JP6785279B2 - Character input system, character input device, character input program, and character input method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a character input system, a character input device, a character input program, and a character input method using an input means having a plurality of keys.

Conventionally, a key layout conversion system for changing the layout of a keyboard for inputting characters has been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-164610

However, the technique described in Patent Document 1 changes the layout of the keyboard to execute an application that performs an operation different from character input, and there is room for improvement in order to input desired characters quickly. there were.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a character input system capable of inputting characters quickly.

In one example of the present invention, the following configuration was adopted in order to solve the above problems.

The character input system according to an example of the present invention includes an input means capable of inputting a plurality of keys at the same time, an input signal receiving means for receiving an input signal corresponding to an input to the plurality of keys from the input means, and the input signal. A character determining means for determining an input character corresponding to a plurality of input keys based on an input signal received by the receiving means is provided, and the character determining means is arranged in a first area of the input means. When the key and the key arranged in the second area of the input means are input at the same time, the input for the key in the first area is prioritized over the input for the key in the second area. The input character is determined.

According to the above, characters can be input by simultaneously inputting a plurality of keys of the input means. Further, by prioritizing the input for the key arranged in the first area over the input for the key arranged in the second area and determining the input character, for example, while inputting the key with both the left and right hands, while inputting the key, Characters entered with one hand can be given priority. As a result, the user can input characters with both hands and can input desired characters even when they are input with both hands at the same time.

Further, in another configuration, when the key arranged in the first area and the key arranged in the second area are simultaneously input by the character determination means, the first input is input. A character string in which the character corresponding to the key of the area is arranged first and the character corresponding to the input key of the second area is arranged later may be determined as the input character.

According to the above, since the character corresponding to the key in the first area is arranged first and the character corresponding to the key in the second area is arranged later, the user inputs the keys in the two areas at the same time. You can enter the desired characters, and you can quickly enter the characters using the keys in the two areas.

In another configuration, the key arranged in the first area is a key input by one hand of the user, and the key arranged in the second area is the other hand of the user. It may be an input key.

According to the above, the user can input a plurality of keys at the same time with the left and right hands. For example, when the first area is arranged on the left side, the input by the left hand can be prioritized over the input by the right hand.

Further, in another configuration, when the key of the input means is input, the character determining means determines the input key and the input strength of the key, and the input key and the input strength are determined. The input character may be determined based on the above.

According to the above, the user can input different characters depending on the strength (speed) of key input in addition to the type of key.

Further, in another configuration, when the key of the input means is input, the character determination means determines the input key and the input time of the key, and sets the input key and the input time. Based on this, the input character may be determined.

According to the above, the user can input different characters depending on the key input time as well as the key type.

Further, in another configuration, the input means may be capable of outputting a MIDI signal. The input signal receiving means may receive the MIDI signal from the input means. The character determination means may determine the input character based on the MIDI signal.

According to the above, characters can be input using an input means capable of outputting a MIDI signal.

Further, in another configuration, the character determining means has the first key based on the timing when the first key of the input means is released and the timing when the second key of the input means is released. It may be determined whether or not the key and the second key are input at the same time, and the input character may be determined based on the determination result.

According to the above, when a plurality of keys are released at the same time, it can be determined that the plurality of keys are input at the same time. This makes it easier to input a plurality of keys at the same time than when inputting a plurality of keys at the same time.

Further, in another configuration, when the first key of the plurality of keys is input, the character determination means determines that the first character has been input, and the second of the plurality of keys. When the key is input, it is determined that the second character is input, and when the first key and the second key of the plurality of keys are input at the same time, the third character is input. It may be determined that it has been done.

According to the above, the first character is input by inputting the first key, the second character is input by inputting the second key, and the first key and the second key are simultaneously input. The third character can be input by inputting. As a result, various characters can be input by changing the timing of inputting a plurality of keys, and various characters can be input even with a small number of keys.

Further, another invention may be a character input device. The character input device is based on an input signal receiving means for receiving an input signal corresponding to an input to the plurality of keys from an input means capable of simultaneously inputting a plurality of keys, and an input signal received by the input signal receiving means. A character determining means for determining an input character corresponding to a plurality of input keys is provided, and the character determining means includes a key arranged in a first area of the input means and a second of the input means. When the keys arranged in the area are input at the same time, the input for the key in the first area is prioritized over the input for the key in the second area, and the input character is determined.

Further, another invention is a character input program executed by a computer of an information processing apparatus, and the computer may function as the input signal receiving means and the character determining means. Further, another invention may be a character input method using an input means capable of inputting a plurality of keys at the same time.

According to the present invention, the user can input characters by simultaneously inputting a plurality of keys of the input means, and can input desired characters quickly.

A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the character input system 1 of the present embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the MIDI keyboard 2 of this embodiment and its arrangement. The figure which shows an example of the left side area and the right side area of two MIDI keyboards 2. The figure which shows an example of the alphabet assigned to each key of two MIDI keyboards 2. The figure which shows an example of the kana character correspondence table which corresponded the alphabet and the kana character assigned to each key of the MIDI keyboard 2. The figure which shows an example of the input of the character of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound Figure showing other examples of voiced and semi-voiced character input The figure which shows an example of the input of lowercase letters and normal characters according to the keystroke strength The figure which shows an example of the case of expressing the character of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound by combination with other keys. Diagram showing an example of expressing lowercase letters in combination with other keys The figure which shows an example of the input of the character of sound repellency ("n") The figure which shows an example of the input of the character of the sokuon ("tsu") The figure which shows an example of the key assignment corresponding to a plurality of kana characters The figure for demonstrating the case of inputting the character string of "easy" by pressing a plurality of keys of the left area and the right area at the same time. Diagram showing an example of simultaneous input of multiple keys Flowchart showing details of character input processing according to this embodiment The figure which shows an example of the relationship between the character and time input by using the character input system 1 of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the assignment of the alphabet to each key of the MIDI keyboard 2 in another embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the correspondence between the alphabet character and the kana character in another embodiment.

(Configuration of character recognition device)
Hereinafter, a character input system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The character input system of the present embodiment is a system for inputting characters using a MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) keyboard for playing music. By inputting characters using a MIDI keyboard, it is possible to input characters faster than when inputting characters using a normal 101 keyboard having 101 keys or a 109 keyboard having 109 keys. ..

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the character input system 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the character input system 1 includes a MIDI keyboard 2 and an information processing device 3.

The MIDI keyboard 2 is, for example, a keyboard connected to a personal computer and commercially available as a keyboard for playing music. The MIDI keyboard 2 has a plurality of keys. Further, the MIDI keyboard 2 includes, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal. The MIDI keyboard 2 outputs a MIDI signal according to the key input by the user. Specifically, the MIDI keyboard 2 has information indicating the type of key input by the user, information indicating the strength (speed) of keystroke, and the keystroke length (when the key is pressed). Outputs a MIDI signal containing information (when separated from). Further, the MIDI keyboard 2 can output information on the timbre as a MIDI signal. Further, the MIDI keyboard 2 can output octave (8-degree pitch) change information, scale, pitch, tempo change information, sustain (vibration) information, and event mute (mute) as MIDI signals. Further, the MIDI keyboard 2 can output information indicating that the key has been pressed more strongly as a MIDI signal when the key is pressed more strongly after the key is pressed. Further, when a plurality of keys are input at the same time, the MIDI keyboard 2 has information on the plurality of input keys (information indicating the type of key, information on the strength of keystroke, information indicating that the key has been pressed more strongly, etc. ) Is output at the same time.

The information processing device 3 includes a MIDI signal receiving unit 31, a character determination unit 32, a setting unit 33, and a storage device 34. The information processing device 3 is, for example, a personal computer, and includes a CPU, a RAM, a storage device (hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc.), and a plurality of USB ports. The CPU of the information processing device 3 functions as each unit 31 to 33 shown in FIG. 1 by executing the character input program of the present embodiment.

The MIDI signal receiving unit 31 receives a MIDI signal from the MIDI keyboard 2. The MIDI signal receiving unit 31 outputs the MIDI signal received from the MIDI keyboard 2 to the character determination unit 32.

The character determination unit 32 determines the input character input by the user based on the MIDI signal from the MIDI signal reception unit 31. The character determination unit 32 stores a correspondence table in which each key of the MIDI keyboard 2 is associated with a character (kana character), and determines an input character based on the correspondence table. The correspondence table between keys and characters will be described later. Then, the character determination unit 32 outputs the determined input character to another application (Japanese conversion application, document creation application).

The setting unit 33 sets a correspondence table in which each key of the MIDI keyboard 2 and a character (kana character) are associated with each other based on the input from the user. This allows the user to set a correspondence table, edit the correspondence table for ease of use, or add a new record with one or more keys and characters to the correspondence table. Can be done.

The storage device 34 is a storage device such as a non-volatile memory, a magnetic disk such as a hard disk or a floppy disk, an optical disk, or a magneto-optical disk. The storage device 34 may be built in the information processing device 3 or may be externally attached. A MIDI file corresponding to a MIDI signal from the MIDI keyboard 2 is stored in the storage device 34. Further, the character determination unit 32 reads the MIDI file stored in the storage device 34 and converts the MIDI signal into character information.

The information processing device 3 can convert a MIDI signal corresponding to an input to the MIDI keyboard 2 by the user into characters, and can store the MIDI signal as a MIDI file in the storage device 34. Further, the information processing device 3 (character determination unit 32) can convert the MIDI signal into characters by reading the saved MIDI file. The storage device 34 is arranged on a network such as a LAN or the Internet, and when the information processing device 3 accesses the storage device 34 via the network, a MIDI file corresponding to the MIDI signal from the MIDI keyboard 2 is generated. You may save or get the saved MIDI file.

The MIDI keyboard 2 and the information processing device 3 are connected via, for example, a USB port. In this embodiment, two MIDI keyboards 2 are connected to the information processing device 3.

The MIDI keyboard 2 and the information processing device 3 may be connected wirelessly. For example, the MIDI keyboard 2 and the information processing device 3 may be connected by a wireless LAN or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

Further, as the information processing device 3, any information processing device may be used, and for example, a notebook computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like may be used.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the MIDI keyboard 2 of the present embodiment and its arrangement. As shown in FIG. 2, the MIDI keyboard 2 includes a MIDI keyboard 2A and a MIDI keyboard 2B.

As shown in FIG. 2, the MIDI keyboard 2A includes, for example, 25 keys (keys 21 to 45). For example, the MIDI keyboard 2A has a key 21 corresponding to "do", a key 23 corresponding to "re", a key 25 corresponding to "mi", a key 26 corresponding to "fa", and a key corresponding to "so". 28, a key 30 corresponding to "la", a key 32 corresponding to "shi", and the like are provided. Further, the MIDI keyboard 2A includes a control key 46 for changing the keyboard setting. For example, the control key 46 is used as a key for changing the timbre.

The same applies to the MIDI keyboard 2B. In this embodiment, the same model of keyboard is used as the MIDI keyboard 2A and the MIDI keyboard 2B. The MIDI keyboard 2A and the MIDI keyboard 2B may be different types of keyboards. For example, the MIDI keyboard 2A and the MIDI keyboard 2B may have different numbers of keys.

As shown in FIG. 2, the MIDI keyboard 2A and the MIDI keyboard 2B are arranged vertically. Specifically, the MIDI keyboard 2A arranged on the upper side is arranged in a normal orientation. On the other hand, the MIDI keyboard 2B arranged on the lower side is arranged upside down. That is, the MIDI keyboard 2A is arranged so that the key 21 corresponding to the leftmost (bass side) "do" is on the left side, and the MIDI keyboard 2B corresponds to the leftmost (bass side) "do". The key 21 to be used is arranged so as to be on the right side. Further, as will be described later, the MIDI keyboard 2A arranged on the upper side is arranged so as to be shifted to the left side of the MIDI keyboard 2B arranged on the lower side so that the characters assigned to each key are symmetrical. For example, two keyboards are arranged so that the key 32 of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the key 33 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B are arranged one above the other.

The information processing device 3 may distinguish between the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B, for example, depending on which port of the plurality of USB ports of the own device is connected to the MIDI keyboard 2. Further, the information processing device 3 may distinguish between the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B according to the order in which the two MIDI keyboards 2 are connected. For example, the MIDI keyboard 2 first connected to the information processing device 3 may be recognized as the upper MIDI keyboard 2A, and the second MIDI keyboard 2 connected may be recognized as the lower MIDI keyboard 2B.

Further, the information processing device 3 causes the user to input any key of the MIDI keyboard 2 when activating the character input program of the present embodiment, thereby causing the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B. May be recognized.

When the two MIDI keyboards 2 and the information processing device 3 are wirelessly connected, the information processing device 3 may recognize the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B by the wireless channel. .. When the two MIDI keyboards 2 and the information processing device 3 are wirelessly connected, the information processing device 3 recognizes the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B according to the order in which they are wirelessly connected. You may.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, two MIDI keyboards 2 are arranged, and a user inputs characters by inputting keys with his / her left and right hands.

In the following, when distinguishing between the upper and lower keyboards, they are referred to as "MIDI keyboard 2A" and "MIDI keyboard 2B", and when the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B are collectively referred to, they are referred to as "MIDI keyboard 2A" and "MIDI keyboard 2B". Notated as "MIDI keyboard 2".

(Alphabet assignment to each key of MIDI keyboard 2)
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a left side region and a right side region of two MIDI keyboards 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an alphabet assigned to each key of the two MIDI keyboards 2.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the two MIDI keyboards 2 are divided into a left region and a right region. Specifically, the two MIDI keyboards 2 are divided into a left region and a right region with a boundary between the keys 32 and 33 of the two MIDI keyboards 2. The left area is an area input using the user's left hand. The right side area is an area input by using the user's right hand. For example, the left region includes keys 21 to 22 of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and keys 33 to 45 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B. Further, the right side region includes keys 33 to 45 of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and keys 21 to 22 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B. The definition of the area shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example, and the definitions of the left side area and the right side area are not limited to those shown in FIG.

For each key in the left area, for example, the alphabets "Y", "K", "S", "M", "R", "U", "A", "Z", "X", "V" 10 characters are assigned. In addition, "* (asterisk)" is assigned to the key in the left area. In addition, 10 characters of the same alphabet and "*" are assigned to each key in the right area.

Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the key 33 in the left region of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B corresponds to "*", the key 34 corresponds to "U", and the key 35 corresponds to "U". Corresponds to "Y", key 36 corresponds to "A", key 37 corresponds to "S", key 38 corresponds to "R", key 40 corresponds to "X", and key 42 corresponds to "X". Corresponds to "V". Further, the key 30 in the left region of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A corresponds to "Y", the key 28 corresponds to "K", the key 26 corresponds to "M", and the key 25 corresponds to "Z". ..

Further, the key 32 in the right area of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B corresponds to "*", the key 31 corresponds to "U", the key 30 corresponds to "Y", and the key 29 corresponds to "A". Then, the key 28 corresponds to "S", the key 26 corresponds to "R", the key 25 corresponds to "X", and the key 23 corresponds to "V". Further, the key 35 in the right region of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A corresponds to "Y", the key 37 corresponds to "K", the key 38 corresponds to "M", and the key 40 corresponds to "Z". .. Other keys are assigned as function keys (keys to which fixed operations and functions can be assigned).

Each key in the left area is arranged in a positional relationship in which the user can press a plurality of keys at the same time using the left hand. For example, the keys 34 on the lower MIDI keyboard 2B and the keys 25 on the upper MIDI keyboard 2A are relatively far apart, but on each key so that the user can press these two keys simultaneously with his left hand. Each alphabet is associated. The same applies to each key in the right area, and each key in the right area is arranged so that the user can press a plurality of keys in the right area at the same time using the right hand. That is, in consideration of the physical size of each key of the MIDI keyboard 2, the distance between the keys, the size of a person's hand, etc., each key can be pressed with one hand so that a person can press a plurality of keys in each area. And the alphabet are associated.

In addition, a plurality of alphabets that are likely to be input at the same time are arranged at close positions.

More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, each character is assigned in three stages. Four characters "Y", "K", "M", and "Z" are assigned to the first row (upper line). Six characters "*", "Y", "S", "R", "X", and "V" are assigned to the second row (middle line). "U" and "A" are assigned to the third row (lower line). With respect to the left region, for example, the user presses "A", "U" with the first finger of the left hand, presses "K", "S", "Y" with the second finger of the left hand, and presses the second finger of the left hand. Press "M" and "R" with three fingers, press "Z" and "X" with the fourth finger of the left hand, and press "V" with the fifth finger of the left hand. The user presses one or more keys assigned to each finger. For example, the user uses the first finger of the left hand to distinguish between three types, "U", "A", and "AU". In addition, the user uses the second finger of the left hand to distinguish between seven types of "K", "S", "KS", "Y", "KY", "SY", and "KSY". The same applies to the characters assigned to other fingers, and the user can type a plurality of combinations by pressing one or more characters with the assigned fingers.

Similarly for the right area, press "A" and "U" with the first finger of the right hand, press "K", "S" and "Y" with the second finger of the right hand, and press the third finger of the right hand. Press "M" and "R" with, press "Z" and "X" with the fourth finger of the right hand, and press "V" with the fifth finger of the right hand.

The correspondence between each key of the MIDI keyboard 2 and the alphabet is merely an example, and each key may be associated with another alphabet. Further, in the above, the 10-letter alphabets of "Y", "K", "S", "M", "R", "U", "A", "Z", "X", and "V" are used. Although assigned to the keys, a different 10-character alphabet may be assigned to each key, and not limited to 10 characters, an alphabet of less than 10 characters or 11 or more characters may be assigned to each key.

Further, the user can set the correspondence relationship shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 by himself / herself. For example, the user may associate the key 32 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B with an alphabet different from "Y", or may associate the key 40 with another new alphabet.

(Input of kana characters (Kiyone))
Next, the input of Japanese kana characters will be described. As mentioned above, the keys of the two MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B are "Y", "K", "S", "M", "R", "U", "A", "Z", "X". , "V" is assigned to any of the 10 characters. The character determination unit 32 determines the input kana character based on the fact that the key corresponding to the 10-character alphabet is pressed. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a kana character correspondence table in which the alphabet assigned to each key of the MIDI keyboard 2 and the kana character are associated with each other.

As shown in FIG. 5, when one or more keys corresponding to each character of the alphabet are pressed (keyed), the character determination unit 32 determines that the kana character shown in FIG. 5 has been input. To do.

For example, when the key corresponding to "A" is pressed, the character determination unit 32 determines that "A" has been input. Specifically, as described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, when the key 36 or the key 29 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B is pressed, it is determined that "A" has been input.

Further, when the four keys corresponding to "M", "R", "K" and "S" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "I" has been input. Specifically, when the keys 26 and 28 of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the keys 37 and 38 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "I" has been input. Alternatively, when the keys 37 and 38 of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the keys 26 and 28 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "I" has been input.

Further, when the key corresponding to "U" is pressed, it is determined that "U" has been input. Specifically, when the key 34 or the key 31 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B is pressed, it is determined that "U" has been input.

Further, when the key corresponding to "Y" is pressed, it is determined that "e" has been input. Specifically, when any of the key 35 and key 30 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B and the key 35 and key 30 of the upper MIDI keyboard 2A is pressed, it is determined that "e" has been input.

Further, when the two keys corresponding to "A" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "O" has been input. Specifically, when the key 36 and the key 34 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "O" has been input. Alternatively, when the key 29 and the key 31 of the lower MIDI keyboard 2B are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "O" has been input.

When inputting each character in the "ka" line, basically, "K" is input at the same time in addition to each character in the "a" line. For example, when two keys corresponding to "K" and "A" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "ka" has been input. Further, when the key corresponding to "K" is pressed, it is determined that "ki" has been input. Further, when the two keys corresponding to "K" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "ku" has been input. Further, when the two keys corresponding to "K" and "Y" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "ke" has been input. Further, when the three keys corresponding to "K", "A" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "ko" has been input.

When inputting each character in the "sa" line, basically, "S" is input at the same time in addition to each character in the "a" line. For example, when two keys corresponding to "S" and "A" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "sa" has been input. Further, when the key corresponding to "S" is pressed, it is determined that "" has been input. Further, when the two keys corresponding to "S" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "su" has been input. Further, when the two keys corresponding to "S" and "Y" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "se" has been input. Further, when the three keys corresponding to "S", "A" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "so" has been input.

When inputting each character in the "ta" line, basically, "K" and "S" are input at the same time in addition to each character in the "a" line. For example, when the three keys corresponding to "K", "S", and "A" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "" has been input. Further, when the two keys corresponding to "K" and "S" are pressed, it is determined that "chi" has been input. Further, when the three keys corresponding to "K", "S" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "tsu" has been input. Further, when the three keys corresponding to "K", "S" and "Y" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "" has been input. Further, when the four keys corresponding to "K", "S", "A" and "U" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "to" has been input.

The same applies to other kana characters. Alphabets corresponding to the consonants indicating the "na" line, "ha" line, "ma" line, "ya" line, "ra" line, and "wa" line are assigned respectively, and the alphabet corresponding to the consonant and the vowel The input character is determined based on whether or not the alphabets (“A”, “U”, “Y”, etc.) corresponding to are pressed at the same time.

The kana character correspondence table shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and the correspondence relationship between the alphabet and kana characters is not limited to this. In addition, the user can change the correspondence between the alphabet and the kana characters by himself / herself, or add a new record in which the alphabet and the kana characters are associated with each other.

(Input of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound according to keystroke strength)
Next, the input of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound will be described. The characters of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound are determined according to the strength (speed) of keystroke when the key is pressed. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of inputting characters of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound.

As described above, the MIDI signal output from the MIDI keyboard 2 includes information indicating the key pressing strength (key pressing strength or key pressing speed) of the key. For example, the keystroke strength is represented by a value between 0 and 127. As shown in FIG. 6, for example, it is assumed that the kana character "hi" corresponds to the letters "R" and "S" of the alphabet. In this case, the keys corresponding to "R" and "S" (for example, keys 35 and 33 of the MIDI keyboard 2B) are simultaneously pressed with a key pressing strength of "weak" (for example, a range of key pressing intensities 1 to 45). At that time, it is determined that Kiyone "Hi" has been input. Further, when the keys corresponding to "R" and "S" are simultaneously pressed with the keystroke strength "medium" (for example, the keystroke strength in the range of 46 to 90), it is determined that the voiced sound "bi" has been input. Further, when the keys corresponding to "R" and "S" are simultaneously pressed with the keying strength "strong" (for example, the keying strength in the range of 91 to 127), it is determined that the handakuon "pi" is input. ..

In addition, when a plurality of keys are pressed, it is determined whether the plurality of keys are pressed with a key strength of "strong", "medium", or "weak" based on the total key strength of the plurality of keys. May be good. Then, the clear sound, the voiced sound, and the semi-voiced sound may be discriminated according to the total keying strength of the plurality of keys.

Note that FIG. 6 shows an example in which clear sound, muddy sound, and semi-voiced sound are discriminated according to the absolute keying strength when the key is pressed, but the distinction between clear sound, muddy sound, and semi-voiced sound is shown in FIG. It is not limited to the above example. As another discrimination method, a clear sound, a voiced sound, or a semi-voiced sound may be discriminated according to the relative keying strength of each key. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of inputting characters of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound.

As shown in FIG. 7, for example, when the keys corresponding to "R" and "S" are simultaneously pressed with the same strength (for example, when the difference in keying strength is within a predetermined range (for example, less than 10)). ), It may be determined that Kiyone "Hi" has been input. Further, when the keys corresponding to "R" and "S" are pressed at the same time, and the key corresponding to "R" is pressed more strongly than the key corresponding to "S" (for example, the key corresponding to "R"). It may be determined that the value obtained by subtracting the keystroke strength of "S" from the strength is a predetermined positive value (for example, 10) or more) and the voiced sound "bi" is input. Further, when the keys corresponding to "R" and "S" are pressed at the same time, and the key corresponding to "S" is pressed more strongly than the key corresponding to "R" (for example, the key corresponding to "R"). It may be determined that the value obtained by subtracting the keystroke strength of "S" from the strength is a predetermined negative value (for example, -10) or less) and the handakuon "pi" is input.

The same applies to characters with other voiced sound and semi-voiced sound, and clear sound, voiced sound, and semi-voiced sound are determined according to the keystroke intensity.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when the same key is pressed, the clear sound, the voiced sound, and the semi-voiced sound are discriminated according to the keying strength (keying speed). As a result, various characters can be input even if the number of keys is small.

The keystroke strength may be used to distinguish other characters. The voiced sound, the semi-voiced sound, and the lowercase letters are separated by the combination with other characters, and the keystroke strength may be used for other purposes. For example, the keystroke strength may be used for changing the size, font, color, etc. of characters, or may be used for distinguishing between hiragana and katakana. In addition, the keystroke strength may be used for inputting line breaks and spaces. For example, with a keystroke strength in a predetermined range, a certain character is input when a certain key is pressed, but with a keystroke strength exceeding a predetermined range, even when the key is pressed, instead of the certain character ( Or, in addition to the certain character), a line feed code may be entered.

(Enter lowercase letters according to keystroke strength)
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of inputting lowercase letters and normal characters according to the keystroke strength. As shown in FIG. 8, for example, the key corresponding to “A” (key 36 or key 27 of the MIDI keyboard 2B) was keyed with a key key strength “strong” (for example, a key key strength range of 31 to 127). At that time, it is determined that the normal "A" has been input. On the other hand, when the key corresponding to "A" is keyed with a keystroke strength of "weak" (for example, a keystroke strength in the range of 1 to 30), it is determined that a lowercase "a" has been input. Similarly for other characters with lowercase letters ("i", "u", "ya", etc.), if a certain key is pressed with a keystroke strength of "strong", the normal character is input and the certain key is entered. If is pressed with a keystroke strength of "weak", it is determined that the lowercase letters of the characters corresponding to the key have been input. The relationship between the keystroke strength and the input characters may be reversed. That is, it may be determined that a normal character is input when the key is pressed with a keystroke strength of "weak", and it may be determined that a lowercase letter is input when the key is pressed with a keystroke strength of "strong".

(Entering voiced sound, semi-voiced sound, and lowercase letters in combination with other keys)
In FIGS. 6 to 8, voiced sound, handakuon, and lowercase letters are input according to the keystroke strength, but instead of keystroke strength, voiced sound, handakuon, and lowercase letters are input in combination with other keys. You may.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a case where characters of voiced sound and semi-voiced sound are expressed by combining with other keys. Further, FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in the case of expressing lowercase letters by combining with other keys.

As shown in FIG. 9, in addition to the normal characters, for example, when "M" is input at the same time, the voiced sound corresponding to the normal characters may be input. For example, if the letters corresponding to the clear sound "hi" are "R" and "S", and if "M" is input at the same time in addition to "R" and "S", input the voiced sound "bi". May be good. Further, in addition to the normal characters, for example, when "K" is input at the same time, a handakuon may be input. For example, when "K" is input at the same time in addition to "R" and "S", the handakuon "pi" may be input. The same applies to other ordinary characters that represent Kiyone.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, in addition to the normal characters, for example, when "R" and "K" are input at the same time, the lowercase letters of the normal characters may be input. For example, when "R" and "K" are input in addition to "A" corresponding to the normal character "A", a lowercase "A" is input. If "R" and "K" are input at the same time for other characters, it is determined that the lowercase letters corresponding to the characters have been input.

(Input of sound repellency and sokuon)
Next, the input of the sound repellency (“n”) and the sokuon (“tsu”) will be described. When inputting a sound repellency (“n”), press “Z” at the same time in addition to each character described above. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of inputting a sound-repellent (“n”) character.

As shown in FIG. 11, for example, when inputting "an", a key corresponding to "A" indicating "a" (for example, key 36 of MIDI keyboard 2B) and a key corresponding to "Z" (for example, a key corresponding to "Z"). For example, the key 25) of the MIDI keyboard 2B is pressed at the same time. When inputting "kan", the two keys corresponding to "K" and "A" indicating "ka" and the key corresponding to "Z" are pressed at the same time. When inputting "san", the two keys corresponding to "S" and "A" indicating "sa" and the key corresponding to "Z" are pressed at the same time. When inputting "tan", the three keys corresponding to "K", "S" and "A" indicating "ta" and the key corresponding to "Z" are pressed at the same time.

When inputting a sokuon (“tsu”), in addition to the above-mentioned characters, “Z” and “X” are pressed at the same time. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of inputting a character of a sokuon (“tsu”).

As shown in FIG. 12, for example, when inputting "ka", two keys corresponding to "K" and "A" indicating "ka" and two keys corresponding to "Z" and "X" are input. Press the key at the same time. When inputting "sa", the two keys corresponding to "S" and "A" indicating "sa" and the two keys corresponding to "Z" and "X" are pressed at the same time. When inputting "ta", the three keys corresponding to "K", "S" and "A" indicating "ta" and the two keys corresponding to "Z" and "X" are simultaneously pressed. Press. The same applies to characters having other sokuon.

In addition to those shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, one or a plurality of keys corresponding to any two or more kana characters may be assigned. For example, a plurality of keys corresponding to a character string of two or more characters, which is relatively frequently used in Japanese, may be assigned.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of key assignment corresponding to a plurality of kana characters. As shown in FIG. 13, for example, when a key corresponding to "X" is input at the same time in addition to a key corresponding to a certain kana character, "i" is added to the certain kana character. For example, if the key corresponding to "A" (the key corresponding to "A") and the key corresponding to "X" are pressed at the same time, it may be determined that the character string "Ai" has been input. .. Also, if the key corresponding to "X" is pressed at the same time in addition to the two keys corresponding to "K" and "A" (the key corresponding to "ka"), the character string "kai" is input. It may be determined that Also, if the key corresponding to "X" is pressed at the same time in addition to the two keys corresponding to "S" and "A" (the key corresponding to "sa"), the character string "sai" is input. It may be determined that Also, if the key corresponding to "X" is pressed at the same time in addition to the three keys corresponding to "K", "S" and "A" (the key corresponding to "ta"), the character string "tai" May be determined to have been entered.

In addition, a key indicating a yoon (for example, "kya", "kyu", "kyo", etc.) may be assigned.

In addition, a key corresponding to the repetition of characters may be assigned. For example, if the kana character "shin" corresponds to the keys corresponding to "S" and "Z", in addition to the keys corresponding to "S" and the keys corresponding to "Z", other keys ( For example, when the key corresponding to "V") is pressed at the same time, it may be determined that "shin" has been input.

In addition, the character determination unit 32 has a long sound (extending sound, for example, "ku" or "ko") according to the time during which the key is continuously pressed (the time from the start of pressing to the end of pressing). (This)) may be determined. For example, in the character determination unit 32, when the key corresponding to "K" and the key corresponding to "U" are pressed at the same time, the time from the start of pressing the key to the end of pressing (pressing time) is a predetermined threshold value. If it is (for example, 500 msec) or more, it may be determined that "ku" or "ku" has been input, and if the key pressing time is less than a predetermined threshold value, it may be determined that "ku" has been input. That is, when the key pressing time is less than the predetermined threshold value, the character determination unit 32 determines that the kana character (no long sound) corresponding to the pressed key has been input, and the key pressing time is equal to or longer than the predetermined threshold value. In the case of, it may be determined that the long vowel of the corresponding kana character has been input. An alphabet corresponding to a long sound may be assigned, and it may be determined whether or not the sound is a long sound based on whether or not the keys of the alphabet corresponding to the long sound are pressed at the same time.

Further, the character determination unit 32 may determine a character based on the information indicating that the key is pressed more strongly when the key is pressed more strongly after the key is pressed.

In addition, one or more keys corresponding to a plurality of other frequently used kana characters may be assigned. For example, one or more kana characters corresponding to multiple kana characters such as "yes", "yes", "was", "koto", "desu", "masu", "thank you", "yes", etc. Key may be assigned.

In addition, a key indicating conversion from hiragana to kanji or katakana may be assigned. For example, a key corresponding to any of the above 10-character alphabet may be used as a key indicating conversion to kanji or katakana. Alternatively, a key other than the key associated with the 10-character alphabet (for example, key 39 or key 21 of the MIDI keyboard 2B) may be used as a key indicating conversion to Kanji or Katakana.

Further, a foot pedal (sustain pedal) may be connected to the MIDI keyboard 2 or the information processing device 3, and the foot pedal may be used as a key indicating conversion from hiragana to kanji or katakana. In this case, the user can input hiragana by pressing the MIDI keyboard 2 with both hands or one hand, and can convert the input hiragana into kanji or katakana by stepping on the foot pedal, and can convert the input hiragana into kanji or katakana. You can quickly enter Japanese including.

Further, the character determination unit 32 may determine that different kana characters have been input according to the set tone color. For example, using the control key 46 of the MIDI keyboard 2, one of a plurality of tones including a first tone (for example, a piano) and a second tone (for example, an electone) is set. For example, when the key corresponding to "A" (for example, the key 36 of the MIDI keyboard 2B) is pressed and the first tone is set, it is determined that the hiragana "A" has been input. When the second tone is set, it may be determined that the katakana "a" has been input. When the key corresponding to "A" is pressed, it is determined that "A" has been input when the first tone is set, and when the second tone is set, it is determined that "A" has been input. It may be determined that another character (for example, "i") has been input. Further, the correspondence between the keys and the alphabet may differ depending on the setting of the tone color of the MIDI keyboard 2.

Further, although the case where the kana characters are basically input has been described above, characters of other alphabets may be input by using a plurality of keys corresponding to the above 10-character alphabet. For example, when the key corresponding to "A" is input, it is determined that the alphabet "a" is input, and when the key corresponding to "U" is input, the alphabet "u" is input. If the key corresponding to "A" and the key corresponding to "U" are input at the same time, it may be determined that the alphabet "b (or B)" is input. The input of hiragana, katakana, and alphabet (alphabet characters) may be switched according to, for example, the above-mentioned timbre setting. For example, if the first tone is set, hiragana is input, if the second tone is set, katakana is input, and if the third tone is set, English characters are input. You may.

(Priority processing of the left area)
Next, the priority processing of the left side region will be described. As described above, the two MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B are divided into a left side area input by the user's left hand and a right side area input by the user's right hand. The user can simultaneously press a plurality of keys in the left region and the right region using both hands. Here, for example, a case where the character string "easy" is input will be described.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining a case where a character string of "easy" is input by simultaneously pressing a plurality of keys in the left side region and the right side region.

As shown in FIG. 14, in the left region of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B, the three keys corresponding to "Z", "K" and "A" are simultaneously pressed, and in the right region, "Z", It is assumed that the four keys corresponding to "K", "S" and "A" are pressed at the same time. When the three keys corresponding to "Z", "K" and "A" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "Kan" has been input as described above (see FIG. 11). Further, when the four keys corresponding to "Z", "K", "S" and "A" are pressed at the same time, it is determined that "tan" has been input (see FIG. 11).

In this case, the input for the left area takes precedence over the input for the right area. Specifically, when the input to the left area and the input to the right area are performed at the same time, it is considered that the input to the left area is input first and the input to the right area is input later. As a result, when "Kan" is input in the left area and "Tan" is input in the right area at the same time, it is assumed that "Easy" is input. When inputting "tankan", the user inputs "tan" (four keys corresponding to "Z", "K", "S" and "A") in the left area, and at the same time, the right side. Enter the "tan" (three keys corresponding to "Z", "K" and "A") in the area.

By giving priority to the left side area over the right side area in this way, the user can input a desired character string composed of a plurality of characters by simultaneously inputting the keys of the left and right areas.

The above-mentioned one or more characters may be input using both the keys in the left area and the keys in the right area. For example, when the key corresponding to "K" is pressed in the left area and "A" is pressed in the right area at the same time, "Kia" is displayed instead of "ka" due to the priority processing of the left area. It is determined that it has been entered. Therefore, in order to input "ka", the user needs to simultaneously press the key corresponding to "K" and the key corresponding to "A" in one of the left side area and the right side area. is there.

Here, when both the keys in the left area and the right area are pressed at the same time, if the kana character corresponding to the above-mentioned key combination cannot be determined only in one area, the character determination unit 32 uses the left area and the right side. It may be determined that one kana character has been input by using the keys of both areas of the area. For example, when the two keys corresponding to "M" and "R" are pressed in the left area and the two keys corresponding to "K" and "S" are pressed in the right area at the same time, the character determination unit 32 May determine that the kana character "i" has been entered using the keys in the left and right areas. Only the two keys corresponding to "M" and "R" do not correspond to any kana character. Further, only the two keys corresponding to "K" and "S" do not correspond to any kana character. Therefore, in this case, the character determination unit 32 determines that the four keys have been input at the same time using the keys in the left and right areas without performing the priority processing in the left area, and the kana character corresponding to these four keys. It is determined that "I" has been input.

Further, in the above, the left side region is prioritized over the right side region, but conversely, the right side region may be prioritized over the left side region.

(Determination of simultaneous input)
Here, a method of determining whether or not a plurality of keys have been pressed at the same time will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of simultaneous input of a plurality of keys.

As shown in FIG. 15A, for example, the pressing of the keys corresponding to "K" and "A" is detected at the time point t1, and the pressing of the keys corresponding to "K" and "A" is detected at the time point t2. When it is no longer detected, it is assumed that the key corresponding to "K" and the key corresponding to "A" are pressed at the same time.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15B, for example, the pressing of the key corresponding to "K" is detected at the time point t1, the pressing of the key corresponding to "A" is detected at the subsequent time point t2, and then the pressing of the key is detected. When the pressing of the keys corresponding to "K" and "A" is no longer detected at the time point t3, it is assumed that the key corresponding to "K" and the key corresponding to "A" are pressed at the same time.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15 (c), for example, the pressing of the key corresponding to "K" and "A" is detected at the time point t1, and the pressing of the key corresponding to "K" is detected at the time point t2. When the key press corresponding to "A" is no longer detected at the time point t3 after the elapse of Δt time smaller than the predetermined threshold value (for example, 100 msec) from the time point t2, the key corresponding to "K" and the "K" are used. It is assumed that the keys corresponding to "A" are pressed at the same time.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 15 (a) to 15 (c), it is determined that the key corresponding to "K" and the key corresponding to "A" are pressed at the same time. Therefore, the kana character correspondence table shown in FIG. Therefore, it is determined that the kana character "ka" has been input.

In FIG. 15C, when the difference Δt between the time point t2 and the time point t3 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, it is determined that the key corresponding to “K” and the key corresponding to “A” are pressed at the same time. Not done. Specifically, it is determined that the key corresponding to "K" that does not detect the press at time t2 is input first, and the key corresponding to "A" that does not detect the press at time t3 is later. It is determined that the input has been made. In this case, it is determined that two characters are input in the order of "ki" and "a" according to the kana character correspondence table shown in FIG.

As described above, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not a plurality of keys are pressed at the same time based on the time when the key press is no longer detected. Specifically, when a plurality of key presses are no longer detected at the same time, or when a plurality of key presses are no longer detected within a predetermined threshold value (for example, 100 msec), the plurality of keys are pressed at the same time. It shall be.

In FIG. 15, it was determined whether or not a plurality of keys were input at the same time based on the time when the key press was no longer detected. In another example, it may be determined whether or not a plurality of keys are simultaneously input based on the time when the key press is started to be detected. For example, if it is determined that a plurality of keys are pressed at the same time, or if a plurality of keys are pressed within a predetermined threshold value (for example, within 100 msec), it is determined that the plurality of keys are pressed at the same time. Good.

Further, it may be determined whether or not a plurality of keys are pressed at the same time based on both the pressing start time and the pressing end time. Further, the predetermined threshold value used for determining simultaneous input is merely an example, and other values may be used or may be changed by the user.

As described above, in the character input system 1 of the present embodiment, the information when the key of the MIDI keyboard 2 is pressed (type of pressed key and keystroke strength) and the information while the key is pressed (pressed). The input character is judged based on the time, the information indicating that the key is pressed more strongly after the key is pressed), and the information when the key is released (information on the timing when the key is no longer detected). Will be.

The user inputs kana characters with the left and right hands by simultaneously inputting a plurality of keys arranged in the left area using the left hand and simultaneously inputting a plurality of keys arranged in the right area using the right hand. be able to. In addition, by pressing a plurality of keys at the same time, various kana characters can be input with a small number of keys, and characters can be input quickly.

(Details of character input processing)
Next, the details of the character input processing performed in the information processing apparatus 3 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing details of the character input process according to the present embodiment. The process shown in FIG. 16 is performed by the CPU of the information processing device 3 executing the character input program of the present embodiment. The CPU of the information processing device 3 simultaneously executes a document creation application and a Japanese conversion application in addition to the character input program of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 16, the information processing apparatus 3 first performs a setting process (step S1). Here, the information processing device 3 recognizes the two MIDI keyboards 2 and sets the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the lower MIDI keyboard 2B. For example, the information processing device 3 sets the first connected MIDI keyboard 2 as the upper MIDI keyboard 2A and the second connected MIDI keyboard 2 as the lower MIDI keyboard 2B. Further, in the setting process of step S1, the tones of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B may be set. Further, in the setting process of step S1, the correspondence relationship between each key shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 and the alphabet is set according to the user's operation, and the correspondence between the alphabet and the kana characters shown in FIGS. Relationship settings may be made. Further, in the setting process of step S1, it may be set whether to give priority to the left side area or the right side area according to the operation of the user.

After executing the setting process of step S1, the information processing apparatus 3 repeatedly executes the processes of the next steps S2 to S7 at predetermined time intervals (for example, 1 msec interval). While the processes of steps S2 to S7 are being repeated, the tone color is set, the correspondence between each key and the alphabet is set, and the correspondence between the alphabet and the kana character is set according to the user's instruction. Etc. may be performed.

Specifically, in step S2, the information processing device 3 receives MIDI signals from the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B. The MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B repeatedly transmit MIDI signals to the information processing device 3 at predetermined time intervals (for example, 1 msec intervals). The information processing apparatus 3 receives MIDI signals from the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B in step S2.

Next, the information processing device 3 performs a process of determining the type of key pressed and the key pressing strength based on the received MIDI signal (step S3). Specifically, the information processing device 3 determines which of the plurality of keys of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B has been pressed based on the received MIDI signal, and has the key pressing strength of the key pressed. Determine (keystroke speed). Further, the information processing device 3 determines the tone color settings of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B.

Next, the information processing device 3 performs a simultaneous input discrimination process for discriminating whether or not a plurality of keys are pressed at the same time based on the result of the discriminant process in step S3 (step S4). Specifically, the information processing device 3 determines whether or not a plurality of keys have been pressed and has not been pressed, and compares the timing at which each key is no longer pressed. Then, when the timing at which the plurality of keys are no longer pressed is within a predetermined threshold value (for example, within 100 msec), the information processing apparatus 3 determines that the plurality of keys are pressed at the same time. The information processing device 3 may determine that the plurality of keys are pressed at the same time when the timing at which the plurality of keys are started to be pressed is within a predetermined threshold value as described above.

Next, the information processing device 3 performs character discrimination processing (step S5). Specifically, the information processing device 3 searches for the character corresponding to the pressed key from the correspondence table shown in FIGS. 5 to 13 and determines the input kana character. Here, the information processing device 3 determines whether or not the sound is muddy, semi-voiced, or lowercase based on the type of key pressed and the strength of keystroke when the key is pressed. .. Further, the information processing device 3 determines whether or not the sound is a long sound according to the type of key pressed and the key pressing time (time during which the key is pressed). Further, the information processing device 3 may determine the character based on whether or not the key is pressed more strongly after the key is pressed, in addition to the type of the pressed key.

Following step S5, the information processing apparatus 3 performs left area priority processing (step S6). Specifically, the information processing device 3 determines whether each key pressed is a key in the left region or a key in the right region, and when the key in the left region and the key in the right region are pressed at the same time, the left region region It is considered that the kana character corresponding to the key of is entered first, and the kana character corresponding to the key in the right area is entered later. Then, the information processing device 3 determines the character string in which the kana character corresponding to the key in the left area is arranged first and the kana character corresponding to the key in the right area is arranged later as the input character input by the user. .. When the key in the left area and the key in the right area are pressed at the same time, if the character corresponding only to the key in the left area cannot be found in the correspondence table shown in FIGS. 5 to 13, information processing is performed. The device 3 may discriminate the characters corresponding to both the pressed left region and right region keys from the correspondence table shown in FIGS. 5 to 13.

Next, the information processing device 3 outputs the characters determined based on the processing results of steps S3 to S6 (step S7). Specifically, the information processing device 3 outputs the determined character to another Japanese conversion application or document creation application executed by the own machine. When the determined character is output to the Japanese conversion application and the Japanese conversion key (for example, any key of the foot pedal or MIDI keyboard 2) is pressed, the determined character is converted into Chinese characters or the like. Then, the characters converted into kanji or the like are passed to the document creation application, and the characters converted into the kanji or the like in the document creation application are displayed on the screen of the information processing device 3 and stored by a storage means (RAM, hard disk, etc.). It is stored in the device). Further, the information processing device 3 may save the MIDI signal from the MIDI keyboard 2 as it is as a MIDI file.

The information processing apparatus 3 executes the process of step S2 again after the process of step S7. This is the end of the description of the process shown in FIG.

The process shown in FIG. 16 is merely an example, and the order of each step may be changed, other processes may be executed between the steps, and a part of the above steps may be omitted. May be good. Further, the threshold value and the like used for the determination in each step are merely examples, and other values may be used as the determination threshold value.

Next, with reference to FIG. 17, an example of characters input during the execution of the process shown in FIG. 16 will be described. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between characters and time input using the character input system 1 of the present embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows the relationship between the keys (alphabet) of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B in which the pressing is detected and the time. The characters in each rectangle of FIG. 17 indicate the alphabet corresponding to the pressed key, the short side on the left side of each rectangle indicates the start time of pressing, and the short side on the right side of each rectangle indicates the end time of pressing.

As shown in FIG. 17, for example, at time point t1, MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B are used to correspond to "Z", "X", "S", "A", "U", and "K". It is assumed that six keys are pressed at the same time. Specifically, using the keys in the left region of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B, the five keys "Z", "X", "S", "A", and "U" are pressed, and the MIDI keyboard 2A And one key of "K" is pressed using the keys in the right region of 2B.

Next, at time t2, suppose that the six keys corresponding to "Z", "X", "S", "A", "U", and "K" are released.

Next, at time t3, using MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B, seven keys corresponding to "X", "K", "S", "A", "X", "K" and "A" are It is assumed that they are pressed at the same time. Specifically, in the left area of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B, the four keys corresponding to "X", "K", "S" and "A" are simultaneously pressed, and in the right area of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B. , "X", "K" and "A" are pressed at the same time. Then, at time point t4, it is assumed that the pressing of these seven keys is completed.

In this case, the input during the period of time points t1 to t2 is, in the left area, in addition to the three keys "S", "A", and "U" corresponding to the kana character "so", and "Z" and "X" corresponding to the sokuon. Is entered at the same time, so it is recognized as the kana character "so". At the same time, the "K" input in the right area is recognized as the kana character "ki". Since the left side region has priority over the right side region as described above, the input in the period of time points t1 to t2 is recognized as "just". In the period from time point t3 to t4, four keys "X", "K", "S", and "A" corresponding to "tai" are input in the left area, and "kai" is input in the right area. Since one key "X", "K", and "A" has been input, it is recognized as "Taikai" by the priority processing of the left area.

Therefore, it is determined that the character string "Shorthand (shorthand competition)" has been input during the period from time points t1 to t4.

As described above, in the character input system 1 of the present embodiment, various characters are input in a short time by inputting a plurality of keys of the MIDI keyboard 2 at the same time and combining a plurality of keys smaller than those of the normal 101 keyboard and 109 keyboard. Can be entered.

For example, when inputting the above-mentioned character string "Sokitatai" using a normal 101 keyboard or 109 keyboard, it is necessary to input "sokkitaikai" and the 11-character alphabet in order. Assuming that it takes, for example, 0.3 seconds to input one key, it takes 3.3 seconds to input "sokkitaikai" using a normal 101 keyboard or 109 keyboard.

On the other hand, when the character input system 1 of the present embodiment is used, since a plurality of keys can be input at the same time, the operation related to the input can be performed only twice. Therefore, it is possible to substantially input 13 keys in the time required to input two keys in order. Therefore, if it takes, for example, 0.3 seconds to enter one or more keys (if the time required for one operation is 0.3 seconds), 0.6 seconds will be used. It is possible to input the character string of "Kitakai", and it is possible to input characters faster than when inputting the same characters using a normal 101 keyboard or 109 keyboard. Further, although handwritten shorthand cannot be saved as character data, in the present embodiment, shorthand using a keyboard can be realized and can be saved as character data.

Further, in the character input system 1 of the present embodiment, all kana characters can be input using, for example, only one area of the left side area or the right side area of the MIDI keyboards 2A and 2B. Each key corresponding to the 11 characters in the left area is arranged at a position where the fingers of the left hand can reach, and even the farthest characters can be input simultaneously with only the left hand. The same applies to the right area. Therefore, various kana characters can be input with only one hand, and even a person with a handicap can input characters.

Further, since the MIDI keyboard 2 is used in the present embodiment, the input character can be discriminated based on the key pressing strength and the pressing time in addition to the type of the pressed key. Therefore, the input characters can be changed depending on the key input method, and various characters can be input even with a small number of keys.

Further, since the MIDI keyboard 2 is used in the present embodiment, the sound can be output by using another music reproduction program based on the MIDI signal corresponding to the key input by the user. As a result, characters can be recognized by sound, and the user can be entertained by sound beyond simple character input. In addition, the MIDI signal can be saved as a MIDI file, and the voice information input using the MIDI keyboard can be saved in real time. As a result, not only can it be saved as character information, but it can also be saved as voice information, and the saved MIDI file can be connected to a musical instrument or the like to reproduce sound.

Further, the information processing device 3 of the present embodiment can save a MIDI file corresponding to a MIDI signal, read the saved MIDI file, and convert it into character information. Therefore, for example, the first user of the information processing apparatus 3 can read the MIDI file saved by the second user and convert it into character information by exchanging the MIDI file with another second user. As a result, the first user and the second user can exchange character information using MIDI files (voice data). Since the MIDI file stores the audio signal, it cannot be easily recognized as character information by a third party. Therefore, the first user and the second user can exchange MIDI files as ciphertexts with each other. Further, by predetermining a correspondence table (for example, the correspondence table of FIGS. 4 to 13) that stores the correspondence between each key of the MIDI keyboard and the character, between the first user and the second user, these correspondence tables can be obtained. It can be used as an encryption key and a MIDI file can be used as a ciphertext to perform encrypted communication between a first user and a second user.

(Modification example)
Although the character input system 1 of the present embodiment has been described above, the character input system 1 is not limited to the above-mentioned example.

For example, in the above embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 13, alphabetic characters are assigned to each key and the alphabetic characters and the kana characters are associated with each other. However, the alphabetic characters of each key are assigned to the kana characters. The correspondence of is not limited to this.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of assigning an alphabet to each key of the MIDI keyboard 2 in another embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of associating alphabetic characters with kana characters in another embodiment. In FIG. 18, characters different from the characters shown in FIG. 3 are assigned to each key. Further, in FIG. 19, the correspondence between the alphabet characters and the kana characters is different from that in FIG. Also in this case, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 13, one or more alphabetic characters are used for a special character or character string (voiced sound, semi-voiced sound, lowercase letter, syllabic sound, sokuon, character string in FIG. 13). Is set.

Not limited to characters, numbers and symbols, enter keys, shift keys, Caps Lock keys, control keys, ortho keys, tab keys, function keys, cursor keys, escape keys, kanji conversion keys, input character conversion keys, non-conversion keys, numbers. Lock keys, backspace keys, derate keys, page up keys, page down keys, home keys, end keys, four-rule calculation keys, half-width full-width keys, context menu keys, Windows (registered trademark) keys, etc. may be entered. In addition, input characters may be converted into numbers, symbols, or shortcut keys for work commands.

For example, in the above embodiment, two MIDI keyboards 2 are used, but in other embodiments, one keyboard capable of outputting MIDI signals may be used, or three or more keyboards may be used. May be good. For example, characters may be input using one keyboard in which a plurality of keys are arranged in a horizontal direction and three in the vertical direction (upper line, middle line, lower line). Further, the characters are not limited to the three lines of upper, middle, and lower, and characters may be input using the keys of four lines, or may be input using the keys of two lines above and below.

Further, in the above embodiment, one MIDI keyboard 2 is divided into a left side region and a right side region. In another embodiment, the keyboard input by the user's left hand and the keyboard input by the user's right hand may be different keyboards. In this case, one or more keyboards may be used as the left-hand keyboard, and one or more keyboards may be used as the right-hand keyboard.

Further, in the above embodiment, a MIDI keyboard for music performance capable of outputting a MIDI signal is used, but the MIDI keyboard is not limited to the MIDI keyboard, and other keyboards may be used. For example, in another embodiment, even if the information processing device 3 inputs characters by using another keyboard capable of determining the keystroke strength (keystroke speed) and the keystroke time in addition to the type of the keystroked key. Good. Further, any keyboard may be used as long as it is a keyboard capable of inputting a plurality of keys at the same time.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the key in the left area and the key in the right area are pressed at the same time, the character corresponding to the key in the left area is arranged first as the priority process in the left area, and the key in the right area is used. The character string in which the corresponding character is placed after is determined as the input character. In another embodiment, when the key in the left region and the key in the right region are pressed at the same time, as the priority processing in the left region, only the character corresponding to the key in the left region may be determined as an input character.

Further, when a predetermined signal is output from the MIDI keyboard 2, characters may be input in a separate frame as a memo or an annotation for the keystroke signal after the predetermined signal. For example, when a signal indicating mute is output from the MIDI keyboard 2, the subsequent keystroke signals may be input as memos, annotations, or characters in a separate frame as subtitle input. Further, a key for repeating the character or information input immediately before is assigned, and when the key is pressed, the character or information input immediately before may be re-entered.

Further, in the above embodiment, the MIDI keyboard 2 and the information processing device 3 are locally connected to realize the character input system 1. In another embodiment, the character input system 1 may be composed of a plurality of devices arranged at physically separated locations. For example, the MIDI keyboard 2, the MIDI signal receiving unit 31, the character determination unit 32, and the setting unit 33 of the information processing device 3 are arranged in physically different places, and the respective units are connected by a network such as the Internet. A character input system may be configured.

For example, by connecting a user terminal equipped with a MIDI keyboard, a server that determines input characters based on information from the user terminal, and a database that stores a correspondence table in which alphabets and kana characters are associated with each other via the Internet. , The character input system described above may be configured. In this case, the information input in the user terminal is transmitted to the server via the Internet, and the server connects to the database via the Internet and determines the character according to the information from the user terminal. Then, the determined character is returned to the user terminal.

In addition, a part or all of the above-mentioned processing may be performed by a plurality of processors, or may be performed by a dedicated circuit.

1 character input system 2 MIDI keyboard 3 Information processing device 32 Character judgment unit

Claims (12)

An input method that allows you to enter multiple keys at the same time,
An input signal receiving means for receiving an input signal corresponding to an input to the plurality of keys from the input means, and an input signal receiving means.
A character determining means for determining an input character corresponding to a plurality of input keys based on an input signal received by the input signal receiving means is provided.
When the key arranged in the first area of the input means and the key arranged in the second area of the input means are simultaneously input, the character determining means refers to the key in the first area. The input character is determined by giving priority to the input over the input for the key in the second area .
The input means can output a MIDI signal and can output a MIDI signal.
The input signal receiving means receives the MIDI signal from the input means, and receives the MIDI signal.
The character determination means is a character input system that determines the input character based on the MIDI signal . When the key arranged in the first area and the key arranged in the second area are simultaneously input by the character determining means, the character corresponding to the input key in the first area is input. The character input system according to claim 1, wherein a character string in which characters corresponding to the input keys of the second area are arranged first is determined as the input characters. The key arranged in the first area is a key input by one hand of the user, and the key arranged in the second area is a key input by the other hand of the user. The character input system according to claim 1 or 2. When the key of the input means is input, the character determining means determines the input key and the input strength of the key, and the input is based on the input key and the input strength. The character input system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which determines a character. When the key of the input means is input, the character determining means determines the input key and the input time of the key, and based on the input key and the input time, the input character is input. The character input system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 for determining. The character determination means has the first key and the second key based on the timing when the first key of the input means is released and the timing when the second key of the input means is released. The character input system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein it is determined whether or not the characters are input at the same time, and the input character is determined based on the determination result. When the first key of the plurality of keys is input, the character determination means determines that the first character is input, and when the second key of the plurality of keys is input. , It is determined that the second character has been input, and when the first key and the second key of the plurality of keys are input at the same time, it is determined that the third character has been input. The character input system according to any one of 1 to 6. The character determination system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a storage control means for storing data corresponding to the MIDI signal received by the input signal receiving means in the storage means. Further provided with a reading means for reading data according to the MIDI signal stored in the storage means,
The character determining means according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the character determining means determines the input character based on the MIDI signal received by the input signal receiving means or the MIDI signal read by the reading means. Character judgment system. An input signal receiving means for receiving an input signal corresponding to an input to the plurality of keys from an input means capable of inputting a plurality of keys at the same time.
A character determining means for determining an input character corresponding to a plurality of input keys based on an input signal received by the input signal receiving means is provided.
When the key arranged in the first area of the input means and the key arranged in the second area of the input means are simultaneously input, the character determining means refers to the key in the first area. The input character is determined by giving priority to the input over the input for the key in the second area .
The input signal receiving means receives the MIDI signal output from the input means, and receives the MIDI signal.
The character determination means is a character input device that determines the input character based on the MIDI signal . A character input program executed on a computer of an information processing device, wherein the computer is used.
An input signal receiving means that receives an input signal corresponding to an input to the plurality of keys from an input means capable of inputting a plurality of keys at the same time, and an input signal receiving means.
It functions as a character determining means for determining input characters corresponding to a plurality of input keys based on the input signal received by the input signal receiving means.
When the key arranged in the first area of the input means and the key arranged in the second area of the input means are simultaneously input, the character determining means refers to the key in the first area. The input character is determined by giving priority to the input over the input for the key in the second area .
The input signal receiving means receives the MIDI signal output from the input means, and receives the MIDI signal.
The character determination means is a character input program that determines the input character based on the MIDI signal . It is a character input method using an input means that can input multiple keys at the same time.
An input signal receiving step of receiving an input signal corresponding to an input to the plurality of keys from the input means,
A character determination step of determining an input character corresponding to a plurality of input keys based on an input signal received in the input signal reception step is included.
In the character determination step, when the key arranged in the first area of the input means and the key arranged in the second area of the input means are simultaneously input, the key in the first area is used. The input character is determined by giving priority to the input over the input for the key in the second area .
In the input signal receiving step, the MIDI signal output from the input means is received, and the MIDI signal is received.
In the character determination step, a character input method of determining the input character based on the MIDI signal .

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