b is pressed to the microcomputer 15. The microcomputer 15 reads the standby state information from the internal memory, confirms that the operation target device is “TV1” and the operation content group is “second group”, and also reads “TV1, second group (Page2) from the data memory 12. ) ”With reference to the data table 21 for the content corresponding to the variable button key b, and recognizes that it is“ 2 ”(2 channels).

  The microcomputer 15 reads from the data memory 12 information related to an operation signal for giving a “channel switch to 2 channel” instruction for “TV 1” and provides the information to the transmission unit 16. The transmission unit 16 creates and transmits an operation signal based on this information. When this signal is received by the TV 1, the TV 1 detects that the signal includes a channel switching instruction to 2 channels, and the display channel is switched to 2 channels by the control unit of the TV 1.

  Similarly, when the TV 1 is controlled, if the desired operation content is currently displayed on the button key function display unit 3 on the device 1 of the present invention, the operation content is displayed. The function variable button key 2 existing directly below the button key function display unit 3 may be pressed. Further, when the desired operation content is not displayed on the button key function display unit 3, by pressing the function display switching button key 8 or 9 as necessary until the desired operation content is displayed, The same operation may be executed after switching the operation content group.

  Furthermore, after this state (FIG. 4 (a)), when the user wants to increase the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, it is necessary to change the operation target device. Press (Function fixed button key n).

  When the function fixed button key n is pressed, the key matrix 17 detects this and transmits information to the microcomputer 15 that the button key n is pressed. The microcomputer 15 holds “standby state information” indicating that the operation target device is in the selection standby state (that is, the initial state) in the internal memory, and displays the display content of the LCD unit 11 to the LCD control device 13 in the initial state. Give instructions to change the display data. The LCD control device 13 transfers the display data 22 shown in FIG. 6 to the LCD unit 11, thereby changing the display mode of the device 1 of the present invention to the state shown in FIG. 2.

  When the user confirms that “air conditioner 1” is displayed at the leftmost position of the button key function display portion D2, the function variable button key located immediately below the displayed area. Press d.

  When the function variable button key d is pressed, the key matrix 17 detects this, and transmits information indicating that the button key d has been pressed to the microcomputer 15. The microcomputer 15 reads the standby state information from the internal memory, confirms that it is in the selection standby state (initial state) of the operation target device, and stores the contents corresponding to the function variable button key d in the initial state from the data memory 12. With reference to the table 21, it is recognized that it is “air conditioner 1”.

  The microcomputer 15 attaches that the operation target device is “air conditioner 1” and the operation content group is “first group” as the contents of the standby state information, and holds them in the internal memory. In the present embodiment, for the air conditioner 1, since the operation content group is composed of only a single group, the content of the standby state information does not necessarily include information related to the operation content group.

  As in the case of the TV 1, the microcomputer 15 displays display data to be displayed on the LCD unit 11 when the operation target device is “air conditioner 1” and the operation content group is “first group”. 13 is instructed to create. The LCD control device 13 reads the relationship between the operation content and each function variable button key 2 in this case from the data table 21 and displays data (display data) to be displayed on each button key function display unit 3 and information display unit 6. ) Is created so as to have a display mode as shown in FIG.

  The LCD control device 13 reads the display data held in the display memory 14 and transfers it to the LCD unit 11, whereby the LCD unit 11 (button key function display unit 3, information display unit 6) A display based on the display data 22 is made, and a state as shown in FIG. At this point, the user recognizes that the device 1 of the present invention is in a state in which an operation instruction for the air conditioner 1 is possible. Then, the display contents of each button key function display unit 3 are confirmed, and it is recognized that “temperature +” is present on the leftmost side of the button key function display unit D4, and the function variable located immediately below the display area is displayed. The button key j may be pressed.

  In addition, when the device to be operated by the device 1 of the present invention has only a single operation content group like the air conditioner 1, even if the function display switching button key 8 or 9 is pressed, The microcomputer 15 may not give any instruction to the LCD control device 13. Thereby, the display parts 3 and 6 do not change.

  Further, if it is desired to turn off the TV 1 after that, the “top” button n is pressed to set the operation target device to the TV 1, and then the variable function button key a is pressed, as shown in FIG. Then, the fixed function button key m (“power” button) may be pressed. Since the power button is common to each operation target device, it can be arranged as a fixed function button key m.

  As described above, according to the device 1 of the present invention, when the user selects the operation target device and selects the desired operation content, the user can select the location where the desired content is displayed on the button key function display unit 3. This can be realized by pressing the function variable button key 2 located immediately below. In other words, it is only a “button key” that is pressed, and does not touch the touch panel on the liquid crystal panel as in Patent Document 1, so that a click feeling of the key operation is secured and the operational feeling is improved as compared with the conventional configuration. .

  On the other hand, since the display contents of the button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6 are switched each time the operation target device or the operation content group is switched, the function assigned to each function variable button key 2 at the present time. The contents can be confirmed visually. That is, there is an effect that it is possible to further improve the operational feeling while securing the function of Patent Document 1 in which the function content assigned to the button key can be confirmed.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram (appearance) of a second embodiment of the device of the present invention. The schematic block diagram showing the internal configuration is the same as FIG.

  The inventive device 1a of the present embodiment is the same as the inventive device 1 of the first embodiment, except that the button function display unit 3 is integrated with each function variable button key 2. 10, a, b,..., L are all function variable button keys, and DA, DB,..., DL are button function displays corresponding to the function variable button keys a, b,. Part.

  That is, each function variable button key 2 is provided with a small display panel, and the function contents assigned to the function variable button key 2 provided with the panel are displayed on each small display panel. This is a configuration. An example of the display state of the initial state in this embodiment is shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the case of the configuration of the present embodiment, the function assigned to the button itself to be pressed is displayed. Therefore, by pressing the displayed part, the corresponding function is displayed. In the sense that is realized, a more intuitive operation is possible than in the first embodiment.

  In the case of a touch panel type configuration as described in Patent Document 1, the assigned function is realized by touching (contacting) a location where the function is displayed. In this respect, the touch panel type configuration is superior in terms of intuitive operation. However, as described above, in the case of the touch panel type configuration, a click feeling cannot be obtained. Therefore, it is necessary to operate the remote controller while visually confirming which part is actually touched.

  In the configuration of the present embodiment, the location where the assigned function is displayed is the top surface of the button key as in the case of a normal remote control, and therefore the unevenness between the location where the button key exists and the location where the button key does not exist The area to be pressed can be tactilely recognized by feeling, and is superior to the touch panel type in terms of operability. And, in the sense that the assignment function is displayed at the place to be pressed, as with the touch panel type device in which the assignment function is displayed at the place to be touched, the intuitive operability is continuously secured. be able to.

  Since the operation content of the device 1a of the present embodiment of the present embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted. However, the display data is different from that in the first embodiment.

  In the case of the configuration of the first embodiment, since one button key function display unit 3 corresponds to the function display of the function variable button key 2 for one line (three), as shown in FIGS. The display data to be displayed on the button key function display unit 3 also displays functions assigned to the function variable button keys 2 for one line. On the other hand, in this embodiment, since one function variable button key 2 corresponds to one button key function display unit 3, display data to be displayed on each button key function display unit 3 corresponds to one. The function contents assigned to the function variable button key 2 are as follows. As an example, FIG. 12 shows display data in the initial state.

[Another embodiment]
Another embodiment will be described below.

  <1> In the above embodiment, the function display switching button keys 8 and 9 are arranged on the side of the apparatus unlike the function variable button key 2 and the function fixing button key 5, but the arrangement position is limited to this. The function variable button key 2 and the function fixed button key 5 may be arranged on the front surface of the apparatus.

  In this case, the function display switching button keys 8 and 9 have the same role as the function fixing button key 5 in the sense that the assigned function is fixed. That is, in addition to the “Power”, “Top”, and “Back” button keys 5, function fixed button keys displayed as “Next Page” and “Previous Page” are additionally provided. be able to.

  Note that the number of function display switching buttons is not necessarily two, and may be one.

  <2> When the number of operation contents for each operation target device falls below the number of function variable button keys 2, the function display switching button keys 8 and 9 are not necessarily provided.

  <3> It is also possible to provide the function variable button key 2 without providing the function fixing button key 5. In this case, it is possible to change the position of the button key to which the function should always be assigned in any state, such as “power”, “top”, “return”, etc. according to the user's preference. Become.

  <4> “Standby information”, which is information indicating the current state of the device of the present invention, is not necessarily held in the microcomputer, and may be recorded in an appropriate storage means in the device 1 of the present invention. good.

  <5> In the first embodiment, the function content assigned to the function variable button key 2 is displayed in the display area of the button key function display unit 3 positioned immediately above the button key 2. However, this is merely an example, and for example, the vertical relationship may be reversed, or the positional relationship between the two may be left and right. However, in terms of improving operability, at least the content of the function assigned to the function variable button key 2 is displayed in the closest area of the button key function display unit 3 closest to the button key 2. It is preferable. This remarkable example corresponds to the second embodiment.

  In the second embodiment, it is assumed that a small liquid crystal panel is mounted on the upper surface of each function variable button key 2, but the function variable button key 2 and the button key function display unit 3 are integrated. Any other mode may be used. As an example, each function variable button key 2 is made translucent, a small liquid crystal panel is mounted in the button key, and information displayed on the small liquid crystal panel can be visually confirmed from above the function variable button key 2 It is also good.

  <6> In the first embodiment, the one button key function display unit 3 is configured to display the function content of the function variable button key 2 for one line, but is displayed by the button key function display unit 3. The number of function variable button keys 2 and their modes can be freely changed. For example, by integrating the button key function display sections D1,..., D4 in FIG. 1, the function contents of all the function variable button keys 2 by one button key function display section 3 as shown in FIG. A configuration for realizing the display is also possible. In this case, D1,..., D4 correspond to partial areas in the button key function display unit 3, respectively. In this case, the function contents assigned to the function variable button keys a, b, and c are displayed on the area D1 of the button key function display unit 3.

  Further, in this case, the button key function display unit 3 and the information display unit 6 may be integrated to form a single liquid crystal panel. In this case, the information display unit 6 corresponds to a display area in one liquid crystal panel.

  <7> In the first embodiment described above, it is assumed that the button key function display unit 3 displays the function content of the function variable button key 2 arranged at the position closest to the display area. However, the configuration is not necessarily limited to this mode as long as the user can intuitively grasp the correspondence between the display contents of the button key function display unit 3 and the function variable button keys 2.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the function variable button key 2 and the button key function display section 3 (or its display area) on which the function content of each function variable button key 2 is displayed are visually associated on the remote controller. With this configuration, it is clarified which function contents of the function variable button keys 2 are displayed in the display area of each button key function display unit 3. For example, in FIG. 14, the function variable button key 2 and the button key function display unit 3 (or its display area) on which the function content is displayed are displayed together with the marking 30. In such a case, even if the button key function display sections DA and DE are both arranged at equal intervals with respect to the function variable button key a, the function content of the function variable button key a is displayed on the button key function display section DA. The display can be intuitively understood by the user. The same applies to the case where the button key function display portion DE is closer to the function variable button key a than DA.

  That is, the aspect of the device 1 of the present invention is not limited to the configuration as shown in FIG. 1, and the user can determine which function content of the function variable button key 2 is displayed on each button key function display unit 3. By pressing the function variable button key 2 so that it can be recognized intuitively and to perform a desired operation based on this display content, an operation signal for the operation target device is transmitted, or the button key function display unit 3 displays appropriately. Any configuration can be used as long as the content can be switched.

  <8> By confirming the display content of the button key function display unit 3, it is possible to recognize to some extent what device is currently operated, so the information display unit 6 is indispensable. There is no such thing. However, as shown in each figure, since the standby state of the present invention device at the present time can be visually recognized at a glance, if there is no problem that the size as a remote control becomes too large, From the viewpoint of improving operability, it is preferable to provide the information display unit 6.

  <9> Each display unit (3, 6) included in the device 1 of the present invention reduces the output of the display or completely displays the display itself when the non-operation state for the device 1 of the present invention has exceeded a predetermined time. It is also possible to shift to a power saving mode (sleep mode) to be erased. In this case, a sensor is provided in the device 1 of the present invention, and when the user lifts or moves the device 1 of the present invention, the sensor operates to return from the power saving mode to the normal mode. It is preferable to do this. When returning to the normal mode, the display content displayed immediately before is displayed on each display section (3, 6).

  <10> The fixed function button key o is a “return” button. When this button is pressed, the display content of each display unit (3, 6) may be shifted to the previous state.

  <11> In the above embodiment, the present invention device has been described as a multi-remote control device capable of performing remote operation control on a plurality of operation target devices. However, the technique of the present invention is a remote controller that performs remote operation control on a single operation target device, and can be used even when the number of operation contents exceeds the number of function variable button keys 2.

  For example, when the device of the present invention is the above-described dedicated remote controller for the TV 1, the screen shown in FIG. 3A is displayed as an initial state, and when the function display switching button keys 8 and 9 are pressed, the screen shown in FIG. What is necessary is just to switch to b) and (c) suitably.

  <12> The aspect of the device of the present invention in the above-described embodiment is merely an example, the number of button keys to be arranged, the arrangement method, the function content arranged as each fixed function button key, and the display unit (3, 6). The number, the arrangement method, and the like can be freely selected as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1a: Multi-remote control apparatus of this invention 2: Function variable button key 3: Button key function display part 5: Function fixed button key 6: Information display part 8: Function display switch button key 9: Function display switch button key 11 : LCD unit 12: Data memory 13: LCD control device 14: Display memory 15: Microcomputer 16: Transmission unit 17: Key matrix 21: Data table 22, 22a: Display data 30: Marking 101: Liquid crystal panel D1, D2, D3 D4: Button key function display section M: Internal memory a, b,..., L: Function variable button keys m, n, o: Function fixed button keys

Claims (10)

A remote control device capable of remote control of an operation target device,
A plurality of function variable button keys configured to protrude from the periphery and can be pressed;
A button key function display unit for displaying the function content assigned to the function variable button key separately in association with the arrangement position of the function variable button key;
A transmission unit that creates an operation signal including the operation content of the operation target device and transmits the operation signal to the operation target device; and
In the case where the operation content for the operation target device is assigned to the plurality of function variable button keys, when one function variable button key is pressed, the transmission unit displays the pressed function variable button key. Is configured to create the operation signal corresponding to the specific operation content assigned to and transmit to the operation target device,
When an instruction to switch the function contents to be assigned to the function variable button keys is given, the display contents of the button key function display unit are switched in accordance with the function contents to be assigned to the function variable button keys. A remote control device characterized by that. The button key function display unit has a plurality of display areas,
The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein each of the display areas displays a function content assigned to the function variable button key present at the closest position.   The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein each of the button key function display units is integrated with the plurality of variable button keys. A data memory in which a data table in which function contents to be assigned are associated with the function variable button key is recorded;
A display processing device for creating display data to be displayed on the button key function display unit and outputting the display data to the button key function display unit;
An internal control device for controlling the entire device,
When a display content switching instruction is given, the internal control device gives the display data change instruction to the display processing device,
The display processing device reads out the function content to be assigned to each function variable button key after the change from the data table, newly creates the display data, and outputs the display data to the button key function display unit. The remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. A button key recognition device for recognizing pressing of the function variable button key;
When the function variable button key is pressed, the button key recognition device gives the internal control device information about the specific button key that is the pressed function variable button key,
The internal control device reads the function content currently assigned to the specific button key from the data table and recognizes whether or not the function content to be assigned to each function variable button key needs to be changed. 5. The remote control device according to claim 4, wherein if necessary, an instruction to change the display data is given to the display processing device. It is configured to be capable of remote operation with respect to a plurality of operation target devices, and the data table is associated with the function variable button key and the function content to be assigned for each operation target device,
When the internal control device reads the function content currently assigned to the specific button key from the data table, and the assigned function content is information indicating that the operation target device is switched to the specific device. Provides an instruction to change the display data to the display processing device in order to display the function content to be assigned to the function variable button key as an operation control application of the specific device on the button key function display unit. The remote control device according to claim 5. Function fixed button key that does not change the assigned function content,
A function of switching to a screen for selecting the operation target device is assigned to a first button key which is one of the function fixing button keys,
When the first button key is pressed, the button key recognition device gives the internal control device information about that,
The remote control device according to claim 6, wherein the internal control device gives an instruction to the display processing device to display the display data according to an initial state in which a user selects the operation target device. The display processing device includes:
In the initial state, the button key function display in which an image including the name or identifiable character string or code of the operation target device to be assigned to each function variable button key is present at a position closest to each function variable button key The remote control device according to claim 7, wherein the display data to be displayed in a display area of the unit is output to the button key function display unit. It has a function display switching button key that does not change the assigned function contents,
When the button key recognizing device recognizes that the function display switching button key has been pressed, the button key recognizing device gives information to that effect to the internal control device,
9. The internal control device gives an instruction to change the display data to the display processing device to change the display data in accordance with a switching rule assigned to the function display switching button key. The remote control device according to any one of the above. The button key function display section and the function variable button key are provided on the front,
The remote control device according to claim 9, wherein the function display switching button key is provided on a side surface.

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