JP3201735U - Key input device - Google Patents

Abstract

A key input device capable of improving the operability when inputting characters or the like is provided. In a key input device for displaying at least a numeric keypad and various characters, numbers, and symbols assigned to the numeric keypad on a touch panel display unit, various characters and symbols are key tops. It is possible to input the flick operation in the vertical and horizontal slant directions in 3a to 3l and the distances thereof by recognizing / determining by the determination means.・ It is possible to judge in three stages of long distance, and various characters and symbols can be input according to the stage of the distance. During flick operation at short distance, medium distance and long distance, input is in progress. Is displayed on or around the numeric keypad 3. [Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a key input device.

In recent years, portable information terminals have been diversified. Among them, smartphones are getting bigger, tablet PCs are getting lighter, and they are taking the position of notebook computers. Along with this, character input is also changing from a hardware keyboard to a software keyboard (hereinafter referred to as a soft key) displayed on a touch panel display unit (referred to as a so-called touch panel or touch screen).
Various types of soft key arrangements are known, including a QWERTY arrangement and a numeric keypad type (see Non-Patent Document 1, for example).

"Breaking Mobile CATCH UP" by Takeyuki Horibayashi! “IPhone 3G where you can experience a new era of mobile phones” ”, [online], July 10, 2008, [January 19, 2013 search], Internet <URL: http: //k-tai.impress. co.jp/cda/article/mobile_catchup/40804.html>

By the way, the soft keys employed in smartphones and tablet PCs have several problems as follows.
1. Conventional soft keys are divided into three input modes of “kana”, “English”, and “number”, and the rhythm of sentence input is disturbed when the input mode is switched.
2. With conventional softkeys, only the top of each line (for example, “A” for a line, “K” for a line) is displayed and displayed as the key top character in the “Kana” input mode. I am confused by the input of characters that are not.
3. Conventional soft keys often have four directions of flick operation, and character input is a mixture of tap operation and flick operation (for example, “Aiueo” character input requires five operations. Operation and flick operation are mixed).
4). With conventional soft keys, it is necessary to perform an input operation through a plurality of keys when inputting muddy characters, semi-voiced characters, lowercase letters, uppercase letters, and the like.
5. In the conventional soft key, frequently used symbols are registered and set in three input modes, and a target symbol may be searched for.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a key input device capable of improving the operability when inputting characters or the like.

The device according to claim 1 is, for example, as shown in FIGS.
Numeric keypad 3 having 3 rows and 4 columns and a total of 12 key tops 3a to 3l;
In a key input device for displaying various characters, numbers and symbols assigned to each of the 12 key tops 3a to 3l,
Recognizing a tap operation and a flick operation on the twelve key tops 3a to 3l by the user, and provided with determination means 9 (9a, 9b, 9c) for determining a direction and a distance at the time of the flick operation,
The number can be input when the determination means 9 recognizes the tap operation of the key tops 3a to 3j.
The various characters and the symbols can be input by recognizing / determining the flick operations in the eight vertical and horizontal directions and the distances of the key tops 3a to 3l by the determination means 9.
The distance of the flick operation in one direction can be determined by the determination means 9 in three stages of short distance, medium distance, and long distance, and the various characters and symbols differ according to the distance stage. Can be entered,
When the various characters are kana, Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to the short-distance flick operation, muddy letters or lowercase letters corresponding to the Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to the medium-distance or long-distance flick operations, A semi-voice character corresponding to a capital letter is assigned to the long distance flick operation,
When the various characters are alphabetic characters, lowercase letters are assigned to the short-distance flick operations, uppercase letters are assigned to the medium-distance or long-distance flick operations,
In the case of the symbol, a frequently used symbol is assigned to the short distance flick operation, and a symbol highly related to the frequently used symbol is assigned to the medium distance or long distance flick operation. And
During the flick operation at the short distance, the medium distance, and the long distance, the balloon display unit 2b on which the various characters and symbols being input are displayed in a balloon is displayed on or around the numeric keypad 3. It is characterized by that.

According to the device of the first aspect, the following operational effects can be obtained.
1. Various characters, numbers, and symbols are assigned to each of the twelve key tops 3a to 3l in the numeric keypad 3. Numbers can be input by a tap operation, and various characters and symbols can be input by a flick operation. It is possible to input various characters, numbers, and symbols without switching the three input modes of “Kana”, “English”, and “Numeral”. This prevents the text input rhythm from being disturbed.
2. A balloon display portion 2b on which various characters / symbols that are being input are displayed in a balloon during a short distance / medium distance / long distance flick operation is displayed on or around the numeric keypad 3. An input operation can be performed while visually recognizing what the symbol is. As a result, all the letters, numbers, and symbols assigned to the key tops 3a to 3l are "visualized", and an input operation can be easily performed.
3. Since various characters and symbols can be input by the flicking operation in the vertical and horizontal diagonal directions in the key tops 3a to 3l and the distances thereof being recognized and determined by the determining means 9, most of the character input is performed by the flicking operation. You just need to enter it. As a result, the tap operation and the flick operation are less frequently used when inputting characters and the like, and the input operation can be easily performed.
4). When various characters are kana, Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to short-distance flick operations, and muddy characters or lowercase letters corresponding to Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to medium-distance or long-distance flick operations, and semi-voiced sounds corresponding to Kiyane uppercase letters. If a character is assigned to a long-distance flick operation, and the various characters are alphabetic characters, a lowercase letter is assigned to a short-distance flick operation, and an uppercase letter is assigned to a medium-distance or long-distance flick operation. By simply performing a medium or long-distance flick operation, it is possible to input muddy characters, semi-voiced characters, lowercase letters, and uppercase letters. This eliminates the need to input muddy character, semi-sound character, lowercase letters, and uppercase letters via a plurality of keys, and makes it easier to enter muddy character, semi-spoken letters, lowercase letters, and uppercase letters.
5. In the case of symbols, frequently used symbols are assigned to short-distance flick operations, and frequently used symbols are assigned to medium- or long-distance flick operations. If a high symbol is assigned to the key tops 3a, 3j, 3k, 3l, it is possible to search for the target symbol without switching the three input modes of “Kana”, “English”, and “Numeral” as in the past. it can. This facilitates the input of symbols.
6). In general, since the operability when inputting various characters, numbers, and symbols can be improved, a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet PC becomes easy to use.

The invention described in claim 2 is the key input device according to claim 1, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 to 8, for example.
The balloon display portion 2b is colored differently for each of the three stages of distances.

  According to the invention described in claim 2, since the balloon display unit 2b is colored differently for each of the three distances, the input characters and symbols can be in any of the short distance, medium distance, and long distance stages. It is possible to perform an input operation while visually confirming whether or not.

The invention described in claim 3 is the key input device according to claim 1 or 2, as shown in FIG. 1, FIG.
Each of the twelve key tops 3a to 3l is divided into three areas of an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage. In the middle area, one of the numbers or the symbols is displayed, and the upper stage and the lower stage are displayed. In each area, a plurality of the various characters / symbols are displayed,
The upper or lower area includes the various characters and symbols corresponding to left and right input by flicking in the left and right direction,
The various characters / symbols corresponding to the left and right are arranged closer to the middle region than the other characters / symbols input by flicking in different directions in the upper or lower region. It is characterized by that.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, the left and right corresponding characters / symbols are more than the other characters / symbols input by flicking in different directions in the upper or lower region of the key tops 3a to 3l. Since the key tops 3a to 3l are arranged close to the middle region, it is easy to intuitively understand the direction of the flick operation when inputting various left and right characters / symbols.

The invention described in claim 4 is the key input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, as shown in FIGS.
The touch panel display unit 2 has a plurality of functions for assisting the input of the various characters / symbols by the ten key 3 along with the ten key 3 on both the left and right sides of the area where the ten key 3 is displayed. The function key area 4 with the key tops 4a to 4h is arranged,
For the case where the various characters / symbols are input by performing a flick operation toward the function key area 4, the function key area 4 and the function key area 4 do not exceed the function key area 4. It is characterized in that the stage flick operation is enabled.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when various characters / symbols are input by performing a flick operation toward the function key area 4, the function key area 4 is set on the function key area 4. Since the three-step flick operation is set so as not to exceed, various characters assigned to the key tops 3a, 3d, 3e, 3k, 3c, 3f, 3i, 3l located on the side end of the numeric keypad 3・ Even if a symbol requires a three-step flick operation, the input operation of the various characters / symbols can be performed reliably.

The device according to claim 5 is the key input device according to claim 4,
The determination means 9 is set to be able to recognize a tap operation and a flick operation on the plurality of key tops 4a to 4h in the function key area 4.
The plurality of key tops 4a to 4h in the function key area 4 have a function of collectively erasing a character string composed of the characters / symbols input by operating the numeric keypad 3 on the left side and the right side. 4f is included,
A flick operation to the left is assigned to the function for collectively erasing the character strings on the left side in the key top 4f for batch erasure, and the function for erasing the character strings to the right is assigned to the right side. Flick operation to is assigned.

  According to the invention described in claim 5, a flick operation to the left side is assigned to the function for erasing the character strings to the left side, and to the right side to the function for erasing the character strings to the right side. Since the flick operation is assigned, when deleting a character string, for example, it is possible to delete the character string all together with a simple operation with less effort than deleting characters one by one. Therefore, as an auxiliary function when inputting characters or the like, it is possible to contribute to improvement in operability when inputting characters or the like.

The invention according to claim 6 is the key input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, for example, as shown in FIGS.
Based on the regularity of the endings of the phonetic Kanji characters constituting the idioms, kana representing the endings that are frequently used when inputting idioms are assigned to the edges of the key tops 3a to 3l constituting the numeric keypad 3, and It is characterized in that it can be input in combination with a kana representing the beginning of a kanji character.

  According to the invention described in claim 6, the kana representing the ending frequently used when inputting the idiom is based on the regularity of the ending of the phonetic kanji that constitutes the idiom, the key tops 3a to 3l constituting the numeric keypad 3. Since it is possible to input in combination with the kana that represents the beginning of the phonetic kanji, it is possible to input from the position of the beginning of the phonetic kanji that makes up the idiom and end at the end of the end, You can quickly and easily input Kanji reading.

  According to the present invention, operability when inputting various characters, numbers, and symbols can be improved, so that portable information terminals such as smartphones and tablet PCs can be easily used.

It is a front view which shows the portable apparatus provided with the key input device. (A) The operation method of the numeric keypad and the function key displayed on the touch panel type display unit is shown, and (b) is a diagram showing eight virtual sections corresponding to eight vertical and horizontal diagonal directions. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the balloon display part displayed at the time of input operation. It is a table | surface which shows a response | compatibility with operation of a numeric keypad and the input character, number, and symbol. It is a table | surface which shows a response | compatibility with the character, number, and symbol input at the time of tap operation and various flick operations to the left. It is a figure explaining a key input system. It is a figure explaining a key input system. It is a figure explaining a key input system. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the kana showing the frequently used ending added after transition to a stenographic input mode. It is a figure which shows the example of input of the idiom by a shorthand input mode. It is a figure which shows the modification which concerns on the arrangement | sequence of the various characters displayed on a keytop. It is a figure which shows the modification which concerns on the arrangement | sequence of the alphabet displayed on a key top. It is a figure which shows the modification of a numeric keypad. It is a figure which shows the modification which concerns on the arrangement | sequence of the various characters displayed on a keytop. It is a figure which shows the modification which concerns on the arrangement | sequence of the various characters displayed on a keytop. It is a figure which shows the example of the remote control used as an accessory of a key input device.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments described below are provided with various technically preferable limitations for carrying out the present invention. However, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrated examples. Absent.

FIG. 1 shows a smartphone equipped with a key input device according to the present invention. In FIG. 1, the code | symbol 1 shows the housing | casing of a smart phone. A rectangular touch panel display unit 2 is provided on the front surface of the housing 1.
In addition, what is equipped with a key input device is not restricted only to a smart phone, It may be mounted in various electronic devices, such as portable devices, such as a tablet terminal, an electronic dictionary, and a personal computer.

Although not shown, the key input device functions by using a control unit, a storage unit, and the touch panel display unit 2 included in the smartphone. In other words, the control unit, the storage unit, and the touch panel display unit 2 have a function for a smartphone in addition to the function in the key input device.
In addition, the storage unit included in the smartphone stores programs and data necessary for character input such as registered character information (information on various characters and symbols that can be input and displayed) and correspondence tables 7 and 8 described later. Has been.
The touch panel display unit 2 is an input unit and a display unit, and can detect the movement of the user's finger or touch pen, and can display various screens and items. Moreover, it has the detection means 2c which detects a motion of the user's finger | toe etc. which contacted.
In addition, the input of the character and symbol by a key input device is the determination means 9 (the 1st determination means 9a, the 1st determination means) comprised by combining the control part in a smart phone, a memory | storage part, the touchscreen type display part 2 (detection means 2c), etc. The determination is made based on the determination of the second determination means 9b and the third determination means 9c).

As shown in FIG. 1, the key input device of the present embodiment is for displaying a numeric keypad 3 and characters and symbols assigned to the numeric keypad 3 on a touch panel display unit 2. The touch panel display 2 also displays function keys 4 along with the numeric keys 3.
When a character is input by the key input device, a character input field 2a into which characters are to be input is also displayed on the touch panel display unit 2, such as a mail creation screen or a browser search window. In the character input field 2a, a cursor (also referred to as a caret) indicating where a character to be input next is added is displayed.
The numeric keypad 3 and the function key 4 are automatically displayed on the touch panel type display unit 2 when character input is necessary or displayed by tapping the character input field 2a.
The character input field 2a is not limited to the illustrated example, and can be changed as appropriate. That is, the character input field 2a is an output means for displaying input data such as various characters / symbols.

The numeric keypad 3 includes a plurality of key tops 3a to 3l arranged in three rows and four columns. The plurality of key tops 3a to 3l include ten key tops 3a to 3j to which numbers [0] to [9] are assigned. Further, other key tops 3k and 3l different from these ten key tops 3a to 3j are also included.
The function keys 4 are arranged side by side on the left and right sides of the numeric keypad 3 and include a plurality of key tops 4 a to 4 h for executing a function for assisting character input by the numeric keypad 3.

Each of the ten key tops 3a to 3j in the numeric keypad 3 is assigned a kana including alphabets or symbols in addition to numerals, in addition to numbers.
Numbers can be input by a tap operation, and kana and alphabets or symbols can be input by a flick operation in eight vertical and horizontal diagonal directions.
The numbers are arranged in the vicinity of the center on the key tops 3a to 3j, and the kana and alphabets or symbols are arranged on the key tops 3a to 3j so as to correspond to eight diagonal directions.

The kana is written on the key top in uppercase letters, and the input is performed in uppercase letters when input. As will be described later, it is possible to input a muffled character, a semi-voiced character, and a small letter by performing a flick operation having a longer distance than a normal flick operation.
The alphabet is written in upper case on the key top, but is input in lower case when input. As described later, capital letters can be input by performing a flick operation having a longer distance than a normal flick operation.

More specifically, among the 12 key tops 3a to 3l, the three key tops 3a, 3b, and 3c in the first row located in the uppermost row of the numeric keypad 3 have [1] in order from the left. The numbers [2] and [3] are assigned.
In addition, the numbers [4], [5], and [6] are assigned to the three key tops 3d, 3e, and 3f in the second row located below the first row in order from the left.
Further, the numbers [7], [8], and [9] are assigned to the three key tops 3g, 3h, and 3i in the third row located below the second row in order from the left.
[0] is assigned to one central key top 3j in the fourth column located below the third column.

Further, of the 12 key tops 3a to 3l, the ten key tops 3a to 3j to which numbers are assigned correspond to the eight vertical and horizontal diagonal directions as shown in FIG. 2B. Eight sections D1 to D8 to which alphabets or symbols are assigned are virtually set. A kana and alphabets or symbols can be input by performing a flick operation in the direction of the eight sections D1 to D8. Symbols can be input at the key tops 3k and 3l.
The eight sections D1 to D8 include a first section D1 corresponding to the left direction of the flick operation, a second section D2 corresponding to the diagonally upper left direction, a third section D3 corresponding to the upward direction, and an obliquely upper right direction. The corresponding fourth section D4, the fifth section D5 corresponding to the right direction, the sixth section D6 corresponding to the diagonally lower left direction, the seventh section D7 corresponding to the downward direction, and the fifth section D7 corresponding to the diagonally lower right direction. Eight sections D8.
A section surrounded by these eight sections D1 to D8 is referred to as a center section C. In the central section C, numbers correspond to the key tops 3a to 3j, and symbols correspond to the key tops 3k and 3l. The numbers and symbols corresponding to the center section C can be operated by a tap operation.

  The key top 3a assigned the number [1] to the central section C is assigned the kana [A line] in the order of [Aiueo] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5, and the remaining 3 The symbols [@ # &] are sequentially assigned to the sections D6 to D8.

  In the key top 3b in which the number [2] is assigned to the central section C, the kana [ka line] is assigned from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5 in the order of [Kikakukeko], and the remaining 3 The alphabets [ABC] are sequentially assigned to the sections D6 to D8.

  The key top 3c assigned the number [3] to the central section C is assigned the kana [sa line] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5 in the order of [Sashisuseso], and the remaining three [DEF], which is an alphabet, is sequentially assigned to the sections D6 to D8.

  The key top 3d assigned the number [4] to the central section C is assigned the kana [ta line] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5 in the order of [Tateto], and the remaining 3 [GHI], which is an alphabet, is sequentially assigned to the sections D6 to D8.

  The key top 3e assigned the number [5] to the central section C is assigned the kana [na row] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5 in the order of [what is] The remaining three sections D6 to D8 are sequentially assigned [JKL] which is an alphabet.

  The key top 3f assigned the number [6] to the central section C is assigned the kana [ha line] in the order [hahifuheho] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5, The remaining three sections D6 to D8 are sequentially assigned [MNO] which is an alphabet.

  In the key top 3g assigned the number [7] to the central section C, the kana [ma line] is assigned from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5 in the order of [Mamemu Memo], and the remaining three [PQR], which is an alphabet, is sequentially assigned to the sections D6 to D8.

The key top 3h assigned the number [8] to the central section C has the kana [ya line] in the order [yayuyo] from the second section D2 to the fourth section D4 or the sixth section D6. To the eighth section D8.
The remaining five sections D1, D6 to D8, D5 are assigned [STUVW], which is an alphabet, in order.

  The key top 3i assigned the number [9] to the center section C is assigned the kana [Ra line] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5 in the order of [Rarirello] and remains. [XYZ], which is an alphabet, is sequentially assigned to the three sections D6 to D8.

  The key top 3j to which the number [0] is assigned is assigned the kana [wa line] and the sound repellent / promoting sound / long note in the order of [wa-on] from the first section D1 to the fifth section D5. The remaining three sections D6 to D8 are sequentially assigned [* + =] as a symbol.

The other key tops 3k and 3l are assigned other symbols different from the symbols assigned to the key top 3a.
That is, a [◎] mark indicating a button for shifting to the shorthand input mode or using another function and a symbol frequently used are assigned to the other key tops 3k.
Further, other symbols not displayed on the numeric keypad 3, a [☆] mark indicating a button for displaying a conversion list of pictographs and emoticons, and frequently used symbols are assigned to the other key tops 31. Yes.
Symbols that are frequently used on the other key tops 3k and 3l are arranged on the key tops 3k and 3l in correspondence with flick operations in eight directions that are vertically and horizontally slanted.

A plurality of types of parentheses are listed as frequently used symbols displayed on the key top 3k. In parentheses, parentheses opening (also referred to as opening parenthesis) and closing parenthesis (also referred to as closing parenthesis) are often used as a set, so as described later, depending on the distance of the flick operation, opening and closing parentheses Can be entered.
In the case of the symbol “¥” displayed on the key top 3k, the symbol “$” can be input according to the distance of the flick operation.
Furthermore, “:” is cited as a frequently used symbol displayed on the key top 3l. Then, the symbol “;” can be input according to the distance of the flick operation.

The ten key tops 3a to 3j to which numbers are assigned and the other key tops 3k and 3l are assumed to be virtually divided and divided into three areas of an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage.
In the present embodiment, a number is displayed at the center of the middle stage among the upper, middle, and lower stages of each of the ten key tops 3a to 3j. [◎] mark and [☆] mark are displayed at the center of the middle stage of the two other key tops 3k, 3l.
In addition, the above-mentioned pseudonym is displayed on the top of each of the ten key tops 3a to 3j. Symbols that are frequently used are displayed on the upper stages of the other key tops 3k and 3l.
Further, the above-mentioned symbol [@ # &] is displayed in the lower part of one key top 3a. The above alphabets are displayed in the lower part of each of the nine key tops 3b to 3j. Symbols that are frequently used are displayed at the bottom of each of the other key tops 3k and 3l.

The upper or lower area of each of the key tops 3a to 3l includes various left and right characters / symbols that are input by flicking in the left / right direction.
That is, kana characters are displayed as left and right characters in the upper area of the key tops 3a to 3g, 3i. In the lower area of the key top 3h, alphabets are displayed as left and right characters. In the upper area of the key top 3j, kana [wa] and long notes are displayed as left and right characters / symbols. Left and right symbols are displayed in the upper area of the other key tops 3k and 3l.

Further, the various left and right characters / symbols in the key tops 3a to 3l as described above are more in the middle than other various characters / symbols input by flicking in different directions in the upper or lower regions. It is arranged close to the area.
The key top 3a will be described as an example. Among the kana characters displayed in the upper area, the left and right characters [A] and [O] are input by flicking in different directions [Yes] It is arranged closer to the middle area (lower) than [U] and [E].
The key top 3h will be described as an example. Among the alphabets displayed in the lower area, the left and right characters [S] and [W] are input by flicking in different directions [ It is arranged closer to the middle region (upward) than T] [U] [V].

When inputting characters and symbols displayed on the key tops 3a to 3l as described above, an operation as shown in FIG. The display of the numeric keypad 3 in FIG. 1 and “·” and “arrow” shown in FIG.
Further, “·” shown in FIG. 2A and the central section C shown in FIG. 2B are in a correspondence relationship, and “arrows” in each direction shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. ) 8 sections D1 to D8 are in a correspondence relationship.
That is, for example, when inputting the number [1], a tap operation as indicated by “·” is performed. Further, when inputting a kana (hiragana) or a symbol (@ # &), a flick operation is performed in the direction of the corresponding arrow (direction of sections D1 to D8). For example, when inputting “A”, a flick operation is performed in the left direction (the direction in which the first section D1 is present) as indicated by “←”. When inputting “#”, as shown by “↓”, a flick operation is performed in the downward direction (the direction in which the seventh section D7 is present).

Other key tops 3b to 3l other than the key top 3a can be operated in the same manner to input characters.
For example, when inputting the number [5], the key top 3e is tapped, and when inputting the hiragana [m], the key top 3g is moved to the right as indicated by “→” in FIG. A flick operation is performed on (fifth section D5).
Further, when inputting the alphabet [d], the key top 3c is flicked diagonally to the left (sixth section D6) as shown by the arrow in FIG.
Further, when inputting the symbol “/”, the flick operation is performed on the key top 3l in a diagonally upper right direction (fourth section D4) as indicated by an arrow in FIG.

In the case of the key top 3h to which the number [8] is assigned, there are three kana such as “ya”, “yu”, “yo”, and “S”, “T”, “U”, “V”, “W”. There are five alphabets. Therefore, the flick operation in the left direction (the direction with the first section D1) and the right direction (the direction with the fifth section D5) are set to alphabet input unlike the other key tops.
In addition, in the case of the key top 3j to which the number [0] is assigned, there are two kana characters “WA” and “O”, a repellent sound of “N”, a prompt sound of “T”, and a long note of “-”. It is displayed. That is, the sound repellent, prompting sound and long note are also displayed as a kind of kana.

In the operation of the key tops 3a to 3l as described above, the eight directions in the vertical and horizontal directions are described with reference to an arrangement example of the numeric keypad 3 shown in FIG. It refers to the upper left direction, the diagonal upper right direction, the diagonal lower left direction, and the diagonal lower right direction.
In other words, a character can be input by performing a flick operation in the direction from the first section D1 set to each of the key tops 3a to 3l to the eighth section D8.
The operation method related to such character input is as described in the correspondence table 7 shown in FIG. As will be described later, this correspondence table 7 is made into a database and stored in advance in the storage unit of the smartphone.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and the like, the touch panel type display unit 2 assists the input of various characters and symbols by using the numeric keypad 3 along with the numeric keypad 3 on both the left and right sides of the area where the numeric keypad 3 is displayed. A function key area (function key 4) having a plurality of key tops 4a to 4h for executing a function is arranged.
The function keys 4 are arranged on the left and right sides of the numeric keypad 3 with four key tops 4a to 4d and 4e to 4h, respectively.
Note that the designs, symbols, and characters displayed on the key tops 4a to 4h of the function keys 4 described below are merely examples, and other designs may be adopted.

The key top 4a is displayed as [A / A], and can be switched between full-width and half-width by being tapped when inputting numbers, alphabets or symbols.
Moreover, it is good also as what can be used when switching the full-width and half-width of the character string before conversion during input.
The key top 4b is [← ↑ ↓ →], that is, an arrow is displayed in the vertical / horizontal cross direction, and is used when the cursor is moved by flicking up / down / left / right (vertical / horizontal).
If the character input field 2a does not allow line breaks as shown in FIG. 1, the up / down arrow cursor cannot be used, but if it is a character input field capable of line breaks (which can form multiple lines), the vertical direction Arrow cursor can be used.
The key top 4c is displayed as [Mouse], and if the key top 4c is tapped, the screen on the numeric keypad 3 can be used as a pad. Thereby, for example, handwritten character input becomes possible.
The key top 4d is displayed as [Setting] and is used when various settings are changed. For example, word registration, romaji abbreviated input setting to be described later, function setting change in other key tops 3k, and the like can be performed.

The key top 4e is displayed as [<×> (black painted horizontal triangle)], and is used when flicking left or right to delete “one character” on the left or right of the cursor.
That is, the black triangle [<] facing left corresponds to the “Backspace” function used in a personal computer or the like, and the black triangle [>] facing right corresponds to “Delete”.
The key top 4f is displayed as [← × →], and is used when flicking to the left or right to collectively erase “one line” on the left or right of the cursor. More specifically, the key top 4f has a function for collectively erasing a character string composed of characters / symbols inputted by operating a numeric keypad on the left side and the right side. A flicking operation to the left (short distance) is assigned to the function for erasing all the character strings to the left side, and a flicking operation to the right (short operation) is assigned to the function for erasing the character strings to the right side. Distance) is assigned.
On the key top 4g, [conversion] and “symbol representing a space” are displayed, and when a space (space) is entered between characters or between a character and a symbol, as well as a number, a kana, It is used when converting the alphabet. In the case of kana, hiragana can be converted to katakana or kanji. Although not shown, the conversion list may be displayed on the upper side of the numeric keypad 3 or the like. That is, it corresponds to a “space key” used on a personal computer or the like.
The key top 4h displays [symbol representing a line break], and is used when a line break is made from the previous line to the next line during text creation, or when character conversion is confirmed. That is, it corresponds to an “Enter key” used on a personal computer or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the key tops 3a to 3a are switched between kana clear letters, makuon letters and semi-moji characters, kana uppercase and lowercase letters, and uppercase and lowercase letters. This is performed by a flick operation on 3j.
That is, various characters and symbols can be input by recognizing and determining the flick operation in the vertical and horizontal diagonal directions in the key tops 3a to 3j and their distances by the determination means 9 (see FIGS. 6 to 8). .
The distance of the flick operation in one direction (for example, the left direction, see FIG. 5) can be determined by the determination means 9 in three stages of short distance, medium distance (long flick), and long distance (long long flick), and Depending on the stage of the distance, various characters and symbols can be input.
It should be noted that the numbers can be input when the determination unit 9 recognizes and determines the tap operation on the key tops 3a to 3j.

More specifically, when the various characters are kana, as shown in FIG. 5, the Kiyane uppercase letter is assigned to the short-distance flick operation. In addition, mojion characters or lowercase letters corresponding to Kiyone uppercase letters are assigned to middle-distance flick operations. Furthermore, semi-voiced characters corresponding to Kiyone capital letters are assigned to long-distance flick operations.
When the various characters are alphabets, the lowercase letter is assigned to the short-distance flick operation, and the uppercase letter is assigned to the middle-distance or long-distance flick operation.
In the case of a symbol, a frequently used symbol is assigned to a short-distance flick operation, and a symbol highly related to a frequently used symbol is assigned to a medium-distance or long-distance flick operation.

Taking the case of the key top 3f as an example, first, the number “6” can be input by a tap operation.
Then, “H”, which is a clear capital letter corresponding to the flick operation in the left direction, can be input by a short-distance flick operation which is a normal flick length.
The muffled character “BA” can be input by a medium distance flick operation set to a longer flick length than a short distance flick operation.
“Pa”, which is a semi-voice character, can be input by a long-distance flick operation set to a longer flick length than a medium-distance flick operation.
That is, in the case of the key top 3f, the clear uppercase letter is “ha”, and therefore, the flick operation is performed in three stages of the clear uppercase letter, the muddy character, and the semi-voiced character.

Taking the case of the key top 3a as an example, first, the number “1” can be input by a tap operation.
Then, “A”, which is a clear capital letter corresponding to a flicking operation in the left direction, can be input by a short-distance flicking operation which is a normal flicking length.
“A”, which is the lowercase letter of Kiyane, can be input by a medium distance flick operation set to a longer flick length than a short distance flick operation.
That is, in the case of the key top 3a, since there is no muddy / semi-voiced sound, a flicking operation is performed in two stages, the upper case and the lower case.

Taking the case of the key top 3b as an example, first, the number “2” can be input by a tap operation.
Then, “K”, which is a clear capital letter corresponding to the flicking operation in the left direction, can be input by a short-distance flicking operation which is a normal flicking length.
The muffled character “GA” can be input by a middle-distance flick operation set to a longer flick length than a short-distance flick operation.
That is, in the case of the key top 3b, although the muddy sound exists but the semi-voiced sound / lower case does not exist, the flicking operation is performed in two stages of the clear sound uppercase character and the muddy character.

Taking the case of the key top 3h as an example, first, the number “8” can be input by a tap operation.
Then, “S”, which is an alphabet corresponding to the flicking operation in the left direction, is input in lowercase “s” by a short-distance flicking operation that is a normal flick length.
The capital letter “S” can be input by a medium distance flick operation set to a longer flick length than a short distance flick operation.
That is, in the case of the key top 3b, since the flicking operation in the left direction is alphabetic, the flicking operation is performed in two stages of lowercase letters and uppercase letters.

Taking the case of the key top 3k as an example, first, the symbol “◎” is pressed by the tap operation, and the mode shifts to the shorthand input mode.
Then, “<”, which is a frequently used symbol corresponding to the flick operation in the left direction, is input by a short-distance flick operation that is a normal flick length.
The symbol “>” that is highly related to the symbol “<” can be input by a medium-distance flick operation set to a longer flick length than the short-distance flick operation.
That is, in the case of the key top 3k, since the flicking operation in the left direction is a symbol, the flicking operation in two stages of the symbol “<” frequently used and the symbol “>” highly related to this symbol Is done.

It should be noted that many of the various character / symbol examples given above can be input by a two-step flick operation. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, only the key top 3f can be input by the three-step flick operation.
Therefore, in the case of a key top that is set to a two-step flick operation, by assigning various characters / symbols to the short-distance flick operation and the long-distance flick operation, input by the two-step flick operation is possible. It may be possible. More specifically, when inputting characters by a two-step flick operation, input by a short-distance flick operation in the case of a first-stage character, and by a medium-distance flick operation in the case of a second-step character. Input may be performed, or input may be performed by a long-distance flick operation. In any case, as a result, two characters can be input by a two-step flick operation.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, since the function keys 4 are located at both ends in the width direction of the touch panel display unit 2, even if a finger or a touch pen touches a portion outside the function key area, Etc. cannot be entered.
Therefore, when various characters / symbols are input by flicking toward the function key area, three-step flick operations can be performed on the function key area and within the range not exceeding the function key area. Is set.
More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the function key area is divided into three areas (a first determination area 11a, a second determination area 11b, and a third determination area 11c) by a boundary line that cannot be visually recognized. .
Explaining the key top 3f as an example, when a finger or the like enters the first determination area 11a in the function key area at the time of flicking operation, it becomes possible to input the clear upper case “ho” and the second determination area 11b. When entering, “bo” which is a muffled character can be input, and when entering the third determination area 11c, “po” which is a semi-voiced character can be input.

The operation method related to the character input as described above is as described in the correspondence table 8 shown in FIG. As will be described later, this correspondence table 8 is made into a database and stored in advance in the storage unit of the smartphone.
Further, the correspondence table 8 shown in FIG. 5 is for explaining the flicking operation in the left direction in each of the key tops 3a to 3l. Although not shown, the correspondence table for explaining the flicking operation in another direction is also provided. It is assumed that the database is stored in the storage unit.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 7, and 8, the various characters being input during flick operations of up to three stages of short distance, medium distance, and long distance on the 12 key tops 3 a to 3 l as described above. A balloon display portion 2b in which symbols are displayed in a balloon is displayed on or around the numeric keypad 3.
The balloon display unit 2b is designed to display a balloon from a location where a finger or a touch pen is in contact with the touch panel display unit 2.
During character input, the lower side in the surface direction of the touch panel type display unit 2 may be partially hidden by the user's own hand or wrist. Further, the user's dominant hand may be right or left. In some cases. Therefore, the balloon display unit 2 b is displayed in a balloon toward the upper side in the surface direction of the touch panel display unit 2.

The balloon display portion 2b is colored differently for each of the three distances of short distance, medium distance, and long distance. If different coloring is applied, it is possible to visually recognize whether the input character or symbol is in the short distance, medium distance, or long distance stage. Moreover, since the color changes during the operation by the user, it is possible to determine whether the input character or symbol is in the short distance, medium distance, or long distance even if the user is not gazing. .
In the present embodiment, the balloon display portion 2b during a short-distance flick operation is colored blue. The balloon display portion 2b at the time of middle-distance flick operation is colored yellow. The balloon display portion 2b during long-distance flick operation is colored red.
In the present embodiment, the balloon display portion 2b is colored blue, yellow, and red, but is not limited thereto. Further, although it is simply blue (yellow / red), it includes a color similar to blue (yellow / red) such as light blue (orange / pink).

Further, the balloon display unit 2b is set to have high transparency, and the key top characters and the like displayed on the back side of the balloon display unit 2b can be visually recognized. For this reason, since the character or the like to be input next is not hidden by the balloon display portion 2b, the character input is not hindered.
In addition, in this embodiment, although the balloon display part 2b is edged, it does not need to be edged. If it is not trimmed, it is preferable because the transparency can be further improved.

  In order to enable the operation as described above, the key input device includes a balloon display unit 10 and a function key area detection determination unit 11 in addition to the determination unit 9 described above, and includes a control unit and a storage unit in the smartphone. It functions in cooperation with the touch panel type display unit 2 (detection means 2c) and the like.

If it demonstrates in detail, the determination means 9 will be comprised by combining the control part of a smart phone, the correspondence tables 7 and 8 memorize | stored in the memory | storage part of the smart phone, the detection means 2c of the touchscreen type display part 2, etc. .
The determination means 9 recognizes the tap operation in the operation of the numeric keypad 3, and further includes a first determination means 9a for recognizing and determining a short distance flick operation, and a first determination means for recognizing and determining a medium distance flick operation. A second determination unit 9b and a third determination unit 9c for recognizing and determining a long-distance flick operation. Further, the determination means 9 includes fourth determination means (not shown) for recognizing and determining tap operation and flick operation in the operation of the key tops 4a to 4h in the function key area (see FIG. 2). .
The balloon display unit 10 functions in cooperation with the determination unit 9 and, based on the determination result of the flick operation (distance), an appropriate balloon display unit 2b at an appropriate position in the touch panel display unit 2. Can be displayed.
The function key area detection / determination unit 11 functions in cooperation with the determination unit 9 and is a first determination area corresponding to a short-distance flick operation within a range not exceeding the function key area on the function key area. 11a, a second determination area 11b corresponding to a medium-distance flick operation, and a third determination area 11c corresponding to a long-distance flick operation are set.

The correspondence tables 7 and 8 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 show the correspondence between the operation of the numeric keypad 3 and the input characters and symbols. That is, in the key top 3a, the number [1] can be input by performing a tap operation, and "A" can be input by performing a flick operation in the left direction. Furthermore, if you flick leftward, you can enter the lowercase letter “A”.
As described above, a database of such correspondence tables 7 and 8 is stored in advance in the storage unit of the smartphone. Then, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the determination means 9 determines the movement of the user's finger or the like detected by the touch panel display unit 2 based on the correspondence tables 7 and 8, and based on the determination result, the character Characters can be output to the input field 2a.
For convenience of explanation, an operation with a finger or a touch pen (a point “•” representing a tap and an arrow representing a flick in eight directions) is also displayed on the key top 3a shown in FIG.

  The key input device configured as described above is configured such that at least 10 key tops 3a to 3j of the numeric keypad 3 are arranged in multiple numbers, letters, alphabets, or symbols, and the type of input characters is changed. There is no need to use character switching keys That is, an all-in-one numeric keypad 3 capable of inputting characters with one touch is provided.

  Next, a shorthand input mode provided in the key input device will be described. It should be noted that this shorthand input mode can be entered by tapping the key top 3k on which the symbol “◎” is displayed as described above.

Kanji reading is based on Chinese pronunciation, but there are four voices in Japanese (Chinese tone is classified into four types based on second-hand Chinese tone: plain voice, upper voice, last voice There is no voice. For this reason, kanji idioms that read aloud are often homophones that have the same pronunciation but different meanings.
In the case of idioms formed by combining such aloud kanji characters, as shown in the following patterns A to F, the endings of the aloud kanji characters constituting the idioms have regularity.
A. Kanji whose endings are "~ i", "~ u"
・ Success
・ Total
B. Kanji with endings "~ ki", "~ ku", "~ chi", "~ tsu" ・ Special (Tokubetsu)
・ Accurate
・ Kichijitsu
C. Kanji with endings "~ nya", "~ yu", "~ yo" ・ Vehicle type (shashu)
・ Author
・ Gyosha
D. Chinese characters with endings "~ u" and "~ you"
・ Abstract
・ Nostalgia
E. Kanji whose endings are "~ n" and "~ tsu" ・ General (Ippan)
・ Complete
・ Monthly production
F. Other (C + BorE) Kanji-Coloring
・ Scale (Shuku)
・ Order of arrival
As described above, when a certain degree of regularity is observed, if the character input based on the regularity can be performed, the efficiency is improved and the shorthand input is possible.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, a kana representing a ending that is frequently used when inputting a idiom is based on the regularity of the endings of the phonetic kanji that make up the idiom. Assigned to an edge of ~ 3 l. And as shown in FIG. 10, it can input in combination with the kana which represents the head of a phonetic kanji.
The squares in FIG. 9 outline the twelve key tops 3a to 3l, and are frequently used at the top edge of the key tops 3a, 3b, 3d, 3h, 3i, 3j when inputting idioms. A pseudonym representing the ending is assigned. In FIG. 9, for convenience of explanation, “●” is shown at the assigned location.

In the case of each key top 3a, 3b, 3d, 3h, 3j excluding the key top 3i, the idiom in the direction of the flick operation of the kana displayed on each key top ([Aiueo] in the case of the key top 3a) A pseudonym representing a frequently used ending is assigned at the time of input.
That is, in the case of the kana “˜i” representing the frequently used ending at the time of inputting the idiom, the kana “˜1” flicks when inputting the kana “i” displayed on the key top 3a. Has been placed. In other words, the pseudonym “~ i” representing the ending frequently used when inputting a idiom is assigned in a direction of the second section D2 of the key top 3a.
Not only the kana "~ i" that represents the frequently used endings when entering idioms, but also the kana "~ u", "~ u", "~ ki", "~ ku", "~ chi" representing other endings. , "~ Tsu", "~ nya", "~ yu", "~ yo", "~ n" and "~ tsu" are assigned in the same manner.

  In the case of the key top 3i, pseudonyms representing endings that are frequently used when inputting idioms are "~ u" and "~ u". That is, a combination of “yu” and “u” and a combination of “yo” and “u”, but there is no space in the upper edge of the key top 3a and the upper edge of the key top 3h. The pseudonyms "~ u" and "~ u" representing the ending are assigned to the key top 3i.

Character input in such a shorthand input mode is performed in combination with a kana representing the beginning of a phonetic kanji and is as shown in FIG.
That is, for example, when inputting the phrase “appropriate”, as shown in FIG. 10 (a), the flicking operation of the key top 3b in the left direction is performed at a medium distance, and the finger etc. After reaching 3a, a short-distance flick operation is performed continuously in the upper left direction. As a result, it is possible to input “the (gai)”.
Subsequently, after performing a flick operation to the right of the key top 3d at a short distance, the finger or the like is moved to the position of the pseudonym "~ u" representing the frequently used ending when inputting the idiom. As a result, “to” can be input.
That is, if the finger or the like is moved on the numeric keypad 3 as indicated by the arrow shown in FIG. 10A, the idiom “corresponding” can be input quickly and easily.

  Similarly, in the other examples shown in FIGS. 10B to 10F, if a finger or the like is moved on the numeric keypad 3 as shown by the arrows in each figure, the idioms “special”, “ “Vehicle type”, “Tide”, “General”, and “Color” can be entered quickly and easily.

In addition, it is desirable to perform abbreviated input using Roman letters as a method for inputting characters more quickly and easily.
That is, since the key input device can input the alphabet without switching the input mode, if the word / sentence etc. are registered in Roman characters, the character input can be easily performed utilizing the feature.

Examples are given below. Note that the left is an input alphabet (Roman character) and the right is a displayed word.
A. KY word: An abbreviation group in which Japanese sentences are abbreviated and alphabets and numbers at the beginning of each word are combined.
・ Ky → can't read the air ・ ym → motivation ・ wh → change topic Katakana: A term that refers to a foreign word that has been copied in katakana.
・ Int → International ・ tek → Technology ・ sup → Specialist Common terminology ・ ari → Thank you.
・ Gob → Nothing.
・ Ose → Thank you for your support.

  Sentences can be quickly and easily created by inputting characters using the shorthand input mode and the Roman alphabet shortening input as described above.

According to the present embodiment, various characters, numbers and symbols are assigned to each of the 12 key tops 3a to 3l in the numeric keypad 3, numbers can be input by tapping, and various characters and symbols can be input by flicking. Therefore, it is possible to input various characters / numbers / symbols without switching the three input modes of “kana”, “English”, and “numbers” as in the prior art. This prevents the text input rhythm from being disturbed.
A balloon display portion 2b on which various characters / symbols that are being input are displayed in a balloon during a short distance / medium distance / long distance flick operation is displayed on or around the numeric keypad 3. An input operation can be performed while visually recognizing what the symbol is. As a result, all the letters, numbers, and symbols assigned to the key tops 3a to 3l are "visualized", and an input operation can be easily performed.
Since various characters and symbols can be input by the flicking operation in the vertical and horizontal diagonal directions in the key tops 3a to 3l and the distances thereof being recognized and determined by the determining means 9, most of the character input is performed by the flicking operation. You just need to enter it. As a result, the tap operation and the flick operation are less frequently used when inputting characters and the like, and the input operation can be easily performed.
When various characters are kana, Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to short-distance flick operations, and muddy characters or lowercase letters corresponding to Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to medium-distance or long-distance flick operations, and semi-voiced sounds corresponding to Kiyane uppercase letters. If a character is assigned to a long-distance flick operation, and the various characters are alphabetic characters, a lowercase letter is assigned to a short-distance flick operation, and an uppercase letter is assigned to a medium-distance or long-distance flick operation. By simply performing a medium or long-distance flick operation, it is possible to input muddy characters, semi-voiced characters, lowercase letters, and uppercase letters. This eliminates the need to input muddy character, semi-sound character, lowercase letters, and uppercase letters via a plurality of keys, and makes it easier to enter muddy character, semi-spoken letters, lowercase letters, and uppercase letters.
In the case of symbols, frequently used symbols are assigned to short-distance flick operations, and frequently used symbols are assigned to medium- or long-distance flick operations. If a high symbol is assigned to the key tops 3a, 3j, 3k, 3l, it is possible to search for the target symbol without switching the three input modes of “Kana”, “English”, and “Numeral” as in the past. it can. This facilitates the input of symbols.
According to the key input device as described above, operability when inputting various characters, numbers, and symbols can be improved, so that a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet PC can be easily used.

  In addition, since the balloon display unit 2b is colored differently for each of the three levels of distance, an input operation can be performed while visually checking whether the input character or symbol is at a short distance, medium distance, or long distance. It can be performed.

  In addition, the various characters / symbols corresponding to the left and right are arranged in the middle of the key tops 3a-3l than the other various characters / symbols input by flicking in different directions in the upper or lower region of the keytops 3a-3l. Since it is arranged close to the area, it becomes easy to intuitively understand the direction of the flick operation when inputting various characters and symbols corresponding to left and right.

  In addition, when various characters / symbols are inputted by performing a flick operation toward the function key area 4, three-step flick operation is performed on the function key area 4 and within a range not exceeding the function key area 4. Is set so that three-step flick operations can be performed on various characters / symbols assigned to the key tops 3a, 3d, 3e, 3k, 3c, 3f, 3i, 3l located at the side end of the numeric keypad 3. Even when necessary, the input operation of the various characters / symbols can be performed reliably.

  Further, a flick operation to the left side is assigned to the function for collectively erasing the character strings in the key top 4f for collective erasure provided in the function key area 4 to the left side, and the character strings are collectively erased to the right side. Since the right flick operation is assigned to the function for this purpose, when deleting a character string, for example, it is possible to delete the character string all together with a simple operation with less trouble than deleting characters one by one. Therefore, as an auxiliary function when inputting characters or the like, it is possible to contribute to improvement in operability when inputting characters or the like.

  In addition, based on the regularity of the endings of the phonetic kanji that make up the idiom, kana representing the ending that is frequently used when inputting the idiom is assigned to the edges of the key tops 3a to 3l that make up the numeric keypad 3. Since it can be input in combination with a kana that represents the beginning of a kanji character, it can be input quickly and easily by performing an input operation starting from the position of the beginning of the pronunciation-reading kanji that makes up the idiom and ending at the end of the ending. be able to.

[Modification]
The embodiments to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Hereinafter, modified examples will be described. The following modifications may be combined as much as possible.

[Modification 1]
A numeric keypad 30 shown in FIG. 11 is a modification of the numeric keypad 3 described above, and the upper and lower positions of the kana and symbols displayed on the twelve key tops 3a to 3l are reversed. That is, the kana is displayed in the lower area of each key top 3a-3l, and the symbol is displayed in the upper area of each key top 3a-3l.
In the case of such a numeric keypad 30, the direction of the flick operation is upside down with respect to the numeric keypad 3 described above. For example, in the case of the key top 3a, when inputting the kana "u", the flick operation is performed downward.
Note that the balloon display unit 2b is balloon-displayed upward as in the above-described embodiment.
Further, in the shorthand input mode, a kana representing a ending frequently used when inputting a idiom is assigned to the lower edge of the key tops 3a, 3b, 3d, 3h, 3i, 3j.
In the case of such a numeric keypad 30, it is possible to input characters with the same usability as the numeric keypad 3 described in the above embodiment. Further, the user may change the setting as appropriate so that the ten key 3 described in the above embodiment can be switched to the ten key 30 of the present modification.

[Modification 2]
In the numeric keypad 31 shown in FIG. 12, the alphabet displayed in the lower area of each of the key tops 3a to 3l is arranged based on the QWERTY arrangement.
It should be noted that the user may change the setting as appropriate to switch from the numeric keypad 3 described in the above embodiment to the numeric keypad 31 of the present modification. As a result, it becomes convenient for the user who is used to the QWERTY array.

[Modification 3]
The numeric keys 32 shown in FIG. 13 have a zodiac arrangement.
In other words, kanji characters representing “Zodiac” are displayed in the middle area of each of the key tops 3a to 3l.
In the upper area, kanji characters representing “juju” combined with “12 zodiac” are displayed.
In the lower area, kanji characters representing “six days” are displayed.
It should be noted that the user may change the setting as appropriate to switch from the numeric keypad 3 described in the above embodiment to the numeric keypad 31 of the present modification. This is convenient for the user who wants to input the zodiac arrangement.

[Modification 4]
The numeric keypad 33 shown in FIG. 14 is a modified example of the numeric keypad 3 described above, and the kana displayed on the ten key tops 3a to 3j uses the upper and middle areas of the key tops 3a to 3j. Arranged in an arc. This corresponds to “8-direction flick direction” shown on the right side of FIG.
More specifically, for example, the key top 3a will be described as an example. Compared with the numeric keypad 3 described above, “A”, “1”, and “O” are arranged in the middle region, and “U” is the upper row. In this state, “i” and “e” are arranged close to the middle region side in the upper region.
It should be noted that the flick operation for “I” and “E” is performed as the upper area in the recognition / determination by the determination means 9, but the display on the key top 3a itself is the upper area and the middle area. You may straddle.
In the key top 3h, “s” and “w” are arranged in the middle area.

Further, the alphabets and symbols displayed on the twelve key tops 3a to 3l are arranged in a horizontal row in the lower area except for “s” and “w”. Further, the alphabet is displayed in a lower case state.
Taking the key top 3b as an example, the alphabets “a”, “b”, and “c” are displayed in lower case letters and arranged in a horizontal row. “A” is located below the kana “ki”, “b” is located below the kana “ku”, and “c” is located below the kana “ke”.

According to such a configuration of the numeric keypad 33, the display of the kana is more compatible with the flick operation in the eight directions than in the case of the numeric keypad 3 described in the above embodiment. It becomes possible to improve. In other words, the user can more intuitively understand the directions of the eight flick operations when inputting various characters.
It should be noted that the user may change the setting as appropriate to switch from the numeric keypad 3 described in the above embodiment to the numeric keypad 33 of this modification.

[Modification 5]
A numeric keypad 34 shown in FIG. 15 is a modified example of the numeric keypad 3 (and the numeric keypad 33) described above, and kana characters and alphabets displayed on the ten key tops 3a to 3j are arranged in a circle. This corresponds to the “direction of eight-direction flick” shown on the right side of FIG.
More specifically, for example, the key top 3b will be described as an example. “Ka”, “2”, and “ko” are arranged in the middle region, “ku” is arranged in the upper region, and “ki” "And" ke "are arranged close to the middle region in the upper region.
Further, “B” is arranged in the lower area, and “A” and “C” are arranged close to the middle area in the lower area.
Note that the symbols are arranged in a horizontal row in the lower region.
According to such a configuration of the numeric keypad 34, since the kana display corresponds to the flick operation in eight directions more than in the case of the numeric keypad 3 (and numeric keypad 33) described in the above embodiment, character input is possible. It becomes possible to improve the usability at the time. In other words, the user can more intuitively understand the directions of the eight flick operations when inputting various characters.

[Modification 6]
In the above-described embodiment, a long-distance flick operation is performed when a semi-speech character “Papi-Peppo” is input. However, in this modification, a semi-speech character can be input by a different method.
In other words, in the present modification, the other key top 3k of the numeric keypad 3 has a function of converting the moji character of the kana “ha line” into a semi-moji character. In other words, the other key tops 3k are linked with the key tops 3f on which “ha” is displayed. When another key top 3k operates the key top 3f to input characters, only when the muddy character is input to the character input field 2a in a state before confirmation, the muddy character is converted to a semi-voice character. The function to display the change is set to operate.
According to such a function of another key top 3k, the key top 3f is tapped on the key top 3k after performing a flick operation at a medium distance in any of the five directions except the lower side of the eight directions. This makes it possible to input semi-voiced characters.
For example, a case where “Pa” is input will be described as an example. By performing a middle distance flick operation with the key top 3 f in the left direction, “ba” which is a muffled character is displayed once in the character input field 2 a. . Subsequently, the key top 3k is tapped (the “◎” mark is pressed). By such an operation, it is possible to display the semi-voiced character “Pa” in the character input field 2a. At this time, by tapping the key top 4g [conversion] of the function key 4, it can be converted into kanji such as “sect” or “wing” or katakana. By tapping the key top 3k again (pressing the “◎” mark), it is possible to return to the muddy character.
For such semi-voice character input, the user can appropriately change the setting from [Setting] of the key top 4d in the function key 4 to switch to the function of the other key top 3k in this modification. Good.

[Modification 7]
The remote controller 20 shown in FIG. 16 is connected to a portable device or various electronic devices so that data communication is possible. Correspondingly, operations such as character input can be performed remotely.
The remote controller 20 in this modification includes a main body plate portion 21 and a grip portion 22 and is formed in a battledore shape (racquet shape) as shown in the figure. The main body plate portion 21 is provided with an operation portion 21a having a plurality of operation keys 23a to 23l and 24a to 24h.

  The main body plate portion 21 is formed wider than the grip portion 22, and an operation portion 21a is provided on the surface. Internally, although not shown in the figure, it operates in conjunction with a key input device such as a calculation unit comprising a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a storage unit for storing various data programs, a communication unit enabling data communication, etc. Necessary items are stored.

The grip portion 22 is formed narrower than the main body plate portion 21, and is formed so as to be easily gripped by a user's hand H as if it is a table tennis racket. Since it is easy to hold in this way, one-handed thumb input can also be performed easily.
The main body plate portion 21 and the grip portion 22 are integrally formed, and although not shown, the thicknesses are set to be substantially equal.

  The operation unit 21 a includes a numeric keypad corresponding unit 23 and a function key corresponding unit 24. As the operation unit 21a, for example, a touch pad or a touch panel that can detect the movement of a touched user's finger or the like is employed.

The numeric keypad 23 in the operation unit 21a corresponds to the numeric keypad 3 in the key input device and has a function of inputting characters by the same operation as the numeric keypad 3.
The ten-key corresponding unit 23 corresponds to the twelve key tops 3a to 3l in the ten keys 3 arranged in three rows and four columns, and twelve operation keys 23a to 23l arranged in three rows and four columns. It is divided into areas to have.
For example, by operating the operation key 23a divided into areas on the upper left of the numeric keypad 23, the key top 3a of the key input device in various devices at remote locations can be remotely operated.
More specifically, eight sections D1 to D8 to which various characters such as kana, alphabets, and symbols are assigned to the twelve operation keys 23a to 23l in the numeric keypad corresponding section 23 corresponding to eight directions in the vertical and horizontal directions. Is virtually set. A kana and alphabets or symbols can be input by performing a flick operation in the direction of the eight sections D1 to D8. In addition, the distance of the flick operation is set in three stages, short distance, medium distance (long flick), and long distance (long long flick), and various characters can be input according to the distance stage. . In addition, numbers can be input by tapping.
Of the twelve operation keys 23a to 23l in the numeric keypad corresponding unit 23, ten operation keys 23a to 23j to which numbers [0] to [9] are assigned correspondingly are kana, alphabets or symbols. Can be input, and symbols can be input using the other operation keys 23k and 23l.
That is, by performing the same operation as in the case of the key input device using the operation unit 21a of the remote controller 20, it is possible to input characters at various terminals equipped with the key input device.

The function key corresponding unit 24 in the operation unit 21 a corresponds to the function key 4 in the key input device, and has a function of assisting character input by the same operation as the function key 4.
The function key corresponding unit 24 is divided into areas so as to have four operation keys 24a to 24h on the left and right of the ten key corresponding unit 23 corresponding to the four key tops 4a to 4h on the left and right of the function key 4, respectively. ing.
For example, by operating the operation key 24h divided into areas at the bottom of the function key corresponding unit 24 in the right column, the key top 4h of the key input device in various devices at remote locations can be remotely operated. .

Unlike the key input device, the character keys are not displayed on the operation keys 23a to 23l and 24a to 24h in the numeric keypad corresponding unit 23 and the function key corresponding unit 24. By not intentionally displaying characters, it is possible to deal with various devices, and it is possible to cope with the case where character arrangements are diversified in the future.
Instead of displaying characters, as shown in the illustration, provide a function to improve the operability to the extent that blind touching etc. is possible by providing an unevenness as a finger guide (finger hook) at the center of each operation part. May be.
In addition, although the unevenness | corrugation (finger hook) in each operation part is circular shape in this modification, it is not restricted to this. Moreover, this finger hook may be dented or may protrude. Moreover, you may form the protrusion (or ditch | groove) which makes an area clear in the boundary of each operation part.

In addition, the remote controller 20 in this modification is set to a size that fits in the user's hand H, and is suitable for carrying around with a smartphone, a tablet PC, a watch-type terminal, or the like.
Moreover, you may use on a desktop similarly to what is called a numeric keyboard (input device comprised mainly by the numeric keypad).

When the remote control 20 is held and operated, the gripping part 22 is gripped by the ring finger and little finger and the thumb ball at the base of the thumb as shown in the figure, and the index finger and middle finger are placed on the back of the main body plate part 21. An operation mode in which the operation unit 21a is operated by touching and supporting and moving the thumb is preferable. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be appropriately changed according to the shape and size of an individual hand. For example, the grip part 22 may be more securely gripped by the middle finger, the ring finger, the little finger, and the thumb ball, and the index finger may be applied to the back surface of the main body plate part 21 and the operation may be performed with the thumb.
Taking the case where the operation key 23f is operated with a thumb as an example, first, the number “6” can be input by a tap operation with the thumb.
Then, “H”, which is a clear capital letter corresponding to the flick operation in the left direction, can be input by a flick operation with a short-distance thumb, which is a normal flick length.
The muffled character “BA” can be input by a flick operation with a middle-distance thumb set to a longer flick length than a short-distance flick operation.
The semi-voice character “Pa” can be input by a flick operation with a long-distance thumb set to a longer flick length than a medium-distance flick operation.
That is, in the case of the key top 23f, the clear uppercase letter is “ha”, and therefore, the flick operation is performed in three stages of the clear uppercase letter, the muddy character, and the semi-voiced character.

By using the remote controller 20 as described above, it is possible to remotely perform operations such as character input corresponding to a key input device mounted on a portable device or various electronic devices.
In particular, the remote control 20 of the present modification is suitable when the portable device or the like is not suitable for one-handed thumb input like a tablet PC. On the other hand, even in the case of a small terminal such as a watch-type terminal that is not suitable for text input, it is preferable because characters can be input using the remote controller 20.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Case 2 Touch-panel type display part 2a Character input column 2b Balloon display part 2c Detection means 3 Numeric keypad 3a-3l Key top 4 Function key 4a-4h Key top 7 Correspondence table 8 Correspondence table 9 Determination means 9a First determination means 9b 1st Second determination means 9c Third determination means 10 Balloon display means 11 Function key area detection determination means 11a First determination area 11b Second determination area 11c Third determination area C Central section D1 First section D2 Second section D3 Third section D4 4th section D5 5th section D6 6th section D7 7th section D8 8th section

Claims (6)

At least on the touch panel display,
Numeric keypad with 3 rows and 4 columns and a total of 12 key tops;
In a key input device for displaying various characters, numbers, and symbols assigned to each of the 12 key tops,
Recognizing a tapping operation and a flick operation on the 12 key tops by the user, and determining means for determining a direction and a distance during the flick operation;
The number can be input when the key top tap operation is recognized by the determination means,
The various characters and the symbols can be input by recognizing and determining the flick operation in the vertical and horizontal diagonal directions in the key top and the distance thereof by the determination means.
The distance of the flick operation in one direction can be determined by the determining means in three stages of short distance, medium distance, and long distance, and the various characters and symbols that are different depending on the distance stage. It is possible to input,
When the various characters are kana, Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to the short-distance flick operation, muddy letters or lowercase letters corresponding to the Kiyane uppercase letters are assigned to the medium-distance or long-distance flick operations, A semi-voice character corresponding to a capital letter is assigned to the long distance flick operation,
When the various characters are alphabetic characters, lowercase letters are assigned to the short-distance flick operations, uppercase letters are assigned to the medium-distance or long-distance flick operations,
In the case of the symbol, a frequently used symbol is assigned to the short distance flick operation, and a symbol highly related to the frequently used symbol is assigned to the medium distance or long distance flick operation. And
During a flick operation at the short distance, the intermediate distance, and the long distance, a balloon display unit that displays the various characters and symbols being input in a balloon is displayed on or around the numeric keypad. Key input device. The key input device according to claim 1,
The balloon display unit is colored differently for each of the three stages of distances. The key input device according to claim 1 or 2,
Each of the twelve key tops is divided into three areas of an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage. In the middle area, one of the numbers or the symbols is displayed, and each of the upper and lower areas is displayed. A plurality of the various characters / symbols are displayed,
The upper or lower area includes the various characters and symbols corresponding to left and right input by flicking in the left and right direction,
The various characters / symbols corresponding to the left and right are arranged closer to the middle region than the other characters / symbols input by flicking in different directions in the upper or lower region. A key input device characterized by that. In the key input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The touch panel display unit includes a plurality of key tops for executing a function of assisting the input of the various characters and the symbols by the numeric keys along with the numeric keys on the left and right sides of the area where the numeric keys are displayed. Function key area with
When the various characters / symbols are input by performing a flick operation toward the function key area, the three-step flick is performed on the function key area and within the range not exceeding the function key area. A key input device which is set to be operable. The key input device according to claim 4,
The determination means is set to be able to recognize tap operations and flick operations on a plurality of key tops in the function key area,
The plurality of key tops in the function key area includes a key top having a function for collectively erasing a character string composed of the characters and the symbols inputted by operating the numeric keypad on the left side and the right side,
A flick operation to the left is assigned to the function for collectively erasing the character strings on the left side in the key top for the collective erasure, and a function for erasing the character strings to the right is assigned to the right side. A key input device to which a flick operation is assigned. In the key input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
Based on the regularity of the endings of the phonetic kanji that make up the idiom, a kana that represents the ending that is frequently used when inputting the idiom is assigned to the edge of the key top that makes up the numeric keypad, and A key input device that can be input in combination with a pseudonym to be expressed.