JP2012212411A - Notebook device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a notebook device for recording a movement locus of a writing tool to store the locus as electronic data just by writing a memorandum on a sheet arranged in a frame with a normal writing tool.SOLUTION: A notebook device comprises a notebook, and an optical sensor S1, which includes at least one pair of a light emitting element and a light receiving element mounted on a rectangular frame 1, for detecting blockage of light that reaches from the light emitting element to the light receiving element and is generated in accordance with an object in the frame 1 so as to output position information on the object in the frame 1. When performing writing on a part of a sheet W exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S1 with a writing tool P, the movement locus of a tip of the writing tool P is stored in storage means M as electronic data.

Description

  The present invention relates to a notebook device provided with an optical position detecting means.

  Some notebooks, such as electronic notebooks, digitally process notes and schedules (see Patent Document 1). This is provided with a display for displaying a schedule, etc., and a memo or the like can be input to the display using a dedicated pen. That is, the display has a touch sensor (touch panel), and the tip of the dedicated pen is brought into contact with the display, and the dedicated pen is moved, so that the movement trajectory of the tip of the dedicated pen is recorded. For example, the information is input to the display. The data is stored (stored) in the electronic notebook in a state where the information such as the inputted memo is superimposed on the information such as the schedule displayed on the display.

  The electronic notebook as described above is provided with touch position detecting means for detecting the touch position of a finger or the like of a person operating a dedicated pen or device in two dimensions (xy direction). The electronic notebook or the like can be operated in cooperation with the display of a flat display such as a liquid crystal screen disposed below the screen. As this touch position detection means (touch sensor), in many cases, a resistance film method, a capacitance method, an electromagnetic induction method, or the like is usually used from the viewpoint of price, performance, durability, and the like. These types of touch panels have a structure in which a large number of electrical contacts are arranged in a matrix near the surface of the panel.

Japanese Patent No. 3746378

  By the way, the electronic notebook device as described above is convenient because it can easily input characters, schedules, etc., but mainly for people who are unfamiliar with the operation of computers, electronic information devices, etc., elderly people, etc. There is still a strong demand for writing in a form in which handwriting remains directly on a medium such as paper, rather than an electronic notebook in which handwriting or characters are virtually displayed on a display or the like.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and by simply writing a memo, a schedule, and the like directly on a sheet placed in a frame with a normal writing instrument, the movement trajectory of the writing instrument or the like is recorded, and electronic data is recorded. It is an object of the present invention to provide a notebook device that stores data as

In order to achieve the above object, a notebook device according to the present invention includes a notebook in which a paper that can be written with a writing instrument is bound, a frame-shaped optical sensor (A) below that surrounds at least a part of the paper, and the optical sensor. And a storage means for storing, as electronic data, the movement trajectory of the tip of the writing instrument when writing with a writing instrument on the portion of the paper exposed from within the sensor frame.
(A) It is composed of a rectangular frame and at least one pair of light emitting elements and light receiving elements attached to the rectangular frame, and the light reaching the light receiving elements from the light emitting elements, which is generated in relation to the object in the frame. An optical sensor that outputs position information of the object in the frame by detecting blockage.

  The notebook device of the present invention is mounted on a writing paper (one leaf of the notebook), and at least a part of the paper is exposed from the inside of the frame-shaped optical sensor (A). And a storage means for storing the movement trajectory information of the writing instrument obtained from the optical sensor as electronic data. Therefore, if writing is performed on a portion of the paper exposed from the frame of the optical sensor with a writing tool or the like, the locus (handwriting) remains on the paper and is stored (stored) in the storage means as electronic data. . As a result, the notebook device of the present invention can write a memo, a schedule, etc. directly on the paper placed in the frame with a normal writing tool without paying special attention to digitization. The movement trajectory is automatically digitized. The computerized information can be extracted (reproduced) from the storage means by using a personal computer or the like, and can be easily shared with others or stored as knowledge and records. It is possible and convenient.

  In addition, the notebook device of the present invention is a light receiving device and a light receiving element (A) that are attached to the rectangular frame (A) as detecting means (optical sensor) for the touch position of the tip of the writing instrument. An optical sensor that outputs positional information of the object in the frame by detecting a blockage of light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which is generated in association with the object in the frame. Used. Therefore, there is no electrical (physical) contact on the detection surface of the touch position, which is excellent in durability and hardly affected by dust or dirt. In addition, when writing with a writing instrument, a large writing pressure such as a resistance film method, a capacitance method, and an electromagnetic induction method is not required, and natural writing can be performed without being conscious of the sensor.

  Further, in the notebook device of the present invention, as the frame-shaped optical sensor of the above (A), a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged side by side in one portion facing each other in the frame shape in the frame, A plurality of light receiving elements are arranged side by side, each light emitting element and the light receiving element are positioned toward the inside of the frame, and the light emitted from the light emitting element toward the light receiving element is within the frame, A device using an optical sensor that forms a grid of light that intersects vertically and horizontally uses a light emitting diode (LED) or the like as the light emitting element (light source) and uses a photodiode (PD) as the light receiving element. General-purpose parts can be used. Therefore, it is advantageous in that the optical sensor can be configured at low cost. In addition, it has the advantages of excellent impact resistance and durability.

  In the notebook device of the present invention, as the frame-shaped optical sensor of (A), the light emitting element and the plurality of light receiving elements are arranged at the corners on both sides of one side of the four corners of the frame. The light receiving element array is vertically stacked, and a tape-like retroreflector is disposed on the inner surface of the three sides excluding the one side between the modules. The light emitted from the light emitting element of the module is reflected by the retroreflecting light reflector, and uses an optical sensor that is recursively incident on the light receiving element array of this module. Thus, the position of the tip of the writing instrument can be specified by triangulation. In addition, this notebook apparatus has an advantage that it can be configured at low cost using general-purpose parts.

It is a figure explaining the whole structure of the notebook device in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view explaining the structure of one Example of the optical sensor used for the notebook apparatus of this invention. (A) is a top view explaining the structure of the other Example of the optical sensor used for the notebook apparatus of this invention, (b) is the Z section enlarged view. (A)-(c) is a figure explaining the structure of the notebook apparatus in 2nd Embodiment of this invention. (A)-(c) is a figure explaining the structure of the notebook apparatus in 3rd Embodiment of this invention. (A)-(f) is a figure explaining the structure of the notebook apparatus in 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view explaining the structure of the optical sensor used for the notebook device of 5th Embodiment of this invention. (A), (b) is a figure explaining the partial structure of the optical sensor used for the notebook apparatus of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the notebook apparatus in 6th Embodiment of this invention.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a notebook device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
This notebook device includes a frame-shaped optical sensor S1 that surrounds at least a part of a sheet W (one leaf of a notebook refill sheet) that can be written with the writing instrument P, and a tip of the writing instrument P within the frame of the optical sensor S1. Storage means M for storing the movement locus as electronic data. The optical sensor S1 includes a rectangular frame 1 and at least a pair of light emitting elements and light receiving elements attached to the frame 1 (none of which is shown), and an object in the frame 1 By detecting the blockage of light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which occurs in connection with (for example, the writing instrument P), positional information in the frame 1 of the writing instrument P or the like is output. Yes. This is a feature of the notebook device of the present invention.

  In the notebook device, the optical sensor S1 and the storage means M are integrally formed as a storage device, and the storage device is connected to a notebook cover (system notebook via a hole 1a provided in the frame 1). The cover can be inserted into the ring-shaped holding member R of N. Therefore, the optical sensor S1 can be installed on or removed from the paper, and the paper W can be easily replaced with a new one. Furthermore, even if the paper W is replaced with a new one, the stored content (movement trajectory) can be easily extracted (reproduced) from the storage means of the storage device using a computer or the like. Have.

  In the notebook device, when an input operation stop (input cancel) switch Q for manually stopping input, a lamp L for displaying an abnormality or a warning, and the optical sensor S1 are lifted. An input prohibition switch (not shown) for disabling input is provided. In addition, a communication (power supply) cable (may not be provided), a battery for driving this, a control means such as a driver for the light emitting element and the light receiving element, and a communication means for communicating with information equipment such as a computer (wired Or wireless) is built in the thick frame portion 2 and the like which are thick, but both are not shown.

  Next, as a specific configuration example of the optical sensor (S1 or S2 to S6 described later) used in the embodiment of the present invention, the touch position of the object is detected by shielding the orthogonal lattice-shaped light. The two types of optical sensors Sa and the optical sensor Sb of the method of calculating the light shielding position by the object by triangulation will be described.

  First, as a specific example of the optical sensor used in the notebook device, a large number of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are arranged side by side as light emitting elements (light sources) in the frame 1 of the optical sensor (Sa). An optical sensor Sa that forms a light grating for detecting the tip (T) of the writing instrument P in the frame of the optical sensor S1 by arranging a large number of photodiodes (PD) as light receiving elements side by side will be described. To do.

  FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of an embodiment (Sa) of an optical sensor used in the notebook device of the present invention. In this figure, for ease of explanation, the short side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), and the long side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction). At the same time, lattice-shaped light (invisible infrared light) inside the frame 1 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Further, the number of LEDs and PDs and the number of grid lights are omitted, and the electrical wiring and the like in the frame 1 are indicated by dotted lines, and information such as a battery and a personal computer for driving the notebook device is displayed. The communication means (cable or wireless antenna) for communicating with the device is not shown (the same applies to FIG. 3 described later).

  The optical sensor Sa in this embodiment is placed on the paper W on which the writing tool P can be written, so that the tip (touch) of the writing tool P in the square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. An optical sensor Sa having a touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of the position T), and movement locus information (xy position) of the tip position of the writing instrument P obtained by the optical sensor Sa. Change) and storage means MC (built-in) that also serves as a control means for the light emitting element and the light receiving element, an input operation stop switch Q that can manually stop input by the writing instrument P, and an abnormality in the device And a plurality of lamps L for displaying warnings and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a light source comprising a number of LEDs 3, 3,... Arranged side by side in the frame 1 is provided on the frame 1 portion of the optical sensor Sa as a light emitting part of the touch position detecting means. In the frame 1 portion (side X2, Y2) facing the portion (side X1, Y1) of the frame 1 where each LED 3 is arranged, a number of PDs 4, 4,. The light receiving part is formed, and these LEDs 3 and PD4 are positioned side by side along the inner edge of the frame-like frame 1 so that the front ends thereof face inward. Then, by controlling the storage means MC that also serves as a controller (control means) for each LED 3 and PD 4, the LEDs 3 are caused to emit light at the same time or sequentially in the scanning direction, thereby forming a square detection area in the frame 1. A light grid (two-dot chain line) perpendicular to the vertical and horizontal directions is formed.

  In addition, as LED3 used as said light emitting element (light source), the infrared LED (infrared light emitting diode) of the type which light-emits the light of near infrared (wavelength: 700-2500 nm) is preferable. Further, as the light receiving element, in addition to the photodiode (PD), a linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a line in a bar shape or an array shape, an image sensor, or the like may be used.

  The detection of the touch position T of the writing instrument P using the optical sensor Sa of the above-described embodiment is performed in the following procedure. That is, first, an optical sensor Sa (storage device) including a storage means MC that also serves as a controller is placed on the paper W so as to surround at least a part of the writable paper W (see FIG. 1). . Next, as a calibration, the intensity of light (grating light) reaching the PD 4 corresponding (opposite) to the LED 3 is emitted while sequentially emitting the LEDs 3 of the light emitting unit one by one (from the end). Measurement is performed at the time and when no light is emitted, and a threshold value for detecting / non-detecting an object by light shielding is determined for each PD 4 and stored as a table or the like in the storage means MC.

  Next, a sheet exposed from the frame of the optical sensor Sa in a state where the LEDs 3 are sequentially emitted by the storage means MC also serving as the controller and the detection area of the optical sensor Sa is scanned. When the tip of the writing instrument P is lowered to the portion W, as shown in FIG. 2, a part of the grid-like light passing through the frame is blocked by the tip of the writing instrument P, and the blocking portion detects the touch position. By detecting the corresponding PD4 of the means, a coordinate position (xy axis, see “touch position T” in FIG. 2) in the frame of the tip of the writing instrument P is specified, and the coordinates are stored in the storage means. Stored in MC. In addition, when it is detected that there are a plurality (two or more points) of light blocking portions in the detection area, or when the light blocking portions are not accurately detected due to the influence of sunlight or electric light, etc. When the coordinates of the tip of P cannot be specified, scanning within the detection area is stopped, and a detection abnormality is notified (warned) by turning on the lamp L or the like.

  Next, when the writing instrument P is moved and a memo, a schedule, etc. are written, a locus of the tip of the writing instrument P accompanying the movement (writing information such as a memo) is detected, and the locus is digital data (electronic data). Is stored in the storage means MC. That is, a memo, a schedule, etc. are written to the portion of the paper W exposed from the frame of the optical sensor Sa with the writing tool P, and information such as the memo is recorded in the memory of the storage means MC also serving as the controller. Is done.

  Note that the above-described switch Q for stopping the input operation is disposed on the upper surface of a part of the frame 1 (the thick thick frame portion 2) (see FIG. 2). This input operation stop switch Q invalidates the detection of the tip of the writing instrument P by the touch position detecting means, and stops the light emission of the LED 3 or the light reception of the PD 4 by the ON-OFF operation. Alternatively, the information input by the writing instrument P or the like can be stopped at any timing of the input person by stopping the calculation in the storage means MC. By using the switch Q for stopping the input operation, it is possible to prevent malfunction (false detection) that occurs when the optical sensor Sa is moved for replacement of the paper W or page feed.

  As the input operation stop switch Q, an electromagnetic or optical switch such as a touch switch or a pressure sensitive switch can be used in addition to various mechanical switches such as push, button, tact, and slide. Further, when the input operation stop switch Q is activated, a warning display such as turning on the lamp L may be performed to clearly indicate that “input operation is being stopped”.

  According to the notebook device using the optical sensor Sa of the embodiment as described above, a memo, a schedule, etc. are placed in a frame with a normal writing instrument without paying special attention to digitization. By simply writing directly on the printed paper, the movement trajectory of the writing instrument is automatically digitized. The computerized information can be extracted (reproduced) from the storage means MC using a computer or the like, and can be easily shared with others and stored as knowledge and records. it can. Furthermore, the optical sensor Sa of the above-described embodiment may use general-purpose components such as a light emitting diode (LED) as a light emitting element (light source) and a photodiode (PD) as a light receiving element. This is advantageous in that the notebook device can be configured at low cost.

  Next, modules (C1, C2) each composed of a light emitting element and a light receiving element array are arranged at two corners of the frame 1 of the optical sensor (Sb), respectively. Another embodiment of the optical sensor Sb that specifies the position of the tip of the writing instrument P by triangulation will be described.

  FIG. 3A is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of another embodiment (Sb) of the optical sensor used in the notebook device of the present invention, and FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of a Z portion thereof. is there. Also in these drawings, the short side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), the long side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction), and the thick frame portion Illustration of a battery, communication means, and the like arranged in 2 is omitted.

  The optical sensor Sb in the other embodiment is also placed on the paper W on which the writing tool P can be written, so that the tip of the writing tool P in the square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 ( An optical sensor Sb having a touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of the touch position T), and movement locus information (xy) of the tip position of the writing instrument P obtained by the optical sensor Sb. Storage means MC (built-in) for storing position changes), an input operation stop switch Q for manually stopping input by the writing instrument P, and a plurality of lamps L for displaying an abnormality or warning of the device, etc. It is equipped with.

  The optical sensor Sb of the other embodiment is different from the optical sensor (Sa) in the previous example in that one of the four corners of the frame 1 of the optical sensor Sb (the book) In the example, the light receiving / emitting module (camera module) in which the light emitting elements (LED3) and the light receiving element array (image sensor 5) are vertically combined as shown in FIG. C1 and C2) are arranged, respectively, on the inner side surfaces of the three sides (X1, Y1, Y2) excluding the one side (X2) between the camera modules C1 and C2, as shown in FIG. The tape-like retroreflector (retroreflective tape 6) is affixed. Note that the storage means MC also serves as a controller (control means) for the LED 3 and the image sensor 5 as in the first embodiment.

  With this configuration, in the optical sensor Sb of the other embodiment described above, the light emitted from the LEDs 3 of the camera modules C1 and C2 is reflected by the retroreflective tape 6 to the emission camera modules C1 and C2. In the frame, a cross of radial light is generated in which light spreads in a ripple pattern for each of the camera modules C1 and C2, as shown in FIG.

  The light emitting elements (light sources) of the camera modules C1 and C2 are preferably infrared LEDs (infrared light emitting diodes) that emit near-infrared (wavelength: 700 to 2500 nm) light. As the light receiving element, an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS, a CMOS linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a row, or the like can be used.

  Further, the retroreflector that is attached to the inner surface of the three sides (X1, Y1, Y2) of the frame 1 may be either a microprism type or a glass bead type. Further, in the above example, a tape-shaped molded body is used for easy handling, but instead, the inner side surface of the three sides (X1, Y1, Y2) has optical recursion. A paint or the like may be applied.

  Detection of the touch position T of the writing instrument P using the optical sensor Sb of the other embodiment is performed in the following procedure. That is, first, an optical sensor Sb (storage device) including a storage means MC that also serves as a controller is placed on the paper W so as to surround at least a part of the writable paper W (see FIG. 1). . Next, as calibration, the intensity of light (recursive light) returning to the image sensors 5 of the camera modules C1 and C2 while emitting the LEDs 3 of the camera modules C1 and C2 is set to Measurement is performed when no light is emitted, and a threshold value for detection / non-detection of an object due to light shielding is determined for each of the camera modules C1 and C2, and stored as a table or the like in the storage means MC.

  Next, when the tip of the writing instrument P is lowered to the portion of the paper W exposed from the inside of the frame of the optical sensor Sb in a state where each LED 3 is caused to emit light by the memory means MC also serving as the controller, FIG. As in 3 (a), a part of the crossed light passing through the frame is blocked by the tip of the writing instrument P, and the blocked part is detected by the corresponding light receiving element of each of the camera modules C1 and C2. Further, using an arithmetic unit or the like (not shown), the blocking (light-shielding) position detected by the storage means MC also serving as the controller is obtained by triangulation, and the coordinate position [x The y-axis, see “touch position T” in FIG. 3A] is specified, and its coordinates are stored in the storage means MC.

  As in the case of the optical sensor Sa that detects coordinates with the lattice-shaped light, when it is detected that there are a plurality (two or more points) of light blocking portions in the detection region, or when sunlight or electric light is used. When the coordinates of the tip of the writing instrument P cannot be specified, such as when the light blocking portion is not accurately detected due to the influence, the scanning in the detection area is stopped, and the detection of an abnormality due to the lighting of the lamp L or the like is stopped. You are notified (warned).

  Next, when the writing instrument P is moved and a memo or schedule is written, the locus of the tip of the writing instrument P (writing information such as a memo) accompanying the movement is detected and calculated, and digital data (electronic Data) is stored in the storage means MC. That is, a memo, a schedule, etc. are written to the portion of the paper W exposed from the frame of the optical sensor Sb with the writing tool P, and information such as the memo is recorded in a memory of the storage means MC also serving as the controller. Is done.

  According to the notebook device using the optical sensor Sb of the other embodiment as described above, like the optical sensor (Sa) of the embodiment, the memorandum can be obtained without paying special attention to digitization. Is directly written on a sheet placed in a frame with a normal writing tool, and the movement trajectory of the writing tool is automatically digitized. In addition, the optical sensor Sb of the other embodiment uses a general-purpose component such as a light emitting diode (LED) as a light emitting element (light source) and an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS as a light receiving element. Therefore, it is possible to configure the notebook device at a low cost in combination with the small number of optical components to be configured.

  Next, various variations (second to sixth embodiments) of the notebook device of the present invention using either of the above-mentioned two types of optical sensors (Sa using grid light or Sb using triangulation). ). In each drawing described later, the structural members having the same functions as those of the optical sensor of the first embodiment (FIG. 1) and the above-described one example (FIG. 2) and other examples (FIG. 3) are shown. The same reference numerals are assigned and detailed description thereof is omitted, and the short side direction of the frame 1 is defined as the horizontal direction (x direction), and the long side direction of the frame 1 is described as the vertical direction (y direction). In each figure described later, 1 is a frame-like frame, 2 (and 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G) is a thick frame portion of frame 1, and M is a storage means or a controller (control means). , N is a notebook cover, R is a ring holding member of the system notebook, W is a notebook paper, Q is a switch for stopping input operation, L is a warning lamp, 1a is a ring shape of the system notebook A hole for passing through the holding member R is shown.

  FIG. 4A is a plan view for explaining the configuration of the notebook device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4B is a side view of the notebook device viewed from the side of the notebook when the notebook device is closed. 4 (c) is a bottom view of the closed state viewed from the lower side of the notebook.

  The notebook device according to the second embodiment is different from the notebook device according to the first embodiment as shown in FIG. 4 (a) above in the vertical direction on the frame-like frame 1 of the optical sensor S2. A thick thick frame portion 2 (2A, 2B) is provided on each (upper and lower sides in the drawing). Thereby, various thick modules and components that cannot be accommodated in the frame-like portion of the thin plate-like frame 1 (for example, control means such as a controller of a light emitting element and a light receiving element, an arithmetic means, a communication means, a battery, Cable, connector, etc.) can be efficiently dispersed in these two thick frame portions 2A, 2B and accommodated in a space-saving manner.

  In addition, with this configuration, the notebook device in the present embodiment has the thick frame portions 2A and 2B of the optical sensor S2 even when the notebook cover N of the system notebook is closed as shown in FIG. It fits in a space (gap) formed between the notebook cover N and the paper W and does not protrude from the side surface of the notebook device. Therefore, the optical sensor S2 is prevented from being damaged or damaged. Moreover, compared with the notebook device using the optical sensor (S1) of the first embodiment having only one thick frame portion (2), the entire notebook is not bulky and compact even when stored without using the sensor. There is an advantage that it is difficult to get in the way.

  Next, FIG. 5A is a plan view for explaining the configuration of the notebook device according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5B is a side view of the notebook device viewed from the side of the notebook when closed. FIG. 5 and FIG. 5C are bottom views of the closed state seen from the lower side of the notebook.

  The notebook device according to the third embodiment is different from the notebook devices according to the first and second embodiments in the horizontal direction in the frame-like frame 1 of the optical sensor S3 as shown in FIG. A thick thick frame portion 2 (2C) is provided on the right side of the figure, and the thick frame portion 2C has various thicknesses that cannot be accommodated in the frame shape portion of the thin plate-like frame 1. This is the point where modules and parts are accommodated.

  Even with this configuration, as in the second embodiment, the notebook device in the present embodiment has a thick frame of the optical sensor S3 even when the notebook cover N of the system notebook is closed as shown in FIG. The portion 2C fits in a space (gap) formed between the notebook cover N and the paper W, and does not protrude from the side surface of the notebook device. Therefore, in this notebook device, the optical sensor S3 is prevented from being damaged or damaged, and the entire notebook is not bulky even when stored without using the sensor, and is compact when carried.

  Next, FIGS. 6A and 6B are plan views for explaining the configuration of the notebook device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6C shows the state in which the notebook device is closed on the side of the notebook. FIG. 6E is a bottom view of the closed state viewed from the lower side of the notebook. FIG. 6D is a diagram schematically showing the vertical outer shape of the thick frame portions 2D and 2E of the optical sensor S4 used in the notebook device, and FIG. It is a figure which shows typically the external shape of the horizontal direction of the thick frame part 2F of type | formula sensor S4.

  The optical sensor S4 of the notebook device according to the fourth embodiment is configured to be used on both the left and right side pages of the system notebook. The right page usage diagram and FIG. As shown in the left page usage diagram of FIG. 6B, the switch Q for stopping the input operation, the warning lamp L, and the like can be used on either side of the optical sensor S4 so that it can be used in any state. Q ′ and L ′ are provided. In addition, the thick frame portion 2 (2D, 2E, 2F) for accommodating various thick modules and parts, etc. has both vertical and vertical sides (upper and lower sides in the vertical direction) and lateral direction (right and lower side in the drawing) of the frame-like frame 1. That is, it is formed on three sides excluding the side on which the hole 1a inserted through the ring-shaped holding member R of the system notebook is formed.

  It should be noted that the thick frame portions 2D and 2E on the upper and lower sides in the vertical direction of the frame 1 (upper and lower sides in the drawing) can be used for the left and right pages. Unlike FIG. b), the frame 1 is formed in a shape that bulges in both front and back directions, as shown in FIG. Also, the thick frame portion 2F in the horizontal direction (right side in the figure) of the frame 1 is formed in a shape that bulges in both the front and back directions of the frame 1, as in the thick frame portions 2D and 2E. [For reference, refer to the thick frame portion 2C of the third embodiment in FIG. 5 (c)].

  Even with this configuration, as in the second and third embodiments, the notebook device according to the present embodiment can be used even when the notebook cover N of the system notebook is closed as shown in FIGS. The thick frame portions 2D, 2E, and 2F of the optical sensor S4 are accommodated in a space (gap) formed between the notebook cover N and the paper W, and do not protrude from the side surface of the notebook device. Therefore, in this notebook device, the optical sensor S4 is prevented from being damaged or damaged, and the entire notebook is not bulky even when stored without using the sensor, and is compact when carried. In addition, since the thick frame portions 2D, 2E, and 2F are shaped to bulge in the front and back direction of the frame 1 and are formed on the three sides of the frame 1 surrounding the paper W, the alignment of the paper W is performed. There is an advantage that becomes easier.

  Next, modified examples of the optical sensors (S1 to S4) used in the notebook device of each of the above embodiments will be described.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the optical sensor (S5) of the fifth embodiment used in the notebook device of the present invention. FIG. 8 (a) shows the optical sensor S5 from the lateral direction (x direction). FIG. 8B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the thick frame portion 2G of the optical sensor S5. In FIGS. 7 and 8, the storage means (M) of the optical sensor S5 is not shown.

  The optical sensor S5 of the notebook device in this embodiment is different from the optical sensors (S1 to S4) in the other embodiments in that a portion provided with a hole 1a inserted into the ring-shaped holding member R of the system notebook is provided. The (positioning part 7 of a part of the frame 1) is formed so as to be separable from the frame-like part of the frame 1. Further, a thick frame portion 2 (2G) for accommodating various thick modules and components is provided on the upper side (right side in the drawing) of the frame-like frame 1, and inside the thick frame portion 2G. As shown in FIG. 8B, an input prohibition switch R attached to the back surface (lower surface) side of the frame 1 is incorporated. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the optical sensor S5 is used as a guideline or a ruler for drawing on the inner edge of the surface of the frame-like frame 1 (the edge of the “detection area” inside the frame). A graduation line 1g is formed, and a pen holder 1h capable of holding the writing instrument P and other writing instruments is attached to a part of the outer edge thereof.

  The connection (linkage) between the frame (main body) 1 and the separable positioning portion 7 is performed by a shape-engaged-engaged structure, or the frame (main body) 1 and the positioning portion 7 are connected to each other. It can be performed by adsorption using a magnet built in the opposing surfaces of both. Moreover, you may connect via a member (connection member) different from these.

  As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 (b), the input prohibition switch R is provided on the lower side of the frame in a recess 2a provided inside the thick frame portion 2G of the frame 1 and opening toward the back side. It is arranged toward. The input prohibition switch R lifts (floats) the frame 1 of the optical sensor S5, so that the tip of the input prohibition switch R is positioned in the direction of the arrow as shown by the phantom line (two-dot chain line) in the figure. Operates protruding from the back side. Then, by the operation of the input prohibition switch R, the calculation in the touch position detecting means or the storage means (M) incorporated in the optical sensor S5 is stopped, or the entire power of the optical sensor S5 is turned off. This makes it impossible (automatically) to input information using the writing implement P or the like. As a result, the new information is received when the optical sensor S5 is inappropriate for input, such as when the optical sensor S5 is suspended in the air or when the optical sensor S5 is not properly placed at a predetermined position on the paper W or the like. Input (stored) in S5 can be prevented. In addition, when the frame (main body) 1 is attached to or detached from the separable positioning portion 7 or when the paper W or the page is exchanged, a finger or the like is applied to the frame 1 due to the finger or the like. This is convenient because there is no erroneous input and the input can be resumed immediately at the place where the frame 1 is placed.

  As the input prohibition switch R, an electromagnetic switch such as a pressure-sensitive switch, an optical switch that detects reflectance, brightness, or the like can be used in addition to a mechanical switch such as a push switch. As in the case of the input operation stop switch Q, the lamp L on the frame 1 or the like may be used to display a warning indicating that “input is prohibited”. A warning by sound such as an alarm may be added. The input prohibition switch R may be disposed in the optical sensors S1 to S4 of the first to fourth embodiments. In the case of the optical sensors S1 to S3 used on one side, it may be arranged on the back side of the frame 1 as described above. In the case of the optical sensor S4 used on both sides, the front side and the back side of the frame 1 are preferably used. The input prohibition switch R may be provided on both sides separately from the input operation stop switch Q.

  The scale line 1g is formed at the inner edge of the surface of the frame 1 (the edge of the “detection area” inside the frame) by marking or printing (printing), and the scale interval or pattern. Can be set arbitrarily. Moreover, what is necessary is just to change suitably the shape, arrangement | positioning, raw material, etc. of the said pen holder 1h according to the shape of the writing instrument P etc. to carry.

  Even when the optical sensor S5 having the above-described configuration is used, the coordinate position in the frame of the writing instrument P or the like can be detected and specified as in the notebook device of the first to fourth embodiments. When the writing instrument P or the like is moved to write a memo or schedule, the locus (writing information such as the memo) of the tip of the writing instrument P accompanying the movement is detected, and the locus is converted into digital data (electronic data). Can be stored in the storage means (M). In addition, since it is equipped with erroneous input avoidance means such as the input operation stop switch Q and input prohibition switch R, and input auxiliary means such as the scale line 1g for supporting the input, it is possible to input accurate information more easily. be able to.

  Next, a notebook device according to a sixth embodiment including the optical sensor S6 having the simplest structure will be described. FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of a notebook device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. The optical sensor S6 in the sixth embodiment is the same as the optical sensor S5 in which a part (positioning portion 7) of the frame 1 having the hole (1a) is detached in the fifth embodiment (FIGS. 7 and 7). 8), the detailed description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the optical sensor S6 in the notebook device of the sixth embodiment is inserted into the ring-shaped holding member (R) as in the other embodiments on the frame-like frame 1. There is no hole (1a) or the like, and accordingly, the frame 1 itself is a thin frame (slim), and the entire frame 1 is also compact. The notebook cover N of the notebook apparatus according to the sixth embodiment is provided with a pocket U for storing the optical sensor S6 when not in use or being carried.

  Also with the above configuration, the same operations and effects as the notebook device of the first to fifth embodiments can be obtained. Moreover, the notebook device of the sixth embodiment can be a lighter and cheaper notebook device.

[Check the operation of the notebook device]
The optical sensor according to any of the first to sixth embodiments, in which a hole is inserted into the ring-shaped holding member of the notebook, is placed on the refill sheet of the notebook, and the part of the sheet exposed from the inside of the frame, I wrote notes and dates with a writing instrument. Then, each notebook device and the notebook computer can be connected to each other via a wireless LAN so that they can communicate with each other. As a result of reproducing the information stored (stored) in the memory of the notebook device using the notebook computer, In both the notebook devices of the embodiments, the same memos and schedules written on the paper could be displayed on the display of the notebook personal computer.

  The notebook device of the present invention can write information such as a memo and a schedule on a sheet exposed from the frame, and at the same time digitize the information such as the memo.

S1-S6, Sa, Sb Optical sensor M, MC Storage means N Notebook cover P Writing tool W Paper 1 Frame 2, 2A-2G Thick frame

Claims (3)

A notebook in which paper that can be written with a writing tool is bound, a frame-shaped optical sensor (A) that surrounds at least a portion of the paper, and a portion of the paper that is exposed from the frame of the optical sensor with a writing tool. A notebook device, comprising: storage means for storing, as electronic data, a movement locus of the tip of the writing instrument when writing.
(A) It is composed of a rectangular frame and at least one pair of light emitting elements and light receiving elements attached to the rectangular frame, and the light reaching the light receiving elements from the light emitting elements, which is generated in relation to the object in the frame. An optical sensor that outputs position information of the object in the frame by detecting blockage.   In the frame-shaped optical sensor frame of (A), a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged side by side in one portion facing each other in the frame shape, and a plurality of light-receiving elements are arranged in the other portion, The light emitting element and the light receiving element are positioned toward the inside of the frame, and the light emitted from the light emitting element toward the light receiving element forms a lattice of light that intersects vertically and horizontally in the frame. The notebook device according to claim 1.   A module in which the light-emitting element and a light-receiving element array composed of a plurality of light-receiving elements are vertically stacked at the corners on both sides of one side among the four corners of the frame-shaped optical sensor frame of (A). Are arranged, tape-like retroreflectors are disposed on the inner surfaces of the three sides excluding the one side between these modules, and the light emitted from the light emitting element of one module is The notebook device according to claim 1, wherein the notebook device is reflected by the recursive light reflector and recursively enters the light receiving element array of the one module.

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