JP5081957B2 - Input reception device, item selection method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an input reception device, an item selection method, and a program that can more easily perform an item selection operation on a touch panel.

  Conventionally, a touch panel has been widely used as an example of an apparatus (input reception apparatus) that receives an input operation by a user (player or the like). This touch panel is disposed so as to overlap the front surface of the display unit, detects a touch operation with a user's finger or a touch pen (such as a stylus), and acquires input coordinates (detection position). Therefore, for example, even if a selectable item (button image or the like) is freely arranged and displayed at an arbitrary position on the display unit, depending on the relationship between the display coordinates of the item and the acquired input coordinates, It is possible to appropriately determine whether or not a touch operation (pressing a button image or the like) has been performed.

Recently, such touch panels are often used for portable devices such as portable game devices and portable information devices (such as mobile phones and portable information terminals). Therefore, for example, when playing a game, a desired item is selected from various selectable items (characters, command buttons, etc.), and each character item (virtual) is arranged when characters or sentences are input. A desired item can be selected from a keyboard or the like by a touch operation.
In such an input reception device using a touch panel, a technique that can appropriately prevent an input error during a continuous touch operation is also disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-048245 A (pages 7-15, FIG. 3)

In the input reception device using the touch panel described above, a desired item is selected from various selectable items by a touch operation. However, when the touch operation is performed by a user's finger, the selection becomes difficult. It was pointed out.
For example, the virtual keyboard described above is displayed in a scene where characters and sentences are input. A number of items (items for each character) are arranged on the virtual keyboard. For this reason, the size of each item is reduced, and the interval between the items is also reduced. When a finger is brought close to an item arranged in such a manner (when an attempt is made to touch a desired item), the target item is often hidden by the user's finger and cannot be seen. In particular, in the case of adults, men, etc., the fingers are also large and the items are easily hidden.
Thus, when an item is hidden by a finger, not only is it difficult for the user to operate, but an erroneous selection (such as a pressing error) is likely to occur, and the operability of the touch panel is significantly reduced.

  Therefore, even in such a situation, there has been a demand for a technique that can easily select an item without degrading the operability of the touch panel.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object thereof is to provide an input reception device, an item selection method, and a program capable of performing an item selection operation on a touch panel more easily. To do.

  An input reception device according to a first aspect of the present invention is an input reception device that receives an input via a touch panel superimposed on a display unit, and includes a display unit, a detection unit, a selection unit, a display control unit, and a confirmation Part.

First, the display unit arranges and displays a plurality of item images as selectable items. For example, each item image such as a virtual keyboard is displayed. The detection unit sequentially detects each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation in response to a touch operation with a finger or the like on the touch panel.
Further, when the detection position of the touch operation is included in any display range of each item image, the selection unit selects an item image in the display range. While the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image, the display control unit expands the display range of the selected item image, for example, beyond a predetermined range centered on the detection position. . More specifically, the selected item image is enlarged evenly or vertically or horizontally so as to be larger than the fingertip or the like. Then, the confirmation unit confirms the selection of the item image based on the relationship between the detection position at the end of the touch operation and the display range of the selected item image. For example, when the user's finger or the like is released from the display range of the selected item image, the selection of the item image is confirmed.
Thus, while the user touches the item image with a finger or the like, the item image is enlarged and displayed so as to be larger than the fingertip or the like. Therefore, even when the item image is hidden by the user's finger or the like, the item image can be visually recognized by the enlarged display. When the selected item image is the target item image, the user can confirm the selected item image by releasing the finger or the like as it is from the touch panel.
As a result, the item selection operation on the touch panel can be performed more easily.

The confirmation unit confirms the selection of the item image when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the selected item image, and the detection position at the end of the touch operation determines the selected item image. When the image is out of the display range, the selection of the item image may be canceled.
In this case, it is possible to easily instruct to confirm or cancel the selected item image according to the position where the user releases the finger or the like.

The item image is associated with a lower item image that is a lower item,
When a predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image, the display control unit additionally displays a lower-level item image associated with the selected item image at the detection position. And
The selection unit selects the lower item image instead of the item image,
The confirmation unit confirms the selection of the lower item image when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the lower item image, and the detection position at the end of the touch operation displays the lower item image. When the image is out of the range, the selection of the lower item image may be canceled.
In this case, when a predetermined time elapses while the user touches the item image with a finger or the like, the lower item image is additionally displayed and selected instead of the item image. In this state, it is possible to easily instruct to confirm or cancel the selected lower item image according to the position where the user releases the finger or the like.
For this reason, when an item is hierarchized, it is easy to select an item from the upper level to the lower level, and it is also possible to easily instruct confirmation or cancellation of the item.

An item image is associated with multiple subordinate item images,
The display control unit may additionally display each lower item image sequentially at the detection position each time a predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected lower item image.
In this case, the user simply touches the item image (lower item image) with a finger or the like, and each lower item image is additionally displayed sequentially. That is, the lower item images are sequentially switched and selected.
Therefore, the user can easily select the lower item image by simply releasing the finger or the like when the target lower item image is displayed from the lower item image that is sequentially switched without moving the finger or the like. .

  An item selection method according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a display unit, a touch panel, a detection unit, a selection unit, a display control unit, and a determination unit, and inputs an input via the touch panel superimposed on the display unit. A method for selecting an item in an input receiving apparatus that includes a display step, a detection step, a selection step, a display control step, and a confirmation step.

First, in the display step, a plurality of item images as selectable items are arranged and displayed. For example, each item image such as a virtual keyboard is displayed. In the detection step, each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation is sequentially detected in response to the touch of the finger on the touch panel or the touch operation with the finger.
In the selection step, when the detection position of the touch operation is included in any display range of each item image, the item image in the display range is selected. In the display control step, while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image, for example, the display range of the selected item image is expanded beyond a predetermined range centered on the detection position. . More specifically, the selected item image is enlarged evenly or vertically or horizontally so as to be larger than the fingertip or the like. In the confirmation step, the selection of the item image is confirmed based on the relationship between the detection position at the end of the touch operation and the display range of the selected item image. For example, when the user's finger or the like is released from the display range of the selected item image, the selection of the item image is confirmed.
Thus, while the user touches the item image with a finger or the like, the item image is enlarged and displayed so as to be larger than the fingertip or the like. Therefore, even when it is hidden by the user's finger or the like, the item image can be visually recognized by the enlarged display. When the selected item image is the target item image, the user can confirm the selected item image by releasing the finger or the like as it is from the touch panel.
As a result, the item selection operation on the touch panel can be performed more easily.

  A program according to a third aspect of the present invention is configured to cause a computer (including an electronic device) to function as the input receiving device.

  This program can be recorded on a computer-readable information recording medium such as a compact disk, flexible disk, hard disk, magneto-optical disk, digital video disk, magnetic tape, and semiconductor memory.

  The above program can be distributed and sold via a computer communication network independently of the computer on which the program is executed. The information recording medium can be distributed and sold independently of the computer.

  According to the present invention, an item selection operation on the touch panel can be performed more easily.

It is a mimetic diagram showing appearance of a game device of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the game device of this embodiment. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the structure of the input reception apparatus which concerns on this embodiment. (A), (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating an example of a virtual keyboard. (A) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that the item image is hidden with the finger | toe, (b)-(e) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that the item image was enlargedly displayed. . (A) is a schematic diagram which shows the state which has touched the item image (touch panel) with a finger, (b), (c) is a schematic diagram which shows the state which lifted the finger from the item image (touch panel). . It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the item selection process which concerns on this embodiment. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the relationship between a reference | standard coordinate and an input coordinate. (A) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating an example of another virtual keyboard, (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating an example of a command menu. (A)-(c) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that the subordinate item image is matched with the item image. (A) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that the item image is hidden with the finger | toe, (b)-(e) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that the lower-level item image was enlarged-displayed etc. It is. (A), (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating an example of the other selection method in other embodiment.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In the following, for ease of understanding, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a portable game machine (game machine) will be described. However, the present invention is similarly applied to information processing apparatuses such as various computers, PDAs, and mobile phones. The invention can be applied. In other words, the embodiments described below are for illustrative purposes and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Therefore, those skilled in the art can employ embodiments in which each or all of these elements are replaced with equivalent ones, and these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an appearance of a typical game device in which the input receiving device according to the embodiment of the present invention is realized. As shown in the figure, the game apparatus 1 has a first display unit 18 and a second display unit 19 as features of the game device 1, and a predetermined image can be displayed on each of the first display unit 18 and the second display unit 19. A touch panel 20 is arranged on the front surface of the second display unit 19 and can be operated by a user (player) finger or the like.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the game apparatus 1. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The game apparatus 1 includes a processing control unit 10, a connector 11, a cartridge 12, a wireless communication unit 13, a communication controller 14, a sound amplifier 15, a speaker 16, an operation key 17, and a first display unit 18. And a second display unit 19 and a touch panel 20.

  The processing control unit 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) core 10a, an image processing unit 10b, a clock circuit 10c, a VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) 10d, a WRAM (Work RAM) 10e, and an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). ) A controller 10f and a touch panel controller 10g are provided.

  The CPU core 10a controls the overall operation of the game apparatus 1 and is connected to each component to exchange control signals and data. Specifically, a program and data stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12a in the cartridge 12 are read out with the cartridge 12 mounted in the connector 11, and predetermined processing is executed.

  The image processing unit 10b processes the data read from the ROM 12a in the cartridge 12 and the data processed by the CPU core 10a, and stores the processed data in the VRAM 10d.

  The clock circuit 10c is a circuit for measuring various times (time), and measures the current time set in the game apparatus 1, the elapsed time required during the game, and the like.

The VRAM 10d is a memory for storing information for display, and stores image information processed by the image processing unit 10b and the like.
The WRAM 10e stores work data and the like necessary when the CPU core 10a executes various processes according to the program.

  The LCD controller 10f controls the first display unit 18 and the second display unit 19 to display a predetermined display image. For example, the LCD controller 10 f converts the image information stored in the VRAM 10 d into a display signal at a predetermined synchronization timing, and outputs it to the first display unit 18. Similarly, the LCD controller 10 f displays a predetermined display image on the second display unit 19.

  The touch panel controller 10g acquires the coordinates (detection position) when the touch panel 20 is touch-operated with a user's finger or a touch pen. For example, in a state where a predetermined image (item image or the like) is displayed on the second display unit 19, each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation in response to a touch operation with a finger or the like on the touch panel 20 is displayed. Detect sequentially.

  The connector 11 is a terminal that can be detachably connected to the cartridge 12, and transmits / receives predetermined data to / from the cartridge 12 when the cartridge 12 is connected.

The cartridge 12 includes a ROM 12a and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12b.
The ROM 12a stores a program for realizing the game and image data, sound data, and the like accompanying the game.
The RAM 12b stores various data indicating the progress of the game.

The wireless communication unit 13 is a unit that performs wireless communication with the wireless communication unit 13 of another game apparatus 1 and transmits / receives predetermined data via an antenna (not shown) (built-in antenna or the like).
The wireless communication unit 13 can also perform wireless communication with a predetermined wireless access point. The wireless communication unit 13 is assigned a unique MAC (Media Access Control) address.

The communication controller 14 controls the wireless communication unit 13 and mediates wireless communication performed between the process control unit 10 and the process control unit 10 of another game device 1 in accordance with a predetermined protocol.
Further, when the game apparatus 1 connects to the Internet via a nearby wireless access point or the like, wireless communication performed between the processing control unit 10 and the wireless access point or the like is performed according to a protocol compliant with the wireless LAN. Intermediary communication.

The sound amplifier 15 amplifies the audio signal generated by the processing control unit 10 and supplies it to the speaker 16.
The speaker 16 is composed of, for example, a stereo speaker, and outputs predetermined music sound, sound effect, and the like according to the audio signal amplified by the sound amplifier 15.

  The operation key 17 includes a plurality of key switches and the like appropriately arranged on the game apparatus 1 and receives a predetermined instruction input according to a user operation.

The 1st display part 18 and the 2nd display part 19 consist of LCD etc., are controlled by LCD controller 10f, and display a game image etc. suitably.
The second display unit 19 displays an image or the like for inputting an operation instruction from the user by touching the touch panel 20.

The touch panel 20 is disposed so as to be superimposed on the front surface of the second display unit 19 and detects a touch operation with a user's finger or a touch pen.
For example, the touch panel 20 includes a resistive film type touch sensor panel and the like, detects a touch operation with a user's finger or the like, and outputs information (a signal indicating a detection position or the like) according to the coordinate where the touch operation is performed. . In addition, the touch panel 20 may detect a touch operation by a user's finger or the like from a change in capacitance or the like.

(Outline configuration of the input receiving device)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the input receiving apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.
The input receiving apparatus 100 includes an image information storage unit 110, a display unit 120, a detection unit 130, a timekeeping unit 140, a display control unit 150, a selection unit 160, and a confirmation unit 170.

The image information storage unit 110 stores various types of image information constituting a game screen, a character input screen, and the like to be displayed on the display unit 120.
For example, image information of a virtual keyboard to be displayed on the display unit 120 is stored. That is, the image information storage unit 110 stores each item image (each key top image) constituting the virtual keyboard in which the items of each character are arranged. More specifically, each item image for each character (each item) such as a QWERY array and the display position (display range, etc.) are stored.
Note that the above-described cartridge 12 (ROM 12a), WRAM 10e, and the like can function as such an image information storage unit 110.

The display unit 120 is controlled by the display control unit 150 and the like, and displays a game screen, a character input screen, and the like.
For example, when the user inputs characters, the display unit 120 displays item images that are selectable character items.
Specifically, the item images stored in the image information storage unit 110 are arranged, and a virtual keyboard VK1 as shown in FIG. 4A is displayed. Note that the virtual keyboard VK1 shows an alphabetical QWERY layout, but the layout is not limited to such a QWERY layout, and other layouts may be used.
For example, a virtual keyboard VK2 having a kana layout as shown in FIG. 4B may be displayed. In addition to this, a virtual keyboard with a Japanese syllabary arrangement may be displayed.
Note that the above-described second display unit 19 or the like can function as such a display unit 120.

Returning to FIG. 3, the detection unit 130 detects a touch operation on the touch panel 20 based on the information obtained from the touch panel 20 (a signal indicating a detection position or the like). That is, in response to a touch operation with a finger or the like on the touch panel 20, each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation is sequentially detected.
Therefore, it is possible to detect each position from when the user touches the touch panel 20 with a finger or the like until the user releases the finger or the like. Meanwhile, even if the user stops the finger or the like, or the user moves the finger or the like (even if the user moves the finger or the like while being in contact), the detection unit 130 detects the detection position (current (Contact position) can be sequentially detected.
The CPU core 10a and the touch panel controller 10g described above can function as such a detection unit 130.

The timer unit 140 measures the duration of the touch operation. For example, the timekeeping unit 140 starts timekeeping when the touch operation is started, and stops timekeeping when the touch operation ends. Note that the timekeeping unit 140 starts timekeeping after clearing the time to zero with the start of the touch operation. For this reason, when the user's finger or the like leaves the touch panel 20 even a little, the end of the touch operation is detected there. Therefore, even if the touch operation is immediately resumed, the time measurement is started again from zero.
Note that the clock circuit 10c described above can function as such a timer unit 140.

The display control unit 150 controls the display unit 120 to display various images on the display unit 120.
For example, the display control unit 150 causes the display unit 120 to display the above-described virtual keyboards VK1, VK2, and the like as illustrated in FIGS.
In addition, while the user touches any character (item image) on the virtual keyboards VK1 and VK2 with a finger or the like, the display control unit 150 enlarges and displays the item image. The enlarged display will be described in detail in the description of the selection unit 160 described later.
The image processing unit 10b and the LCD controller 10f described above can function as such a display control unit 150.

The selection unit 160 selects an item image based on the relationship between the detection position of the touch operation detected by the detection unit 130 and the display range of each item image on the display unit 120.
For example, when the user touches the desired item image (H) from the touch panel 20 with the finger F in a state where the virtual keyboard VK1 as shown in FIG. Since it is included in the display range of the image (H), the selection unit 160 selects the item image “H”. When the detection position is not included in the display range of any item image, the selection unit 160 does not perform selection.

When any item image is selected by the selection unit 160 in this way, the display control unit 150 displays the item image in an enlarged manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, when the user's finger F touches the item image “H” and the selection unit 160 selects the item image “H”, the display control unit 150 displays the item image shown in FIG. As shown in b), the item image KG of “H” is enlarged and displayed. As an example, the item image KG is made visible by enlarging the display range of the item image KG beyond the predetermined fingertip range.
In FIG. 5B, the item image KG is enlarged substantially uniformly from the original item image, but the method of enlargement is not limited to this and can be changed as appropriate.
For example, the display control unit 150 may mainly perform enlarged display in the vertical (vertical) direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5C, the item image KG may be enlarged and displayed so as to extend upward, and conversely, it may be enlarged downward.
Further, the display control unit 150 may mainly perform enlarged display in the left-right (horizontal) direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5D, the item image KG may be enlarged and displayed so as to extend leftward, and conversely, it may be enlarged rightward.
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5E, the item image KG may be enlarged so as to surround the contact position, and as an example, the item image KG may be enlarged and displayed so that characters can be visually recognized at four places, up, down, left, and right.

Further, the display control unit 150 does not display the selected item image in an enlarged manner instantaneously in this way, but gradually enlarges and displays the selected item image according to the time counted by the time measuring unit 140 described above. Also good. That is, while the touch operation is maintained, the item image KG may be enlarged and displayed gradually (or step by step) with the passage of time.
Thus, while the user touches the item image with a finger or the like, the item image is enlarged and displayed so as to be larger than the fingertip or the like. Therefore, even when it is hidden by the user's finger or the like, the item image can be visually recognized by the enlarged display. In particular, even when a large number of relatively small item images such as a virtual keyboard are arranged, the item image selected (touched) by the user with a finger or the like can be visually recognized.
The CPU core 10a described above can function as such a selection unit 160.

Returning to FIG. 3, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the item image based on the relationship between the detection position at the end of the touch operation and the display range of the selected item image.
For example, when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the selected item image, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the item image. On the other hand, when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is out of the display range of the selected item image, the determination unit 170 cancels the selection of the item image.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6A, from the state where the item image KG of “H” is selected, the user releases the finger F from the touch panel 20 as shown in FIG. 6B. In this case, since the detection position at the end of the touch operation is within the display range of the item image KG, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the item image KG of “H”. That is, the letter “H” is input. The display control unit 150 stops the enlarged display of the item image KG (returns to the original display range).
On the other hand, when the user moves the finger F touching the touch panel 20 to the right from the state shown in FIG. 6A and releases the finger F from the position shown in FIG. Is outside the display range of the item image KG, the determination unit 170 cancels the selection of the item image KG of “H”. In other words, the character “H” is canceled without being input. The display control unit 150 stops the enlarged display of the item image KG.
Thus, when the finger or the like is released without departing from the display range of the selected item image, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the item image. On the contrary, when the finger or the like is removed from the display range of the selected item image, the determination unit 170 cancels the selection of the item image. That is, the user can easily instruct to confirm or cancel the selected item image according to the position where the finger or the like is released.
The CPU core 10a described above can function as such a determination unit 170.

(Overview of the operation of the input reception device)
Hereinafter, the operation of the input receiving apparatus 100 having such a configuration will be described with reference to the drawings. As an example, an operation of the input receiving apparatus 100 in a state where the above-described virtual keyboard VK1 of FIG. 4A is displayed on the display unit 120 for character input will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of item selection processing executed by the input receiving apparatus 100. This item selection process is appropriately started when the user inputs characters.

First, the input reception device 100 determines whether or not a touch operation on the touch panel 20 has been detected (step S201).
That is, the detection unit 130 determines whether a touch operation with a finger or the like has been detected.
If it is determined that the touch operation on the touch panel 20 has not been detected (step S201; No), the input reception device 100 stands by for detection of the touch operation.

On the other hand, if it is determined that a touch operation on the touch panel 20 has been detected (step S201; Yes), the input reception device 100 starts measuring time (step S202).
That is, the timekeeping unit 140 starts timekeeping after clearing the time to zero with the start of the touch operation.

The input reception device 100 acquires the detection position of the touch operation (Step S203).
That is, the detection position (contact position) of the touch operation detected by the detection unit 130 is acquired. In addition, since the detection unit 130 sequentially detects the detection positions while the touch operation is continued, the input reception device 100 acquires the current detection position.

The input receiving apparatus 100 selects an item image based on the relationship between the detection position of the touch operation and the display range of the item image (step S204).
That is, when the detection position of the touch operation is included in any display range of each item image on the display unit 120, the selection unit 160 selects an item image in the display range.
For example, in the virtual keyboard VK1 as shown in FIG. 5A described above, when the user's finger F touches the item image “H”, the selection unit 160 displays the item image (H) at the detected position. Since it is included in the range, the item image “H” is selected.
Note that, for example, when a part where the item image is not displayed (arranged) is touched with a finger or the like, the detection position is not included in any display range of each item image, so the input receiving device 100 does not select an item image.
In addition, when the user moves a finger or the like while touching the touch panel 2 after selection and the detection position moves into the display range of another item image, the input reception device 100 reselects the other item image. You may make it do.

The input reception device 100 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (step S205). That is, it is determined whether or not the time measured by the time measuring unit 140 has passed a predetermined time with the start of the touch operation.
If the input receiving apparatus 100 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S205; no), the process proceeds to step S207 described later.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S205; Yes), the input receiving apparatus 100 displays the selected item image in an enlarged manner (step S206).
That is, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B described above, the display control unit 150 enlarges and displays the selected item image KG of “H”. As an example, the item image KG is made visible by enlarging the display range of the item image KG beyond the predetermined fingertip range.
Note that, as described above, the way of performing the enlarged display is not limited to this and is arbitrary. In other words, the display control unit 150 displays the item image KG in an upward direction (vertical direction or the like) as shown in FIG. 5C, or displays the item image KG in the left direction as shown in FIG. The item image KG is enlarged and displayed in the left-right direction, and the item image KG is further enlarged so as to surround the contact position as shown in FIG. It may be displayed.
In addition, as described above, the display control unit 150 does not display the item image KG in an enlarged manner after a predetermined time in this way, but gradually enlarges and displays the item image KG according to the time measured by the time measuring unit 140. You may let them.

The input receiving apparatus 100 determines whether or not the touch operation has been completed (step S207).
That is, the finger or the like that has touched the touch panel 20 is released, and the detection unit 130 determines whether the end of the touch operation is detected.
When determining that the touch operation has not ended (step S207; No), the input receiving apparatus 100 returns the process to step S203, and repeatedly executes the above-described steps S203 to S207.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the touch operation has been completed (step S207; Yes), the input receiving apparatus 100 acquires a detection position at the end of the touch operation (step S208).
That is, the detection position at the end of the touch operation detected by the detection unit 130 is acquired. That is, the detection position when the user's finger or the like is released from the touch panel 20 is acquired.

The input reception device 100 determines whether or not the acquired detection position is within the display range of the selected item image (step S209).
When determining that the detection position is outside the display range (step S209; No), the input reception device 100 cancels the selection of the item image (step S210).
That is, when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is not included in the display range of the selected item image, the determination unit 170 cancels the selection of the item image.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6C described above, when the user's finger F is released from outside the display range of the selected item image KG of “H”, the determination unit 170 displays the “H”. "Is canceled. In other words, the character “H” is canceled without being input.
Then, the input receiving apparatus 100 returns the process to step S201 described above and waits for detection of a touch operation.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the acquired detection position is within the display range of the selected item image (step S209; Yes), the input receiving apparatus 100 determines the selection of the item image (step S211).
That is, when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the selected item image, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the item image.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6B described above, when the user's finger F is released from within the display range of the selected item image KG of “H”, the determination unit 170 displays the “H”. To select the item image KG. That is, the letter “H” is input.

The input receiving apparatus 100 determines whether any character has been input (step S212).
That is, it is a character item image that has been confirmed, and it is determined whether or not the character has been input.
If it is determined that any character has been input (step S212; Yes), the input receiving apparatus 100 returns the process to step S201 described above and waits for detection of a touch operation.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the input is not a character (step S212; No), the input receiving apparatus 100 determines whether or not the input is a specific code (step S213).
That is, the input receiving apparatus 100 determines whether or not a specific code such as an enter code for determining an input character or an escape code for canceling the character input itself is input. That is, it is determined whether or not the selection of an item image such as “Enter” has been confirmed.
If the input receiving apparatus 100 determines that the input is not a specific code (step S213; No), the process returns to step S201, and the above-described processes such as steps S201 to S213 are repeatedly executed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the input is a specific code (step S213; Yes), the input receiving apparatus 100 ends the item selection process of FIG.

By such item selection processing, while the user touches the item image with a finger or the like, the item image is enlarged and displayed so as to be larger than the fingertip or the like. Therefore, even when the item image is hidden by the user's finger or the like, the item image can be visually recognized by the enlarged display. When the selected item image is the target item image (correctly selected), the user can confirm the selected item image by removing the finger or the like from the touch panel 20 as it is. On the other hand, when the selected item image is not the target item image (incorrectly selected), the user moves the touched finger or the like out of the display range of the erroneous item image, and then touches the touch panel 20. By removing the finger or the like, it is possible to cancel the selection of the wrong item image.
For this reason, even when a plurality of item images are arranged, it is possible to easily select an item without deteriorating the operability of the touch panel 20.

  As a result, the item selection operation on the touch panel can be performed more easily.

(Other embodiments)
In the above-described embodiment, the case has been described in which the item image selected by the user from the displayed item images is appropriately enlarged and displayed. Nevertheless, in reality, there may be a case where all the item images cannot be displayed at once due to the limitation of the display area, or a case where it is desired to display the item images step by step from the upper item to the lower item so that the user can easily select.
In response to such a case, the selected item image may be enlarged and displayed while the item image is displayed step by step. That is, the image of the lower item (sub item) is associated with the item image, and the lower item image of the selected item image is enlarged and displayed.
Specifically, a simplified virtual keyboard VK3 as shown in FIG. 8A is displayed to allow the user to input characters, or classification as shown in FIG. 8B is performed. For example, the command menu CM is displayed and the user inputs a command. Hereinafter, a case where a selection operation is performed from the virtual keyboard VK3 or the like will be described.

First, the image information storage unit 110 stores an item image and a lower item image associated therewith.
For example, when displaying the virtual keyboard VK3 of FIG. 8A described above, the image information storage unit 110 stores item images KG1 to KGn and lower item images SG1 to SGn as shown in FIG. 9A. ing. In the example of FIG. 9A, the names (A, A,..., W) of each line (A, A,..., A) in the hiragana alphabets are item images KG1 to KGn. It is prescribed as And the character which comprises corresponding to these and comprises each line is prescribed | regulated as the lower-order item image SG1-SGn.

In addition, when the above-described command menu CM in FIG. 8B is displayed, the image information storage unit 110 displays the item images KG11 to KG1n and the lower item images SG11 to SG1n as shown in FIG. I remember it. In the example of FIG. 9B, an outline of commands in the game (commands for instructing the player character) is defined as item images KG11 to KG1n. In association with these, specific commands are defined as lower item images SG11 to SG1n.
Furthermore, the hierarchy of item images is not limited to such two hierarchies, and may be three or more hierarchies. For example, the image information storage unit 110 stores an item image KG20 and lower item images SG20 to SG22 as illustrated in FIG. In the example of FIG. 9C, an outline (magic) of commands in the game is defined as an item image KG20, and a magic type (attack magic, defense magic) is defined as a lower item image KG21 at a lower level. Further, below that, an image representing each specific magic command is defined as a lower item image KG22.

The display unit control unit 150 appropriately reads each item image from the image information storage unit 110 in which such item images (lower item images) are stored, and displays the item images on the display unit 120 as appropriate.
For example, in the initial state, the display control unit 150 reads out the item images KG1 to KGn and the like of FIG. 9A from the image information storage unit 110 and arranges them, thereby causing a virtual keyboard as shown in FIG. VK3 is displayed on the display unit 120. Thereby, a simplified virtual keyboard VK3 including the names of the respective lines is displayed.
Similarly, when the item images KG11 to KG1n in FIG. 9B are read from the image information storage unit 110 and arranged, the display unit control unit 150 displays a command menu CM as shown in FIG. 120 is displayed.

In a state where such a virtual keyboard VK3 or the like is displayed on the display unit 120, the detection unit 130 waits for a touch operation on the touch panel 20 with a finger or the like. When the player touches a desired item image with a finger or the like, the detection position of the touch operation is detected by the detection unit 130 as described above. Then, the selection unit 160 selects any item image based on the relationship between the detection position and the display range of each item image on the display unit 120.
For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, it is assumed that the user touches a desired item image KG7 on the virtual keyboard VK3 via the touch panel 20 with the finger F. In this case, since the detection position is included in the display range of the item image KG7 (that is, “MA”), the selection unit 160 selects the item image KG7.
Note that the timer unit 140 measures the duration of the touch operation in the same manner as described above. In other words, timing starts when the touch operation is started, and stops timing when the touch operation ends.

  When any item image is selected by the selection unit 160 in this way, the display control unit 150 reads out the lower item image of the item image from the image information storage unit 110 and additionally displays it. For example, when the item image KG7 is selected by the selection unit 160 as shown in FIG. 10A, the display control unit 150 sets the display position of the item image KG7 as an example as shown in FIG. And the lower item image SG7 read from the image information storage unit 110 is added and displayed. That is, for the selected item image KG7, the display position is shifted so as not to be hidden by the finger F, and a part of the lower item image SG7 associated with this item image KG7 (one lower item image) Is additionally displayed so as to overlap the detection position. In FIG. 10B, the lower item images SG7 are arranged vertically, and a part of the lower item image SG7 is arranged below the finger F (that is, the detection position) and extended downward therefrom. However, such a display is an example. For example, the lower item image SG7 may be displayed so as to extend to the upper side of the finger F, or the lower item image SG7 may be arranged horizontally and displayed so as to extend to the left or right of the finger F.

In any case, one of the lower item images SG7 overlapping with the detection position is newly selected by the selection unit 160, and one of the selected lower item images SG7 is displayed by the display control unit 150 in the same manner as described above. Enlarged display. After that, when the touch operation is maintained as it is, other images are automatically selected from the lower item image SG7 and displayed in an enlarged manner. For example, each time a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is timed by the time measuring unit 140, the display control unit 150 displays the entire lower item image SG7 by one item (one lower item image). Move. Then, one of the lower item images SG7 (nth image) that overlaps the detection position after movement is newly selected by the selection unit 160, and the nth image is enlarged and displayed by the display control unit 150.
For example, immediately after the lower item image SG7 is additionally displayed as shown in FIG. 10B, the detection position is included in the display range of the head (first image) of the lower item image SG7. Will select this first image (ie, “ma”). Then, as shown in FIG. 10C, the display control unit 150 enlarges and displays the selected “ma” sub-item image SG7a. Thereafter, when a predetermined time elapses without moving the finger F (while still etc.), the entire lower item image SG7 is moved upward by one item by the display control unit 150. Then, one of the lower item images SG7 (second image) that overlaps the detection position after movement is selected by the selection unit 160. That is, as shown in FIG. 10D, the second image (that is, “mi”) is selected by the selection unit 160, and the display control unit 150 enlarges and displays the subordinate item image SG7b of “mi”. . Thereafter, every time a predetermined time elapses without moving the finger F, one of the lower item images SG7 (the nth image) is similarly selected in order and enlarged and displayed. As shown in FIG. 10 (e), after enlarging and displaying the subordinate item image SG7e with “mo” at the end, for example, returning to FIG. It is assumed that the lower item image SG7e is selected and enlarged again to be repeated again.

In this way, the user simply maintains the touch operation without moving the finger F, and any one of the lower-level item images is enlarged and displayed in order at every predetermined time. Then, the user releases the finger F from the touch panel 20 while a desired image is enlarged and displayed.
When the finger F is released from the touch panel 20, the detection unit 130 detects the end of the touch operation as described above. Then, as described above, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the lower item image based on the relationship between the detection position at the end of the touch operation and the display range of the selected lower item image.
For example, when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the selected lower item image, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the lower item image. On the other hand, when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is out of the display range of the selected lower item image, the determination unit 170 cancels the selection of the lower item image.

Specifically, referring to FIG. 10, when the user wants to select and confirm the “low” sub-item image SG7b, the process changes from FIG. 10 (c) to FIG. 10 (d). In a state where the lower item image SG7b is enlarged and displayed, the user's finger F is released from the touch panel 20 as it is. Then, since the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the selected lower item image SG7b, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the “low” lower item image SG7b. That is, the character “mi” is input.
Further, when it is not desired to select any of the lower item images SG7, the user's finger F is kept in contact with the touch panel 20 and moved outside the display range of the lower item image SG7 (or an enlarged display). Then, the finger F is released from the touch panel 20. Then, since the detection position at the end of the touch operation is out of the display range of any lower item image SG7 (item image KG7), the determination unit 170 cancels the selection of the lower item image SG7 and the item image KG7. . That is, the state returns to the state shown in FIG.

As described above, when the image of the lower item is associated with the item image, the item image is displayed while being shifted from the finger or the like while the user touches the item image with the finger or the like, and additionally displayed. The lower item images are sequentially selected and enlarged. Therefore, even when the first item image is hidden by the user's finger or the like, the item image can be visually recognized by being displayed while being shifted.
In addition, the lower-level item images are also enlarged and displayed so as to be selected in order and larger than the fingertips without moving the finger or the like. Therefore, even when the lower item image is hidden by the user's finger or the like, the lower item image can be visually recognized by the enlarged display. When the selected lower-level item image is the target lower-level item image, the user can confirm the selected lower-level item image by releasing the finger or the like as it is from the touch panel 20. On the other hand, when the first selected item image is not the target item image (incorrectly selected), the user moves the touched finger or the like outside the display range of the additionally displayed lower item image. After that, by removing the finger or the like from the touch panel 20, it is possible to cancel the selection of the wrong item image.
Also in this case, the item selection operation on the touch panel can be performed more easily.

In the above-described other embodiments, the lower item image is selected and enlarged in order every predetermined time without moving the finger or the like by the user. However, the user moves the finger or the like as desired. When the lower item image is selected, the selected lower item image may be enlarged and displayed.
For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, when the item image KG7 “MA” is selected in the same manner, the lower item image SG7 is additionally displayed, and the “MA” corresponding to the detection position of the finger F is displayed. Is selected and displayed in an enlarged manner.
From this state, when the user moves the finger F downward while keeping the finger F in contact with the touch panel 20, the sub-item image SG7b of “mi” is selected by the selection unit 160, and FIG. As shown, the selected “low” sub-item image SG7b is enlarged and displayed by the display control unit 150.
In this state, when the user removes the finger F from the touch panel 20, the determination unit 170 determines the selection of the “low” item image SG7b. That is, the character “mi” is input.
Further, when it is not desired to select any of the lower-level item images SG7, the user's finger F is kept in contact with the touch panel 20 and moved outside the display range of the lower-level item image SG7 (or an enlarged display). After that, by releasing the finger F from the touch panel 20, the selection unit 170 cancels the selection of the lower item image SG7 and the item image KG7. That is, the selection of the first item image KG7 is cancelled.
Also in this case, the item selection operation on the touch panel can be performed more easily.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an input reception device, an item selection method, and a program that can more easily perform an item selection operation on a touch panel.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game device 10 Processing control part 11 Connector 12 Cartridge 13 Wireless communication part 14 Communication controller 15 Sound amplifier 16 Speaker 17 Operation key 18 1st display part 19 2nd display part 20 Touch panel 100 Input reception apparatus 110 Image information storage part 120 Display unit 130 Detection unit 140 Timekeeping unit 150 Display control unit 160 Selection unit 170 Determination unit

Claims (3)

An input receiving device that receives an input via a touch panel superimposed on a display unit,
A plurality of item images as the selectable items and Table Shimesuru display unit,
In response to a touch operation on the touch panel, a detection unit that sequentially detects each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation;
A selection unit that selects an item image in the display range when the detection position of the touch operation is included in any display range of the item images;
A display control unit that expands the display range of the selected item image while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image;
A confirmation unit for confirming selection of the item image based on a relationship between a detection position at the end of the touch operation and a display range of the selected item image ;
The item image is associated with a plurality of subordinate item images as subordinate items,
The display control unit detects the lower-level item image associated with the selected item image when the predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image. Additional display at the position,
The selection unit selects the lower item image instead of the item image,
The display control unit sequentially changes the lower item image displayed at the detection position each time a predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected lower item image,
The determination unit determines the selection of the lower item image when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the lower item image, and the detection position at the end of the touch operation Deselect the lower item image when it is out of the display range of the lower item image.
Input reception device comprising a call. An item selection method in an input reception device that includes a display unit, a touch panel, a detection unit, a selection unit, a display control unit, and a confirmation unit, and that accepts input via the touch panel superimposed on the display unit,
The display unit, a plurality of item images as the selectable items and Table Shimesuru display step,
A detection step in which the detection unit sequentially detects each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation in response to a touch operation on the touch panel;
A selection step in which the selection unit selects an item image in the display range when the detection position of the touch operation is included in any display range of the item images;
A display control step for expanding the display range of the selected item image while the display control unit maintains the detection position within the display range of the selected item image;
The determination unit includes a determination step of determining selection of the item image based on a relationship between a detection position at the end of the touch operation and a display range of the selected item image ;
The item image is associated with a plurality of subordinate item images as subordinate items,
In the display control step, when a predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image, the lower-level item image associated with the selected item image is detected. Additional display at the position,
In the selection step, instead of the item image, the lower item image is selected,
In the display control step, each time a predetermined time elapses with the detection position maintained within the display range of the selected lower item image, the lower item image displayed at the detection position is sequentially changed,
In the determining step, if the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the lower item image, the selection of the lower item image is determined, and the detection position at the end of the touch operation is Deselect the lower item image when it is out of the display range of the lower item image.
Item selection wherein a call. A computer that accepts input via a touch panel superimposed on the display unit,
Table Shimesuru display a plurality of item images as the selectable items,
A detection unit that sequentially detects each detection position from the start to the end of the touch operation in response to the touch operation on the touch panel;
A selection unit that selects an item image in the display range when the detection position of the touch operation is included in any display range of the item images;
A display control unit that expands the display range of the selected item image while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image;
Based on the relationship between the detection position at the end of the touch operation and the display range of the selected item image, function as a determination unit that determines the selection of the item image ,
The item image is associated with a plurality of subordinate item images as subordinate items,
The display control unit detects the lower-level item image associated with the selected item image when the predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected item image. Additional display at the position,
The selection unit selects the lower item image instead of the item image,
The display control unit sequentially changes the lower item image displayed at the detection position each time a predetermined time elapses while the detection position is maintained within the display range of the selected lower item image,
The determination unit determines the selection of the lower item image when the detection position at the end of the touch operation is included in the display range of the lower item image, and the detection position at the end of the touch operation Deselect the lower item image when it is out of the display range of the lower item image.
Program for causing to function as.

Images