JP2011233050A - Input device, input method and input program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a user to easily perform input operations with a method desired by the user, without being affected by model differences.SOLUTION: An input device 100 is configured to identify an operation (a first, second or third operation) that has been performed to a touch panel 102 and that relates to the selection of a region, identifies any one of the processes selected by a user according to the identified operation, and carries out the process. This enables the user to perform input operations with a method desired by the user, without performing troublesome switching operations. This also enables the user to easily perform input operations with the method desired by the user without being affected by model differences.

Description

  The present invention relates to an input device that performs character input based on a user operation, a character input method in the input device, and an input program that realizes character input in the input device.

  Conventionally, for example, when inputting a muddy or semi-voiced character in Japanese characters, if a representative character that can be switched from a clear sound to a muddy or semi-voiced character is selected, switching to the muddy or semi-voiced character along with the input candidate is performed. There has been a technique in which a button is displayed, and when the switching button is selected, the display of the input candidate is switched to a muddy sound or a semi-voiced character.

  Specifically, for example, conventionally, for example, when a dakuten / half-dakuten / lowercase keyboard call key is pressed, the touch panel display is switched to one for inputting the dakuten / half-dakuten / lowercase (for example, the following patent document) 1), and clockwise and counterclockwise rotation operations are detected, and each character that can be input in the current input mode is selected in the clockwise direction, and the character type is selected in the counterclockwise direction. There has been a technique for setting a plurality of input modes (see, for example, Patent Document 2 below).

  Conventionally, for example, when one input candidate is selected from a plurality of selected input candidates displayed, the input candidate is related to the selected input candidate before the selected input candidate is determined. There has been a technique in which input candidates (sub-guides) are further displayed in the vicinity of the selected input candidate.

  Specifically, conventionally, for example, when a character having a derived character (such as a lowercase character, a muffled sound, a semi-voiced character, etc.) is designated, a key in the vicinity thereof is changed to a derived character input button (for example, , Or a virtual key to which a plurality of characters are assigned, and when one of the assigned characters is selected, a plurality of candidate words related to the selected character are displayed. A technique for displaying in the vicinity of a virtual key (see, for example, Patent Document 4 below), and a character input is performed by using a tap, a stroke, and a combination thereof with a pen or a finger on a touch sensor surface. There was a technique (for example, refer to Patent Document 5 below).

  The input method as described above can be realized by a software keyboard that realizes character input performed by operation on a keyboard realized by hardware by processing by software. Regarding software keyboards, conventionally, for example, a technique for switching the type of keyboard by performing a scroll operation on a touch screen (see, for example, Patent Document 6 below), or a plurality of fingers on a touch panel screen. By touching them simultaneously and using their trajectory patterns as gestures, you can select and manipulate multiple icons and other objects simultaneously with one hand, or select multiple window edges and size them in multiple directions at once. For example, there is a technique (for example, refer to Patent Document 7 below).

  Conventionally, software keyboards have a technology that makes it possible to adjust the size of a virtual keyboard for each user. Specifically, for example, there is a technique in which the operator's finger size is measured and the key size is set to a size corresponding to the finger size (see, for example, Patent Document 8 below).

JP 05-108238 A JP 2009-128939 A JP 2007-156778 A Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-092521 JP 2010-033254 A International Publication No. 2007/086371 JP 2000-222130 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 05-046308

  However, since the software keyboard installed in one model is any one type of software keyboard that adopts the conventional input method including the above-described conventional technology, the user can specify the specifications of the software keyboard. According to the current situation, input operations must be performed. In this way, even though the types of easy-to-use software keyboards differ from user to user, the specifications of the software keyboard are standardized for each model, so that the user needs for the software keyboard and input method are supported. There was a problem of not being able to.

  In order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention provides an input device, an input method, and an input program that can easily perform an input operation by a method desired by a user without being influenced by a difference in models. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, an input device according to the present invention is an input device including a touch panel, and displays a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel. First detection for detecting that a display control means and any one of the plurality of first areas displayed by the display control means (hereinafter referred to as “first selection area”) are touched. And when a contact is detected by the first detection means, a plurality of new areas (hereinafter referred to as “second areas”) indicating processes assigned to the first selection area are displayed on the touch panel. A region generating means for generating a state in which any one of the plurality of the second regions is a selection candidate region; and a new addition to the first selected region by the first detecting unit. Na Switching control means for sequentially switching a state in which any one of the second regions different from the selection candidate region is a new selection candidate region each time a touch is detected; Any one of the two areas (hereinafter referred to as “second selection area”) has been touched (hereinafter referred to as “first operation”), and the contact detected in the first selection area has moved. And then entering the second selection region (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”), or a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation (hereinafter referred to as “third operation”). ) When the first operation or the second operation is detected by the second detection means and the second detection means. And executing the process by the second detection means If the third operation is detected, characterized in that and a process execution means for executing said set forth in selected candidate region processing.

  In the input device according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, each of the second regions is generated so as to be equidistant from the first region.

  In the input device according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, each of the second areas is generated above the first area on the display screen of the touch panel.

  In the input device according to the present invention, in the above invention, the first area is an area indicating the contents of each line of Japanese syllabary or “A” level, and the second area constitutes each line. It is an area indicating a kana character.

  The input device according to the present invention is the input device according to the above invention, wherein the display control means generates the second generated by the area generating means a predetermined time after the contact is detected by the first detecting means. An area is displayed.

  The input method according to the present invention is an input method using a touch panel, wherein a first display step of displaying a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel, and the first A first detection step of detecting that any one of the plurality of first regions displayed in the display step (hereinafter referred to as “first selection region”) is contacted; When contact is detected by the detection step, a plurality of new areas (hereinafter referred to as “second areas”) indicating processes assigned to the first selection area are generated on the touch panel, and the plurality A region generation step for generating a state in which any one of the second regions is a selection candidate region, and a new contact with the first selection region is detected by the first detection step. And the second A switching step of sequentially switching a state in which any one of the second regions different from the selection candidate region is a new selection candidate region, and any one of the second regions (hereinafter, “ (Referred to as “first operation”), contact detected in the first selection area has moved and entered the second selection area (referred to as “second selection area”) A second detection step for detecting either a first operation or a predetermined operation other than the second operation (hereinafter referred to as a “third operation”); When the first operation or the second operation is detected by the second detection step, the processing shown in the second selection region is executed, and the second detection step The selection is performed when the third operation is detected. Characterized in that it includes a processing execution step of executing the processes shown in the candidate region.

  An input program according to the present invention is an input program to be executed by an information processing apparatus including a touch panel, and a first display step of displaying a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel. And a first detection step of detecting that any one of the plurality of first regions (hereinafter referred to as “first selection region”) displayed in the first display step is touched. When a contact is detected by the first detection step, a plurality of new areas (hereinafter referred to as “second areas”) indicating processes assigned to the first selection area are displayed on the touch panel. A region generating step for generating a state in which any one of the plurality of second regions is a selection candidate region, and a new to the first selected region by the first detecting step. A switching step of sequentially switching a state in which any one of the second regions different from the selection candidate region is a new selection candidate region each time a contact is detected; Any one of the two areas (hereinafter referred to as “second selection area”) has been touched (hereinafter referred to as “first operation”), and the contact detected in the first selection area has moved. And then entering the second selection region (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”), or a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation (hereinafter referred to as “third operation”). ) In the second selection region when the first operation or the second operation is detected by the second detection step and the second detection step. And performing the process, the second detection step If the third operation is detected, characterized in that it contains a processing execution step of executing the indicated in the selected candidate region processing.

  According to the input device, the input method, and the input program according to the present invention, there is an effect that the input operation can be performed by a method desired by the user without performing a complicated switching operation.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the external appearance of the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the outline | summary of the input process which the input device of embodiment concerning this invention performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the outline | summary of the input process which the input device of embodiment concerning this invention performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the outline | summary of the input process which the input device of embodiment concerning this invention performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the example of the input method by a multi tap among the example of the input method of the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the input method example by a multi tap among the input method examples of the input device of this Embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the input method example by a two-touch system among the input method examples of the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the input method example by a two-touch system among the input method examples of the input device of this Embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the input method example by a gesture system among the input method examples of the input device of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the input method example by a gesture system among the input method examples of the input device of this Embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the input method example by a gesture system among the input method examples of the input device of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the cancellation method of the selected character (character string) in the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the cancellation method of the selected character (character string) in the input device of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the input device of embodiment concerning this invention.

  Exemplary embodiments of an input device, an input method, and an input program according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Appearance of input device)
First, the appearance of the input device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the appearance of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, a portable input device 100 according to the present invention can be realized by a portable terminal device such as a smartphone.

  The input device 100 includes a housing 101. A touch panel 102 is provided on one surface side of the housing 101. The touch panel 102 is configured by combining a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display and a position input device 100 called a touch pad. Various operation keys 103 are provided on the housing 101. For example, the operation key 103 can be provided in the vicinity of the display on one side of the housing 101. Further, the operation key 103 may be provided on the side surface of the housing 101, for example.

(Hardware configuration of input device 100)
Next, a hardware configuration of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  2, an input device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a memory 204, an operation key 103, a touch panel 102, a communication I / F 205, a microphone 206, and a speaker. 207. The components 102, 103, 201 to 207 included in the input device 100 are connected by a bus 210.

  The CPU 201 controls the entire input device 100. The ROM 202 stores various programs such as a boot program and an OS (operating system). The RAM 203 is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 controls the entire input device 100 by executing various programs recorded in the ROM 202 while using the RAM 203 as a work area. The operation key 103 outputs a signal corresponding to the operated key.

  The memory 204 holds data recorded under the control of the CPU 201. The memory 204 holds the recorded data even when the input device 100 is powered off. The memory 204 stores user setting information, for example. The user setting information is set in advance by the user at any timing of the user. The user setting information will be described later.

  In addition, the memory 204 stores, for example, information related to a predetermined process assigned to each area described later. The predetermined process can be realized, for example, by a process of developing a new area composed of characters and character strings. The predetermined process can be realized by a process of starting a specific function, for example.

  The touch panel 102 includes a display device and a position input device 100. The display device displays various display screens in response to an input operation on the position input device 100 and an operation on the operation key 103. The touch panel 102 guides the input position with respect to the position input device 100 by information displayed on the display device.

  The instruction content by the input operation on the touch panel 102 varies depending on the information displayed on the display device. Even if the input operation position on the touch panel 102 is the same, the input device 100 executes different processes depending on the display content on the display device. When the touch panel 102 detects that a writing member such as a finger or a pen has come into contact, the touch panel 102 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the contact position of the writing member with respect to the touch panel 102.

  The touch panel 102 stops outputting the signal when the contact of the writing member with the touch panel 102 is released. Alternatively, the touch panel 102 may output a signal indicating that the writing member does not contact the touch panel 102 when the writing member contact with the touch panel 102 is released.

  The touch panel 102 detects the contact position of the writing member with respect to the touch panel 102 by various known methods such as a resistance film method, a capacitance method, an electromagnetic induction method, and a surface acoustic wave method, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the detected contact position. And output to the CPU 201. When the electromagnetic induction method is adopted, a dedicated writing member called an electronic pen or the like is used.

  A communication I / F 205 is connected to a network such as the Internet, and communicates with an external device via the network. The communication I / F 205 controls an interface between the network and the inside of the input device 100, and controls data input / output between the external device and the input device 100 connected via the network.

  The communication I / F 205 is connected to a telephone line network such as a cellular phone network or a public switched telephone network, and performs voice communication with other input devices 100, portable telephones, fixed telephones, etc. via the telephone line network. You may communicate by. The microphone 206 receives an input of a speaker's voice, performs analog / digital conversion on the speaker's voice input as analog data, and generates digital audio data.

  The speaker 207 performs digital / analog conversion on digital audio data transmitted from the other party, and outputs audio by energizing a coil in the speaker cone based on the analog audio data. The speaker 207 outputs a warning sound for notifying that an erroneous operation has been performed, for example.

  The input device 100 may include a camera that is not shown. The camera captures an imaging target by an input operation on the touch panel 102 or the operation key 103, and generates image data. The generated image data is stored in the RAM 203 or the like. In this case, image data generated by photographing can be transmitted to another input device 100 or the like via the communication I / F 205.

(Functional configuration of input device 100)
Next, a functional configuration of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 3, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a display control unit 301, a storage unit 302, a first detection unit 303, a region generation unit 304, a switching control unit 305, and a second control unit. The detection unit 306 and the process execution unit 307 are provided. In the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first detection unit 303, the region generation unit 304, the switching control unit 305, the second detection unit 306, and the process execution unit 307 are each provided in the input device 100. The functions can be realized by the units 102, 103, 201 to 207.

  The display control unit 301 displays a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel 102 (see FIG. 4A). The display control unit 301 displays the first area based on the information stored in the storage unit 302. The storage unit 302 stores processing assigned to each area, user setting information, and the like in a nonvolatile manner. Each area is assigned a process for developing a new area composed of characters and character strings, a process for executing a predetermined function, and the like.

  The first area can be, for example, the contents of each line of the Japanese syllabary or the area indicating the “a” level. Specifically, the first area can be an area indicating the contents of each line of the Japanese syllabary such as “Aiueo”, “Kakikukuko”, “Sashisuseso”,. Specifically, the first area may be an area indicating “A” level, such as “A”, “KA”, “SA”,...

  The first detection unit 303 detects that any one of the plurality of first regions displayed by the display control unit 301 has been touched (see FIG. 4A). A predetermined process is allocated to each of the plurality of first areas. The predetermined process assigned to the first area can be realized by, for example, a process of generating (developing) a new area composed of characters or character strings on the touch panel 102. Specifically, the predetermined processing is, for example, a character or a character string related to a first area (hereinafter referred to as “first selection area”) in which contact is detected among a plurality of first areas. For example, a process for generating (developing) an area indicating a candidate on the touch panel 102 can be performed.

  When the first detection unit 303 detects contact, the region generation unit 304 displays a plurality of new regions (hereinafter referred to as “second regions”) indicating processing assigned to the first selection region on the touch panel. A state is generated (expanded) on 102 and any one of the plurality of second regions is a selection candidate region (second selection region) (see FIG. 4B). The area generation unit 304 generates a second area on the touch panel 102 based on the information stored in the storage unit 302, and any one of the plurality of second areas is a second selection. Create a state that is a region.

  Each second region is generated so as to be equidistant from the first selection region, for example. As a result, for example, when operating with the thumb of the user's hand, the second region to be selected is prevented from being inferior in operability, and the same level of operability is ensured for any second region. can do.

  Moreover, each 2nd area | region may be produced | generated so that the position in the touch panel 102 may differ based on whether a user is right handed or left handed based on user setting information, for example. . Specifically, for example, when the user is right-handed, an arc is equidistant from the first region and arcs to the left of the first region along a circumference centered on the first region. , Each second region is generated. Also, specifically, for example, when the user is left-handed, an arc shape is equidistant from the first region and is on the right side of the first region along a circumference centered on the first region. In addition, each second region is generated.

  Thereby, it is possible to ensure good operability both when operating with the thumb of the right hand and when operating with the thumb of the left hand. Thus, by adjusting the place where the second area is generated based on the user setting information, higher operability can be ensured according to the user.

  In addition, each second region is generated, for example, above the first region on the display screen of the touch panel 102. For example, when the first area is realized by the contents of each line of the Japanese syllabary or the area indicating “A” level, the second area can be realized by an area indicating kana characters constituting each line. Specifically, for example, when the area generation unit 304 detects contact with the area indicating “ka” in the area indicating the “a” level of the fifty-sound (first area), the area generation unit 304 displays “ka”. The process assigned to the indicated area (first selection area) is executed, and new areas indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, and “ko” are defined as a plurality of second areas. Generate.

  In addition, the region generation unit 304 may display the generated second region on the touch panel 102, for example. In this case, display may be performed with emphasis on the second region (selection candidate region, that is, the second selection region) that is a selection candidate among the second regions displayed on the touch panel 102. The selection candidate area, that is, the second selection area, can be emphasized by displaying it in a color or size different from that of the second area other than the second selection area, for example. In addition, the selection candidate area, that is, the second selection area is emphasized by displaying characters of a font different from the font of the characters displayed in the second area other than the second selection area, for example. May be.

  The area generation unit 304 is not limited to displaying the generated second area on the touch panel 102. The area generation unit 304 does not display the generated second area on the touch panel 102 but generates (expands) the second area on the touch panel 102 and selects any one of the plurality of second areas. A state that is a candidate area, that is, a second selection area may be generated on the touch panel 102.

  Said display control part 301 may display the 2nd area | region produced | generated by the area | region production | generation part 304 after the predetermined time after contact was detected by the 1st detection part 303. FIG. In this case, the second area is displayed after a predetermined time arbitrarily set by each user of the input device 100 has elapsed since the first detection unit 303 detected contact.

  If the next contact is detected by the first detection unit 303 before the time from when the contact is detected by the first detection unit 303 until the second region is displayed, the second contact is detected. The second area corresponding to the first selection area by the next contact is generated (expanded) without displaying the second area corresponding to the first selection area. The predetermined time can be a time uniquely determined when the input device 100 is manufactured.

  The predetermined time may be an arbitrarily settable time specified based on user setting information, for example. By enabling the user to arbitrarily set the time from when contact is detected by the first detection unit 303 until the second region is displayed, it is possible to realize the input device 100 having specifications that are easy to use for each user. it can.

  When the display control unit 301 displays the second region generated by the region generation unit 304 a predetermined time after the first detection unit 303 detects contact, the first detection unit 303 causes the first detection unit 303 to display the second region. A plurality of second regions are generated at the time when one selection region is detected, and a state in which any one of the plurality of second regions is the second selection region is generated, and then for a predetermined time After the elapse of time, the second area is displayed. Thereby, even if the second area is not displayed on the touch panel 102, any one of the second areas can be selected.

  The switching control unit 305 is different from the selection candidate region (second selection region) in the second region every time the first detection unit 303 detects a new contact with the first selection region. The state in which any one of the second areas is a new selection candidate area (second selection area) is sequentially switched. The switching control unit 305 switches the state based on information stored in the storage unit 302. In this embodiment, the operation for switching the state by the switching control unit 305 will be described as a “multi-tap” operation.

  The switching control unit 305 detects the first contact indicating the “ka” by detecting contact with the first region indicating the “ka” in the plurality of first regions indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary. In a state where a second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (expanded) around the area (first selected area), the first further When contact with a region (first region) indicating “ka” in the region is detected, a new selection candidate region in the second region is “ka” → “ki” → “ku” → The state in which any one of the second areas is a new selection candidate area is sequentially switched so as to be switched in the order of “K” → “K” → “K”.

  When the second detection unit 306 is in contact with any one of the second regions (hereinafter referred to as “second selection region”) (hereinafter referred to as “first operation”), The contact detected in the selection area has moved to enter the second selection area (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”), or a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”). Any one of “third operation” is detected.

  For example, the first area (first) indicating the “ka” by detecting contact with the first area indicating “ka” in the plurality of first areas indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary. In the state where the second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (expanded) around the selected area), the second indicating “ki” When it is detected that the area (second selection area) is touched, it can be detected that the first operation has been performed. In this embodiment, the first operation will be described as a “two-touch” operation as appropriate.

  In addition, for example, the first region (“ka”) indicating the “ka” is detected by detecting contact with the first region indicating “ka” in the plurality of first regions indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary. Contact is detected in a state where a second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (deployed) around the first selected area) The position moves from the position of “ka” (first selection area) in the first area and enters the position of “ki” (second selection area) in the second area. When it is detected that contact is no longer detected (released) in the second selection region), it can be detected that the second operation has been performed.

  Alternatively, for example, a first region (“ka”) indicating the “ka” is detected by detecting contact with the first region indicating “ka” in the plurality of first regions indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary. Contact is detected in a state where a second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (deployed) around the first selected area) The position moves from the position of “ka” in the first selection area, enters the position of “ki” in the second area (second selection area), and then passes (via) the second selection area. Then, when it is detected that it has moved outside the second selection area (that is, when the position where contact is detected passes through the second selection area), it is detected that the second operation has been performed. You may do it.

  In this case, for example, a first contact indicating the “ka” is detected by detecting contact with the first region indicating “ka” in the plurality of first regions indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary. In the state where the second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (expanded) around the area (first selection area) After the detected position has entered the “ki” position (second selection area) in the second area from the “ka” position in the first selection area, the “ki” position (second selection area) ) If contact is no longer detected (cancelled), enter "ki" and enter the "ki" position (second selection area) and pass through the second selection area. If it is detected that the object has moved outside the second selection area, the second area indicating “ki” is selected as the selection candidate area. It may be. When the second area indicating “ki” is set as the selection candidate area, the process assigned to the second area indicating “ki” is executed.

  As a result, the position where the contact is detected similarly enters the position of the “ki” (second selection area) from the outside of the position of the “ki” (second selection area) in the second area. Even in this case, the character indicated by the second area can be input or selected as a selection candidate area in accordance with the position where contact is no longer detected (released).

  The second operation entered the position (second selection area) of “ki” in the second area from the first area (first selection area) indicating “ka” in the plurality of first areas. It is not detected only when this is detected. For example, in a state where a plurality of second areas are generated (deployed), it is detected that the touch position on the touch panel 102 has entered the second selection area (for example, the position of “ki”) from an arbitrary direction. In this case, it may be detected that the second selection region (for example, the position of “ki”) is selected by the second operation. As a result, the second selection region selected by the second operation when the contact position of the finger or the like enters from any direction with respect to the second selection region (for example, the position of “ki”). Can be input or used as a selection candidate area. In this embodiment, the second operation will be described as a “gesture” operation as appropriate.

  In addition, for example, the first region (“ka”) indicating the “ka” is detected by detecting contact with the first region indicating “ka” in the plurality of first regions indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary. In the state where the second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (expanded) around the first selection area), “ka” is indicated. When it is detected that the first area (first selection area) has been touched again, it can be detected that a multi-tap operation has been performed.

  In this embodiment, an operation other than the “two-touch” operation and the “gesture” operation will be described as a third operation. Further, the third operation is an operation other than the “multi-tap” operation. Specifically, the third operation can be realized, for example, by operating a confirmation key for confirming the selection candidate region.

  The process execution unit 307 executes the process indicated in the second selection area when the second detection unit 306 detects the first operation or the second operation, and the second detection unit When the third operation is detected in 306, the process indicated in the selection candidate area (second selection area) is executed. The process execution unit 307 executes various types of processes based on the information stored in the storage unit 302.

  For example, the process execution unit 307 detects the contact of the first region indicating “ka” in the plurality of first regions indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary by detecting the first “ka”. In a state where a second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (expanded) around one area (first selected area) When the first operation or the second operation for selecting the second area indicating “ki” in the second area is selected as the second selection area, the second area indicating “ki” is detected. Perform the assigned process. Specifically, for example, the character “ki” is input. The input character is displayed at a predetermined position on the touch panel 102 that displays the input character, for example.

  Further, the process execution unit 307 detects the “ka” by detecting contact with the first area indicating “ka” in the plurality of first areas indicating the “a” level of the Japanese syllabary, for example. A second area indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” is generated (expanded) around the first area (first selected area) to be displayed, and “ka” In the state in which the second region indicating “と な っ て” is a selection candidate region, when contact is again detected at the position “ka” in the first selection region, the second region indicating “ki” is newly set. When a predetermined confirmation operation is detected as a selection candidate area, the process assigned to the second area indicating “ki” is executed.

(Overview of input processing)
Next, an outline of input processing displayed by the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. 4-1, FIG. 4-2, and FIG. 4-3 are explanatory views showing an outline of input processing executed by the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 4A shows a state in which the first area 410 is displayed on the touch panel 102. A plurality of first areas 410 are simultaneously displayed on the touch panel 102. 4A, any one of the plurality of first areas 410 displayed on the touch panel 102 is the first area 410 (the first area 410 located at the upper center in FIG. 4A). When contact is detected, the first selection area 411 is realized by the first area 410 where contact is detected.

  When the input device 100 detects that any one of the first regions 410 is in contact with the first region 410, the input device 100 selects the first selection that is the first region 410. A predetermined process assigned to the area 411 is executed. In FIG. 4B, a state where a process of generating (developing) a plurality of second areas 420 around the first selection area 411 is executed as the predetermined process assigned to the first selection area 411. Show.

  In addition, when it is detected that any one of the first regions 410 is in contact with the first region 410, the first selection region 411 that is any one of the first regions 410 is selected. As the assigned predetermined process, a state in which any one of the plurality of second areas 420 is a selection candidate area (second selection area 421) is generated (expanded). The plurality of second areas 420 are generated around the first selection area 411. Further, the plurality of second areas 420 are generated (deployed) above the first selection area 411. The second area 420 is not limited to being generated (expanded) on the upper side, but may be generated (expanded) on the lower side of the first selection area 411.

  FIG. 4B shows a state in which a plurality of second regions 420 are visualized (displayed), but the plurality of second regions 420 are not limited to being visualized but are visualized. A state that is not generated may be generated (expanded). In addition, any one of the second regions 420 to be a selection candidate region (second selection region 421) among the plurality of second regions 420 is not limited to being visualized, and a state that is not visualized is generated. It may be (expanded). At this time, the selection candidate region (second selection region 421) can be confirmed by the currently input character (unconfirmed character) or the currently input character string (unconfirmed character string) on the display screen.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, when a new contact with the first selection region 411 is detected in a state where a plurality of second regions 420 are generated (deployed) around the first selection region 411. As a predetermined process assigned to the first selection area 411 in which contact is newly detected, a process of newly generating (developing) a plurality of second areas 420 around the first selection area 411 is executed. To do. For example, the first selection area 411 is realized by the first area 410 indicating “ka”, and “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, around the first selection area 411 indicating “ka”, In the state where the second area 420 indicating “ke” and “ko” is generated (expanded), if contact with the first area 410 indicating “sa” is detected, the second area 420 indicating “sa” is detected. A process of generating (developing) a second area 420 indicating “sa”, “shi”, “su”, “se”, and “so” around the area 410 of the first area is executed.

  In addition, when a plurality of second areas 420 are generated (deployed) around the first selection area 411, contact with a place other than the first selection area 411 and the second area 420 is detected. The second region 420 generated (expanded) around the first selection region 411 may be folded (closed).

  In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, in the state where a plurality of second regions 420 are generated (deployed) around the first selection region 411, the first selection region 411 in which contact is newly detected is When the same as the immediately preceding first selection area 411, the generation (development) contents of the selection candidate area (second selection area 421) may be switched.

  For example, by detecting contact with the first selection area 411 realized by the first area 410 indicating “ka”, “ka”, “ki”, “ In a state where the second area 420 indicating “K”, “K”, and “K” is generated (expanded), the contact with the first area 410 indicating “K” is detected again. When the same first selection area 411 as the first selection area 411 is selected, “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ku” generated (expanded) around the first selection area 411 A process of switching the second area 420 to be the selection candidate area (second selection area 421) of “K” and “Ko” is executed.

  In FIG. 4C, any one of the plurality of second regions 420 generated (expanded) around the first selection region 411 is selected as a selection candidate region (second selection region). The state selected as the area 421) is shown. In FIG. 4C, one of the plurality of second regions 420 generated (expanded) around the first selection region 411 is selected as a selection candidate region (second selection region). If selected as 421), the process assigned to the selected selection candidate area (second selection area 421) is executed.

  As described above, when the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention further selects the generated (expanded) area, the predetermined processing assigned to the selected area is sequentially executed. FIG. 4C shows a state in which an area (third area) 430 indicating characters (or character strings) assigned to the second selection area 421 is expanded around the second selection area 421. ing. In FIG. 4C, reference numeral 431 indicates a region that is a selection candidate in the region 430.

(Input method example / multi-tap input)
Next, an example of an input method of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIGS. 5A and 5B are explanatory diagrams illustrating an input method example using multi-tap among the input method examples of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIGS. 5A and 5B, multi-tap input (multi-tap input) is a method of inputting (selecting) one character by tapping the same region a plurality of times. This is performed when a plurality of touches are repeatedly detected. Specifically, for example, in the state where the first selection area 411 is realized by the first area 410 indicating “ka” in the first area 410, the contact with the first selection area 411 is performed a plurality of times. If it is detected repeatedly, the selection candidate area (second selection area 421) in the second area 420 is changed to “ka” → “ki” → “ku” → “ke” → “ko” → “ka”.・ Switch sequentially.

  Then, for example, in the state where “ka” is selected as the selection candidate region (second selection region 421) in the second region 420, the contact with the region indicating “sa” in the first region 410 is made a plurality of times. If it is detected repeatedly, “ka” is determined. In this case, an area indicating “sa” is set as a new selection area 411, and a second area 420 indicating “sa”, “shi”, “su”, “se”, “so” is generated (expanded). Also good. Further, in the state where the area indicating “sa” is set as the new selection area 411, when contact with the area indicating “sa” is repeatedly detected a plurality of times, the selection candidate area in the second area 420 (the first area) The second selection area 421) may be sequentially switched in the order of “sa” → “shi” → “su” → “se” → “so” → “sa”.

  When inputting by multi-tap, for example, in the state where the first selection area 411 is realized by the first area 410 indicating “ka” in the first area 410, the first selection area 411 is input to the first selection area 411. Since the second area 420 indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” has already been generated (expanded) because contact is detected, the same first selection is performed. When contact with the area 411 (in this case, the first area 410 indicating “ka”) is detected, the selection candidate area (second selection area 421) in the second area 420 is changed from “ka” to “ Switch in the order of “Ki” → “Ku” → “Ke” → “Ko” → “Ka”.

  When inputting by multi-tap, the method for determining the selected candidate is not limited to the case where an area other than the first selection area 411 and the second area 420 is touched. For example, the selected candidates may be determined such as “when the selection candidate region continues for a certain period of time”, “when contact with the right cursor key (specific region) is detected”, or the like. For example, the candidate selected when “vibration is applied to the terminal” may be determined.

(Input method example / two-touch input)
FIGS. 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams illustrating an input method example based on the two-touch method among the input method examples of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, the input by the two-touch method (two-touch input) is a method of inputting (determining) one character by two taps, and tapping a key assigned with a plurality of characters Then, it is performed by selecting an input key from a plurality of assigned keys.

  Specifically, for example, in the state where the first selection area 411 is realized by the first area 410 indicating “ka” in the first area 410, “ka” is around the first selection area 411. , “Ki”, “ku”, “ke”, and “ko” are generated (expanded) (see FIG. 6A). Then, “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, “ko” developed around the first selection area 411 (in this case, the first area 410 indicating “ka”). Of the second region 420 shown, the character region indicated by the second region 420 where contact is detected is set as the second selection region 421, and the character is input (confirmed) (see FIG. 6-2).

(Input method example / gesture input)
FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, and FIG. In FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, gesture input (gesture input) is a method of inputting a character by dragging a finger or the like on the touch panel 102, and the finger is placed on an area. This is done by determining that the area where the finger has passed is selected and inputting (determining) one character in the area when the finger is released.

  Specifically, for example, in a state where the first selection area 411 is realized by the first area 410 indicating “ka” in the first area 410, contact with the first selection area 411 is detected. (Refer to FIG. 7-1), “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke” around the first selection area 411 (in this case, the first area 410 indicating “ka”). ”And“ ko ”are generated (expanded) (see FIG. 7-2). Then, the contact detected in the first selection area 411 (in this case, the first area 410 indicating “ka”) is generated (deployed) around the area 411 indicating “ka”. ”,“ Ki ”,“ ku ”,“ ke ”,“ ko ”are dragged to one of the second areas 420, and the second area of any of these second areas 420 When the contact is released at the position 420, the character indicated by the second area 420 (second selection area 421) at the position where the contact is released is input (confirmed) (see FIG. 7-3).

  Further, for example, in the case of the gesture method, a plurality of third regions 430 corresponding to the second selection region 411 selected by passing the contact position among the plurality of second regions 410 are generated (deployed). The character or the character string indicated by the third region 431 generated (deployed) at the position where the contact is released among the plurality of third regions 430 can be input (determined). By selecting an input candidate by such an operation method and confirming the selected input candidate, a character or a character string can be input without releasing the finger from the touch panel 102.

  Each region such as the second region 420 generated (expanded) around the first selection region 411 and the third region 430 generated (expanded) around the second selection region 421 is the same as the lower layer. It is generated (expanded) over the area in the hierarchy. Thus, even when the input device 100 is realized by a portable terminal device such as a smartphone, the limited size touch panel 102 can be efficiently used.

  In this case, each region that is generated (expanded) in an overlapping manner is generated (expanded) so as not to overlap the selected region in the immediately lower hierarchy. Specifically, for example, when an area indicating “ka” in the first area 410 is the first selection area 411, the area is generated (expanded) by executing the process assigned to the first selection area 411. Each of the second areas 420 indicating “ka”, “ki”, “ku”, “ke”, and “ko” is not overlapped with the area indicating “ka” that is the first selection area 411. Generate (expand).

(Cancel selected character (character string))
Next, a method for canceling the selected character (character string) will be described. FIGS. 8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a method of canceling the selected character (character string) in the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  8A and 8B, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention can cancel the character (character string) selected by the above method. Cancellation of the selected character (character string) can be performed at an arbitrary timing before the selected character (character string) is confirmed.

  In FIG. 8A, the area indicating “ka” in the first area 410 is selected as the first selection area 411, and the area indicating “ka” in the second area 420 is selected as the second selection area 421. In the state in which the character strings “below”, “confirmation”, “relevant”, and “catalog” are generated (expanded) as the third region 430 related to the second selection region 421, “ When the character string “” is selected, character strings such as “about”, “like”, and “item” are generated as the fourth area 810 as the character string related to the character string “below”. (Be expanded.

  In this state, when canceling the selected item, it is selected by tapping an area in the immediately lower hierarchy. Specifically, for example, in the examples of FIGS. 8A and 8B, after selecting the character string “below”, the region 421 indicating “ka” in the immediately lower hierarchy is selected.

  When an area in the immediately lower hierarchy is selected after an area in the upper hierarchy is selected, an area generated (expanded) by executing a process assigned to the area selected in the upper hierarchy May be folded (closed). Specifically, for example, in the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, after selecting the area 431 indicating the character string “below”, the area 421 indicating “KA” in the immediately lower hierarchy is selected. When selected, a character string “below” and a region 810 that has been generated (expanded) to indicate a character string in the same hierarchy as the character string are accumulated. In this way, it is possible to return to an arbitrary level before the input (selected) character or character string is confirmed.

  When an area in the immediately lower hierarchy is selected after an area in the upper hierarchy is selected, an arbitrary area in the immediately lower hierarchy can be selected. Specifically, for example, in the example of FIGS. 8-1 and 8-2, when the selection of the character string “below” is canceled, “ka”, “ki”, “ku” "," Ke ", and" ko "can be selected.

  When the upper selection is canceled and the immediately lower hierarchy is selected, a plurality of areas are generated (expanded) again by executing the process assigned to the selected immediately lower hierarchy. Specifically, for example, in the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, after selecting the area 421 indicating “ka” in the second area 420 as the second selection area 421, the selection is canceled. When the area indicating “ki” is selected, a character string starting with “ki” is newly generated (expanded).

  In addition, in a state where the second area 420 and the third area 430 are generated (expanded) on the touch panel 102, the area other than the first area 410, the second area 420, and the third area 430 When contact is detected, the second region 420 or the third region 430 generated (expanded) on the touch panel 102 and indicating a character being input (unconfirmed) may be folded (closed).

(Processing procedure of input device 100)
Next, a processing procedure of the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the input apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the flowchart of FIG. 9, it is first determined whether or not an area has been selected (step S901).

  In step S901, it is determined whether or not an area has been selected by determining whether or not contact with the touch panel 102 has been detected. In step S901, the display content of the touch panel 102 at the time when contact with the touch panel 102 is detected, the position where the contact is detected (contact position), and the position where the detected contact is released are specified. Then, it is determined whether or not an area has been selected based on the specific content. If no area is selected in step S901 (step S901: No), the process waits until an area is selected.

  When an area is selected in step S901 (step S901: Yes), it is determined whether or not a process is assigned to the selected area (step S902). In step S902, the display content of touch panel 102 at the time when the region is selected in step S901 is identified, the region selected based on the identified display content and the detected contact position is identified and identified. It is determined whether or not a process is assigned to the assigned area. When the process is not assigned to the selected area (step S902: No), the process proceeds to step S909.

  In step S902, when the process is assigned to the area selected in step S901: Yes (step S902: Yes), the process is assigned to the area selected in step S901: Yes based on the information stored in advance. The processed process is specified (step S903).

  Next, user setting information is acquired (step S904), and the remaining screen area information is acquired (step S905). The user setting information is information related to area development and is set for each user. Specifically, the user setting information can be physical information of the user, such as the user's dominant hand (right-handed or left-handed), the size of the user's hand, and the length of the finger. The user setting information includes, for example, whether to display (visualize) a region to be generated (expanded), and when displaying (visualize) a region to be generated (expanded), the time from tapping to display (visualize) (Delay time) and the like can be specified. The user setting information is set in advance by the user at any timing of the user.

  The remaining screen area information is information that can specify an area in which a candidate is generated (expanded), and differs depending on the display content of the touch panel 102 when the area is selected, the position of the selected area on the touch panel 102, and the like. . The processing order in step S904 and the processing in step S905 may be reversed. That is, user setting information may be acquired after the remaining screen area information is acquired.

  Next, information for generating (developing) a new area based on the character specified in step S903, the user setting information acquired in step S904, and the remaining screen area information acquired in step S905. Is generated (step S906). In step S906, information for generating (developing) a new area assigned to the selected area to be generated (expanded) around the area selected in step S901: Yes is generated.

  Next, the new area generated in step S906 is generated (expanded) on the touch panel 102 (step S907). Then, it is determined whether any one of the areas generated (expanded) on the touch panel 102 including the generated (expanded) new area has been confirmed (step S908).

  In step S908, it is determined whether it has been determined by determining whether any one area has been selected from the new areas generated (deployed) in step S907. In step S908, it is determined whether or not a predetermined process (for example, a confirmation process) corresponding to each input method has been detected. Confirm. In step S908, if each of the new areas generated (deployed) in step S907 is an area to which no further area is assigned, the single area selected in step S908 is determined.

  In step S908, when any one of the areas generated (expanded) on the touch panel 102 including the generated (expanded) new area is determined (step S908: Yes), the determined area is displayed. The assigned process is executed (step S909), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S909, for example, a process of generating (developing) a new area composed of characters and character strings is executed. Specifically, in step S909, for example, a character (or a character assigned to the determined area is displayed in the input content display area provided at a predetermined position on the touch panel 102 in order to display the input character. Column) is displayed.

  On the other hand, if it is not confirmed in step S908 (step S908: No), the process proceeds to step S901. If a plurality of regions are assigned to one region selected from the new regions generated (deployed) in step S907, the process proceeds to step S901.

  As described above, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is the input device 100 including the touch panel 102, and displays the plurality of first regions 410 on the touch panel 102, and displays the displayed plurality of regions. A plurality of new areas indicating processing assigned to the first selection area 411 when it is detected that any one of the first selection areas 411 is touched. The second area 420 is generated (expanded) on the touch panel 102, and a state in which any one of the plurality of second areas 420 is a selection candidate area (second selected area 421) is generated (expanded). )

  The input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention detects a selection candidate area (second selection area 421) out of the second area 420 every time a new contact with the first selection area 411 is detected. ) Sequentially switches the state in which any one of the second areas 420 different from () is a new selection candidate area (second selection area 421). In addition, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes the first operation indicating that any one of the second selection regions 421 in the second region 420 is touched, or the first operation When the second operation indicating that the contact detected in the selection area 411 has moved and entered the second selection area 421 is detected, the second selection area 421 indicates (assigned). When the process is executed and a third operation indicating a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation is detected, the (assignment) indicated in the selection candidate region (second selection region 421) It is characterized in that the process is executed.

  According to the input device 100 of the embodiment according to the present invention, an operation (first operation, second operation, or third operation) related to selection of an area performed on the touch panel 102 is specified, Any one of the processes selected by the user can be specified in accordance with the specified operation. Accordingly, the user can perform an input operation by a method desired by the user without performing a complicated switching operation. In addition, this allows the user to easily perform an input operation according to a method desired by the user without being influenced by the difference in model.

  Further, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that each second area 420 is generated (expanded) so as to be equidistant from the first area 410. According to the input device 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, after the first selection area 411 is selected from the first area 410, the second area 420 to be selected next has poor operability. This can be suppressed, and equivalent operability can be ensured for any second region 420 related to the first selection region 411. As a result, it is possible to provide an input device 100 that has good operability and is easy to use.

  In addition, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that each second area 420 is generated (expanded) above the first area 410 in the touch panel 102. According to the input device 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the generated (expanded) second area 420 is suppressed from being covered by the user's hand and the like, and the operability for each second area 420 is ensured. can do. As a result, it is possible to provide an input device 100 that has good operability and is easy to use.

  In particular, when each second area 420 is displayed and visualized, each displayed second area 420 is prevented from being covered with a user's hand or the like and is not visible, and the displayed second area 420 is displayed. All of these can be easily and quickly viewed. Thereby, the operability with respect to each second region 420 can be ensured, and the input device 100 with good operability and easy to use can be provided.

  In addition, in the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first area 410 is an area indicating the contents or “a” level of each line of the Japanese syllabary, and the second area 420 constitutes each line. It is an area indicating characters. According to the input device 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the second region generated (expanded) is obtained after the first area 410 grasps the outline of each position of the Japanese syllabary classified into the hierarchical structure. By guiding in detail the 50 syllables actually selected by the area 420, it is possible to easily and quickly grasp the position of each character constituting the syllabary. As a result, it is possible to provide an input device 100 that has good operability and is easy to use.

  In addition, the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the second area 420 is displayed after a predetermined time since the contact with the first area 410 is detected. According to the input device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a user who knows the position where the second area 420 is expanded is allowed to select and operate the second area 420 without depending on the display. be able to. As a result, when a user who is familiar with the operation and an unfamiliar user use the same input device 100, an easy-to-use input with good operability for both without making a special setting change every time the user changes An apparatus 100 can be provided.

  As described above, the input device, the input method, and the input program according to the present invention are useful for an input device, an input method, and an input program that perform character input based on user operations. It is suitable for an input device, an input method and an input program for inputting characters.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Input device 102 Touch panel 303 1st detection part 304 Area | region production | generation part 305 Switching control part 306 2nd detection part 307 Process execution part

Claims (7)

An input device equipped with a touch panel,
Display control means for displaying a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel;
First detection means for detecting that any one of the plurality of first areas displayed by the display control means (hereinafter referred to as “first selection area”) is contacted;
When a contact is detected by the first detection means, a plurality of new areas (hereinafter referred to as “second areas”) indicating processes assigned to the first selection area are generated on the touch panel. With
An area generating means for generating a state in which any one of the plurality of second areas is a selection candidate area;
Each time a new contact to the first selection area is detected by the first detection means, one of the second areas other than the selection candidate area is newly selected from the second area. Switching control means for sequentially switching the state that is a candidate area for selection,
Any one of the second areas (hereinafter referred to as “second selection area”) has been touched (hereinafter referred to as “first operation”), and the contact detected in the first selection area. Moved into the second selection area (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”), or a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation (hereinafter referred to as “third operation”). A second detection means for detecting any one of
When the first operation or the second operation is detected by the second detection means, the processing shown in the second selection area is executed,
Processing execution means for executing the processing indicated in the selection candidate area when the third operation is detected by the second detection means;
An input device comprising:   The input device according to claim 1, wherein each of the second regions is generated so as to be equidistant from the first region.   The input device according to claim 1, wherein each of the second regions is generated above the first region on the display screen of the touch panel.   2. The first area is an area indicating the contents of each line of Japanese syllabary or “A” level, and the second area is an area indicating kana characters constituting each line. The input device according to any one of?   The display control means displays the second area generated by the area generation means after a predetermined time from when contact is detected by the first detection means. The input device according to any one of the above. An input method using a touch panel,
A first display step of displaying a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel;
A first detection step of detecting that any one of the plurality of first regions displayed in the first display step (hereinafter referred to as “first selection region”) is contacted;
When a contact is detected in the first detection step, a plurality of new areas (hereinafter referred to as “second areas”) indicating processes assigned to the first selection area are generated on the touch panel. With
A region generating step of generating a state in which any one of the plurality of second regions is a selection candidate region;
Each time a new contact to the first selection area is detected by the first detection step, one of the second areas other than the selection candidate area is newly selected from the second area. A switching step of sequentially switching the state of the selection candidate area,
Any one of the second areas (hereinafter referred to as “second selection area”) has been touched (hereinafter referred to as “first operation”), and the contact detected in the first selection area. Moved into the second selection area (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”), or a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation (hereinafter referred to as “third operation”). A second detection step of detecting any of
When the first operation or the second operation is detected by the second detection step, the process shown in the second selection area is executed,
A process execution step of executing the process indicated in the selection candidate region when the third operation is detected by the second detection step;
The input method characterized by including. An input program to be executed by an information processing apparatus having a touch panel,
A first display step of displaying a plurality of areas (hereinafter referred to as “first areas”) on the touch panel;
A first detection step of detecting that any one of the plurality of first regions displayed in the first display step (hereinafter referred to as “first selection region”) is contacted;
When a contact is detected in the first detection step, a plurality of new areas (hereinafter referred to as “second areas”) indicating processes assigned to the first selection area are generated on the touch panel. With
A region generating step of generating a state in which any one of the plurality of second regions is a selection candidate region;
Each time a new contact to the first selection area is detected by the first detection step, one of the second areas other than the selection candidate area is newly selected from the second area. A switching step of sequentially switching the state of the selection candidate area,
Any one of the second areas (hereinafter referred to as “second selection area”) has been touched (hereinafter referred to as “first operation”), and the contact detected in the first selection area. Moved into the second selection area (hereinafter referred to as “second operation”), or a predetermined operation other than the first operation or the second operation (hereinafter referred to as “third operation”). A second detection step of detecting any of
When the first operation or the second operation is detected by the second detection step, the process shown in the second selection area is executed,
A process execution step of executing the process indicated in the selection candidate region when the third operation is detected by the second detection step;
An input program characterized by including.

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