JP2014174913A - Information equipment and information transfer method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide information equipment for using a sense other than sight to transfer information.SOLUTION: A digital camera 100 is provided with a piezoelectric element 5. The piezoelectric element 5 partially transforms according to power supplied from a power supply circuit 6. A touch position determination section 1f determines a user's contact condition to the piezoelectric element 5 on the basis of a detection signal from a touch identification section 7 and a touch panel 11. To transfer the information, the piezoelectric element 5 determined to have a large contact area is used. A signal generation section 1d generates a signal to transform the piezoelectric element 5 according to the information desired to be transferred to a user.

Description

  The present invention relates to an information device and an information transmission method.

  In general, an imaging apparatus including a rear display unit and a touch panel is known. The touch panel accepts various inputs related to imaging. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique related to an imaging device that acquires a still image when a touch panel is touched during moving image shooting.

  For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a mechanism that displaces a touch panel installed so as to cover a display surface of a display in the vertical and horizontal directions. Patent Document 2 discloses that a touch panel is vibrated in a planar direction with various vibration patterns to provide information to a fingertip of an operator through a tactile sense or guide a finger touching the touch panel to a predetermined button position. It is disclosed.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-198868 JP 2003-058321 A

  In the imaging apparatus, it is effective to use a sense other than vision for information transmission from the imaging apparatus to the user in order to concentrate vision for photographing. As in Patent Document 2, transmitting information by vibrating, for example, a touch panel touched by a fingertip is advantageous in that information is transmitted using a tactile sense. However, the vibration mechanism disclosed in Patent Document 2 is complicated and large.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an information device and an information transmission method for transmitting information using a sense other than vision.

  To achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an information device is configured such that a signal generation unit that outputs a different deformation signal for each piece of transmission information and a position corresponding to the deformation signal are partially deformed. And a flexible thin plate-like piezoelectric member.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an information device includes a stimulation unit that simultaneously outputs stimuli for a plurality of senses of the user in order to transmit information according to an operation to the user, And an information control unit that reduces the type or degree of the stimulus according to familiarity.

  To achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an information transmission method includes an information device having a flexible thin plate-shaped piezoelectric member configured such that a position corresponding to a deformation signal is partially deformed. The information transmission method using the method includes: outputting the different deformation signal for each transmission information; and deforming the piezoelectric member based on the deformation signal.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an information transmission method simultaneously outputs stimuli for a plurality of senses of the user in order to transmit information according to an operation to the user, Reducing the type or degree of the stimulus according to familiarity.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the information equipment and information transmission method for performing information transmission using senses other than vision can be provided.

1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of a digital camera according to a first embodiment. Schematic which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the piezoelectric element in the digital camera which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Schematic which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the piezoelectric element in the digital camera which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structural example of the piezoelectric element which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Schematic for demonstrating the operation example of the piezoelectric element which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Schematic for demonstrating the operation example of the piezoelectric element which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Schematic which shows the structural example of the electric power supply circuit which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of an example of processing in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of sound output by the digital camera according to the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart showing an outline of an example of a piezoelectric control process in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the effective range which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the operation example which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the operation example which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. 9 is a flowchart showing an outline of an example of a piezoelectric control process in a digital camera according to a second embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the effective range which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. An outline of a configuration example of the digital camera 100 according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the digital camera is taken up as an application of information equipment. Although there is a user interface using a display screen, there are situations in which it is not possible to see only that in an active shooting scene, and the equipment is held close to the user. This is because sensations other than vision (tactile sense, hearing, etc.) can be used effectively. Needless to say, the information device according to the present invention can be applied to other devices as well. As shown in this figure, the digital camera 100 includes an image processing control unit 1, an imaging unit 2, an operation unit 3, and a recording unit 4. As will be described later, the image processing control unit 1 controls the operation of each unit of the digital camera 100 and processes the acquired image. The imaging unit 2 includes an optical system including a lens and the like, an imaging element, and the like, and generates an image signal based on the subject image. The operation unit 3 acquires various inputs from the user, such as a release button, a zoom button for changing the focal length of the lens, and a dial for selecting a mode. The recording unit 4 stores various programs for the image processing control unit 1 to perform processing. The recording unit 4 records a database (DB4a). The DB 4a includes data on sound output from a speaker, which will be described later, to the user, a vibration pattern transmitted to the user using the piezoelectric element 5, and the like.

  The digital camera 100 includes a display unit 8, an electronic viewfinder (EVF) 9, an eye sensor 10, and a touch panel 11. The display unit 8 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various images under the control of the image processing control unit 1. The display unit 8 is not limited to a liquid crystal display, and other display elements such as an organic EL display may be used. The EVF 9 includes a high-definition display element and displays various images under the control of the image processing control unit 1. The user looks at the EVF 9 and looks at the image displayed on the EVF 9. For this reason, the EVF 9 is not easily affected by external light, and can display with high visibility. For example, the display unit 8 and the EVF 9 display a through image acquired by the imaging unit 2 and subjected to image processing by the image processing control unit 1. The display unit 8 and the EVF 9 display various camera settings, for example. The display unit 8 displays a captured image, for example. The eye sensor 10 is a sensor for detecting whether or not the user is looking into the EVF 9 by detecting whether or not there is a face in the vicinity of the eye sensor 10. The touch panel 11 is provided on the display unit 8 and detects the touch position when the user touches the display unit 8. However, these display units may not be able to stare depending on the usage status of the device, and if the vision is concentrated there, it may be dangerous in an active scene. Looking at the shooting area alone may not be able to cope with important changes in the situation such as a limited field of view and a better subject. In addition, if the user concentrates on moving an operation part different from the display part, the display part may not always be seen. Furthermore, if the display unit is reflected, visual confirmation may be difficult even if the operation site is close to the display unit or provided on the display unit.

  The digital camera 100 includes a plurality of piezoelectric elements 5, a plurality of power supply circuits 6, and a plurality of touch detection units 7. As will be described later, the piezoelectric element 5 is provided at a position where it touches the user's hand. The piezoelectric element 5 transmits information to the user by bending. The power supply circuit 6 supplies power to the piezoelectric element 5 and drives the piezoelectric element 5. The touch detection unit 7 is combined with the piezoelectric element 5 to detect a position where the user touches the piezoelectric element 5.

  In the digital camera 100 according to the present embodiment, the location where the piezoelectric element 5 is disposed will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 2 as the piezoelectric element 5a, the piezoelectric element 5 is, for example, when the user holds the digital camera 100 by placing the right index finger on the release button 6a in the camera body 110 for shooting. The right hand 310 is provided at a position to be touched. Further, as shown as a piezoelectric element 5 b in FIG. 2, the piezoelectric element 5 is provided on, for example, a lens ring of the lens 120 that is touched with the left hand 320 when the user holds the digital camera 100 to perform photographing. ing. Further, as shown as a piezoelectric element 5 c in FIG. 3, the piezoelectric element 5 is provided on a part or the entire surface of the display unit 8 and the touch panel 11.

  The piezoelectric element 5 may be provided in all of the above-mentioned three places, or may be provided in some of them. Moreover, the above-mentioned three places are examples, and it is only necessary to be arranged at a position where the right hand or the left hand touches when the user holds the digital camera 100 for photographing. The position where the piezoelectric element 5 is disposed is preferably a position where a fingertip that is sensitive to touch is touched. In the case of cameras, typical holding locations such as the grip and lens area are fixed, and these locations are the same, but other devices are also assumed to be where the user grips and where the skin contacts. There are many cases.

  The piezoelectric element 5 used in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 schematically shows the piezoelectric element 5. The piezoelectric element 5 includes a piezoelectric element layer 51 containing, for example, L-form polylactic acid or D-form polylactic acid. A common electrode layer 52 and a microelectrode layer 53 are provided so as to sandwich the piezoelectric element layer 51. The microelectrode layer 53 is provided with a plurality of microelectrodes whose potential changes individually. When there is a potential difference between the common electrode layer 52 and the microelectrode layer 53, the piezoelectric element layer 51 expands and contracts, and as a result, the piezoelectric element layer 51 bends. By using polylactic acid for the piezoelectric element layer 51, a large displacement can be obtained with a simple structure.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when a signal voltage is applied only to the microelectrode 53a corresponding to the portion of the microelectrode layer 53 touched by the user's finger 330, the piezoelectric element layer 51 in that portion is Bend. As a result, the user's finger touching this portion senses this deflection. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, when the microelectrodes to which the signal voltage is applied are sequentially changed in the microelectrode layer 53, the bent position in the piezoelectric element layer 51 is changed. The user's finger can sense a change in position that is swollen by this bending. Here, the piezoelectric element 5 may be vibrated by finely changing the size of the bulge so that the user can easily sense the position where the bulge is swelled, or only the position is changed while having a certain bulge. May be.

  Even when a place where the skin is held or a place where the skin comes into contact is assumed, it is more effective to determine the bending position of the piezoelectric element 5 more strictly in consideration of individual differences in the user's eyelids, fingers, and contact parts. It is. Particularly, in a flat surface or a gentle curved surface, there is a difference in the area touched by the user, and accurate information transmission cannot be performed even if the piezoelectric element layer 51 in a place not touched is bent. However, such a consideration is unnecessary in a limited area such as a specific button.

  The piezoelectric element 5 changes its potential when it is bent by an external force. By detecting this potential change, the position where the user touches the piezoelectric element 5 can be acquired. The touch detection unit 7 acquires a position where the user touches the piezoelectric element 5 based on such a potential change of the piezoelectric element 5.

  The piezoelectric element 5a is provided with a touch detection unit 7a, and the piezoelectric element 5b is provided with a touch detection unit 7b. Since the piezoelectric element 5c is provided on the touch panel 11, the touch detection unit 7 is not provided on the piezoelectric element 5c. Of course, another detection unit may be provided.

  FIG. 7 shows an outline of the power supply circuit 6 that supplies power to the microelectrode layer 53 of the piezoelectric element 5 according to this embodiment. The microelectrode layer 53 includes a plurality of microelectrodes such as the first microelectrode 53-1 and the second microelectrode 53-2. The power supply circuit 6 is provided with a constant voltage source 61. The constant voltage source 61 includes a first constant voltage source 61-1, a second constant voltage source 61-2, a third constant voltage source 61-3, and a fourth constant voltage source having different supply potentials. 61-4. The number of these constant voltage sources depends on the increment of the deflection amount of the piezoelectric element 5, and is not limited to four and may be any number.

  The power supply circuit 6 includes a decoding unit 65 to which a control signal from the image processing control unit 1 is input. The decoding unit 65 is connected to a switch control circuit 62 such as a first switch (SW) control circuit 62-1 and a second SW control circuit 62-2, and outputs a control signal to these switch control circuits. Each switch control circuit 62 controls ON or OFF of a switch described later.

  The first to fourth constant voltage sources 61 are connected to the first microelectrode 53-1 via the switch 63-1 controlled by the first SW control circuit 62-1. Therefore, the first SW control circuit 62-1 turns each of the plurality of first switches 63-1 on or off, so that the first microelectrode 53 is turned on according to the voltage of the constant voltage source that is turned on. The potential of -1 changes.

  Similarly, the first to fourth constant voltage sources 61 are connected to the second microelectrode 53-2 via the switch 63-2 controlled by the second SW control circuit 62-2. Accordingly, the second SW control circuit 62-2 turns each of the plurality of second switches 63-2 ON or OFF, so that the second microelectrode 53 is set according to the voltage of the constant voltage source that is turned ON. -2 potential changes. Similarly, the potential of each microelectrode is controlled by the switch control circuit 62.

  In the digital camera 100, a recording medium 12 is detachably provided. The recording medium 12 is a general recording medium, and records images and the like acquired by the digital camera 100. The digital camera 100 includes a microphone 13 and a speaker 14. The microphone 13 receives audio outside the digital camera 100 and outputs an audio signal to the image processing control unit 1. The speaker 14 outputs sound to the outside of the digital camera 100 under the control of the image processing control unit 1. The digital camera 100 also includes a clock 15. The clock 15 outputs the time to the image processing control unit 1 in order to record the imaging time and the like.

  The image processing control unit 1 includes an imaging control unit 1a, an image processing unit 1b, a display control unit 1c, a signal generation unit 1d, a touch position specifying unit 1f, a signal switching unit 1g, and a voice analysis unit 1h. Including. The imaging control unit 1a controls a part related to imaging like each unit of the imaging unit 2, for example. The imaging control unit 1a performs shutter speed, aperture, focusing, focal length adjustment, and the like. The image processing unit 1b performs image processing on the image signal acquired by the imaging unit 2, and creates a captured image or a through image. The display control unit 1c controls display on the display unit 8 and the EVF 9. Further, based on the detection result of the eye sensor 10, the display control unit 1 c displays an image on the EVF 9 when the user is looking into the EVF 9, for example, and displays on the display unit 8 when the user is not looking into the EVF 9. Make decisions such as

  The signal generation unit 1 d outputs a drive signal for driving the piezoelectric element 5. In addition, the signal generation unit 1d includes a speech synthesis unit 1e. The voice synthesizer 1e synthesizes the voice output from the speaker 14. The signal generation unit 1d generates a signal to be output to the piezoelectric element 5 and the speaker 14 based on the data recorded in the DB 4a. The touch position specifying unit 1f analyzes the detection signal from the touch panel 11 and the detection signal from the touch detection unit 7, and specifies the position touched by the user. The signal switching unit 1g determines which one of the three piezoelectric elements 5a, 5b, and 5c outputs the drive signal. The voice analysis unit 1h analyzes the voice acquired by the microphone 13 and acquires, for example, an instruction by a voice uttered by the user.

  Next, the operation of the digital camera 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. The digital camera 100 according to the present embodiment performs a predetermined operation based on the bending or vibration of the piezoelectric element 5 and the sound output from the speaker 14 without the user visually confirming the display on the display unit 8 or the like. It is configured so that it can be recognized. In the present embodiment, an example in which vibration or sound is output for an operation designated by the user is shown. A flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG.

  In step S101, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the shooting mode is set. When it is determined that the shooting mode is set, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S102, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a captured image from the imaging unit 2, performs image processing, and creates a through image.

  In step S103, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a detection signal from the eye sensor 10, and determines whether or not the eye sensor 10 is in a sensing state. When it is determined that the eye sensor 10 is not in the sensing state, that is, when it is determined that the user is not looking into the EVF 9, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, the image processing control unit 1 causes the display unit 8 to display the through image created in step S102.

  In step S <b> 105, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a detection signal from the touch panel 11 and determines whether or not the screen displayed on the display unit 8 has been touched. When it is determined that the screen is touched, the process proceeds to step S106. In step S <b> 106, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the touched position is on icons indicating various operations displayed on the display unit 8. When it is determined that the icon is on the icon, the process proceeds to step S121. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not on the icon, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the image processing control unit 1 performs a touch release operation. That is, the image processing control unit 1 performs an operation of focusing on the subject displayed on the display unit 8 according to the position where the touch panel 11 is touched. Subsequently, the imaging unit 2 performs imaging, and an image obtained by performing image processing on the acquired image is recorded in the recording medium 12.

  When it is determined in step S105 that the screen is not touched, the process proceeds to step S108. In step S <b> 108, the image processing control unit 1 acquires an input signal from the operation unit 3, for example, and determines whether or not a photographing operation such as pressing the release button has been performed. If it is determined that no shooting operation has been performed, the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, when it is determined that a shooting operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S109. In step S <b> 109, the image processing control unit 1 causes the imaging unit 2 to perform imaging, and causes the recording medium 12 to record the acquired image subjected to image processing. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

  When it is determined in step S103 that the eye sensor 10 is in the sensing state, the process proceeds to step S111. In step S111, the image processing control unit 1 causes the EVF 9 to display the through image created in step S102. In step S112, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not an operation has been selected. The operation selection is performed, for example, by operating a button or a dial of the operation unit 3. The operation selection is made by, for example, inputting voice to the microphone 13. At this time, the image processing control unit 1 performs voice recognition based on the input voice. When it is determined that no operation has been selected, the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation has been selected, the process proceeds to step S121.

  In step S <b> 121, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a position where the user's finger touches the plurality of piezoelectric elements 5. Here, the position touched by the user's finger is acquired from the touch panel 11 in the case of the piezoelectric element 5c provided in the display unit 8, for example. Further, in the piezoelectric element 5 provided in the lens or the camera body, the touch position is acquired from the touch specifying unit 7 arranged together with the piezoelectric element 5. In step S <b> 122, the image processing control unit 1 identifies a place having the largest area touched by the user's finger among the plurality of piezoelectric elements 5, and outputs a tactile stimulus corresponding to the selected action. Select.

  In step S123, the image processing control unit 1 performs a piezoelectric control process. In the piezoelectric control process, a sound representing the selected action and a tactile stimulus representing an action synchronized with the sound are output. For example, when “telephoto zoom” or “wide-angle zoom” operation is selected, a sound as shown in FIG. 9 is output. As described with reference to FIG. 6, the bulge position of the piezoelectric element 5 changes in accordance with the level of the sound of the voice. For example, the bulge position changes so that the high pitch bulge position is in the fingertip direction and the low pitch bulge position is in the finger root direction.

  The selected operation may be an operation of a touch panel provided on the display unit, an operation of a cross key or a touch pad provided on the display unit, or an operation of a ring operation unit or a switch provided in another part. . In the case of a touch operation, the tactile stimulus may give a stimulus to the touch part, or may detect a gripped part or a part in contact with the body and give the stimulus there. The touch panel slide operation can be applied to generate vibrations according to the sliding process, and can assist in feeling that the surface is not rough. For example, whether or not a blind touch-type slide or a slide that traces a predetermined pattern has been correctly performed is correctly notified to the user by vibration of the touched point or vibration to the skin contact portion such as another gripping portion. It becomes possible. It is also possible to change the amount of this stimulus according to individual differences in the user's sense. For example, the strength of gripping is detected, and weak stimulation for weakly gripped people, strong stimulation for strong people May be issued. As a result, it is possible to solve the problem of being surprised by the stimulus and dropping the device.

  The piezoelectric control process will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In step S <b> 201, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the number of times that the same operation selection operation has been performed is less than 100 times. When it is determined that the number of times is less than 100, the process proceeds to step S202. In step S202, the image processing control unit 1 acquires an audio pattern corresponding to the operation selected by the user from the DB 4a. In step S203, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a vibration pattern corresponding to the operation selected by the user from the DB 4a.

  In step S204, the image processing control unit 1 determines the effective range of the contact position in the piezoelectric element 5 that outputs the haptic stimulus selected in step S122. Here, the effective range is determined as follows, for example. That is, as shown in FIG. 11, for example, in the piezoelectric element 5, when the vertically long microelectrodes are arranged in the horizontal direction, the length direction is the horizontal direction. At this time, if the contact position 201 is as shown in the figure, a straight line passing through the center of gravity of the contact position 201 and parallel to the length direction is set, and the range of the contact position 201 on the straight line is determined as the effective range 202. Is done.

  In step S205, the image processing control unit 1 outputs one sound of the sound based on the sound pattern acquired in step S202. Simultaneously with this sound output, based on the effective range determined in step S204 and the vibration pattern acquired in step S203, the haptic stimulus corresponding to one sound to be output is output to the piezoelectric element 5. For the tactile stimulation, for example, the tactile stimulation pattern is adjusted so that the tactile stimulation is performed within the effective range. Further, the center of the effective range is set to be a predetermined pitch of the output sound.

  In step S206, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not a predetermined time, which is an output time of one sound, has elapsed. When it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S205 to continue outputting the single sound. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S207. In step S207, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the word to be output is over and the output is finished. When it is determined that the output is finished, the processing returns to the main flow described with reference to FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that the output is not finished, the process proceeds to step S208. In step S208, the image processing control unit 1 determines a haptic stimulus output position corresponding to the next sound. Thereafter, the process returns to step S205, and the next one-tone tactile stimulus and sound are output. In this way, the speech of words to be output and tactile stimuli are output as a series.

  When it is determined in step S201 that the number of operations is 100 or more, the process proceeds to step S211. When the process proceeds to step S211, the user has repeatedly perceived the voice and the tactile stimulus 100 times, so it is considered that the voice and the tactile stimulus are stored in association with each other. Such a user is thought to recall the corresponding sound even if there is no sound just by receiving a tactile stimulus. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the number of operations is 100 times or more, only the tactile stimulus is output without outputting the sound. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the output sound from becoming an obstacle in shooting in a quiet place.

  In this embodiment, the information can be given clearly and abundantly in two dimensions and three dimensions, but the auditory sense requires a temporal change, and the amount of information that can be sensed by tactile sense at the same place is small. In order to prevent this, the uncertainty and lowness of information are compensated by a plurality of information and stimuli including hearing, touch, and vision as necessary. In addition, it is devised in consideration of the fact that the user becomes accustomed to the stimulus and becomes more sensitive and the auxiliary information may be reduced. As a result, energy saving and quietness can be ensured. Further, the tactile stimulus may be gradually simplified and limited according to the number of times the same information is transmitted. Note that the number of times of 100 can be changed, and the degree of familiarity may be detected and increased or decreased by determining the speed of the user's operation.

  In step S211, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a vibration pattern corresponding to the operation selected by the user from the DB 4a. In step S212, the image processing control unit 1 specifies the effective range of the contact position in the piezoelectric element 5 that outputs the haptic stimulus selected in step S122. In step S213, the image processing control unit 1 outputs a tactile stimulus corresponding to one sound to the piezoelectric element 5 based on the effective range of the contact position specified in step S212 and the vibration pattern acquired in step S211. Let

  In step S214, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not a predetermined time, which is an output time of a tactile stimulus corresponding to one sound, has elapsed. When it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S213, and the output of the tactile stimulus corresponding to the one sound is continued. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S215. In step S215, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the word to be output is over and the output is finished. When it is determined that the output is finished, the processing returns to the main flow described with reference to FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that the output is not finished, the process proceeds to step S216. In step S216, the image processing control unit 1 determines a haptic stimulus output position corresponding to the next sound. Thereafter, the process returns to step S213, and a haptic stimulus corresponding to the next sound is output. In this way, tactile stimuli corresponding to the words to be output are output as a series.

  Not only the tactile sense but also the stimuli of the five senses for the user may be collectively referred to as stimulus information. As described above, by assisting a stimulus unfamiliar with a single stimulus with other information (stimulus), it becomes possible to transmit information that is easy for the user to understand. In particular, information and stimuli that change over time are transient, and it is preferable to assist a plurality of information in order to prevent missed touches and missed hearings. Therefore, the same display may be performed visually. At this time, the display may be a telop type to correspond to the time change. Since the user reads this display in his / her head, the voice and vibration may be switched in accordance with intonation such as rhythm and pitch change at that time.

  Since it is difficult to know to what part the transient stimulus has been output at this time, auxiliary stimuli that indicate the beginning and end of the stimulus may be output before and after the stimulus. As a result, the user can concentrate the nerves on the stimulus with a prepared attitude, and the certainty of transmission increases. However, since information transmission requiring a long time limits the lightness of control of the device, a switch for interruption operation may be provided. Moreover, you may make it shorten the stimulus which takes time rapidly.

  Returning to FIG. The user uses the operation unit 3 or the touch panel 11 to input a determination result as to whether or not the operation selected by the user presented in the piezoelectric control process in step S123 is an intended selection. In step S <b> 124, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a determination result (selection OK or selection NG) on whether or not the selection is an intended selection input by the user from the operation unit 3 or the touch panel 11. Determine whether or not. If it is determined that the selection is not OK, the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, when it is determined that the selection is OK, the process proceeds to step S125. In step S125, the image processing control unit 1 performs control or setting according to the operation selected by the user. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S126.

  This OK display may be performed visually or in combination with auditory or tactile stimulation (or vision). As a result, even if one piece of information is missed and missed, another sense can assist and the operation with increased certainty can be continued. These five senses of stimulation for the user may be collectively referred to as stimulation information. Therefore, even if it fails, it can be recovered immediately. Also, the speed and trajectory can be changed by a slide operation or the like.

  In step S126, the image processing control unit 1 acquires an input signal from the operation unit 3, for example, and determines whether or not a shooting operation has been performed. If it is determined that no shooting operation has been performed, the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, when it is determined that a shooting operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S127. In step S <b> 127, the image processing control unit 1 causes the imaging unit 2 to perform imaging, and records the acquired image on the recording medium 12. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

  If it is determined in step S101 that the shooting mode is not selected, the process proceeds to step S151. In step S151, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the playback mode is set. When it is determined that the playback mode is set, the process proceeds to step S152. In step S <b> 152, the image processing control unit 1 reads a selected image from images recorded on the recording medium 12 and causes the display unit 8 to display the selected image. The selected image may be, for example, an image recorded most recently at the beginning when the display mode is selected, or may be an image selected from thumbnail images.

  In step S153, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether an operation for changing the selected image has been performed. When it is determined that an image change operation has not been performed, the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, when it is determined that an image change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S154. In step S154, the image processing control unit 1 changes the selected image, and the process returns to step S101.

  If it is determined in step S151 that the playback mode is not selected, the process proceeds to step S155. In step S155, the image processing control unit 1 performs a communication operation and the like. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

  According to the present embodiment, the digital camera 100 can present the user with the operation selection by the piezoelectric element 5 using the tactile sensation, without using the display unit 8 or the like using vision. As a result, the user can concentrate his vision on, for example, shooting framing. Even if it is not shooting, the same effect can be obtained by operating the device such that the display unit cannot be stared. In the present embodiment, the example in which the bending position of the piezoelectric element 5 is changed according to the pattern is shown, but the bending timing may be changed.

  Further, as in the present embodiment, the tactile stimulus by the piezoelectric element 5 and the auditory stimulus by the sound output from the speaker 14 are used together until the predetermined number of times is repeated. For this reason, even if the tactile stimulus and the auditory stimulus are weak outputs, the user can recognize the presentation by the digital camera 100. Furthermore, the fact that the position where the piezoelectric element 5 bends has a correlation with the pitch of the voice has the effect that the degree of relevance between these two stimuli increases, so that the user can easily perceive. In addition, the tactile stimulus and the auditory stimulus are used together a predetermined number of times, so that the tactile stimulus memory and the sound memory are combined in the user, and the user can perceive the sound even with the tactile stimulus alone. . Of course, it goes without saying that other senses may be assisted.

  In the present embodiment, the digital camera 100 is provided with a plurality of piezoelectric elements 5, and a tactile stimulus is output by the piezoelectric elements 5 having a large area touched by the user. Thus, by providing a plurality of piezoelectric elements 5, the digital camera 100 has an effect that information transmission is reliably performed even if the user grips in various forms according to the usage situation.

  Although the case of the telephoto zoom operation and the wide-angle zoom operation has been described as an example, the presentation method according to the present embodiment can be used for various operations. By having the vibration pattern of the piezoelectric element 5 for each operation, the user can identify a plurality of operations.

  Further, in the present embodiment, an example is shown in which confirmation is performed by outputting a tactile stimulus or the like when the user performs an input to instruct the digital camera 100 to perform an operation. However, it is not limited to this. When the user inputs an instruction, the digital camera 100 may be configured to perform an operation based on the instruction while simultaneously presenting the operation content by tactile stimulation or the like. In addition, the present embodiment is not limited to responding to an instruction input from the user, and can be used for transmitting various information from the digital camera 100 to the user. For example, it is possible to output information such as the result of determination as to whether or not the subject is in focus and whether the exposure is under or over.

  In the present embodiment, the case where voice and vibration in Japanese are presented is illustrated, but it may be presented in another language such as English. In this case, the voice and vibration patterns for various languages are recorded in the DB 4a so that the voice and the vibration match according to the language.

  Further, for example, for an operation that needs to be adjusted, such as exposure correction, the piezoelectric element 5 may be operated like a slider. That is, for example, the piezoelectric element 5 c that is overlapped with the display unit 8 and the touch panel 11 is used. As shown in FIG. 12, the position of the piezoelectric element 5c swells according to the current exposure correction setting value. When the user slides a finger on the touch panel 11 so as to move the bulge, the piezoelectric element 5c changes the bulge position in accordance with the slide. As a result, the user can feel a tactile sensation as if operating the slider. At this time, it goes without saying that voice stimulation may be assisted. Further, it is not necessary to vibrate the touch part, and the grip part of the device or the like may be detected and vibrated there. Of course, the vibration pattern is not a piezoelectric element, but the vibration pattern can be changed by application of the member by rotation of a motor or the like.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Here, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the same portions will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted. In the first embodiment, an operation pattern is presented to the user by changing the vibration position of the piezoelectric element 5. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the piezoelectric element 5 outputs Braille in order. For this reason, the position where the piezoelectric element 5 is expanded can be changed two-dimensionally.

  For example, when “exposure change” is selected, as shown in FIG. 13, braille representing “Roschtschenko” is successively presented by the piezoelectric element 5. That is, the piezoelectric element 5 inflates the position corresponding to the Braille protrusions one after another.

  The piezoelectric control process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In step S <b> 301, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the number of times the same operation selection operation has been performed is less than 100 times. When it is determined that the number is less than 100, the process proceeds to step S302. In step S302, the image processing control unit 1 acquires an audio pattern corresponding to the operation selected by the user from the DB 4a. In step S303, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a Braille pattern corresponding to the operation selected by the user from the DB 4a.

  In step S304, the image processing control unit 1 determines the effective range of the contact position in the piezoelectric element 5 that outputs the haptic stimulus selected in step S122. Here, the effective range is a rectangle 203 inscribed in the contact position 201, as shown in FIG. The image processing control unit 1 presents Braille in this rectangle 203. The effective range may be a rectangle having a predetermined size with the center of gravity of the contact position 201 as the center. In this case, since the size of the braille is always constant, it is easily recognized by the user.

  In step S <b> 305, the image processing control unit 1 outputs a sound of the sound based on the sound pattern acquired in step S <b> 302. Simultaneously with this sound output, based on the effective range determined in step S304 and the Braille pattern acquired in step S303, the piezoelectric element 5 is caused to output a tactile stimulus representing Braille corresponding to one sound to be output. That is, the piezoelectric element 5 projects or vibrates a point corresponding to Braille.

  In step S306, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not a predetermined time that is an output time of one sound has passed. When it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S305 to continue outputting the single sound. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S307. In step S307, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the word to be output is over and the output is finished. When it is determined that the output is finished, the processing returns to the main flow described with reference to FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that the output is not finished, the process proceeds to step S308. In step S308, the image processing control unit 1 determines the output position of the braille pattern corresponding to the next sound. Thereafter, the process returns to step S305 to output the next single-tone tactile stimulus and sound. In this way, the speech of the word to be output and the tactile stimulation by Braille are output as a series.

  When it is determined in step S301 that the number of operations is 100 or more, the process proceeds to step S311. In the present embodiment, when the number of operations is 100 times or more, only a tactile stimulus by Braille is output without outputting a sound. In step S311, the image processing control unit 1 acquires a braille pattern corresponding to the operation selected by the user from the DB 4a. In step S312, the image processing control unit 1 specifies an effective range of contact positions in the piezoelectric element 5 that outputs the haptic stimulus selected in step S122. In step S313, the image processing control unit 1 applies a tactile stimulus representing a braille corresponding to one sound based on the effective range of the contact position specified in step S312 and the braille pattern acquired in step S311. 5 to output.

  Of course, the number of times 100 given here as an example may be changeable. Further, visual information may be used in addition to voice and tactile stimulation. In this case, the difference may be expressed using a color, a pattern, or the like in addition to characters, symbols, and icons. In the case of voice, it is a change over time and is easy to understand, but lacks responsiveness. The tactile sense does not need to change with time, but it requires a delicate sensation and is difficult to get used to. By using other sensations in addition to tactile sensation, such a problem of habituation can be improved. When reading text, it is converted into speech in the brain, so text information may be used. A typical example is a telop. However, the telop takes time and restricts the user's vision. Therefore, as in the present invention, if there is an information transmission means in the gripping part or the like, the restriction is removed, and it is safe and easy to understand, and the user's vision is more free. Effective operation of the device is possible.

  In step S314, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not a predetermined time, which is an output time of a tactile stimulus corresponding to one sound, has elapsed. When it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S313, and the output of the tactile stimulus representing the Braille corresponding to the one sound is continued. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S315. In step S315, the image processing control unit 1 determines whether or not the word to be output is over and the output is finished. When it is determined that the output is finished, the processing returns to the main flow described with reference to FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that the output is not finished, the process proceeds to step S316. In step S316, the image processing control unit 1 determines the output position of the tactile stimulus representing the braille corresponding to the next sound. Thereafter, the process returns to step S313, and a tactile stimulus corresponding to the next sound is output. In this manner, a series of tactile stimuli by Braille corresponding to the words to be output is output. As described above, the voice can be replaced with character information such as telop.

  According to the present embodiment, the user can recognize the selected action by a sense other than vision, such as Braille, as in the case of the first embodiment. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the user can concentrate his / her vision for confirming the subject. In addition, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Braille may be changed over time as in the case of voice, but may be displayed stuffed or simplified in abbreviated form. It is important to take such measures to increase responsiveness. Although tactile sensation takes time to get used to, it is possible to make a user's sense delicate and to ensure transmission by such a device. Not only the process of operation, but also an operation error may be transmitted.

  In the first and second embodiments described above, the digital camera 100 has been described as an example. However, the present invention can be applied to various imaging devices such as smartphones and endoscopes that are operated by holding them with a hand. Can be used. In particular, since it is effective in a scene where blind touch is required without looking at the screen, it goes without saying that it can be applied to various information devices, medical devices, industrial devices, and the like.

  Of the techniques described here, the control described mainly with the flowchart can be executed by a program. This program may be stored in a recording medium or a recording unit. This recording medium and recording method may be recorded in a digital camera at the time of product shipment, introduced into a digital camera using a distributed recording medium, or used on the Internet. May be downloaded and introduced into a digital camera for use.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image processing control part, 1a ... Shooting control part, 1b ... Image processing part, 1c ... Display control part, 1d ... Signal generation part, 1e ... Voice synthesis part, 1f ... Touch position specific | specification part, 1g ... Signal switching part, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1h ... Voice analysis part, 2 ... Imaging part, 3 ... Operation part, 4 ... Recording part, 4a ... DB, 5 ... Piezoelectric element, 6 ... Power supply circuit, 6a ... Release button, 7 ... Touch detection part, 8 ... Display 9 ... EVF, 10 ... eye sensor, 11 ... touch panel, 12 ... recording medium, 13 ... microphone, 14 ... speaker, 51 ... piezoelectric element layer, 52 ... common electrode layer, 53 ... microelectrode layer, 53-1. 1 microelectrode, 53-2 ... second microelectrode, 61-1 ... first constant voltage source, 61-2 ... second constant voltage source, 61-3 ... third constant voltage source, 61- 4 ... 4th constant voltage source, 62-1 ... 1st SW control circuit, 62-2 ... 2nd SW control circuit , 63-1 ... first switch, 63-2 ... second switch, 65 ... decoding unit, 100 ... digital camera, 110 ... camera, 120 ... lens.

Claims (21)

A signal generation unit that outputs a different deformation signal for each transmission information;
A flexible thin plate-shaped piezoelectric member configured to partially deform a position corresponding to the deformation signal;
An information device comprising: An operation unit configured to receive an operation instruction;
The signal generation unit outputs the deformation signal corresponding to the transmission information according to an input to the operation unit.
The information device according to claim 1. Further comprising an imaging unit;
The transmission information is information related to imaging by the imaging unit.
The information device according to claim 1 or 2. It further includes an output unit that outputs a sound corresponding to the sound signal or a character corresponding to the character signal,
The signal generation unit further outputs the voice signal or the character signal to the output unit so as to output a voice or a character according to the deformation of the piezoelectric member.
The information device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The output unit outputs sound,
The information device according to claim 4, wherein there is a correlation between a deformation position of the piezoelectric member and a pitch of the voice. A recording unit for recording the number of times the deformation signal is output for each transmission information;
The signal generator is
Outputting the audio signal and the deformation signal, causing the output of the audio and the deformation of the piezoelectric member to be performed simultaneously;
Reducing the stimulation according to the change in the number of times of the same transmission information;
The information device according to claim 4 or 5. There are a plurality of the piezoelectric members,
A contact detection unit that is provided in each of the piezoelectric members and detects a contact state between the piezoelectric member and a user;
A signal switching unit that selects the piezoelectric member to be deformed among the plurality of piezoelectric members according to the contact state;
The information device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: Provided in the piezoelectric member, further comprising a contact detection unit for detecting a contact state between the piezoelectric member and a user;
The signal generation unit outputs the deformation signal so as to deform a portion of the piezoelectric member that is in contact with the user based on the contact state.
The information device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.   The information device according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric member includes polylactic acid. A stimulator that simultaneously outputs stimuli for a plurality of senses of the user in order to transmit information according to the operation to the user;
A stimulus control unit that reduces the type or degree of the stimulus according to the user's familiarity;
An information device comprising: The plurality of senses are tactile sensation and visual or auditory sense,
The information is a time change of character information using the sight or a time change of sound using the auditory sense, and a time change of tactile stimulation using the tactile sense,
The stimulus control unit reduces the time required for information transmission using the stimulus according to the user's familiarity, or substitutes information transmission using the visual sense or the auditory sense for information transmission using the tactile sense.
The information device according to claim 10. An information transmission method using an information device having a flexible thin plate-shaped piezoelectric member configured such that a position corresponding to a deformation signal is partially deformed,
Outputting the different deformation signal for each transmission information;
Deforming the piezoelectric member based on the deformation signal;
An information transmission method comprising: Further comprising obtaining an input operation instruction;
The deformation signal is a signal corresponding to the transmission information according to the operation instruction.
The information transmission method according to claim 12. The transmission information is information related to imaging.
The information transmission method according to claim 12 or 13. Outputting a voice signal corresponding to the voice or a character signal corresponding to the character so as to output a voice or a character corresponding to the deformation of the piezoelectric member,
The information transmission method according to any one of claims 12 to 14. Outputting a sound signal corresponding to the sound so as to output a sound having a pitch having a correlation with the deformation position of the piezoelectric member;
The information transmission method according to any one of claims 12 to 14. The audio signal and the deformation signal are output simultaneously so as to simultaneously perform stimulation by the output of the audio and the deformation of the piezoelectric member,
Recording the number of times the deformation signal is output for each transmission information;
The information transmission method according to claim 15 or 16, further comprising: reducing the stimulation according to a change in the number of times of the same transmission information. There are a plurality of the piezoelectric members, and the piezoelectric member is provided with a contact detection unit that detects a contact state with a user.
Detecting the contact state;
Selecting the piezoelectric member to be deformed from a plurality of the piezoelectric members according to the contact state;
The information transmission method according to claim 12, further comprising: The piezoelectric member further includes a contact detection unit that detects a contact state with a user provided on the piezoelectric member,
Outputting the deformation signal so as to deform a portion of the piezoelectric member that is in contact with the user based on the contact state;
The information transmission method according to any one of claims 12 to 18. Outputting simultaneously to the user a plurality of senses in order to transmit information according to the operation to the user;
Reducing the type or degree of the stimulus according to the user's familiarity;
An information transmission method comprising: The plurality of senses are tactile sensation and visual or auditory sense,
The information is a time change of character information using the sight or a time change of sound using the auditory sense, and a time change of tactile stimulation using the tactile sense,
Reducing the time required for information transmission using the stimulus according to the user's familiarity, or substituting information transmission using the visual sense or the auditory sense for information transmission using the tactile sense,
The information transmission method according to claim 20.

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