JPH08161099A - Operation panel - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To perform the operation intended by a user by detecting depression position information with a high precision even at the time of simultaneous depression of plural points. CONSTITUTION: Resistance value detection means (bias resistance circuits 111a and 111b) which detect the resistance value between a pair of X electrode terminals and that between a pair of Y electrode terminals are provided, and an input control part 109 controls resistance value detection means (bias resistance circuits 111a and 111b) to detect the resistance value between a pair of X electrode terminals and that between a pair of by electrode terminals and obtains the change of the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and that between the pair of y electrode terminals based on detected resistance values.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a printer, plotter,
The present invention relates to an operation panel used in a facsimile machine, a copying machine, etc., and more specifically, to an analog touch panel operation panel.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an operation panel using a touch panel as an input means has come to be used not only in copying machines and facsimile machines but also in various machines.

As one of operation panels using a touch panel, there is an analog touch panel operation panel that calculates a coordinate position by applying a DC voltage to both ends of a resistance film and detecting a potential at a pressing position on the resistance film. is there. This analog touch panel type operation panel is widely used because it has the advantage of higher resolution of coordinate detection than the digital type operation panel.

[0004]

However, according to the conventional analog touch panel, when a plurality of points are pressed on the panel at the same time, they cannot be identified, so that the pressed position information is erroneously collected. However, there is a problem that the operation intended by the user may not be performed.

In order to enable the user to perform an operation intended by the user, for example, in the copy operation panel, the configuration of the screen design, such as the configuration of the operation screen on the panel and the assignment of switch functions, is mainly changed. Although it aims to reduce erroneous operations, it does not fundamentally improve the detection of multiple presses on the panel, and it is said that the device will be inoperable for the user. There were also problems.

Specifically, when a plurality of points on the panel are pressed simultaneously when using the analog touch panel, position information different from the pressed position is detected. For example, when two points on the panel are pressed, the midpoint between the two points may be taken. Since the position information detected by the device is different from the operation intended by the user, the device recognizes an operation contrary to the user's intention.

In addition, the device is difficult to operate by changing the design of the screen and setting restrictions on the operation of the device.

Further, according to the conventional analog touch panel, there is a problem that the accuracy of detecting the pressed position information is lowered when the peripheral conditions of the entire device such as temperature and power supply voltage are changed.

Further, since there is variation in the linearity of the resistance value between the terminals of the analog touch panel, there is a problem that the detection accuracy decreases when the touch panel becomes large.

Specifically, when using an analog touch panel, a variation in the linearity of the inter-terminal resistance value of the touch panel itself is unavoidable, and a variation of about 3 to 5% is presented on the manufacturer's specifications. Has been done. On the other hand, the position accuracy required for coordinate position detection on coordinates varies depending on the purpose of the device. For example, assuming an operation panel with an operation range on the LCD screen of 640 dots × 480 dots with a 0.3 mm dot pitch, the above 5% is This is a value that cannot be ignored, corresponding to 32 dots = 9.6 mm.

Since the panel size of the conventional apparatus (for example, the operation panel of the copying machine) is small,
Only the initialization data collection operation (hereinafter referred to as calibration) to correct the variation in the resistance value between terminals of the analog touch panel was performed at the time of device initialization, but the resistance value between terminals increased when the panel size increased. The variation in the linearity becomes a non-negligible value, and it is not possible to suppress the decrease in detection accuracy by only performing calibration.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and in the analog touch panel, even when a plurality of points are simultaneously pressed, the pressed position information is accurately detected, and the operation intended by the user can be performed. The purpose is to

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to improve the operability of the user.

Further, the present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to be able to follow changes in ambient conditions such as changes in temperature and power supply voltage.

Further, the present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide an operation panel in which the detection accuracy does not decrease even if the touch panel becomes large.

[0016]

In order to achieve the above object, an operation panel according to a first aspect of the present invention is provided with an X-side resistance film having a pair of X electrode terminals and a Y-side resistance film having a pair of Y electrode terminals. A touch panel formed by superimposing a touch panel, a switching means for switching a supply signal / a monitoring signal between terminals of the touch panel, a detecting means for detecting a signal from the terminal of the touch panel, and a signal detected by the detecting means. A pair of X electrode terminals in an operation panel including coordinate calculating means for calculating coordinates, display means arranged under the touch panel, and control means for controlling the switching means, coordinate calculating means and display means. A resistance value detecting means for detecting a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, and a resistance value detecting means for detecting a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals. The resistance value between the terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals are detected, and the change in the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is detected based on the detected resistance value. Ask.

Further, in the operation panel according to claim 2, the control means periodically detects the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals according to a predetermined procedure. , Find the change in the resistance value.

Further, in the operation panel according to a third aspect, the control means stores and holds the detected resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the detected resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals.

Further, the operation panel according to claim 4 is provided with setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining the change in the resistance value, and the control means sets the detected resistance value and the setting means. The change in the resistance value is obtained by comparing the change in the resistance value.

The operation panel according to claim 5 is a touch panel formed by superposing an X-side resistance film having a pair of X electrode terminals and a Y-side resistance film having a pair of Y electrode terminals, and the touch panel. Switching means for switching a supply signal / monitoring signal between the terminals, a detecting means for detecting a signal from the terminal of the touch panel, a coordinate calculating means for calculating coordinates from the signal detected by the detecting means, and a lower portion of the touch panel. The display means arranged in the
In an operation panel having a coordinate calculating means and a control means for controlling a display means, a voltage value detecting means for detecting a voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is provided. A control means controls the voltage value detection means to detect a voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, and based on the detected voltage value, the pair of X electrode terminals. Changes in the voltage value between the electrode terminals and the voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals are obtained.

Further, the operation panel according to claim 6 is provided with a setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining the change of the voltage value, and the control means sets the detected voltage value and the setting means. The change in the voltage value is obtained by comparing the threshold value with the threshold value.

Further, in the operation panel according to a seventh aspect, the control means notifies the detection result via the display means based on the obtained change in the resistance value or the change in the voltage value.

The operation panel according to claim 8 is a touch panel formed by stacking an X-side resistance film having a pair of X electrode terminals and a Y-side resistance film having a pair of Y electrode terminals, and the touch panel. Switching means for switching a supply signal / monitoring signal between the terminals, a detecting means for detecting a signal from the terminal of the touch panel, a coordinate calculating means for calculating coordinates from the signal detected by the detecting means, and a lower portion of the touch panel. The display means arranged in the
In an operation panel including a coordinate calculation means and a control means for controlling the display means, the control means divides the entire operation range of the touch panel into a plurality of areas, and each of the plurality of areas detected by the detection means is divided into a plurality of areas. Linearity correction is performed for each of the plurality of regions based on the detection result.

Further, in the operation panel according to a ninth aspect, the control means controls the display means to display a predetermined coordinate position as a press position, and the coordinate calculation is performed when the operator presses the press position. The difference between the coordinates calculated by the means and the coordinates at which the pressed position is displayed is digitized and displayed on the display means.

Further, in the operation panel according to a tenth aspect, the control means sets a predetermined reference value, and changes the reference value when the difference value is larger than the predetermined reference value.

Further, in the operation panel according to the eleventh aspect, the control means individually holds the detection results for each of the plurality of areas, and individually applies the correction by the statistical method.

[0027]

The operation panel (Claim 1) of the present invention comprises a pair of X's.
A resistance value detecting means for detecting a resistance value between the electrode terminals and a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is provided, and the control means controls the resistance value detecting means to provide a resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals. And a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is detected, and based on the detected resistance value, a change in the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is obtained. It is possible to detect a state in which a plurality of points are pressed.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 2)
The control means periodically detects the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals in accordance with a predetermined procedure to obtain the change in the resistance value. It can follow changes in ambient conditions such as changes in power supply voltage.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 3)
Since the control means stores and holds the detected resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the detected resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, it is possible to evaluate the initial data collected periodically. it can.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 4)
Is provided with setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining the change in the resistance value, and the control means compares the detected resistance value with the threshold value set by the setting means to obtain the resistance value. Since the change in is calculated, it is possible to obtain the resolution according to the purpose of the operation panel.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 5)
Includes a voltage value detecting means for detecting a voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, and the control means controls the voltage value detecting means to control the voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals. The voltage value between the terminals and the voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals are detected, and the change in the voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is detected based on the detected voltage value. Since it is obtained, it is possible to detect the state in which a plurality of points on the panel are pressed with a minute time difference.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 6)
Is provided with a setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining the change in the voltage value, and the control means compares the detected voltage value with the threshold value set by the setting means to obtain the voltage value. Since the change in is calculated, it is possible to obtain the resolution according to the purpose of the operation panel.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 7)
Since the control means notifies the detection result via the display means based on the change in the resistance value or the change in the voltage value thus obtained, the user can easily understand the next operation.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 8)
The control means divides the entire operation range of the touch panel into a plurality of areas and performs linearity correction for each of the plurality of areas based on the detection result of each of the plurality of areas detected by the detection means. It is possible to correct the variation in linearity.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 9)
The control means controls the display means to display a predetermined coordinate position as the pressed position, and the difference between the coordinate calculated by the coordinate calculation means when the operator presses the pressed position and the coordinate displayed the pressed position. Is digitized and displayed on the display means, so that the validity of the correction data when performing linearity correction can be easily evaluated.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 10)
Means that the control means sets a predetermined reference value and changes the reference value when the difference value is larger than the predetermined reference value.
It is possible to easily prevent erroneous linearity correction from being performed due to careless operation or chattering.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 11)
The control means individually holds the detection results for each of a plurality of regions and individually applies the correction by the statistical method, so that the linearity correction is quickly completed by adopting only the necessary parts and the necessary data. be able to.

[0038]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The operation panel of the present invention will be described below in detail in the order of [Embodiment 1] and [Embodiment 2] with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the first embodiment. The operation panel of the first embodiment is an analog touch panel type operation panel and detects a touch anywhere on the touch-sensitive surface of the touch panel with a human finger or the like.

First, the configuration will be described. 101 is
X-side resistance film 10 which is a resistance film in each of the X direction and the Y direction
The analog touch panel is formed by stacking 1a and the Y-side resistance film 101b, and is installed on the LCD module 102. The X-side resistance film 101a is provided with a measurement X-electrode terminal (X1) for measuring the resistance value of the X-side resistance film 101a at an end portion facing the X-electrode resistance (X2). 101b has a Y electrode terminal (Y2)
A measurement Y electrode terminal (Y1) for measuring the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film 101b is arranged at the end portion facing the.

An LCD controller 103 controls the screen of the LCD module 102. 104a-f
Is a switch (S) for switching the signal line applied (or detected from the terminals) between the terminals of the touch panel 101.
Wa-SWf) and 105a-d are sense amplifiers (AMP.a-AMP.d) for detecting signals.

Reference numeral 106 is a sense amplifier 105a-d.
A multiplexer (MUX) 10 for inputting a signal (voltage value) from the input and selectively outputting it to an A / D converter described later.
7 is an A / D that converts the detected voltage value into digital data
A converter, 108 is an independent detection circuit (comparator (COMP) in the first embodiment) that detects that the surface of the touch panel 101 is pressed, and 109 is press detection, terminal signal switching of the touch panel 101, and coordinate data calculation. An input control unit 110 is a main controller that controls each of the above units, and 111a and 111b are bias resistance circuits at the time of measuring the resistance value between the X electrode and the Y electrode. The bias resistance circuit when measuring the resistance value between the X electrodes is 111a, and the bias resistance circuit when measuring the resistance value between the Y electrodes is 111b. Further, in this apparatus, the portion surrounded by the dotted line frame is realized by a one-chip microcomputer (microcomputer) 112.

The switches 104a to 104f constitute switching means, and the sense amplifiers 105a to 105d and the detection circuit 108 constitute detection means.
09 is a coordinate calculation means, LCD module 102 is a display means, the microcomputer 112
The control means is constituted by the bias resistance circuit 1
The resistance value detecting means and the voltage value detecting means are constituted by 11a and 111b.

In the above configuration, the operation of the initial data collection of the X-side resistance film and the Y-side resistance film, the reference data collection sequence, the normal operation sequence, and the position data collection sequence will be described in this order.

Collection of Initial Data of X-Side Resistance Film and Y-Side Resistance Film Referring to the flowchart of the initial data collection process of FIG. 3, collection of resistance values (voltage level data) of the X-side resistance film and the Y-side resistance film Will be described. At the time of device initialization (immediately after reset), the input control unit 109 sets the switch 1
04a and 104b are turned on (SWc to f are turned off), and a DC voltage is applied to the X-side resistance film 101a (S30).
1). The equivalent circuit at this time is as shown in FIG.
The potentials at the terminal positions of 1 and X2 are the X-side resistance film 101a.
And the DC resistance of the switches 104a and 104b.

In this state, the input control unit 109
The inputs of the multiplexer 106 are switched to change the signals of the sense amplifiers 105a and 105b to the A / D converter 10.
7, and the potentials at the terminal positions of X1 and X2 are collected as initial data Vx1 and Vx2 (S302).

Next, the input controller 109 controls the switch 10
4c and 104d are turned on (switches 104a, b, e
And f are turned off), a DC voltage is applied to the Y-side resistance film 101b (S303), and the input of the multiplexer 106 is switched in the same manner as in the case of the X-side to sense amplifier 105c.
The signals 105 and 105d are input to the A / D converter 107, and the potentials at the terminal positions of Y1 and Y2 are collected as initial data Vy1 and Vy2 (S304).

By the above steps, the initial data Vx1, Vx2 of the X-side resistance film and the initial data Vy1, Vy2 of the Y-side resistance film are collected.

Reference Data Collection Sequence Next, the reference data collection sequence will be described with reference to FIG. Initial data Vx1, Vx of the X-side resistance film
After collecting the initial data Vy1 and Vy2 of the Y-side resistive film and the Y-side resistive film, the input control unit 109 controls the switches 104b and 1
04e is turned on (switches 104a, c, d, and f are turned off) and connected to a circuit for measuring the resistance value of the X-side resistance film 101a (S305), which is determined by the resistance Rx and the resistance value of the X-side resistance film. The voltage value VRx is measured (S3
06). This value serves as a parameter indicating the initial value of the X-side resistance film and serves as reference data for the X-side resistance film.

Next, the input controller 109 controls the switch 10
4f and 104d turned on (switches 104a, b, c
And e are turned off) and connected to a circuit for measuring the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film 101b (S307), and the voltage value VRy determined by the resistance Ry and the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film is measured (S308). . This value serves as a parameter indicating the initial value of the Y-side resistance film and serves as reference data for the Y-side resistance film.

The above-mentioned steps S305 to S308, which are a sequence of reference data collection, are periodically executed to keep the latest reference data, so as to cope with changes in the ambient environment conditions. Further, the reference data collected periodically is compared / evaluated with the initial data stored at the time of initialization, and the one with a large difference is removed. Here, if the difference from the initial data is large, for example, it is determined that the analog touch panel 101 is pressed, and is not treated as reference data. The update of the initial data is stored / updated in a nonvolatile memory (not shown) in the input control unit 109 by operating a switch or the like as necessary.

Normal Operation Sequence Next, a normal operation sequence will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 4 and 5. After the completion of the reference data collection, the input control unit 109 turns on only the switch 104a and turns off the switches 104b to 104f (S40).
1).

When the touch panel 101 is pressed in this state, the X-side resistance film 101a and the Y-side resistance film 101b are in contact with each other, and the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film 101b is measured.
Sense amplifier 105d connected to the electrode terminal (Y1)
A voltage of about 5V is detected at the
It is determined whether or not it is detected in step S402 (S402), and when it is detected, the input control unit 109 is notified. When the detection circuit 108 does not detect, the operation of step S402 is performed again.

Next, the input control unit 109 is connected to a circuit for measuring the resistance value of the resistance film on each of the X side and the Y side. At this time, the measured resistance value when one point on the panel is pressed is RTPX, and when one point on the panel is pressed, the resistance value RTPX is the same as the initial data value, but two points on the panel are When is pressed, the equivalent circuit shown in FIG. 6 is obtained, and the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film becomes a circuit connected in parallel to the X-side resistance film, so that the resistance value decreases.

The input control unit 109 turns on the switches 104b and 104e and turns off the switches 104a, c, d and f (S403), and the voltage value indicating the resistance value of the X-side resistance film is detected by the sense amplifier 105a. The result is detected by the detection circuit 108 and notified to the input control unit 109 (S404).

Here, the difference between the measured voltage value indicating the resistance value of the X-side resistance film and the voltage value VRx is calculated (S40).
5), the obtained difference and a predetermined threshold value (V
rt) is compared / evaluated (S406), and if the voltage value of the difference is larger than a predetermined threshold value (Vrt) set in advance, it is determined that a plurality of points on the panel have been pressed, and that state is determined. Notify the user (S418). For the notification, for example, a warning message is displayed on the LCD module 102.
It is better to display it on.

When it is determined in step S404 that the difference voltage value is the same as the predetermined threshold value (Vrt) set in advance, the same comparison / evaluation is performed on the Y-side resistance film.

The input control unit 109 includes a switch 104f,
d is turned on and the switches 104a, b, c, e are turned off (S407). When the touch panel 101 is pressed down in this state, a voltage is detected in the sense amplifier 105c,
This result is detected by the detection circuit 108 and the input control unit 10
9 is notified (S408).

Here, the difference between the measured voltage value indicating the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film and the voltage value VRy is calculated (S40).
9), the calculated difference and a preset threshold value (V
rt) is compared / evaluated (S410), and if the voltage value of the difference is larger than a predetermined threshold value (Vrt) set in advance, it is determined that a plurality of points on the panel have been pressed, and that state is determined. Notify the user (S418). For the notification, for example, a warning message is displayed on the LCD module 102.
It is better to display it on.

When it is determined in step S410 that the difference voltage value is the same as the predetermined threshold value (Vrt) set in advance, the same result as the resistance value of the reference data is obtained on both the X side and the Y side, that is, It can be judged that the number of pressing points on the panel is one.

Position Data Collection Sequence Next, a position data collection sequence is performed. After determining that the number of pressing points on the panel is one, the input control unit 109
Turns on the switches 104a and 104b,
The c to f are turned off (S411). When the touch panel 101 is pressed down in this state, a voltage is detected by the sense amplifier 105b, and the result is detected by the detection circuit 108 and notified to the input control unit 109 (S412).

Next, the input control unit 109 controls the switch 10
4c and d are turned on, and the switches 104a, b, e and f are turned off (S413). In this state, the touch panel 10
When 1 is pressed, a voltage is detected in the sense amplifier 105d, and the result is detected by the detection circuit 108 and notified to the input control unit 109 (S414).

In the order shown in steps S411 to S414, the pressed position voltage levels on the X side and the Y side are set to V.
Collect as xm and Vym (S415). Further, steps S411 to S414 are performed a plurality of times, and Vxm, Vym
Are respectively compared / evaluated (S416), and each Vx
Vx where m and Vym are predetermined values set in advance
When the difference is within t and Vyt, Vxm and Vym obtained in step S415 are calculated based on the following equations, with the coordinate axes of X and Y set to 0 to 255, respectively. S417).

X coordinate = 255 × (Vxm-Vx2) / (Vx1-Vx
2) Y coordinate = 255 × (Vym-Vy2) / (Vy1-Vy
2)

If there is a difference greater than or equal to the predetermined values Vxt and Vyt preset in step S416, it is determined that a plurality of points on the panel have been pressed, and the state in which the plurality of points have been pressed is indicated to the user. Notify (S41
8). The notification may be performed, for example, by displaying a warning message.

Further, the values of Vrt, Vxt, and Vyt, which are the thresholds for determining that a plurality of points on the panel have been pressed, are related to the resolution required for the operation panel, so depending on the layout of the operation screen, etc. It is more convenient if different values can be set.

Further, if the initial data is periodically updated by a timer or the like to correct the influence of the ambient temperature, the detection accuracy is further improved. Further, it goes without saying that a method of confirming the absence of the user with a human body detection sensor may be used instead of the timer.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the X side,
By detecting a change in the resistance value between the touch panel electrodes on each of the Y sides, it is possible to detect the state in which a plurality of points on the panel are pressed, so that the information on the pressed position is not mistakenly collected.

Further, by storing and holding the collected inter-electrode resistance values on the X side and the Y side, it is possible to evaluate the initial data that is periodically collected, so that changes in temperature, power supply voltage, etc. The detection accuracy can be improved by following changes in ambient conditions.

Further, by performing the X-side and Y-side voltage detection a plurality of times to detect the voltage change, it is possible to detect the state in which a plurality of points on the panel are pressed down with a minute time difference. , Information on the pressed position is not collected by mistake.

Further, since the threshold level for detecting the change in resistance value is arbitrarily set, it is possible to obtain the resolution corresponding to the purpose of the operation panel, so that there is no restriction on operation. Can correspond to.

Further, since the threshold level for detecting the voltage value change is arbitrarily set,
Since it is possible to obtain the resolution according to the purpose of the operation panel, it is possible to deal with it without providing operational restrictions.

Further, by notifying the detection result based on the detection result of the state in which a plurality of points are pressed on the panel, the user can easily understand the next operation, which improves the operability. I can do it.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the second embodiment. The operation panel of the second embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, and only different parts will be described in detail. In FIG. 7, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 have the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the above configuration, the operation of collecting the resistance values (voltage level data) of the X-side resistance film and the Y-side resistance film, the normal operation sequence, and the linearity correction operation sequence will be described in this order.

Collection of Resistance Values (Voltage Level Data) of X-Side Resistance Film and Y-Side Resistance Film Referring to the flow chart of the initialization data collection process of FIG. 8, the resistance values of the X-side resistance film and the Y-side resistance film ( Collection of voltage level data) will be described. At the time of device initialization (immediately after reset), the input control unit 109 sets the switch 1
04a and 104b are turned on (SWc and SWd are turned off), and a DC voltage is applied to the X-side resistance film 101a (S801). The equivalent circuit at this time is as shown in FIG. 2, and the potentials at the terminal positions of X1 and X2 are X-side resistance film 1.
01a and the DC resistance of the switches 104a and 104b.

In this state, the input control unit 109
The inputs of the multiplexer 106 are switched to change the signals of the sense amplifiers 105a and 105b to the A / D converter 10.
7 and collects the potentials at the terminal positions of X1 and X2 as initial data Vx1 and Vx2 (S802, S2).
803).

Next, the input control unit 109 uses the switch 10
4c and 104d on (switches 104a and 1
04b is turned off), a DC voltage is applied to the Y-side resistance film 101b (S804), and the input of the multiplexer 106 is switched in the same manner as in the case of the X side to output the signals of the sense amplifiers 105c and 105d to the A / D converter 107. Input the potential at the terminal positions of Y1 and Y2 to the initial data V
It collects as y1 and Vy2 (S805, S806).

By the above steps, initial data (correction data) Vx1, Vx2, Vy1, Vy2 are collected.

Normal Operation Sequence Next, the normal operation sequence will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. After the initial data collection is completed, only the input control unit 109 and the switch 104a are turned on, and the switches 104b, 104c, 104d are turned off (S9).
01).

When the touch panel 101 is pressed down in this state, a voltage of about 5V is detected by the sense amplifier 105d, and the result is detected by the detection circuit 108 and notified to the input control section 109 (S902).

In step S902, the input control unit 109 detects the Comp level (5 V in the detection circuit 108).
Detection), the pressed position voltage levels on the X side and the Y side are collected as Vxm and Vym in the order shown in steps S903 to S906 (S801 to S80 in FIG. 8).
6), the coordinate positions in the X and Y directions are calculated based on the following equations, with the X and Y coordinate axes being 0 to 255 in step S907.

X coordinate = 255 × (Vxm-Vx2) / (Vx1-Vx
2) Y coordinate = 255 × (Vym-Vy2) / (Vy1-Vy
2)

Linearity Correction Operation Sequence In the second embodiment, the input control unit 109 displays a predetermined coordinate position as the pressing position via the main controller 110, the LCD controller 103 and the LCD module 102, and the pressing position is indicated by the operator. Based on the coordinates collected when is pressed, the variation in the linearity of the resistance value between terminals of the touch panel itself is improved.

Here, the linearity correction sequence will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. After the initialization data collection operation is completed, the input control unit 109 displays a linearity correction sequence selection menu on the display panel (LCD module 102), and the operator selects the linearity correction data collection mode.

When the linearity correction data collection mode is entered, the input control section 109 displays a correction point ◯ at a predetermined position on the display panel (LCD module 102) as shown in FIG. 11 (S1001), The normal sequence (sequence of position data collection) shown in FIG. 9 is executed to detect the coordinates of the pressed position (S1002). In this case, the operator shall press the center portion of the displayed correction point ○.

Next, the coordinates of the actually detected pressed position,
The difference from the coordinates of the displayed position is detected (S1003),
The detected difference is displayed as attached to the correction point ◯ as shown in the figure (for example, “◯ (+10, −8)”) (S1004). Note that (+10, -8) is X =
X on the coordinate of 640 dot × Y = 480 dot,
The difference in Y coordinate is digitized.

Next, it is determined whether or not the difference is within a preset tolerance, that is, within the linearity specification value of the touch panel (S1005). In this case, when the linearity specification value is 5%, the X coordinate is 640 × 0.05 = 3.
2, Y coordinate is 480 x 0.05 = 24, for example,
(+10, -8) is judged to be within the allowable error,
It is determined that (+40, -5) is not within the allowable error.

When it is determined in step S1005 that the error is not within the allowable error, that is, (+40, -5), the display in FIG. 11 blinks (blink display) like "○ / ●". To warn the operator (S
1006), a normal sequence (sequence of position data collection) is executed to detect the coordinates of the pressed position (S10).
07). Note that the processing of steps S1006 and S1007 (steps indicated by dotted lines in the figure) is performed by the touch panel 1
It shall be executed for all points in blink display on 01. Subsequently, the input control unit 109 updates the correction data at initialization based on the result of step S1007 (S1008).

On the other hand, if it is within the allowable error, step S
The correction data obtained in 1002 is stored for each point (S1009). The correction data may be stored by providing a memory in the input control unit 109, and may be configured to be able to store each correction data. By the above processing, as shown in FIG. 12, each correction data when the area of the touch panel 101 is divided into a plurality of areas is stored. In the second embodiment, the case where the area is divided into eight areas will be described, but the number of areas is not limited to this and may be any number suitable for the size of the touch panel 101.

The correction data stored in step S1009 is used to correct the variation in linearity. That is,
In each area shown in FIG. 12, (X0, Y0), (X
1, Y1), (X2, Y2), (X3, Y3), (X
4, Y4) correction data, that is, voltage data (Vx0, Vy0), (Vx1, Vy1), (Vx2,
Based on Vy2), (Vx3, Vy3), (Vx4, Vy4), the coordinates when an arbitrary point (X, Y) on the panel is pressed are determined. Note that (Vx0, Vy0) and (Vx4, Vy4) are initial collection data.

Here, a coordinate determining method when the correction data is used will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. The detection voltage at any point (X, Y) on the panel is Vx,
If Vy and Vx satisfy the relationship of Vx ≦ Vx2 and Vx ≦ Vx1 (S1301, S1302), X coordinate = X0 + (X1−X0) × (Vx−Vx0) /
(Vx1−Vx0) (S1304), Vx is Vx ≦ Vx2, Vx> V
When the relationship of x1 is satisfied (S1301, S1302), X coordinate = X1 + (X2-X1) * (Vx-Vx1) /
(Vx2-Vx1) (S1305), Vx is Vx> Vx2, Vx≤V
When the relationship of x3 is satisfied (S1301, S1303), X coordinate = X2 + (X3−X2) × (Vx−Vx2) /
(Vx3-Vx2) (S1306), Vx is Vx> Vx2, Vx> V
When the relationship of x3 is satisfied (S1301, S1303), X coordinate = X3 + (X4−X3) × (Vx−Vx3) /
(S1307) The X coordinate is determined as (Vx4-Vx3).

Further, in FIG. 14, Vy is Vy ≦ V
When the relationship of y2, Vy ≦ Vy1 is satisfied (S1401,
In S1402), Y coordinate = Y0 + (Y1−Y0) × (Vy−Vy0) /
(Vy1-Vy0) (S1404), Vy is Vy ≦ Vy2, Vy> V
When the relation of y1 is satisfied (S1401, S1402), Y coordinate = Y1 + (Y2-Y1) × (Vy−Vy1) /
(Vy2-Vy1) (S1405), Vy is Vy> Vy2, Vy ≦ V
When the relation of y3 is satisfied (S1401, S1403), Y coordinate = Y2 + (Y3-Y2) × (Vy−Vy2) /
(Vy3-Vy2) (S1406), Vy is Vy> Vy2, Vy> V
When the relation of y3 is satisfied (S1401, S1403), Y coordinate = Y3 + (Y4-Y3) × (Vy−Vy3) /
(S1407) Y coordinate is determined as (Vy4-Vy3).

Therefore, using the correction data stored in step S1009, the variation of the linearity due to the individual touch panel is approximated by a polygonal line by the formula described above,
The position detection accuracy can be improved.

The collected correction data is individually managed for each correction position, and statistical processing such as smoothing is performed together with the data history collected in the past.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, since the entire operation range is divided into a plurality of areas and the means for correcting the linearity of each area with respect to the signal detected from the panel is provided, the touch panel is provided. It is possible to improve the coordinate detection accuracy even on a large touch panel by correcting the variation in linearity due to the individual.

Further, since the difference between the initial value (preset value) and the coordinate to be corrected is digitized and notified, the validity of using new correction data as the correction value can be easily evaluated.

Further, in order to evaluate the validity of the above-mentioned difference, that is, to evaluate whether the difference is within the allowable error and to present a proper judgment standard for the correction, erroneous correction due to careless operation or chattering is performed. Can be easily prevented.

Further, since the selected correction data is separated and held for each correction position and individually corrected by the statistical method, only a necessary portion and necessary data are adopted even in a large-sized touch panel. The correction operation can be completed quickly.

Further, since the correction data is provided to perform the correction, it is possible to perform the device-specific correction for each device,
It can be easily executed in the manufacturing process / service area.

[0101]

As described above, according to the operation panel (Claim 1) of the present invention, the resistance value detection for detecting the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals. Means for controlling the resistance value detecting means to control the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the pair of Y electrodes.
Since the resistance value between the electrode terminals is detected and the change in the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is obtained based on the detected resistance value, a plurality of points on the panel are detected. Since the pressed state can be detected, information on the pressed position is not mistakenly collected.

According to the operation panel of the present invention (claim 2), the control means sets the resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals according to a predetermined procedure. Since the change in the resistance value is periodically detected and the change in the resistance value is obtained, the change in the ambient conditions such as the change in the temperature and the power supply voltage can be tracked, so that the detection accuracy can be improved.

According to the operation panel of the present invention (claim 3), the control means stores the detected resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the detected resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals. Since the data is held, the initial data collected periodically can be evaluated, so that the detection accuracy can be improved by following changes in ambient conditions such as changes in temperature and power supply voltage.

Further, according to the operation panel (Claim 4) of the present invention, there is provided a setting means for setting a threshold value used when the change of the resistance value is obtained, and the control means is provided with the detected resistance value. Since the change in the resistance value is obtained by comparing with the threshold value set by the setting means, it is possible to obtain a resolution according to the purpose of the operation panel. You can

According to the operation panel (Claim 5) of the present invention, the control means is provided with the voltage value detecting means for detecting the voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals. Controlling the voltage value detecting means to detect a voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, and based on the detected voltage value, the pair of X electrode terminals.
Since the changes in the voltage value between the electrode terminals and the voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals are obtained, it is possible to detect the state in which a plurality of points on the panel are pressed down with a minute time difference.
Information about the pressed position is not collected by mistake.

Further, according to the operation panel of the present invention (claim 6), there is provided a setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining the change in the voltage value, and the control means is provided with the detected voltage value. Since the change in the voltage value is obtained by comparing with the threshold value set by the setting means, resolution corresponding to the purpose of the operation panel can be obtained. You can

According to the operation panel of the present invention (claim 7), the control means notifies the detection result via the display means based on the change in the resistance value or the change in the voltage value obtained. Therefore, the user can easily understand the next operation, so that the operability can be improved.

Further, according to the operation panel of the present invention (claim 8), the control means divides the entire operation range of the touch panel into a plurality of areas, and based on the detection result for each of the plurality of areas detected by the detection means. Since the linearity correction is performed for each of a plurality of areas, it is possible to correct the variation in the linearity due to the individual touch panels, so that it is possible to provide an operation panel in which the detection accuracy does not decrease even if the touch panel becomes large.

Further, according to the operation panel of the present invention (claim 9), the control means controls the display means to display a predetermined coordinate position as the pressed position, and when the pressed position is pressed by the operator, the coordinate is displayed. Since the difference between the coordinates calculated by the calculation means and the coordinates at which the pressed position is displayed is digitized and displayed on the display means, it is possible to easily evaluate the validity of the correction data when performing linearity correction. It is possible to provide an operation panel in which the detection accuracy does not decrease even if the touch panel becomes large.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 10)
According to the above, the control means sets a predetermined reference value, and when the difference value is larger than the predetermined reference value, the reference value is changed, so that an erroneous linearity correction due to careless operation or chattering is performed. Since it can be easily prevented from being performed, it is possible to provide an operation panel in which the detection accuracy does not decrease even if the touch panel becomes large.

The operation panel of the present invention (claim 11)
According to the method, the control means individually holds the detection results for each of the plurality of regions and individually applies the correction by the statistical method. Therefore, only the necessary portion and the necessary data are adopted to perform the linearity correction promptly. Since it can be completed, it is possible to provide an operation panel in which the detection accuracy does not decrease even if the touch panel becomes large.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an equivalent circuit diagram in the case where a DC voltage is applied in a state where switches SWa and SWb are turned on (SWc and SWd are turned off) in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an initial data and reference data collection process.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a normal operation sequence.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a normal operation sequence.

FIG. 6 is an equivalent circuit diagram in which the resistance value of the Y-side resistance film is connected in parallel to the X-side resistance film in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of initial data and reference data collection processing.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a normal operation sequence.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a linearity correction operation sequence.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a correction point is displayed at a predetermined position on a display panel (LCD module).

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the touch panel is divided into a plurality of areas.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an X coordinate position determination sequence.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a Y-coordinate position determination sequence.

[Explanation of symbols]

 101 analog touch panel 101a X-side resistance film 101b Y-side resistance film 102 LCD module 103 LCD controller 104a-f switch 105a-d sense amplifier 106 multiplexer 107 A / D converter 108 detection circuit 109 input control unit 110 main controller 111a, b bias resistance Circuit 112 Microcomputer

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. A touch panel formed by stacking an X-side resistance film having a pair of X electrode terminals and a Y-side resistance film having a pair of Y electrode terminals, and a supply signal / monitoring between the terminals of the touch panel. Switching means for switching signals, detection means for detecting a signal from the terminal of the touch panel, coordinate calculation means for calculating coordinates from the signal detected by the detection means, display means arranged under the touch panel, and In an operation panel including a switching means, a coordinate calculating means, and a control means for controlling the display means, resistance value detecting means for detecting a resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is provided. The control means controls the resistance value detection means to detect a resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, and detect the detected resistance value. An operation panel, wherein a change in resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a change in resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is obtained based on the above. 2. The control means periodically detects a resistance value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals according to a predetermined procedure to obtain a change in the resistance value. The operation panel according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The control means is configured to detect the pair of Xs.
The operation panel according to claim 1, wherein the resistance value between the electrode terminals and the resistance value between the pair of Y electrode terminals are stored and held. 4. A setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining a change in the resistance value, wherein the control means compares the detected resistance value with a threshold value set by the setting means, The operation panel according to claim 1, wherein a change in the resistance value is obtained. 5. A touch panel formed by superposing an X-side resistance film having a pair of X electrode terminals and a Y-side resistance film having a pair of Y electrode terminals, and a supply signal / monitoring between the terminals of the touch panel. Switching means for switching signals, detection means for detecting a signal from the terminal of the touch panel, coordinate calculation means for calculating coordinates from the signal detected by the detection means, display means arranged at the bottom of the touch panel, In an operation panel provided with a switching means, a coordinate calculating means, and a control means for controlling the display means, a voltage value detecting means for detecting a voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is provided. The control means controls the voltage value detection means to detect a voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and a voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals, and detect the detected voltage value. An operation panel, wherein the change in the voltage value between the pair of X electrode terminals and the change in the voltage value between the pair of Y electrode terminals is obtained based on the above. 6. A setting means for setting a threshold value used when obtaining a change in the voltage value, wherein the control means compares the detected voltage value with a threshold value set by the setting means, The operation panel according to claim 5, wherein a change in the voltage value is obtained. 7. The operation according to claim 1, wherein the control means notifies the detection result via the display means based on the change in the resistance value or the change in the voltage value obtained. panel. 8. A touch panel formed by stacking an X-side resistance film having a pair of X electrode terminals and a Y-side resistance film having a pair of Y electrode terminals, and a supply signal / monitoring between the terminals of the touch panel. Switching means for switching signals, detection means for detecting a signal from the terminal of the touch panel, coordinate calculation means for calculating coordinates from the signal detected by the detection means, display means arranged at the bottom of the touch panel, In an operation panel including a switching means, a coordinate calculating means, and a control means for controlling the display means, the control means divides the entire operation range of the touch panel into a plurality of areas, and the plurality of areas detected by the detection means are detected. An operation panel, wherein linearity correction is performed for each of the plurality of areas based on a detection result for each area. 9. The control means controls the display means to display a predetermined coordinate position as a pressing position, and when the operator presses the pressing position, the coordinates calculated by the coordinate calculating means and the pressing position. 9. The operation panel according to claim 8, wherein the difference between the position and the displayed coordinate is digitized and displayed on the display means. 10. The operation according to claim 9, wherein the control means sets a predetermined reference value and changes the reference value when the difference value is larger than the predetermined reference value. panel. 11. The operation panel according to claim 8, 9, or 10, wherein the control unit individually holds the detection results of each of the plurality of regions and individually performs correction by a statistical method.