JP6651951B2 - Input device and control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an input device having a plurality of operation buttons adjacent to each other, and a computer-readable control program of the input device.

  In an input device having a plurality of operation buttons adjacent to each other, an operator such as a finger simultaneously touches two or more operation buttons even when the user intends to operate any one operation button when operating the operation buttons. May be. For this reason, as described in the following Patent Document, when two or more operation buttons are simultaneously operated, the input by the operation is invalidated.

JP-A-11-24255

  However, the simultaneous operation of two or more operation buttons means not only the operation at exactly the same time, but also the operation button intended by the user first, and then the operation button intended by the user. In the process, the operation button located next to the operation button may be operated. Therefore, in order to confirm whether or not two or more operation buttons are simultaneously operated, it is necessary to determine whether or not one operation button is continuously operated for a certain period of time. However, if the time is set long, the user needs to continue operating the operation button for a long time in order to finalize the operation, and the operability deteriorates. The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to prevent input by simultaneous operation of two or more operation buttons without lowering operability.

  In order to solve the above problem, the input device of the present invention includes a plurality of operation buttons arranged adjacent to each other, and a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured such that each of the plurality of operation buttons is Acquiring means for acquiring operation state information indicating whether or not an operation is performed at predetermined intervals, and one of the plurality of operation buttons based on the operation state information acquired by the acquiring means A first determining means for determining whether or not the first operation button is operated; and determining that the first operation button is being operated by the first determining means. Second determining means for determining whether or not a second operation button, which is an operation button other than the first operation button, is operated based on the operation state information obtained by the obtaining means; Second by means After the state where it is determined that the operation button has not been operated has been continued for the first time, it is determined whether or not the operation of the first operation button has been released based on the operation state information acquired by the acquisition means. The third determining means for determining, and after the third determining means determines that the operation of the first operation button has been released, the operation state information of the second operation button acquired by the acquiring means is a second time. And a first determination unit for determining the input of the first operation button when it is continuously indicated that the second operation button is not operated.

  In order to solve the above problems, a control program according to the present invention is a computer-readable control program for an input device having a plurality of operation buttons arranged adjacent to each other, and Acquisition means for acquiring, at predetermined intervals, operation state information indicating whether or not each of the plurality of operation buttons is operated, and the plurality of operation buttons based on the operation state information acquired by the acquisition means. First determining means for determining whether the first operation button, which is one of the operation buttons, has been operated; and determining that the first operation button is being operated by the first determining means, Whether or not a second operation button, which is an operation button other than the first operation button, of the plurality of operation buttons has been operated is determined by the operation state information acquired by the acquisition unit. Operating state information obtained by the obtaining means after the first determining means has determined that the second operation button has not been operated by the second determining means. A third determining means for determining whether or not the operation of the first operation button has been released, and obtaining the acquired information after the third determining means has determined that the operation of the first operation button has been released. When the operation state information of the second operation button acquired by the means indicates that the second operation button has not been operated for a second time, the input of the first operation button is confirmed. It is characterized by functioning as a first determining means.

  In the input device and the control program according to the present invention, the first operation button that is one of the plurality of operation buttons is continuously operated for the first time, and the first operation button is used. The first condition is that the second operation button other than the operation buttons is not operated. The second condition is that the second operation button is not continuously operated for the second time after the operation of the first operation button is released. Then, when the first condition and the second condition are satisfied, the input of the first operation button is determined. That is, when the first operation button is continuously operated for the first time and the second operation button is not continuously operated for the total time of the first time and the second time, the first operation button is operated. The button input is confirmed. This makes it possible to prevent the operability from being reduced by shortening the first time. Further, since the operation of the second operation button is monitored for the total time of the first time and the second time, it is possible to prevent input by simultaneous operation of two or more operation buttons.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the MFP 10. It is a figure showing an input I / F. It is a figure which shows the operation state of the operation button every 10 msec. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the MFP 10. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the MFP 10. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the MFP 10. FIG. 9 is a diagram conceptually illustrating a method of notifying operation buttons according to a second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation state of the operation button every 10 msec. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the MFP 10. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the MFP 10.

<MFP configuration>
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an MFP (abbreviation of Multifunction Peripheral) (an example of an input device of the present invention) 10 exemplified as an embodiment according to the present application. The MFP 10 mainly includes a CPU (an example of a control unit and a computer of the present invention) 12, a storage unit 14, a display 16, an input I / F 18, a recording unit 20, a reading unit 22, a modem 24, and a telephone line connection unit 26. I have. These components can communicate with each other via a bus 28.

  The display 16 displays various functions of the MFP 10, and includes an LCD (abbreviation for Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, a plasma display, and the like.

  The input I / F 18 is a mechanical hard key that receives a user operation. The hard key is an operation button that is pressed by a pressing operation by a user and returns to an original position when the pressing operation is released. As shown in FIG. 2, the input I / F 18 includes a numeric keypad 50, a back button (an example of a separation operation button of the present invention) 52, a home button (an example of a separation operation button of the present invention) 54, and a cancel button ( An example of the separation operation button 56 of the present invention). The numeric keypad 50 includes a plurality of operation buttons (hereinafter, referred to as “number input buttons”) 58 for inputting numbers (an example of operation buttons of the present invention) 58.

  More specifically, the numeric keypad 50 is used to input numbers “0” to “9”, a number input button 58 for inputting “*”, and a number input button 58 for inputting “*”. And a number input button 58 for the user. Each number input button 58 is generally square when viewed from above. The twelve number input buttons 58 are arranged in 4 rows × 3 columns, and are arranged adjacent to each other. In this embodiment, “adjacent to each other” refers to one of the twelve number input buttons 58, one number input button 58, and one number input button 58 other than the one number input button 58. Are adjacent to each other. That is, in the present embodiment, “adjacent to each other” means that one of the twelve number input buttons 58 is one of the number input buttons 58 and all of the number input buttons 58 other than the one number input button 58 Do not need to be adjacent.

  The back button 52 is an operation button for returning the screen displayed on the display 16 to the screen displayed before the screen. The home button 54 is an operation button for displaying a main screen (not shown) on the display 16. The cancel button 56 is an operation button for canceling the input operation. The back button 52, the home button 54, and the cancel button 56 are arranged apart from each other, unlike the numeric keypad 50. Further, the back button 52, the home button 54, and the cancel button 56 are arranged so as to be separated from the numeric keypad 50. In some cases, the back button 52, the home button 54, and the cancel button 56 are not distinguished from each other, but are collectively referred to as independent operation buttons. May be described. The input I / F 18 also has a touch sensor (not shown) integrally formed with the display 16, detects an approach / contact of the input medium to the display 16, and accepts a button operation by the user.

  The recording unit 20 is a printing mechanism, and includes, for example, an inkjet head. The CPU 12 inputs a drive signal to the recording unit 20 and, when the recording unit 20 is an ink jet head, discharges ink from nozzles according to the input drive signal. The reading unit 22 is a unit that performs a scanning process of reading an image and outputting a signal indicating the read image data, and is, for example, a CCD image sensor, a contact image sensor, or the like.

  The modem 24 modulates original data to be transmitted by the facsimile function into a signal that can be transmitted to the telephone line network 30 and transmits the signal via the telephone line connection unit 26, or from the telephone line network 30 via the telephone line connection unit 26. And demodulates the original data.

  The CPU 12 executes processing according to a control program (an example of a control program of the present invention) 32 in the storage unit 14. The control program 32 is a program for receiving a user operation on the numeric input buttons 58 of the numeric keypad 50 and the independent operation buttons. Hereinafter, the CPU 12 that executes the control program 32 may be simply described by a program name. For example, the description "the control program 32 is" may mean "the CPU 12 executing the control program 32". The storage unit 14 is configured by combining RAM (abbreviation of Random Access Memory), ROM (abbreviation of Read Only Memory), flash memory, HDD (abbreviation of Hard Disk Drive), a buffer included in the CPU 12, and the like. I have. The storage unit 14 includes a data storage area 34. The data storage area 34 is an area for storing data necessary for executing the control program 32 and the like.

<User operation on operation buttons on MFP>
With the above-described configuration, the MFP 10 executes various processes such as a copy process, a scan process, and a fax transmission / reception process. When each of these processes is executed, the user may operate the numeric input button 58 of the numeric keypad 50 or the independent operation button. In such a case, in the conventional method, the operation of the numeric input button 58 or the like, that is, the pressed numeric input button 58 or the like is performed at the timing when the press of the numeric input button 58 or the like is detected. (Hereinafter, may be described as “actual operation button”). More specifically, whether the numeric input button 58 or the independent operation button is pressed is detected every 10 msec. When the press of the numeric input button 58 or the like is detected, the detected numeric input button 58 or the like is notified as the actual operation button at the detected timing. That is, if the numeric input button 58 or the like is pressed for at most 10 msec, the input of the numeric input button 58 or the like is notified.

  However, since the plurality of number input buttons 58 are disposed adjacent to each other, a finger or the like touches two or more number input buttons 58 and is operated by one user operation. May be pressed. In such a case, if the input of the number input button 58 is notified according to the above method, the input of the two or more number input buttons 58 is notified, which is not preferable. That is, for example, when the user presses the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” in order to input the number of “1”, the number input button for inputting the number of “1” In some cases, the user presses the numeral input button 58 for inputting not only the numeral 58 but also the numeral “2”. In such a case, when the input of the number input button 58 is notified according to the above-described method, not only the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” but also the number of “2” is input. Of the number input button 58 is notified, and a number not intended by the user is input.

  For this reason, when the press of one number input button 58 is detected continuously for a predetermined time, the input of the one number input button 58 may be notified. Specifically, for example, pressing of the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” is detected continuously for 100 msec, and a number other than the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” is detected. When the press of the input button 58 is not detected, the input of the number input button 58 for inputting the number “1” is notified. According to this, the press of the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “2” is detected within 100 msec after the press of the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” is detected. In this case, the input of the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” and the input of the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “2” are not notified, and the input of the number not intended by the user is performed. Can be prevented.

  However, in such a case, in order to notify the input of the numeric input button 58, the numeric input button 58 needs to be continuously pressed for 100 msec, and the operability is poor. That is, for example, if the number input button 58 for inputting the number of “1” is continuously pressed for 90 msec, and the pressing of the number input button 58 is released before 100 msec elapses, the number input is performed. Although the button 58 is continuously pressed for 90 msec, the input of the number input button 58 is not notified, and the operability is poor.

  In view of the above, in the MFP 10, the input of the number input buttons 58 is performed according to a method capable of preventing the input of two or more number input buttons 58 unintended by the user without lowering the operability. Notified. Specifically, when one of the plurality of number input buttons 58 is operated, the one number input button 58 is stored in the data storage area 34 as a first notification target button. The time when the operation of the numeric input button 58 is started (hereinafter, referred to as “operation start time”) is stored in the data storage area 34.

  Next, it is detected that the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button has been continuously depressed for 40 msec (an example of the first time of the present invention) from the operation start time, and from the operation start time. If it is not detected that the number input buttons 58 other than the number input buttons 58 have been pressed for 40 msec, the confirmation start flag is turned from OFF to ON. Further, when it is not detected that the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is pressed continuously for 40 msec from the operation start time, or when the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not pressed. Even if it is detected that the button has been pressed continuously for 40 msec from the operation start time, if it is detected that a number input button 58 other than the number input button 58 has been pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, , The determination start flag is kept OFF.

  The confirmation start flag is a flag indicating whether or not the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is scheduled as the notification target operation button. Therefore, when the confirmation start flag is turned OFF, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not scheduled as the notification target operation button, and the number input button 58 is not notified. That is, the operation on the numeral input button 58 is canceled. When the confirmation start flag is turned ON, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is scheduled as the notification target operation button. However, at this point, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not notified.

  Subsequently, when the confirmation start flag is turned on and the pressing of the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is released, the time when the operation of the numeric input button 58 is released (hereinafter, “release time”) Is written in the data storage area 34. If no press of a numeric input button 58 other than the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is detected for 30 msec (an example of the second time of the present invention) from the release time, the first notification target is set. The number input button 58 stored as a button is notified. On the other hand, if the press of the numeric input button 58 other than the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is detected within 30 msec from the release time, the numeric input stored as the first notification target button is detected. Button 58 is not notified.

  This will be specifically described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 shows the operation states of the operation buttons every 10 msec, and “1KEY” in the frame is a numeral input button for inputting the number of “1” (hereinafter, “1” input button). It indicates that the pressing of 58 has been detected, and “2KEY” in the frame indicates a numeral input button (hereinafter, described as “2” input button) 58 for inputting the number of “2”. Is pressed, and “1 + 2KEY” in the frame indicates that pressing of two numeric input buttons 58 of the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 is detected. "Independent KEY" in the box indicates that the press of the independent operation button such as the back button 52 has been detected, and "No detection" in the frame indicates that the press of any of the operation buttons has not been detected. I have.

  In FIG. In the case of 1, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously depressed for 60 msec from the operation start time, and the number input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 60 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. That is, the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. Then, the release of the press of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and the press of any of the operation buttons is not detected within 30 msec after the release of the press. . Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing 60 msec elapses from the operation start time and further at a timing 30 msec elapses, that is, at a timing 90 msec elapses from the operation start time.

  In addition, No. In 2, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 have been pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. Then, at the timing when 50 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected, and the pressing of any of the operation buttons is not detected for 30 msec after the release is released. . Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time and further 30 msec elapses, that is, at a timing when 70 msec elapses from the operation start time.

  In addition, No. In 3, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeral input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. However, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at a timing 50 msec elapses from the operation start time, and the pressing of the “2” input button 58 is detected 10 msec after the release is released. . That is, the pressing of the numeral input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 is detected within 30 msec after the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is released. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 are not notified.

  In addition, No. In No. 4, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 is continuously pressed for 50 msec from the operation start time, and the number input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 50 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. However, the pressing of the “2” input button 58 is detected in a state where the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is continuously detected at a timing 50 msec elapses from the operation start time. That is, the pressing of the two numeric input buttons 58 of the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 is detected without releasing the pressing of the “1” input button 58. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 are not notified.

  In addition, No. In 5, it is detected that the "1" input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 30 msec from the operation start time, but the pressing of the "1" input button 58 is released without elapse of 40 msec from the operation start time. ing. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is not notified without the confirmation start flag being turned ON.

  In addition, No. In 6, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 is continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, but the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is continued for 40 msec after the operation start time. In this state, the pressing of the “2” input button 58 is also detected. That is, it is detected that the numeral input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 have been pressed without elapse of 40 msec from the operation start time. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 are not notified without the confirmation start flag being turned ON.

  As described above, the notification of the operated number input button 58 is performed so that the No. As shown in 3, 4, and 6, it is possible to prevent notification of two or more number input buttons 58 that the user does not intend. In addition, No. As shown in 1 and 2, it is possible to notify the operated number input button 58 before 100 msec elapses from the operation start time. Thus, it is possible to notify the number input button 58 without taking a long time, and the operability is improved. Furthermore, No. As shown in 1 and 2, it is possible to schedule the number input button 58 as an operation button to be operated by continuously pressing one number input button for at least 40 msec from the operation start time. Becomes This makes it possible to shorten the operation time for the numeric input button 58, and the operability is improved.

  Also, in FIG. 7, it is detected that the "1" input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeral input buttons 58 other than the "1" input button 58 are not pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. Then, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 50 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected 10 msec after the release of the pressing. . That is, the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected again within 30 msec after the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is released. This is predicted that the user accidentally repeatedly hits the button intended for the operation. Therefore, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button, that is, the “1” input button 58 is notified at the timing when the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is pressed again. You.

  Also, pressing of the numeric input button 58 other than the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not detected within 30 msec from the release time, that is, the numeric input button stored as the first notification target button is not detected. If the condition that the pressing of the numeral input buttons 58 other than 58 is not detected continuously for 30 msec from the release time is an essential condition for the notification of the numeral input buttons 58, the operability may be reduced.

  More specifically, in FIG. 8, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 is continuously pressed for 80 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are pressed for 80 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. Then, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 90 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. In such a case, according to the above method, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing when 80 msec elapses from the operation start time and further at a timing when 30 msec elapses, that is, at a timing when 110 msec elapses from the operation start time. . As described above, when the operated number input button 58 is notified after 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the user feels that the reactivity is low and the operability is reduced.

  In view of such a situation, even before 30 msec has elapsed from the release time, a state in which the pressing of the numeric input buttons 58 other than the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not detected is determined from the release time. When the operation is continued and 100 msec (an example of the fourth time of the present invention) has elapsed from the operation start time, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified. Specifically, No. In No. 8, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 90 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and the state where no pressing of any of the operation buttons is detected from the release time continues. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing when 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. Thus, the maximum time from the operation start time to the notification of the number input button 58 can be set within 100 msec, and the deterioration of the operability can be suppressed.

  Also, in FIG. 9, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 is continuously pressed for 100 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are pressed for 100 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. However, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is not detected at the timing when 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. Therefore, according to the above-described method, the notification of the “1” input button 58 is not performed unless the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is released, and the operability is reduced.

  In view of the above, even if the depression of the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not released, the operation continues for 100 msec (an example of the third time of the present invention) from the operation start time. When the press is detected, and when it is not detected that any of the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 is pressed for 100 msec from the operation start time, it is stored as the first notification target button. The number input button 58 is notified. Specifically, No. In No. 9, it is detected that the button has been continuously pressed for 100 msec from the operation start time, and that the number input button 58 other than the “1” input button 58 has been pressed for 100 msec from the operation start time. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified when 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. Thus, the maximum time from the operation start time to the notification of the number input button 58 can be set within 100 msec, and the deterioration of the operability can be suppressed.

  The plurality of number input buttons 58 are adjacent to each other, but the independent operation buttons are separated from the number input buttons 58. Therefore, immediately after the numeric input button 58 is pressed, the operation of pressing the independent operation button is considered to be the operation intended by the user. Therefore, if the press of the independent operation button is detected before the elapse of 30 msec from the release time of the number input button 58, the independent operation button is notified after the number input button 58 is notified.

  More specifically, in FIG. In 10, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 is continuously depressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON, and the “1” input button 58 is scheduled as the operation button to be notified. Then, the release of the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 50 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and the pressing of the independent operation button is detected 10 msec after the release of the pressing. That is, the press of the independent operation button is detected within 30 msec after the press of the “1” input button 58 is released. In such a case, the numeric input button 58 is notified at the timing when the press of the independent operation button is detected, that is, at the timing when 60 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and immediately thereafter, the independent operation button is notified. This makes it possible to notify the operation button according to the user's intention.

  Further, since the plurality of number input buttons 58 are adjacent to each other, it is necessary to prevent notification of two or more number input buttons 58. However, since the plurality of independent operation buttons are separated from each other, The need to prevent notification of more than one number input button 58 is low. Therefore, in FIG. As shown in FIG. 11, it is detected that any one of the independent operation buttons has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the operation of any one of the other independent operation buttons is continued for 40 msec from the operation start time. When it is not detected that the button is pressed, the one independent operation button is notified. This makes it possible to shorten the time from the operation start time of the independent operation button to the notification of the independent operation button, thereby improving the operability.

<Control program>
The notification of the operation buttons described above is performed by the CPU 12 executing the control program 32. Hereinafter, a flow when the control program 32 is executed by the CPU 12 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. In the following flow, a candidate decision start flag, a decision start flag, and a release start flag are used, but are set to OFF as initial values.

  In the MFP 10, the control program 32 is repeatedly executed at an interval of 10 msec. In the control program 32, as shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the pressing of the operation button is detected (S100). If the pressing of the operation button is detected (S100: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether or not the candidate determination start flag is set to OFF (S102). The candidate determination start flag indicates whether or not the first notification target button is stored. When the candidate start flag is set to ON, it indicates that the first notification target button is stored. , Indicates that the first notification target button is not stored when the candidate start flag is set to OFF.

  If the candidate determination start flag is set to OFF (S102: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether there is one operation button in the pressed state (S104). If the number of the pressed operation buttons is one (S104: YES), the pressed operation button is stored in the data storage area 34 as the first notification target button (S106). Further, the current time is stored in the data storage area 34 as the operation start time (S108). Next, the candidate determination start flag is set to ON (S110). Then, the control program 32 ends. Also, when there is a plurality of pressed operation buttons in S104 (S104: NO), the control program 32 ends.

  When the candidate determination start flag is set to ON in S102 (S102: NO), the CPU 12 determines whether there is one operation button in a pressed state (S112). If there is one operation button in the pressed state (S112: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether the operation button in the pressed state is the same as the first notification target button (S114). If the pressed operation button is the same as the first notification target button (S114: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether or not the confirmation start flag is set to OFF (S116).

  If the confirmation start flag is OFF (S116: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time (S118). If 40 msec has not elapsed from the operation start time (S118: NO), the control program 32 ends. On the other hand, when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time (S118: YES), the confirmation start flag is set to ON (S120). Then, the control program 32 ends.

  When the determination start flag is ON in S116 (S116: NO), as shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the release start flag is set to OFF (S122). The release start flag indicates whether or not the pressing of the operation button stored as the first notification target button has been released, and when the release start flag is set to ON, the first notification target button Indicates that the operation button stored as the first notification target button has not been released when the release start flag is set to OFF. It indicates that.

  If the release start flag is set to OFF (S122: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time (S124). If 100 msec has not elapsed from the operation start time (S124: NO), the control program 32 ends. On the other hand, if 100 msec has elapsed since the operation start time (S124: YES), the first notification target button is notified (S126). Then, the candidate determination start flag, the determination start flag, and the release start flag are set to OFF (S128), and the control program 32 ends.

  If the pressed operation button is different from the first notification target button in S114 (S114: NO), the CPU 12 determines whether the pressed operation button is the numeric input button 58 (S130). ). If the operation button in the pressed state is the numeric input button 58 (S130: YES), the processing from S128 is executed. On the other hand, if the pressed operation button is not the numeric input button 58 (S130: NO), that is, if the pressed operation button is an independent operation button, the pressed operation button, that is, the independent operation button is It is stored in the data storage area 34 as a second notification target button (S132). Next, a first notification target button is notified (S134). Subsequently, a second notification target button is notified (S136). Then, the processes in and after S128 are executed.

  When there are a plurality of pressed operation buttons in S112 (S112: NO), the processing of S128 and thereafter is executed.

  If the pressing of the operation button is not detected in S100 (S100: NO), as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the confirmation start flag is set to ON (S138). ). If the decision start flag is set to ON (S138: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether the release start flag is set to OFF (S140). If the release start flag is set to OFF (S140: YES), the release start flag is set to ON (S142). Then, the current time is stored in the data storage area 34 as the release time (S144), and the control program 32 ends.

  If the release start flag is set to ON in S140 (S140: NO), the CPU 12 determines whether 30 msec has elapsed from the release time (S146). If 30 msec has elapsed since the release time (S146: YES), the first notification target button is notified (S148). Then, the candidate determination start flag, the determination start flag, and the release start flag are set to OFF (S150), and the control program 32 ends.

  If 30 msec has not elapsed from the release time in S146 (S146: NO), the CPU 12 determines whether 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time (S152). If 100 msec has elapsed since the operation start time (S152: YES), the processing of S148 and thereafter is executed. On the other hand, when 100 msec has not elapsed from the operation start time (S152: NO), the control program 32 ends.

  If the determination start flag is set to OFF in S138 (S138: NO), the candidate determination start flag is set to OFF (S154). Then, the control program 32 ends.

  In the first embodiment, the CPU 12 executing S100 is an example of an obtaining unit. The CPU 12 executing S104 is an example of a first determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S112 is an example of a second determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S126 is an example of a second determination unit and a third determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S134 and S136 is an example of a fourth determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S140 is an example of a third determining unit. The CPU 12 executing S148 is an example of a first determination unit.

<Second embodiment>
In the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment, after the confirmation start flag is set to ON, another numeral input from the numeral input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is performed for 30 msec from the release time of the numeral input button 58. When the pressing of the button 58 is not detected, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified. On the other hand, in the MFP 10 of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the timing when the confirmation start flag is set to ON, that is, the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, is 30 msec (an example of the fifth time of the present invention). If the press of the numeric input button stored as the first notification target button and another numeric input button 58 are not detected before the elapse, the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified. Is done.

  That is, in the MFP 10 of the second embodiment, when the pressing of one of the plurality of numeric input buttons 58 is detected, the one numeric input button 58 is set as the first notification target button. The time when the operation of the numeric input button 58 is started (operation start time) is stored in the data storage area 34. Then, it is detected that the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is continuously pressed for 40 msec (an example of the first time of the present invention) from the operation start time, and it is detected that the numeric input button 58 is pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. During this period, when it is not detected that any of the numeric input buttons 58 other than the numeric input button 58 is pressed, the confirmation start flag is turned ON.

  Subsequently, with the confirmation start flag being set to ON, the number input button stored as the first notification target button and another number input button from the time when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time to the time when 30 msec elapses It is determined whether or not pressing of 58 is detected. Then, when the pressing of the numeral input button 58 different from the numeral input button stored as the first notification target button is not detected, the numeral input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified. On the other hand, when the press of the numeric input button 58 different from the numeric input button stored as the first notification target button is detected, the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not notified.

  Further, the notification method of the numeral input button 58 in the second embodiment can be expressed in a second mode different from the first mode. More specifically, in the MFP 10 of the second embodiment, the time after the elapse of 40 msec from the operation start time, the time after the elapse of 30 msec, that is, the time when 70 msec elapses from the operation start time (hereinafter, referred to as “notification time”). The number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified. Therefore, when the pressing of the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is released after the confirmation start flag is turned ON, the time when the operation of the numeric input button 58 is released (release time). (Hereinafter, referred to as “judgment period”) (an example of a second time of the present invention), a number input button 58 other than the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is set in A. It is determined whether or not a press is detected. Then, in the determination period A, when the pressing of the numeric input buttons 58 other than the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is not detected, the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified. You. On the other hand, if it is detected during the determination period A that a numeric input button 58 other than the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is pressed, the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is pressed. Not notified.

  Incidentally, when the period obtained by subtracting the period (40 msec) C from the operation time to the time when the confirmation start flag is set to ON from the period B from the operation start time to the release time is defined as the post-commitment operation period D The determination period A is a period obtained by subtracting the post-determination operation period D from the period (30 msec) E from the time when the confirmation start flag is set to ON to the notification time.

  Hereinafter, a specific example when the number input button 58 is notified in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. However, in the following description, description will be given in accordance with the previously described mode, that is, the first mode. In FIG. In the case of 1, it is detected that the "1" input button 58 is continuously pressed for 50 msec from the operation start time, and the number input buttons 58 other than the "1" input button 58 are pressed for 50 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. Also, the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 50 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, but the “1” input is not performed until the time when 30 msec elapses from the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. Pressing of the numeral input buttons 58 other than the button 58 is not detected. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing when 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time.

  In addition, No. In 2, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 have been pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. Further, no press of any of the operation buttons is detected from the timing when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time to the time when 30 msec elapses. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing when 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time.

  In addition, No. In 3, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeral input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. Further, the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the timing when 60 msec elapses from the operation start time, but the “1” input is input from the timing at which 40 msec elapses from the operation start time until 30 msec elapses. Pressing of the numeral input buttons 58 other than the button 58 is not detected. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is notified at a timing when 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time.

  In addition, No. In No. 4, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. However, pressing of the “2” input button 58 is detected at a timing when 60 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. That is, the pressing of the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 is detected from the timing when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time until the time when 30 msec elapses. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 are not notified.

  In addition, No. In 5, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 is continuously pressed for 50 msec from the operation start time, and the numeral input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 50 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. However, the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected at the same time as the pressing of the “1” input button 58 at the timing when 60 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. That is, the pressing of the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 is detected from the timing when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time until the time when 30 msec elapses. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 are not notified.

  In addition, No. In 6, it is detected that the "1" input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 30 msec from the operation start time, but the pressing of the "1" input button 58 is released without elapse of 40 msec from the operation start time. ing. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 is not notified without the confirmation start flag being turned ON.

  In addition, No. In 7, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, but at the timing when 40 msec has passed since the operation start time, the “1” input button 58 is pressed simultaneously. Pressing of the “2” input button 58 is detected. That is, although the pressing of the “1” input button 58 is detected continuously for 40 msec from the start of the operation, the numeral input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are pressed before the elapse of 40 msec from the operation start time. That has been detected. Therefore, the “1” input button 58 and the “2” input button 58 are not notified without the confirmation start flag being turned ON.

  As described above, in the MFP 10 of the second embodiment as well, As shown in 4, 5, and 7, it is possible to prevent the notification of two or more numeral input buttons 58 that the user does not intend. In addition, No. As shown in 1 to 3, it is possible to notify the operated number input button 58 at a timing when 70 msec shorter than 100 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. Thus, it is possible to notify the number input button 58 without taking a long time, and the operability is improved. Furthermore, No. As shown in 1 to 3, by continuously pressing one numeric input button for at least 40 msec from the operation start time, the numeric input button 58 can be scheduled as an operation button to be operated Becomes This makes it possible to shorten the operation time for the numeric input button 58, and the operability is improved.

  The user may continue to press the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button even after 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time. In such a case, the number input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is continuously pressed for 70 msec (an example of the third time of the present invention) from the operation start time, and 70 msec elapses from the operation start time. Until the numeral input button 58 other than the numeral input button 58 is not operated, the numeral input button stored as the first notification target button is notified.

  Specifically, No. 8, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 70 msec from the operation start time, and the number input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 70 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. For this reason, the decision start flag is turned on at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and the “1” input button 58 is notified at the timing when 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time.

  The plurality of number input buttons 58 are adjacent to each other, but the independent operation buttons are separated from the number input buttons 58. Therefore, immediately after the numeric input button 58 is pressed, the operation of pressing the independent operation button is considered to be the operation intended by the user. Therefore, if the press of the independent operation button is detected from the timing when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time to the time when 30 msec elapses while the confirmation start flag is ON, the button is stored as the first notification target button. Immediately after the notified number input button 58 is notified, the independent operation button is notified.

  Specifically, No. 9, it is detected that the “1” input button 58 has been continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the numeric input buttons 58 other than the “1” input button 58 are not pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time. Pressing is not detected. Therefore, at the timing when 40 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the confirmation start flag is turned ON. Then, at the timing when 60 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, the press of the independent operation button is detected. That is, the press of the independent operation button is detected from the timing when 40 msec elapses from the operation start time until the time when 30 msec elapses. For this reason, the numeric input button 58 stored as the first notification target button is notified at the time when 60 msec has elapsed from the operation start time, and immediately after that, the independent operation button is notified. This makes it possible to notify the operation button according to the user's intention.

  Further, since the plurality of number input buttons 58 are adjacent to each other, it is necessary to prevent notification of two or more number input buttons 58. However, since the plurality of independent operation buttons are separated from each other, The need to prevent notification of more than one number input button 58 is low. For this reason, No. As shown in FIG. 10, it is detected that an arbitrary one of the independent operation buttons is continuously pressed for 40 msec from the operation start time, and the operation of any other independent operation button is performed for 40 msec from the operation start time. When it is not detected that the button is pressed, the one independent operation button is notified. This makes it possible to shorten the time from the operation start time of the independent operation button to the notification of the independent operation button, thereby improving the operability.

  In the MFP 10 according to the second embodiment, when the notification of the operation button is performed, the flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 4, 9, and 10 are executed. Note that the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is the flowchart used in the first embodiment, but is the same as the flowchart used in the second embodiment, and is therefore used. In this flowchart, as shown in FIG. 4, the processes of S100 to S120 are executed, but the description of those processes is omitted because it has already been made. Next, when the determination start flag is set to ON in S116 (S116: NO), as shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 12 determines whether 70 msec has elapsed from the start time (see FIG. 9). S200).

  If 70 msec has not elapsed since the operation start time (S200: NO), the control program 32 ends. On the other hand, when 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time (S200: YES), the first notification target button is notified (S202). Then, the candidate determination start flag and the determination start flag are set to OFF (S204), and the control program 32 ends.

  When the operation button in the pressed state is different from the first notification target button in S114 (see FIG. 4) (S114: NO), as shown in FIG. 9, the processing after S206 is executed. The processing is the same as the processing after S130 in FIG. 5, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Further, when there are a plurality of pressed operation buttons in S112 (see FIG. 4) (S112: NO), as shown in FIG. 9, the processing after S204 is executed.

  Further, when the depression of the operation button is not detected in S100 (see FIG. 4) (S100: NO), as shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the confirmation start flag is set to ON. It is determined (S214). If the confirmation start flag is set to ON (S214: YES), the CPU 12 determines whether 70 msec has elapsed from the operation start time (S216). If 70 msec has not elapsed from the operation start time (S216: NO), the control program 32 ends.

  On the other hand, if 70 msec has elapsed since the operation start time (S216: YES), the first notification target button is notified (S218). Then, the candidate determination start flag and the determination start flag are set to OFF (S220), and the control program 32 ends. If the determination start flag is set to OFF in S214 (S214: NO), the candidate determination start flag is set to OFF (S222), and the control program 32 ends.

  In the second embodiment, the CPU 12 executing S100 is an example of an obtaining unit and a third determining unit. The CPU 12 executing S104 is an example of a first determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S112 is an example of a second determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S202 is an example of a second determination unit and a third determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S210 and S212 is an example of a fourth determination unit. The CPU 12 executing S218 is an example of a first determination unit.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, but can be implemented in various modes with various changes and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art. Specifically, in the above embodiment, the plurality of number input buttons 58 are arranged adjacent to each other, but it is also possible to arrange the plurality of number input buttons 58 slightly apart. In this case, the distance between the number input buttons 58 is shorter than the width of an operator pressing the number input buttons 58, for example, the width of a finger. The distance between the independent operation buttons such as the back button 52 and the number input button 58 and the distance between the independent operation buttons are longer than the width of the operation element.

  In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to a mechanical operation button. However, the present invention can be applied to a touch button of a capacitance type, an infrared type, an electromagnetic induction type, or the like.

  In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the MFP 10. However, the present invention can be applied to various devices such as a portable terminal, a machine tool, and a manufacturing device as long as the device has operation buttons. is there.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the processing illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6, 9, and 10 is executed by the CPU 12 has been described. It may be executed, or these processes may be executed in cooperation with a CPU or the like, an ASIC, or another logic integrated circuit.

  10 MFP, 12: CPU, 32: Main program, 52: Back button, 54: Home button, 56: Cancel button, 58: Numeric input button

Claims (7)

A plurality of operation buttons arranged next to each other,
A control unit;
With
The control unit includes:
Acquisition means for acquiring, at predetermined intervals, operation state information indicating whether or not each of the plurality of operation buttons is operated,
A first determination unit configured to determine whether a first operation button, which is one of the plurality of operation buttons, is operated based on the operation state information acquired by the acquisition unit;
When it is determined by the first determination unit that the first operation button is being operated, whether a second operation button other than the first operation button among the plurality of operation buttons is operated. Second determining means for determining whether or not the operation state information has been obtained by the obtaining means;
After the state in which the second operation button is determined not to be operated by the second determination means for a first time, based on the operation state information acquired by the acquisition means, the state of the first operation button is determined. Third determining means for determining whether or not the operation has been released;
After the third determination means determines that the operation of the first operation button has been released, the operation state information of the second operation button acquired by the acquisition means continues for a second time, and First determination means for determining the input of the first operation button when indicating that the operation button has not been operated;
An input device comprising: The control unit includes:
When the state in which the second operation button is determined not to be operated by the second determination means continues for a third time longer than the first time, the input of the first operation button is determined. The input device according to claim 1, further comprising a second determination unit. The control unit includes:
After the third determining means determines that the operation of the first operating button has been released, the operation state information of the second operating button acquired by the acquiring means is that the second operating button is not operated. And the first operation button acquired by the acquisition unit within the second time from the time when the operation of the first operation button is determined to be released by the third determination unit. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a third determination unit configured to determine the input of the first operation button when the operation state information indicates that the first operation button is operated. 4. Input device. The first time and the second time are times of a preset length,
The first determining means includes:
After the third determination means determines that the operation of the first operation button has been released, the operation state information of the second operation button acquired by the acquisition means continues for a second time, and Even when the operation button does not indicate that the operation button has not been operated, the operation state information of the second operation button acquired by the acquisition unit continuously indicates that the second operation button is not operated. And the elapsed time from the time when the first operation button is judged to be operated by the first judgment means is longer than the sum of the first time and the second time. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the input of the first operation button is determined when a fourth time has elapsed. The first time is a time of a preset length,
The second time is
The first time is calculated from the elapsed time from the time when the first determining means determines that the first operation button is operated to the time when the third determining means determines that the operation of the first operation button is released. 4. The input device according to claim 1, wherein the time is obtained by subtracting a time obtained by subtracting from the fifth time having a preset length. 5. The input device,
The plurality of operation buttons and another operation button, comprising a separation operation button disposed in a state separated from the plurality of operation buttons,
The acquisition means,
A state indicating whether or not the separation operation button is operated is also acquired as the operation state information,
The control unit includes:
After the third determining means determines that the operation of the first operating button has been released, the operation state information of the second operating button acquired by the acquiring means is that the second operating button is not operated. And the operation of the separation operation button acquired by the acquisition means within the second time from the time when the operation of the first operation button is judged to be released by the third judgment means. When the state information indicates that the separation operation button is being operated, a fourth determination unit that determines the input of the first operation button, and thereafter also determines the input of the separation operation button. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: A computer-readable control program of an input device having a plurality of operation buttons arranged adjacent to each other,
Said computer,
Acquisition means for acquiring, at predetermined intervals, operation state information indicating whether or not each of the plurality of operation buttons is operated,
A first determination unit configured to determine whether a first operation button, which is one of the plurality of operation buttons, is operated based on the operation state information acquired by the acquisition unit;
Whether or not a second operation button of the plurality of operation buttons other than the first operation button is operated when it is determined by the first determination unit that the first operation button is being operated. A second determining means for determining whether or not the operation state information obtained by the obtaining means,
After the state in which the second operation button is determined not to be operated by the second determination means for a first time, based on the operation state information acquired by the acquisition means, the state of the first operation button is determined. Third determining means for determining whether or not the operation has been released;
After the third determination means determines that the operation of the first operation button has been released, the operation state information of the second operation button acquired by the acquisition means continues for a second time, and First determination means for determining the input of the first operation button when indicating that the operation button has not been operated;
A control program characterized by functioning as a function.

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