WO2015166965A1

WO2015166965A1 - Information processing device, and control method of information processing device

Info

Publication number: WO2015166965A1
Application number: PCT/JP2015/062886
Authority: WO
Inventors: 柏木　徹; 小林　秀徳
Original assignee: シャープ株式会社
Priority date: 2014-04-30
Filing date: 2015-04-28
Publication date: 2015-11-05

Abstract

　The present invention provides an information processing device with which it is possible to discriminate between a state in which a touch sensor and foreign matter such as water are in contact and a state in which the touch sensor and a user's hand are in contact. A portable terminal (201), which is the information processing device, is provided with an abnormality determination unit (224) for determining, when, where the direction in which a sensor value changes along with grasp is defined as a negative direction, the sensor value is less than or equal to a second threshold (TH2) which is less than a first threshold (TH1) used to determine that a grip part is grasped by a user, that the portable terminal (201) is in an abnormal state of being in contact with foreign matter such as water.

Description

Information processing apparatus and control method of information processing apparatus

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus capable of executing a predetermined process according to a detection result of a contact sensor and a control method for controlling the information processing apparatus.

Conventionally, there is a technique for determining a process to be executed by an information processing device in accordance with a detection result by a sensor provided in the information processing device such as a smartphone. For example, in Patent Document 1, the electrodes of a capacitance sensor are arranged at both ends of a mobile terminal that is an information processing apparatus, and the process is executed on the mobile terminal depending on whether or not both electrodes are touched and the number of touched fingers. A technique for determining the processing to be performed is disclosed.

Japanese Patent Publication “Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-119959 (published on June 16, 2011)”

However, in Patent Document 1, when a contact sensor and an object with a high dielectric constant are in contact, the object with a high dielectric constant may be determined as a user's finger, which may cause a malfunction of the mobile terminal. For example, when a mobile terminal including a contact sensor is submerged, it is determined that the mobile terminal is in contact with the user's hand. Further, for example, when water droplets are attached to the contact sensor, it is determined that the mobile terminal is in contact with the user's hand. As a result, there is a problem that malfunction of the contact sensor occurs.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and has as its purpose the state in which the contact sensor is in contact with a foreign substance (an object having a high dielectric constant) such as water, the contact sensor, and the user. An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus capable of distinguishing a state in which a hand is in contact.

In order to solve the above-described problem, an information processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a contact sensor that is provided at a position where a user's hand holding a gripping unit touches and outputs a sensor value. An information processing apparatus in which a reference value for representing the sensor value when gripped is set to be changeable in order to provide a reference for determining the sensor value, and changes as the sensor value is gripped When the direction to perform is defined as a negative direction, the information is obtained when the sensor value is equal to or less than a second threshold value that is less than the first threshold value used for determining that the grip portion is gripped by the user. The processing apparatus includes an abnormality determination unit that determines that the processing apparatus is in an abnormal state in which foreign matter such as water is in contact.

In addition, a control method according to an aspect of the present invention includes a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value provided at a position where a user's hand holding a gripping unit touches, and provides a reference for determining the presence or absence of the gripping. Therefore, a control method for an information processing apparatus in which a reference value for representing the sensor value when gripped is set to be changeable, and a direction that changes as the sensor value is gripped is negative. When the sensor value is a value equal to or smaller than a second threshold value that is less than the first threshold value used for determining that the grip portion is gripped by the user, the information processing apparatus An abnormality determination step for determining that the foreign object is in an abnormal state in contact.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the information processing apparatus can distinguish and determine a state in which a contact sensor and an object having a high dielectric constant are in contact with a state in which the contact sensor is in contact with a user's hand. .

It is a block diagram which shows the principal part structure of the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the external appearance of the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the flow of operation concerning the conventional portable terminal (information processor). It is a timing chart which shows the flow of operation concerning the embodiment of the above-mentioned portable terminal (information processor). It is a block diagram which shows an example of the principal part structure of the portable terminal which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention, a reference level, and a threshold value. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value and reference | standard level in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value and reference | standard level in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the reference value change part of the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value and reference | standard level in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the reference value change part of the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 6 of invention. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value and threshold value in the conventional information processing apparatus. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value and threshold value in the conventional information processing apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a principal part structure of the portable terminal which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention, a reference level, and a threshold value. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 8 of this invention, a reference level, and a threshold value. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 9 of this invention, and a reference level. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value in the portable terminal (information processing apparatus) which concerns on Embodiment 9 of this invention, and a reference level. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the sensor value and threshold value in the conventional information processing apparatus, (a) is a timing chart when changing a threshold value according to the change of the sensor value by a temperature change, (b) These are timing charts when the sensor value changes due to the influence of noise.

The contact sensor 11 provided in the mobile terminal 201 according to the present embodiment may change the sensor value when the object is not in contact with the environment such as temperature. Therefore, the reference level for representing the sensor value in the non-contact state is periodically calibrated. The threshold for determining whether or not an object has touched is changed according to the increase or decrease of the reference level.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. The configuration of the following specific items (embodiments) may be omitted if it is the same as the configuration described in other items. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in each item are given the same reference numerals, and the explanation thereof is omitted as appropriate.

In the following description, a portable terminal is taken as an example of an information processing apparatus, and a case of a portable terminal is taken as an example of a gripping portion. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and has a portion that a person grips. The present invention can be applied to any device. Examples of the information processing device include a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, a remote controller, a dryer, a vacuum cleaner, and other information processing devices operated with a handle.

Embodiment 1
<Configuration of mobile terminal 201>
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an appearance of the mobile terminal 201 (information processing apparatus) according to the present embodiment. The mobile terminal 201 includes a display unit 10 (such as a touch panel) on at least one surface of the housing. Note that the surface provided with the display unit 10 is referred to as the “front” of the mobile terminal 201. In addition, the mobile terminal 201 includes the contact sensor 11 at a position where the user's hand holding the casing of the mobile terminal 201 comes into contact with the mobile terminal 201. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the mobile terminal 201 is in contact with two surfaces adjacent to the front long side (the two surfaces are referred to as “side surfaces” of the mobile terminal 201). A sensor 11 is provided. Note that the number of contact sensors 11 and the range in which the contact sensors 11 are arranged are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 2. For example, a plurality of contact sensors 11 may be arranged on each side surface. The contact sensor 11 may be disposed on the entire side surface. The contact sensor 11 may be exposed to the outside of the casing or may be disposed in the casing.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a main configuration of the mobile terminal 201. The portable terminal 201 is an information processing apparatus that includes the contact sensor 11, the grip determination unit 212, the host control unit 13, and a timer 214. In FIG. 1, some arrows are omitted in consideration of the visibility of the drawing.

The contact sensor 11 is a sensor that detects the approach or contact of an object such as a user's hand. In the present embodiment, the contact sensor 11 is a capacitance sensor, but is not limited to this example. As the contact sensor 11, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, or the like can be used. Note that the capacitance sensor can detect the proximity of the hand (contact between the housing and the hand) even if the housing is interposed between the capacitance sensor and the user's hand. The contact sensor 11 outputs a sensor value corresponding to the presence or absence of an object contact to the grip determination unit 12 based on an instruction from the grip determination unit 12. Specifically, the contact sensor 11 outputs a sensor value corresponding to a change in electrostatic capacitance of an electrode disposed on the side surface of the housing to the grip determination unit 12. For example, when the potential of the output signal of the contact sensor 11 is used as the sensor value, whether the potential decreases or increases when the housing is gripped depends on the type of the contact sensor. Here, in order to unify the description, the direction in which the sensor value changes as the casing is gripped is defined as the negative direction. That is, the sensor value when the casing is gripped is smaller than the sensor value when the casing is not gripped.

The host control unit 13 is mainly responsible for control on the host side of the portable terminal 201. For example, the host control unit 13 controls the display unit 10. The host control unit 13 changes the display of the display unit 10 according to the determination result of the presence / absence of gripping in the gripping determination unit 12.

The timer 214 measures a predetermined time according to the notification of the grip determination unit 212 and notifies the grip determination unit 212 after the predetermined time has elapsed. As the predetermined time, a plurality of times are set in advance. Further, when the mobile terminal 201 includes a plurality of contact sensors 11, a predetermined time may be set for each contact sensor 11.

(Configuration of gripping determination unit 212)
The grip determination unit 212 includes a sensor control unit 221, a contact determination unit 222, a calibration unit 223, an abnormality determination unit 224, a process stop unit 225, and a determination release unit 226. The grip determination unit 212 includes a storage unit (not shown). The storage unit stores a reference level (reference value), a gripping threshold value, a release threshold value, and the like. Each unit of the grip determination unit 212 can read and write these stored values from the storage unit.

The reference level is for representing a sensor value when the casing is not gripped by the user. The gripping threshold value is a threshold value for determining that the housing is gripped. The release threshold value is a threshold value for determining that the hand is released from the grip (the hand is released). For example, the gripping threshold is set to a value smaller than the reference level. The release threshold is set to a value smaller than the reference level and larger than the grip threshold. The difference between the reference level and the grip threshold and the difference between the reference level and the release threshold are set in advance. That is, when the reference level is determined, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are automatically determined accordingly. As described above, the reference level is a variable that is set to be changeable in order to provide a reference (gripping threshold value, release threshold value) for determining whether or not there is gripping. Here, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are different in order to determine the presence / absence of gripping as hysteresis, but they may be the same value. In addition, the reference level, the grip threshold, and the release threshold are set for each contact sensor 11.

The sensor control unit 221 operates the contact sensor 11 at a predetermined timing, and acquires a sensor value as an output of the contact sensor 11. The sensor control unit 221 acquires a sensor value from the contact sensor 11 at regular intervals. When there are a plurality of contact sensors 11, the sensor control unit 221 acquires sensor values from the respective contact sensors 11 at regular intervals. The sensor control unit 221 outputs the sensor value to the contact determination unit 222.

The contact determination unit 222 compares the sensor value with the gripping threshold value, and determines that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11 (via the housing) when the sensor value becomes smaller than the gripping threshold value. Moreover, the contact determination part 222 memorize | stores that the contact sensor 11 is a contact state at this time. Further, the contact determination unit 222 compares the sensor value with the release threshold value, and determines that the user's hand is separated from the contact sensor 11 (released from gripping) when the sensor value is greater than the release threshold value. Moreover, the contact determination part 222 memorize | stores that the contact sensor 11 is a non-contact state at this time. If the sensor value is greater than or equal to the grip threshold and less than or equal to the release threshold, the contact determination unit 222 determines that the previous state (contact state or non-contact state) is continuing, and continues to store that state.

The contact determination unit 222 determines that the user's hand is holding the casing (portable terminal 201) when the plurality of (both sides) contact sensors 11 are in contact. For example, when only the contact sensor 11 on one side is in a contact state and the contact sensor 11 on the other side is in a non-contact state, the contact determination unit 222 determines that the user's hand is not holding the housing. Also good. When there is only one contact sensor 11 provided in the mobile terminal 201, the contact determination unit 222 determines whether or not there is a grip based on the contact state of the contact sensor 11. The contact determination unit 222 outputs determination result information regarding the presence / absence of gripping to the host control unit 13. In the following description, for the sake of simplicity, determination of the contact state of one contact sensor 11 will be described.

The calibration unit 223 acquires the sensor value from the sensor control unit 221 at a predetermined timing, and calibrates the reference level based on the sensor value. For example, the calibration unit 223 calibrates the reference level at regular intervals. In addition, the calibration unit 223 calibrates the reference level when the power of the mobile terminal 201 is turned on and when the grip determination function is turned on. The calibration unit 223 acquires sensor values a plurality of times, and sets an average value (or intermediate value) of the plurality of sensor values as a reference level. When the reference level is changed, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are also changed based on the information for changing the reference level. Thereby, the reference level for expressing the sensor value at the time of non-contact can be calibrated according to environmental changes, such as temperature.

Further, a storage unit (not shown) included in the grip determination unit 212 may store an abnormality determination threshold value TH2 (second threshold value), an abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 (third threshold value), and the like. The abnormality determination threshold TH2 is a threshold for determining that the portable terminal 201 is in contact with a foreign substance (an object having a high dielectric constant) such as water (an abnormal state). The abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 is a threshold value for canceling the determination of the abnormal state. For example, the abnormality determination threshold TH2 is set to a value smaller than the grip threshold TH1. The abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 is set to a value smaller than the gripping threshold value TH1 and larger than the abnormality determination threshold value TH2. Here, the abnormality determination threshold value TH2 and the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 are different, but may be the same value. The state in which the portable terminal 201 is in contact with foreign matter such as water (abnormal state) is, for example, a state where the portable terminal 201 is submerged in a liquid such as tap water or seawater, or a foreign matter such as tap water (water droplets). ) Are attached, and the two contact sensors 11 are connected to each other through a conductive object.

Here, waterproof processing of the portable terminal 201 will be described. The entire portable terminal 201 is waterproofed, but the contact sensor 11 is not waterproofed (for example, a part of the contact sensor 11 is not waterproofed as a line shape) Constitution). For this reason, the contact sensor 11 may be in direct contact with a liquid such as water. Therefore, the state where the portable terminal 201 is submerged in a liquid such as water can be detected at an early stage. It is assumed that the portable terminal 201 is waterproofed to such an extent that the portable terminal 201 functions normally.

The abnormality determination unit 224 acquires the sensor value acquired by the sensor control unit 221 and compares the sensor value with various threshold values. When the sensor value is equal to or less than the abnormality determination threshold TH2, the abnormality determination unit 224 notifies the timer 214 and causes the timer 214 to measure a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) for determining an abnormal state. In a predetermined time for determining an abnormal state after the sensor value becomes equal to or less than the abnormality determination threshold value TH2, when the value continues to be less than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2, the abnormality determination unit 224 It is determined that the portable terminal 201 is in contact with a foreign substance such as water (abnormal state). Then, the abnormality determination unit 224 notifies the process stop unit 225 of information indicating that a part of the processes being performed in the mobile terminal 201 is stopped.

Here, when the contact sensor 11 is provided on the left and right sides (both sides) of the portable terminal 201 as shown in FIG. 2, foreign matter such as water (liquid ) May be entered and removed at different times. For this reason, by setting the time measured by the timer 214 for each contact sensor 11, the determination of the abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit 224 is accurately performed without being affected by the variation in waterproof processing in the contact sensor 11. It becomes possible.

The process stop unit 225 forcibly stops some of the processes performed in the mobile terminal 201 when the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the state is abnormal. The process performed in the portable terminal 201 is various processes including the process of the sensor control unit 221 and the process of the host control unit 13, and is the entire process performed in the portable terminal 201. In addition, the process stopped by the process stop unit 225 does not include the process of the determination cancellation unit 226 described later. For example, the process stopped by the process stop unit 225 includes a part of the process of the sensor control unit 221, the process of the contact determination unit 222, the process of the calibration unit 223, and the display unit 10 performed by the host control unit 13. The display process may be included. In addition, the process stopped by the process stop unit 225 may be a setting added by the user.

More specifically, when it is determined that the abnormality determination unit 224 is in an abnormal state, the processing stop unit 225 notifies the host control unit 13 of information indicating the content to change the determination of the contact determination unit 222. Then, the host control unit 13 makes the determination of the contact determination unit 222 in response to the notification from the processing stop unit 225, from the determination that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11, and the user's hand from the contact sensor. Forcibly shift to the determination of having left. Further, the host control unit 13 changes the display of the display unit 10 from the ON (gripping) state to the OFF (released) state, and stops functions such as the backlight of the display unit 10. In addition, when it is determined that the abnormality determination unit 224 is in an abnormal state, the processing stop unit 225 may stop the process of determining whether or not the contact determination unit 222 is gripped.

According to the above configuration, when the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the state is abnormal, the display on the display unit 10 is turned off and the backlight function of the display unit 10 is stopped. For this reason, it can contribute to the reduction of the power consumption in the portable terminal 201. FIG.

The determination cancellation unit 226 acquires the sensor value from the abnormality determination unit 224 and compares the sensor value with various threshold values while the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the abnormality state has occurred. When the sensor value is equal to or greater than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2, the determination cancellation unit 226 notifies the timer 214, and the timer 214 measures a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) for canceling the determination of the abnormal state. Let When a predetermined time for canceling the determination of the abnormal state has elapsed after the sensor value becomes equal to or greater than the abnormality cancel threshold Hys2, the determination canceling unit 226 cancels the abnormality determination of the abnormality determining unit 224. In addition, the determination cancellation unit 226 notifies the process stop unit 225 of information indicating that the process stopped by the process stop unit 225 is resumed. Then, the process stopped by the process stop unit 225 is resumed.

(Reference operation example)
Here, a conventional portable terminal that does not include the abnormality determination unit 224 according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a timing chart showing a flow of operations related to a conventional portable terminal (hereinafter referred to as a portable terminal). The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents sensor values. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the threshold values used in the contact determination unit 222 are the grip threshold value TH1 and the release threshold value Hys1.

In the following description, among the “abnormal states” of the mobile terminal described above, the state of “under water” in which the mobile terminal is submerged in a liquid such as water will be described as an example. It is not limited to the state of “submerged”. That is, the state of “submerged” shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example of a state where the mobile terminal is in contact with a foreign substance (an object having a high dielectric constant) such as water. Therefore, for example, a state in which the contact sensor 11 is submerged in a liquid such as tap water or seawater, a state in which foreign matter (water droplets) such as tap water is attached to the contact sensor 11, and the two contact sensors 11 are electrically conductive with each other. The sensor value also changes in the same manner as the change shown in FIG. 3 even in a conductive state by being connected via a certain object.

Further, the “state pulled up from the water” shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example of a state in which foreign matter such as water (an object having a high dielectric constant) in contact with the mobile terminal has been removed. Thus, for example, a state in which foreign matter (water droplets) such as tap water adhering to the contact sensor 11 is wiped, or a state in which foreign matter other than water (object having a high dielectric constant) in contact with the mobile terminal is removed. However, the sensor value changes similarly to the change shown in FIG.

In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the user drops the mobile terminal into a liquid having a high dielectric constant such as tap water for some reason at time t1, and the user lifts the mobile terminal from the liquid at time t5. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 3, the actual state of the mobile terminal changes from “normal” to “underwater (abnormal state)” at time t1, and from “underwater” to “pull out of water” at time t5. It has changed to "the state that was done". Note that the “normal” state of the mobile terminal is a state in which a contact sensor provided in the mobile terminal is not in contact with foreign matter such as water.

First, a description will be given between time t1 and time t3. Between time t1 and time t3, the mobile terminal is in a state of sinking in water, and the sensor value is rapidly decreasing. At time t2, the sensor value becomes a value equal to or smaller than the grip threshold TH1 (first threshold). Then, the contact determination unit 222 determines that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11 at time t2. Note that the determination by the contact determination unit 222 between time t2 and time t3 is not changed from the determination at time t2.

Next, the period from time t3 to time t5 will be described. From time t3 to time t5, the sink of the portable terminal is stopped, and the sensor value hardly fluctuates (fluctuates slightly due to the influence of the surrounding environment). For this reason, since the sensor value is less than the release threshold value Hys1, the determination by the contact determination unit 222 between time t3 and time t5 is not changed from the determination at time t2.

And between time t5 and time t7, the mobile terminal is in a state of being pulled up from the water, and the sensor value is rising rapidly. After time t7, the portable terminal is in a state after being lifted from the water. After time t7, the user does not operate (contact) the portable terminal. For this reason, the sensor value is substantially constant. However, after time t7, since the liquid such as water attached to the contact sensor is not completely removed, the sensor value does not become a value equal to or greater than the release threshold value Hys1. For this reason, the determination by the contact determination unit 222 after time t5 is not changed from the determination at time t2.

That is, from time t2 to time t5, it is determined that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11, while the actual state of the mobile terminal is submerged, and the user's hand touches the contact sensor 11. There is no contact. Therefore, an unnecessary application may operate in a state where the user's hand is not in contact with the contact sensor 11, and there is a possibility that useless power consumption may occur. Further, after time t7, while it is determined that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11, the user's hand is actually not in contact with the contact sensor 11. In such a state, since the contact sensor does not function normally, the mobile terminal may malfunction. Furthermore, from time t5 to time t7, the user's contact with the mobile terminal is intended to quickly lift the mobile terminal from the water, so that the processing of the contact determination unit 222 is unnecessary.

(Operation example)
FIG. 4 is a timing chart showing a flow of operations according to the embodiment of the mobile terminal 201. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents sensor values. As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, in addition to the gripping threshold value TH1 (first threshold value) and the release threshold value Hys1, an abnormality determination threshold value TH2 (second threshold value) and an abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 (third threshold value) are used. ing. Note that the sensor values, gripping threshold value TH1 and release threshold value Hys1 shown in FIG. 4 are the same reaction levels as the sensor values, gripping threshold value TH1 and release threshold value Hys1 shown in FIG.

In the following description, similarly to the description of FIG. 3, the “abnormal state” of the mobile terminal 201 described above is exemplified by the state of “submerged” in which the mobile terminal 201 is submerged in a liquid such as water. As will be described, the abnormal state of the mobile terminal 201 is not limited to the “under water” state. That is, the state of “submerged” shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example of a state in which the mobile terminal 201 is in contact with a foreign substance (an object having a high dielectric constant) such as water. Therefore, for example, a state in which the contact sensor 11 is submerged in a liquid such as tap water or seawater, a state in which foreign matter (water droplets) such as tap water is attached to the contact sensor 11, and the two contact sensors 11 are electrically conductive with each other. The sensor value also changes in the same manner as the change shown in FIG. 3 even in a conductive state by being connected via a certain object.

Further, the “state pulled up from the water” shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example of a state in which foreign matter (an object having a high dielectric constant) such as water that is in contact with the mobile terminal 201 has been removed. Therefore, for example, a state where foreign matter (water droplets) such as tap water adhering to the contact sensor 11 is wiped, or a foreign matter other than water (object having a high dielectric constant) contacting the mobile terminal 201 is removed. As for the sensor value, the sensor value changes similarly to the change shown in FIG.

First, a description will be given between time t1 and time t3. Between time t1 and time t3, the portable terminal 201 is in a state of sinking in water. The contact determination unit 222 determines that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11 at time t2 when the sensor value becomes a value equal to or smaller than the grip threshold TH1. In addition, at t2 'after elapse of time t2, the sensor value becomes the value of the abnormality determination threshold TH2, and at time t3 after elapse of time t2, the sensor value becomes a value less than the abnormality determination threshold TH2. The timer 214 starts measuring a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) for determining an abnormal state from time t2 'when the sensor value becomes equal to or less than the abnormality determination threshold TH2. Note that while the sensor 214 continues to measure a predetermined time for determining an abnormal state, if the sensor value continues and is less than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2, the timer 214 continues measurement and the sensor value is If the value is equal to or greater than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2, the timer 214 interrupts the measurement.

Next, the period from time t3 to time t5 will be described. Between time t3 and time t5, the sink of the mobile terminal is in a stopped state, and the sensor value hardly fluctuates. The sensor value between time t3 and time t5 is a value less than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2. For this reason, the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the mobile terminal 201 is in an abnormal state at time t4 when a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) has elapsed since the timer 214 started measurement. The process stop unit 225 is a part of the processes (for example, the contact determination unit) performed in the portable terminal 201 while the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the abnormal state has occurred (time t4 to time t8). The processing of 222, the processing of the calibration unit 223, and the display processing of the display unit 10 performed by the host control unit 13) are stopped. If the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the state is abnormal, the determination cancellation unit 226 continues processing.

According to the above configuration, after a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or less than the abnormality determination threshold value TH2, the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the mobile terminal 201 is in an abnormal state in which foreign matter such as water is in contact. To do. For this reason, when an application (for example, an application for viewing a moving image) that is used while the portable terminal 201 is held by the user is operating, the abnormality determination unit 224 sets an abnormal state while the application is operating. The determination can be avoided. Therefore, during a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or less than the abnormality determination threshold value TH2, the user can use the application even if the user is still holding the mobile terminal 201.

In addition, according to the above configuration, when the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the state is abnormal, the process stop unit 225 stops some of the processes performed in the mobile terminal 201. For this reason, it is effective in avoiding the malfunction of an application and reducing the power consumption of the portable terminal 201. FIG.

And between time t5 and time t7, the portable terminal is in a state of being pulled out of the water. As for the sensor value, the timer 214 measures a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) for canceling the determination of the abnormal state from time t6 when the sensor value becomes equal to or greater than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2. While the timer 214 is measuring a predetermined time for canceling the determination of the abnormal state, if the sensor value continues and is greater than the abnormality determination threshold value TH2, the timer 214 continues to measure, If the sensor value is equal to or lower than the abnormality determination threshold value TH2, the timer 214 stops the measurement.

After time t7, the mobile terminal is in a state after being lifted from the water. The determination cancellation unit 226 cancels the determination of the abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit 224 at time t8 when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the timer 214 started measurement. The process stopped by the process stop unit 225 (for example, the process of the contact determination unit 222 and the process of the calibration unit 223) is started again at time t8 when the determination of the abnormality determination unit 224 is canceled by the determination cancellation unit 226. The

According to the above configuration, the determination of the abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit 224 is canceled after a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or greater than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2. For this reason, after the sensor value is stabilized, the determination of the abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit 224 can be canceled.

In addition, the processes of the contact determination unit 222 and the calibration unit 223 that are resumed after time t8 are resumed after a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) from time t8 when the determination of the abnormality determination unit 224 is canceled by the determination cancellation unit 226. May be. By providing the predetermined time, the calibration unit 223 calibrates the reference level after a period in which the sensor value becomes unstable (a period in which a highly conductive liquid such as water flows on the contact sensor 11). . The grip threshold TH1 and the release threshold Hys1 are also changed following the calibration of the reference level. For this reason, the sensor value can be a value equal to or greater than the release threshold Hys1 after the change. Further, based on the stable sensor value, the contact determination unit 222 can accurately determine whether or not there is a grip.

The process of the calibration unit 223 resumed after the time t8 is resumed after a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) from the time t8 when the determination of the abnormality determination unit 224 is canceled by the determination cancellation unit 226, and the time t8 The processing of the contact determination unit 222 that is restarted thereafter may be restarted when the gripping threshold value TH1 that has been changed following the reference level calibrated by the calibration unit 223 becomes 0 or more.

According to the above configuration, when the changed gripping threshold TH1 is lower than 0, it is possible to avoid the possibility that the contact determination unit 222 cannot normally determine whether or not there is gripping. More specifically, when the calibrated reference level is low (for example, 30) in the process of the calibration unit 223 restarted after time t8, the gripping threshold value TH1 changed following the calibrated reference level is 0. May be smaller. When the changed gripping threshold TH1 is smaller than 0, the contact determination unit 222 cannot normally determine whether or not there is gripping. For this reason, when the gripping threshold value TH1 is a value equal to or greater than 0, the contact determination unit 222 can normally determine whether or not there is a grip by restarting the processing of the contact determination unit 222.

[Modification]
In the present embodiment, there are a plurality of contact sensors 11 included in the mobile terminal 201. For example, the portable terminal 201 shown in FIG. 2 includes the two contact sensors 11, but may include the contact sensors 11 at arbitrary positions.

In the present embodiment, the sensor value used in the abnormality determination unit 224 and the determination cancellation unit 226 is a sensor value output from an arbitrary contact sensor 11.

For example, the determination cancellation unit 226 may cancel the abnormality determination by the abnormality determination unit 224 when the sensor value is greater than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 for all of the contact sensors 11 provided in the mobile terminal 201.

According to the above configuration, when all the contact sensors 11 are not in contact with foreign matter such as water, the determination that the mobile terminal 201 is in an abnormal state is released. For this reason, in the portable terminal 201, malfunction of an arbitrary application can be prevented more reliably, and power consumption can be further reduced.

In addition, even if the sensor value used for the determination of the abnormality determination unit 224 is a minimum value among the sensor values output from the plurality of contact sensors 11, the sensor value output from any of the plurality of contact sensors 11. It may be.

[Embodiment 2]
In the present embodiment, a configuration in which a predetermined time for determining an abnormal state and a predetermined time for canceling the determination of an abnormal state are not provided will be described. The configuration of the portable terminal 201 in the present embodiment is the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 1 except for the processing of the abnormality determination unit 224 and the determination cancellation unit 226 that is different from the processing in the first embodiment.

The abnormality determination unit 224 acquires the sensor value acquired by the sensor control unit 221 and compares the sensor value with various threshold values. When the sensor value is equal to or less than the abnormality determination threshold TH2, the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the mobile terminal 201 is in contact with a foreign substance such as water (abnormal state). Then, the abnormality determination unit 224 notifies the process stop unit 225 of information indicating that a part of the processes being performed in the mobile terminal 201 is stopped.

The determination cancellation unit 226 acquires the sensor value from the abnormality determination unit 224 and compares the sensor value with various threshold values while the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the abnormality state has occurred. When the sensor value is equal to or higher than the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2, the determination cancellation unit 226 cancels the abnormality determination of the abnormality determination unit 224.

According to the above configuration, the abnormality determination unit 224 uses the abnormality determination threshold value TH2 that is less than the gripping threshold value TH1 used to determine that the housing is being held by the user, so that the mobile terminal 201 is in contact with foreign matter such as water. It is determined that there is an abnormal state. For this reason, the portable terminal 201 can distinguish and determine the state in which the contact sensor 11 is in contact with a foreign substance such as water and the state in which the contact sensor 11 is in contact with the user's hand.

Further, according to the above configuration, the determination of the abnormal state is canceled using the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2. For this reason, even when foreign matter such as water is not completely removed from the contact sensor 11 (when foreign matter such as water adheres to the contact sensor 11), the reference value can be changed. And the user's hand can be accurately determined.

[Embodiment 3]
In the present embodiment, the abnormality determination threshold value TH2 and the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 are changed according to the sensor value in the mobile terminal 201 in an abnormal state.

When the sensor value acquired by the sensor control unit 221 changes slightly to a value that is not greater than the preset abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 after being less than the preset abnormality determination threshold value TH2. The abnormality determination unit 224 may change the abnormality determination threshold value TH2 and the abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2. The abnormality determination threshold value TH2 after the change may be a minimum value of the sensor value that slightly fluctuates in a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes). In addition, the changed abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2 is larger than the maximum value of the sensor value that is slightly changed in a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes), and less than the preset abnormality cancellation threshold value Hys2. It may be a value.

According to the above configuration, when the abnormality determination unit 224 determines that the mobile terminal 201 is in an abnormal state, the abnormality determination threshold value TH2 and the abnormality that are set in advance based on the sensor value that varies slightly are detected. The cancellation threshold value Hys2 is changed. For this reason, the response of the abnormality determination part 224 and the determination cancellation | release part 226 can be advanced.

[Embodiment 4]
The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 12, and FIG. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those described in the embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

<Conventional information processing apparatus>
A sensor (contact sensor) as described in Patent Document 1 may change the sensor value when the object is not in contact with the surrounding environment. For example, in the case of a capacitance sensor, a sensor value detected when an object is not in contact changes due to a temperature change around the sensor. If the threshold value for determining whether or not an object has touched at this time is unchanged, a malfunction of the sensor (for example, determining that the user is touching the touch sensor but not touching it) may occur. As a solution to such a problem, there is a technique of acquiring a sensor value when an object is determined to be non-contact and changing a threshold value at a predetermined time interval in accordance with the sensor value.

FIG. 12 is a timing chart showing the relationship between sensor values and threshold values in a conventional information processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 12, conventionally, by obtaining a sensor value at a predetermined timing, a reference level is set as a sensor value when the object is not in contact, and a value having a certain difference from the reference level is set. The threshold was set. Thereby, the threshold value is changed so as to follow the change of the sensor value, and the malfunction that may occur due to the temperature change around the sensor is prevented.

However, an information processing apparatus including the above-described sensor has a problem that malfunction occurs due to disturbance such as RF noise. This will be specifically described below.

FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing the relationship between sensor values and threshold values in a conventional information processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 13, for example, at time t1, the sensor value starts to increase (increase) due to the influence of noise, and at time t2, the reference level is increased so as to follow the change in sensor value. Let us consider a case where the sensor value decreases (decreases) due to the elimination of the influence of noise.

The change in sensor value due to the influence of noise is steeper than the change in sensor value due to the influence of temperature change. It is impossible to change following at a slow speed.

As a result, at time t3, the sensor value falls below the threshold value, and a malfunction such as a contact determination is made if the user is touching the touch sensor even though it is not touching.

As described above, when the reference level and the threshold value are changed following the change in the sensor value based on the influence of noise, the sensor value falls below the threshold value at an unintended timing and malfunctions.

Therefore, in the following description of the embodiment, an information processing apparatus that suppresses malfunction of the contact sensor due to the influence of noise and a control method of the information processing apparatus will be described.

<Configuration of mobile terminal 101>
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a main configuration of the mobile terminal 101. The mobile terminal 101 is an information processing apparatus that includes the contact sensor 11, the grip determination unit 112, and the host control unit 13. In FIG. 5, some of the arrows are omitted for the sake of easy viewing.

<Configuration of gripping determination unit 112>
The grip determination unit 112 includes a sensor control unit 121, a contact determination unit 122, a calibration unit 123, and a reference value change unit 124. The grip determination unit 112 includes a storage unit (not shown). The storage unit stores a reference level (reference value), a gripping threshold value, a release threshold value, and the like. Each unit of the grip determination unit 112 can read and write these stored values from the storage unit.

The reference level is for representing a sensor value when the casing is not gripped by the user. The gripping threshold value is a threshold value (contact threshold value) for determining that the housing is gripped. The release threshold value is a threshold value for determining that the hand is released from the grip (the hand is released). For example, the gripping threshold is set to a value smaller than the reference level. The release threshold is set to a value smaller than the reference level and larger than the grip threshold. The difference between the reference level and the grip threshold and the difference between the reference level and the release threshold are set in advance. That is, when the reference level is determined, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are automatically determined accordingly. As described above, the reference level is a variable that is set to be changeable in order to provide a reference (gripping threshold value, release threshold value) for determining whether or not there is gripping. Here, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are different in order to determine the presence / absence of gripping as hysteresis, but they may be the same value. In addition, the reference level, the grip threshold, and the release threshold are set for each contact sensor 11.

The grip determination unit 112 compares the sensor value with a threshold (grip threshold), and determines (recognizes) that the housing is gripped when the sensor value exceeds the threshold. In other words, the grip determination unit 112 calculates a difference between the reference level and the sensor value, and determines that the housing is gripped when the difference exceeds a predetermined value.

Note that “when the sensor value exceeds the threshold value” can be rephrased as “when the sensor value exceeds the threshold value”. That is, “when the sensor value exceeds the threshold value” here means that the sensor value changes across the threshold value, and includes a case where the sensor value exceeds the threshold value and a case where the sensor value falls below the threshold value.

Specifically, when the sensor value changes in the positive direction as the housing is gripped, “when the sensor value exceeds the threshold” means that the sensor value exceeds the threshold. When the direction in which the sensor value changes as the casing is gripped is a negative direction, “when the sensor value exceeds the threshold” means that the sensor value is below the threshold.

Whether the direction in which the sensor value changes as the housing is gripped is set to the positive direction or the negative direction can be appropriately selected according to the design of the mobile terminal 101 including the contact sensor 11.

Hereinafter, the portable terminal 101 in which the direction in which the sensor value changes as the casing is gripped is the negative direction will be described as an example.

(Sensor control unit 121)
The sensor control unit 121 operates the contact sensor 11 at a predetermined timing, and acquires a sensor value as an output of the contact sensor 11. The sensor control unit 121 acquires a sensor value from the contact sensor 11 at regular intervals. When there are a plurality of contact sensors 11, the sensor control unit 121 acquires sensor values from the respective contact sensors 11 at regular intervals. The sensor control unit 121 outputs the sensor value to the contact determination unit 122 and the reference value change unit 124.

(Contact determination unit 122)
The contact determination unit 122 compares the sensor value with the gripping threshold value, and determines that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11 (via the housing) when the sensor value is smaller than the gripping threshold value. Moreover, the contact determination part 122 memorize | stores that the contact sensor 11 is a contact state at this time. Further, the contact determination unit 122 compares the sensor value with the release threshold value, and determines that the user's hand is separated from the contact sensor 11 (released from gripping) when the sensor value is greater than the release threshold value. Moreover, the contact determination part 122 memorize | stores that the contact sensor 11 is a non-contact state at this time. If the sensor value is greater than or equal to the grip threshold and less than or equal to the release threshold, the contact determination unit 122 determines that the previous state (contact state or non-contact state) continues and continues to store the state.

The contact determination unit 122 determines that the user's hand is holding the housing (the portable terminal 101) when the plurality of (both sides) contact sensors 11 are in a contact state. For example, when only the contact sensor 11 on one side is in a contact state and the contact sensor 11 on the other side is in a non-contact state, the contact determination unit 122 determines that the user's hand is not holding the casing. Also good. When there is only one contact sensor 11 provided in the mobile terminal 101, the contact determination unit 122 determines the presence or absence of gripping based on the contact state of the contact sensor 11 (gripping determination step). The contact determination unit 122 outputs determination result information regarding the presence / absence of gripping to the host control unit 13. In the following description, for the sake of simplicity, determination of the contact state of one contact sensor 11 will be described.

(Calibration unit 123)
The calibration unit 123 acquires a sensor value from the sensor control unit 121 at a predetermined timing, and calibrates the reference level based on the sensor value. For example, the calibration unit 123 calibrates the reference level at regular intervals. The calibration unit 123 also calibrates the reference level when the mobile terminal 101 is turned on and when the grip determination function is turned on. The calibration unit 123 acquires sensor values a plurality of times, and sets an average value (or intermediate value) of the plurality of sensor values as a reference level. When the reference level is changed, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are also changed based on the information that has changed the reference level value. Thereby, the reference level for expressing the sensor value at the time of non-contact can be calibrated according to environmental changes, such as temperature.

(Reference value changing unit 124)
The reference value changing unit 124 executes the correction mode. During execution of the correction mode, the reference value changing unit 124 changes the reference level as necessary (reference value changing step), and outputs the changed reference level to the contact determination unit 122.

The reference value changing unit 124 stores an upper limit value (first value) set in order to limit the change of the reference level.

The reference value changing unit 124 changes the reference level so as to follow the change of the sensor value when the sensor value changes without exceeding the upper limit value during execution of the correction mode.

On the other hand, when the sensor value changes exceeding the upper limit value during execution of the correction mode, the reference value changing unit 124 sets the reference level without following the change of the sensor value. Specifically, when the sensor value changes beyond the upper limit value, the reference value changing unit 124 does not have to change the reference level. For example, when the sensor value changes beyond the upper limit value, the reference value changing unit 124 may set the reference level to the value of the upper limit value.

In the conventional portable terminal, when the sensor value increases due to the influence of RF noise or the like, the reference level and the threshold value are increased so as to follow the sensor value. Therefore, when the sensor value drops due to suddenly no influence of RF noise, the sensor value exceeds the threshold value (below), and malfunctions such as determining contact when the user is not touching the touch sensor but touching it. Will do.

On the other hand, in the mobile terminal 101 of the present embodiment, the reference value changing unit 124 sets the reference level without following the change of the sensor value when the sensor value changes exceeding the upper limit value during execution of the correction mode. Set. Specifically, for example, when the sensor value changes beyond the upper limit value, the reference level is set to a value that does not exceed the upper limit value. As a result, the increase in the reference level and the threshold is also limited.

Thus, even if the sensor value suddenly disappears and the sensor value suddenly drops, the sensor value does not easily exceed the threshold value, so that malfunction can be suppressed.

When the direction in which the sensor value changes as the casing is gripped is defined as a negative direction, the upper limit value is set to a value larger than the sensor value in a state where the casing is not gripped. On the contrary, when the direction in which the sensor value changes as the casing is gripped is defined as the positive direction, the upper limit value is set to a value smaller than the sensor value in a state where the casing is not gripped.

The reference value changing unit 124 of the mobile terminal 101 according to the present embodiment executes the constant correction mode.

(Operation example)
Hereinafter, the relationship between the sensor value and the reference level and the control method of the mobile terminal 101 in the present embodiment will be described based on specific examples.

FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the sensor value, the reference level, and the threshold value in the mobile terminal of this embodiment.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the reference level has already reached the upper limit at time t1. When the sensor value increases from time t1 to time t2 due to the influence of noise and the sensor value exceeds the upper limit value, the reference value changing unit 124 does not change the reference level. Therefore, the threshold value is not changed. In addition, the dotted line in the figure indicates the original reference level value when the reference level is changed by following the change of the sensor value without providing an upper limit value.

According to the reference value changing unit 124 of the mobile terminal 101 of the present embodiment, even if the sensor value suddenly decreases at time t3 due to, for example, no influence of noise, the sensor value can easily set the threshold value. Never fall below. Thereby, malfunctions, such as a contact determination, when a user is touching although not touching the contact sensor, can be suppressed. At this time, when the sensor value falls below the upper limit value of the reference level due to a change in the environment such as temperature, the follow-up control may be performed below the upper limit value of the reference level.

[Embodiment 5]
The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those described in the embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

Unlike the reference value changing unit of the portable terminal of the fourth embodiment, the reference value changing unit 124 of the portable terminal 101 of the present embodiment is changed when the reference level is changed beyond a predetermined correction mode execution threshold. Shift to correction mode. Hereinafter, specific description will be given with reference to the drawings.

7 and 8 are timing charts showing the relationship between the sensor value and the reference level in the portable terminal of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a correction mode execution threshold value JLa is set in the mobile terminal 101 of the present embodiment.

7 and 8, when the user holds the mobile terminal 101, the sensor value starts to decrease at time t0, and the sensor value decreases to the correction mode execution threshold value JLa or less.

When the calibration by the calibration unit 123 is performed at time t1 in a state where the sensor value has decreased to the correction mode execution threshold value JLa or less, the reference level is set to a value not more than the correction mode execution threshold value JLa. Specifically, the reference level is changed from Z2 (first reference value), which is a value before calibration, to ref (0) (second reference value), which is a sensor value when the mobile terminal 101 is held by the user. Be changed.

At time t1, when the reference level exceeds the correction mode execution threshold JLa and is changed to ref (0), the reference value changing unit 124 executes the above-described correction mode after time t1.

At this time, the reference value changing unit 124 sets a value obtained by adding a predetermined value La to ref (0) as an upper limit value (first value). The upper limit value is preferably not less than ref (0) that is a sensor value in a state where the mobile terminal 101 is held by the user and not more than Z2 that is a reference level value before calibration. Therefore, the upper limit value may not be set if not necessary, and may be other values than the reference level before calibration in some cases.

The reference value changing unit 124 sequentially acquires sensor values at a predetermined time interval Sa during execution of the correction mode. When the sensor value changes without exceeding the upper limit value, the reference value changing unit 124 changes the reference level so as to follow the change of the sensor value, and when the sensor value changes beyond the upper limit value, Is set to the upper limit.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, at time t2 and time t3, the sensor value increases without exceeding the upper limit value, and at this time, the reference value changing unit 124 sets the reference level so as to follow the change of the sensor value. change. In the example shown in FIG. 7, at time t3, the sensor value increases to a value equal to the upper limit value, and the reference level is set to a value equal to the upper limit value.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, at time t4, the sensor value has exceeded the upper limit value, and at this time, the reference value changing unit 124 sets the upper limit value as the reference level.

When the reference level is set to a value equal to the upper limit value, such as the reference level at time t3 in FIG. 7 and time t4 in FIG. 8, the reference value changing unit 124 ends the correction mode.

In the present embodiment, in addition to the above-described upper limit value, an upper limit value that is larger than the sensor value in a state where the housing is not gripped as described in the fourth embodiment may be set. .

(flowchart)
The basic operation will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the reference value changing unit 124.

After starting the function of the grip determination unit 112, calibration (calibration) is performed by the calibration unit 123 at a predetermined timing (S11). Next, the reference value changing unit 124 acquires sensor values at predetermined time intervals, and compares the sensor value with a reference level (Ba) at the time of sensor value acquisition (S12). In S12, when the sensor value is equal to or lower than the reference level (Ba) (NO in S12), it waits for the calibration to be performed again, and when the sensor value is larger than the reference level (Ba) (YES in S12). The reference level (Ba) is compared with the upper limit value (La) (S13). In S13, if the reference level (Ba) is equal to or higher than the upper limit value (La) (NO in S13), the correction mode is terminated, and if the reference level (Ba) is smaller than the upper limit value (La) (YES in S13). ), The acquired sensor value is set as a reference level (S14). After S14, the process returns to S12 again, the acquired sensor value is compared with the reference level (Ba) (S12), the reference level (Ba) is compared with the upper limit value (La) (S13), and the reference level (Ba) S12 to S14 are repeated until becomes equal to or greater than the upper limit (La).

Even if the reference level is extremely lowered due to the calibration performed by the calibration unit 123 in a state where the user holds the mobile terminal 101 by the above operation of the reference value changing unit 124, the reference value is quickly changed. The level can be raised to the upper limit value, and the gripping determination can be made normally.

Furthermore, since an upper limit is set, the reference level and threshold value will not rise extremely due to the influence of noise. Therefore, even if the sensor value suddenly decreases due to the influence of noise or the like, the sensor value does not easily fall below the threshold value. Thereby, malfunctions, such as a contact determination, when a user is touching although not touching the contact sensor, can be suppressed.

During execution of the correction mode, it is preferable that the reference value changing unit 124 does not change the reference level when the sensor value falls below the reference level as shown in the period from time t2 to time t3 in FIG. That is, during execution of the correction mode, the reference value changing unit 124 preferably changes the reference level only in the increasing direction. Thereby, a reference level can be raised to an upper limit at an early stage.

As shown in FIG. 8, after the correction mode is finished, when the sensor value becomes larger than the upper limit value at time t5, the reference value changing unit 124 follows the reference level in accordance with the increase of the sensor value. You may raise by control.

Although not shown, the correction mode execution threshold value JLa may be a value equal to the threshold value (gripping threshold value).

[Embodiment 6]
The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those described in the embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted. Further, in the following description, only points different from the fifth embodiment will be described, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the sensor value and the reference level in the mobile terminal of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the user holds the mobile terminal 101, the sensor value starts to decrease at time t0, and the sensor value decreases to the correction mode execution threshold value JLa or less.

When the calibration by the calibration unit 123 is performed at time t1 in a state where the sensor value has decreased to the correction mode execution threshold value JLa or less, the reference level is set to a value not more than the correction mode execution threshold value JLa. Specifically, the reference level is changed from Z2 (first reference value), which is a value before calibration, to ref (0) (second reference value), which is a sensor value when the mobile terminal 101 is held by the user. Be changed. At this time, the reference value changing unit 124 holds Z2 that is the value of the reference level before the portable terminal 101 is held by the user.

The reference value changing unit 124 of the present embodiment sets La, which is an absolute value, as an upper limit value. La is preferably ref (0) or more and Z2 or less.

In addition, the reference value changing unit 124 of the present embodiment may set Z2 that is the value of the reference level before the portable terminal 101 is gripped by the user as the upper limit value. Thereby, during execution of correction mode, a reference level can be raised in the range which does not exceed Z2 which is the value of the reference level before the portable terminal 101 is gripped by the user.

(flowchart)
The basic operation will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the reference value changing unit 124.

After the function of the grip determination unit 112 is started, the contact determination unit 122 detects the user's touch operation by comparing the sensor value with the threshold value (S21). When the touch operation is detected (YES in S21), the reference value changing unit 124 compares the sensor value with the correction mode execution threshold value JLa (S22). If the sensor value is greater than or equal to JLa (NO in S22), the process waits for the timing when the touch operation is detected again. If the sensor value is smaller than JLa (YES in S22), the reference value changing unit 124 determines the reference level Z2 at that time. Is held (S23). Thereafter, calibration by the calibration unit 123 is performed (S24). Next, the reference value changing unit 124 acquires sensor values at predetermined time intervals, and compares the sensor value with a reference level (Ba) at the time of sensor value acquisition (S25). In S25, when the sensor value is equal to or lower than the reference level (Ba) (NO in S25), it waits for the calibration to be performed again, and when the sensor value is larger than the reference level (Ba) (YES in S25). The reference level (Ba) is compared with the upper limit value (La) (S26). In S26, when the reference level (Ba) is equal to or higher than the upper limit value (La) (NO in S26), the correction mode is ended, and when the reference level (Ba) is smaller than the upper limit value (La), acquisition is performed. The sensor value thus set is set as a reference level (S27). After S27, the process returns to S25 again, the acquired sensor value is compared with the reference level (Ba) (S25), the reference level (Ba) is compared with the upper limit value (La) (S26), and the reference level (Ba) S25 to S27 are repeated until becomes equal to or greater than the upper limit (La).

[Embodiment 7]
The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those described in the embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

FIG. 19 is a timing chart showing a relationship between a sensor value and a threshold value in a conventional information processing apparatus, and (a) is a timing chart when the threshold value is changed according to a change in the sensor value due to a temperature change. , (B) is a timing chart when the sensor value changes due to the influence of noise.

As shown in FIG. 19A, conventionally, by obtaining a sensor value at a predetermined timing, a reference level is set as a sensor value when the object is not in contact, and a certain difference from the reference level is set. A value having a threshold value was used as a threshold value. Thereby, the threshold value is changed so as to follow the change of the sensor value, and the malfunction that may occur due to the temperature change around the sensor is prevented.

In an information processing apparatus provided with a capacitance sensor, the sensor value changes due to the influence of RF noise or the impedance of the capacitance sensor fluctuating. For example, as shown in FIG. 19B, the sensor value starts to increase (increase) due to the influence of noise at time t0, and the reference level and threshold are changed so as to follow the change in the sensor value. Consider a case in which the sensor value decreases (decreases) because the influence of noise disappears at t1.

The change in sensor value due to the effect of noise is steeper than the change in sensor value due to the effect of temperature change, so the reference level and threshold value are followed with sufficient response speed against the decrease in sensor value after time t1. It cannot be changed.

As a result, the sensor value falls below the threshold value at time t2, and a malfunction occurs such as determining that the user is touching the touch sensor even though he is not touching it.

<Configuration of mobile terminal 1>
FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a main configuration of the mobile terminal 1. The mobile terminal 1 is an information processing apparatus that includes a contact sensor 11, a grip determination unit 12, and a host control unit 13. In FIG. 14, some arrows are omitted in consideration of the visibility of the drawing.

<Configuration of gripping determination unit 12>
The grip determination unit 12 includes a sensor control unit 21, a contact determination unit 22, a calibration unit 23, a change amount detection unit 24, and a reference value change unit 25. In addition, the grip determination unit 12 includes a storage unit (not shown). The storage unit stores a reference level (reference value), a gripping threshold value, a release threshold value, and the like. Each unit of the grip determination unit 12 can read and write these stored values from the storage unit.

The grip determination unit 12 compares the sensor value with a threshold value (grip threshold value), and determines that the housing is gripped when the sensor value exceeds the threshold value. In other words, the grip determination unit 12 calculates a difference between the reference level and the sensor value, and determines that the housing is gripped when the difference exceeds a predetermined value.

Whether the direction in which the sensor value changes as the housing is gripped can be positive or negative can be appropriately selected according to the design of the mobile terminal 1 including the contact sensor 11.

Hereinafter, the portable terminal 1 in which the direction in which the sensor value changes as the casing is gripped is the negative direction will be described as an example.

(Sensor control unit 21)
The sensor control unit 21 operates the contact sensor 11 at a predetermined timing, and acquires a sensor value as an output of the contact sensor 11. The sensor control unit 21 acquires a sensor value from the contact sensor 11 at regular intervals. When there are a plurality of contact sensors 11, the sensor control unit 21 acquires sensor values from the respective contact sensors 11 at regular intervals. The sensor control unit 21 outputs the sensor value to the contact determination unit 22, the change amount detection unit 24, and the reference value change unit 25.

(Contact determination unit 22)
The contact determination unit 22 compares the sensor value with the gripping threshold value, and determines that the user's hand is in contact with the contact sensor 11 (via the housing) when the sensor value becomes smaller than the gripping threshold value. Moreover, the contact determination part 22 memorize | stores that the contact sensor 11 is a contact state at this time. Furthermore, the contact determination unit 22 compares the sensor value with the release threshold value, and determines that the user's hand is separated from the contact sensor 11 (released from gripping) when the sensor value is greater than the release threshold value. Moreover, the contact determination part 22 memorize | stores that the contact sensor 11 is a non-contact state at this time. If the sensor value is greater than or equal to the grip threshold and less than or equal to the release threshold, the contact determination unit 22 determines that the immediately previous state (contact state or non-contact state) continues and continues to store the state.

The contact determination unit 22 determines that the user's hand is holding the casing (the portable terminal 1) when a plurality of (both sides) contact sensors 11 are in contact. For example, when only the contact sensor 11 on one side is in contact and the contact sensor 11 on the other side is in a non-contact state, the contact determination unit 22 determines that the user's hand is not gripping the housing. Also good. When there is only one contact sensor 11 provided in the mobile terminal 1, the contact determination unit 22 determines the presence or absence of gripping based on the contact state of the contact sensor 11 (gripping determination step). The contact determination unit 22 outputs determination result information regarding the presence or absence of gripping to the host control unit 13. In the following description, for the sake of simplicity, determination of the contact state of one contact sensor 11 will be described.

(Calibration unit 23)
The calibration unit 23 acquires the sensor value from the sensor control unit 21 at a predetermined timing, and calibrates the reference level based on the sensor value. For example, the calibration unit 23 calibrates the reference level at regular intervals. The calibration unit 23 also calibrates the reference level when the mobile terminal 1 is turned on and when the grip determination function is turned on. The calibration unit 23 acquires sensor values a plurality of times, and sets an average value (or intermediate value) of the plurality of sensor values as a reference level. When the reference level is changed, the gripping threshold value and the release threshold value are also changed based on the information that has changed the reference level value. Thereby, the reference level for expressing the sensor value at the time of non-contact can be calibrated according to environmental changes, such as temperature.

(Change amount detection unit 24)
The change amount detection unit 24 detects the change amount (sensor value inclination) per unit time of the sensor value at an arbitrary time (change amount detection step). Further, the change amount per unit time of the sensor value is output to the reference value changing unit 25.

The change amount per unit time of the sensor value may be, for example, a difference between two sensor values that are continuously acquired by the sensor control unit 21 with a certain period of time.

(Reference value changing unit 25)
The reference value changing unit 25 compares the change amount of the sensor value detected by the change amount detection unit 24 with a predetermined change amount threshold value (change threshold value), and according to the comparison result, the normal mode (first mode). 1 mode) and U mode (second mode).

Specifically, when the change amount of the sensor value by the change amount detection unit 24 is smaller than the change threshold value, the normal mode is executed, and when the change amount of the sensor value by the change amount detection unit 24 is equal to or greater than the change threshold value, U Run the mode. Then, the reference value changing unit 25 changes the reference level as necessary (reference value changing step), and outputs the changed reference level to the contact determination unit 22.

When the ambient temperature of the sensor changes from a low temperature to a high temperature, the change amount of the sensor value based on the temperature change is smaller than the change amount of the sensor value based on the influence of the RF noise. Therefore, a value suitable for classifying the change amount of the sensor value based on the temperature change and the change amount of the sensor value based on the influence of the RF noise is set in advance as the change threshold value. Thereby, changes in sensor values can be classified into those due to temperature changes and those due to the influence of RF noise, and each mode can be executed in accordance with changes in sensor values based on the respective factors. .

The reference value changing unit 25 changes the reference level following the change of the sensor value during execution of the normal mode. On the other hand, the reference value changing unit 25 does not change the reference level following the change of the sensor value even when the sensor value changes during execution of the U mode.

The reference value changing unit 25 can change the reference level and the threshold according to a change in the surrounding environment such as a temperature change by changing the reference level so as to follow the change in the sensor value during execution of the normal mode. it can. Thereby, even if it is a case where a change of an environment arises, generation | occurrence | production of a malfunction can be suppressed.

Also, the amount of change in sensor value due to the influence of RF noise is larger than the amount of change in sensor value due to temperature change. Furthermore, the change in the sensor value due to the influence of the RF noise is steep compared to the change in the sensor value due to the temperature change. Therefore, when the reference level is changed according to the change of the sensor value due to the influence of the RF noise, as shown in FIG. 19 (b), when the RF noise suddenly disappears, the sensor regardless of the user's operation. The value exceeds a threshold value (gripping threshold value, release threshold value), and a malfunction occurs.

On the other hand, according to the mobile terminal 1 of the present embodiment, the reference value changing unit 25 executes the U mode when the change amount of the sensor value is equal to or larger than the change threshold, and the sensor value during the execution of the U mode. Even if is changed, the reference level is not changed following the change of the sensor value. That is, the reference value changing unit 25 does not change the reference level according to the influence of disturbance such as RF noise. Thereby, malfunction due to the influence of RF noise can be suppressed.

(Operation example)
Hereinafter, the relationship between the sensor value and the reference level and the control method of the mobile terminal 1 in the present embodiment will be described based on specific examples.

FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the sensor value, the reference level, and the threshold value in the mobile terminal of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, the change amount detection unit 24 has a sensor value (first sensor value) at time t1 (first time) and a sensor value (second sensor value) at time t2 (second time). From this difference, the change amount of the sensor value per time (unit time) from time t1 to time t2 is detected. When the change amount of the sensor value per unit time from time t1 to time t2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined change threshold, the reference value changing unit 25 shifts from the normal mode to the U mode at time t2.

If the change amount of the sensor value per unit time from time t1 to time t2 is smaller than the change threshold value, the reference value changing unit 25 continues the normal mode and sets the sensor value at time t2 as the reference level. To do.

As shown in FIG. 15, the reference value changing unit 25 does not change the reference level even when the sensor value changes during execution of the U mode. As a result, even when disturbance such as RF noise suddenly disappears and the sensor value decreases, the sensor value does not easily exceed the threshold value (gripping threshold value, release threshold value), so that malfunctions can be suppressed. it can.

The reference value changing unit 25 shifts from the U mode to the normal mode when the sensor value exceeds a U mode release threshold (mode threshold) that is a predetermined value at time t3 during execution of the U mode. .

The value of the U mode release threshold can be set as appropriate. For example, the value of the U mode release threshold value may be the same value as the reference level during execution of the U mode.

[Embodiment 8]
Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those described in the embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

Unlike the reference value changing unit of the portable terminal of the seventh embodiment, the reference value changing unit 25 of the portable terminal 1 of the present embodiment responds to environmental changes such as temperature changes even during the execution of the U mode. Change the reference level.

FIG. 16 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the sensor value, the reference level, and the threshold value in the mobile terminal of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 16, the change amount detection unit 24 detects the change amount of the sensor value per unit time from time t1 to time t2 from the difference between the sensor value at time t1 and the sensor value at time t2. . When the change amount of the sensor value per unit time from time t1 to time t2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined change threshold, the reference value changing unit 25 shifts from the normal mode to the U mode at time t2.

The change amount detection unit 24 detects the change amount of the sensor value per unit time thereafter. When the change amount of the sensor value per unit time is equal to or greater than the change threshold value, the reference value changing unit 25 does not change the reference level.

On the other hand, when the absolute value of the change amount of the sensor value per unit time is smaller than the change threshold, the reference level is increased or decreased according to the change amount. Specifically, when the absolute value of the sensor value increase amount S34 per unit time from time t3 to time t4 is smaller than the change threshold, the sensor value, the threshold, and the U mode threshold are increased by S34 at time t4. . If the absolute value of the sensor value decrease amount S56 per unit time from time t5 to time t6 is smaller than the change threshold value, the sensor value, threshold value, and U mode threshold value are decreased by S56 at time t6. As a result, when the absolute value of the change amount of the sensor value per unit time is smaller than the change threshold during execution of the U mode, the change of the sensor value is regarded as being caused by the change of the environment, and the sensor value and the reference The reference level and the threshold value can be changed so as to follow the change of the sensor value while maintaining the difference from the level.

If the absolute value of the sensor value decrease amount S78 per unit time from time t7 to time t8 is equal to or greater than the change threshold, the reference value changing unit 25 does not change the sensor value, threshold, and U mode threshold.

According to the mobile terminal of this embodiment, even during the execution of the U mode, it is possible to appropriately set the reference level and the threshold corresponding to the environmental change, and to suppress malfunctions that may occur due to the environmental change around the sensor. can do.

[Embodiment 9]
The following will describe another embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those described in the embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

The reference value changing unit 25 of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment has a unit per unit time after calibration is performed by the calibration unit 23 in a state in which the user is in contact with the contact sensor 11 (a state in which the mobile terminal 1 is held). Even when the change amount of the sensor value is equal to or larger than the change threshold value, the normal mode is executed without shifting to the U mode.

As described above, in the mobile terminal 1, the calibration unit 23 acquires the sensor value at a predetermined timing, and calibrates the reference level based on the sensor value. For example, the calibration unit 23 calibrates the reference level at regular intervals. Specifically, the calibration unit 23 acquires sensor values a plurality of times, and sets an average value of the plurality of sensor values as a reference level.

When the user is holding the mobile terminal 1, the sensor value is smaller than the threshold value. Therefore, when the calibration is performed by the calibration unit 23 while the user is holding the mobile terminal 1, the reference level is set to a value smaller than the threshold value at the time of calibration.

When the reference level is calibrated as described above, the threshold value is lower than normal, and the sensor value is unlikely to exceed the threshold value even when the user is holding the mobile terminal 1. I can't.

Therefore, the reference value changing unit 25 of the mobile terminal 1 according to the present embodiment changes the sensor value per unit time in a predetermined period after the calibration is performed by the calibration unit 23 with the user holding the mobile terminal 1. Even if the amount is equal to or greater than the change threshold value, the reference level is raised to the value before calibration early by executing the normal mode without shifting to the U mode.

Hereinafter, a specific example will be described. 17 and 18 are timing charts showing the relationship between the sensor value and the reference level in the mobile terminal of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 17, when the user holds the mobile terminal 1, the sensor value starts to decrease from time t <b> 0 and decreases to a threshold value (not shown) or less. When calibration by the calibration unit 23 is performed at time t1 in a state where the sensor value has decreased below the threshold value, the reference level decreases from the pre-calibration value Bc (first reference value) to the sensor value at the time of calibration.

The reference value changing unit 25 stores Bc, which is a reference level value before calibration. In the period from when the reference level rises to Bc again, the reference value changing unit 25 normally does not shift to the U mode even if the change amount of the sensor value per unit time is equal to or greater than the change threshold. Run the mode. Specifically, in the period from when the reference level increases to Bc again, even if the sensor value change amount per unit time from time t1 to time t2 is greater than or equal to the change threshold, the reference value changing unit 25 Executes the normal mode and changes the reference level to follow the change of the sensor value.

After the reference level increases and becomes Bc again, the reference value changing unit 25 executes the normal mode or the U mode as in the seventh and eighth embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 18, after the calibration by the calibration unit 23 at time t1, if the sensor value becomes larger than Bc at time t2, the reference value changing unit 25 sets the reference level. Set to Bc. Thus, after the calibration by the calibration unit 23 at time t1, when the sensor value becomes larger than Bc, by setting the reference level with the reference level value (Bc) before calibration as the upper limit, An excessive increase in the reference level can be prevented.

According to said structure, even if it is a case where a reference level falls extremely by calibration by the calibration part 23 in the state which the user hold | gripped the portable terminal 1, a reference level is made into the value before calibration early. It can be returned, and a gripping determination can be made normally. In addition, Bc is a held reference level before calibration, but may be set as an absolute value.

[Example of software implementation]
The control blocks (particularly the

gripping determination units

12, 112, and 212) of the

mobile terminals

1, 101, and 201 may be realized by a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like, It may be realized by software using a Central Processing Unit.

In the latter case, the

mobile terminals

1, 101, and 201 include a CPU that executes instructions of a program, which is software that implements each function, and a ROM (Read CPU) in which the program and various data are recorded so as to be readable by the computer (or CPU). Only Memory) or a storage device (these are referred to as “recording media”), RAM (Random Access Memory) for expanding the program, and the like. And the objective of this invention is achieved when a computer (or CPU) reads the said program from the said recording medium and runs it. As the recording medium, a “non-temporary tangible medium” such as a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, or the like can be used. The program may be supplied to the computer via an arbitrary transmission medium (such as a communication network or a broadcast wave) that can transmit the program. The present invention can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave in which the program is embodied by electronic transmission.

[Summary]
The information processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a contact sensor (11) that is provided at a position where a user's hand holding the gripping unit touches and outputs a sensor value, and is a reference for determining the presence or absence of gripping The reference value for representing the sensor value when gripped is set to be changeable (portable terminal 201), and changes as the sensor value is gripped. When the direction is defined as a negative direction, the sensor value is a second threshold value (abnormality determination threshold value TH2) that is less than a first threshold value (gripping threshold value TH1) used for determining that the grip portion is gripped by the user. In the case of the following values, the information processing apparatus includes an abnormality determination unit (224) that determines that there is an abnormal state in which a foreign substance such as water is in contact.

According to the above configuration, the abnormality determination unit uses the second threshold value that is less than the first threshold value used to determine that the grip unit is gripped by the user, and the information processing apparatus is in contact with foreign matter such as water. It is determined that there is an abnormal state. For this reason, the information processing apparatus can distinguish and determine the state in which the contact sensor is in contact with a foreign substance such as water and the state in which the contact sensor is in contact with the user's hand.

The information processing apparatus according to aspect 2 of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to aspect 1, wherein the abnormality determination unit determines that the sensor value is the first value at a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or less than the second threshold value. If the information processing device continues to be less than a third threshold (abnormality cancellation threshold Hys2) that is less than one threshold and greater than or equal to the second threshold, the information processing apparatus is in an abnormal state in which foreign matter such as water is in contact It may be determined that

According to the above configuration, the abnormality determination unit determines that the information processing apparatus is in an abnormal state in which a foreign substance such as water is in contact after a predetermined time has elapsed since the sensor value becomes equal to or less than the second threshold value. . For this reason, when an application that is used while the information processing apparatus is held by the user (for example, an application for viewing a moving image) is operating, the abnormality determination unit determines that the application is in an abnormal state while the application is operating. Can be avoided. Therefore, during a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or smaller than the second threshold value, the user can use the application even if the user is still holding the information processing apparatus.

An information processing apparatus according to aspect 3 of the present invention is a part of the processes performed in the information processing apparatus when the abnormality determination unit determines that the information processing apparatus is in an abnormal state in aspect 1 or 2. A process stop unit (225) for stopping the process may be further provided.

According to the above configuration, when the abnormality determination unit determines that the state is abnormal, the process stop unit stops a part of the processes performed in the information processing apparatus. For this reason, it is effective in avoiding the malfunction of an application and reducing the power consumption of information processing apparatus.

The information processing apparatus according to aspect 4 of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to any one of the aspects 1 to 3, wherein the sensor value is less than the first threshold and greater than or equal to the second threshold (abnormality cancellation threshold Hys2). ) When the value is equal to or greater than the above value, a determination cancellation unit (226) that cancels the determination of an abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit may be further provided.

According to the above configuration, the determination of the abnormal state is canceled using the third threshold value less than the first threshold value. For this reason, even when foreign matter such as water is not completely removed from the contact sensor (when foreign matter such as water adheres to the contact sensor), the reference value can be changed. It is possible to accurately determine the state of contact with the hand.

The information processing apparatus according to aspect 5 of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to aspect 4, wherein the determination canceling unit is configured such that the sensor value is the third value for a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or greater than the third threshold value. When the value is continuously greater than or equal to the threshold value, the determination of an abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit may be canceled.

According to the above configuration, the determination of the abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit is canceled after a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes equal to or greater than the third threshold value. For this reason, after the sensor value is stabilized, the determination of the abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit can be canceled.

Note that in the above aspect 4 or 5, the information processing apparatus includes a plurality of the contact sensors, and the determination canceling unit has a value greater than the third threshold value for all the plurality of contact sensors. In addition, the determination of an abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit may be canceled.

According to the above configuration, when all the contact sensors are not in contact with foreign matters such as water, the determination that the information processing apparatus is in an abnormal state is cancelled. For this reason, in the portable terminal 201, malfunction of an arbitrary application can be prevented more reliably, and power consumption can be further reduced.

The control method of the information processing device according to aspect 6 of the present invention is provided with a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value provided at a position where a user's hand holding the gripping unit touches, and a reference for determining whether or not the gripping is performed In order to provide a control method for an information processing apparatus in which a reference value for representing the sensor value when gripped is set to be changeable, a direction that changes as the sensor value is gripped is changed. When the negative direction is defined, when the sensor value is equal to or less than a second threshold value that is less than the first threshold value used for determining that the grip portion is being gripped by the user, the information processing apparatus An abnormality determination step for determining that there is an abnormal state in which a foreign substance such as water is in contact is included.

According to the above configuration, the same effect as in the first aspect is obtained.

An information processing apparatus (portable terminal 101) according to aspect 7 of the present invention includes a contact sensor (11) that outputs a sensor value, provided at a position where a user's hand holding the holding unit comes into contact. A reference value (reference level) for expressing the sensor value in a state where the grip portion is not gripped is set, and the sensor value exceeds a contact threshold value that is a value having a predetermined difference from the reference value. In this case, the information processing apparatus recognizes that the grip unit is gripped, and includes a reference value change unit (124) that changes the reference value according to a change in the sensor value. Is the reference value so as to follow the change of the sensor value when the sensor value changes without exceeding the first value (upper limit value) set to limit the change of the reference value. As well as change When the sensor value changes by more than the first value, and executes a correction mode for setting the reference value without follow the change of the sensor value.

According to the above configuration, the reference value changing unit sets the reference value without following the change in the sensor value when the sensor value changes beyond the first value. Specifically, for example, when the sensor value changes beyond the upper limit value, the reference level is set to a value that does not exceed the upper limit value. As a result, the increase in the reference level and the threshold is also limited.

In the information processing apparatus according to aspect 8 of the present invention, when the direction in which the sensor value changes as it is grasped is defined as the negative direction in the aspect 7, the first value is grasped by the grasping unit. When the direction in which the sensor value changes as it is gripped is defined as the positive direction, the first value is The configuration may be such that the sensor value is set to a value (negative direction) that is smaller than the sensor value in a state where it is not gripped.

In the information processing apparatus according to aspect 9 of the present invention, in the aspect 7, the first reference value (reference level Z2) that is the reference value at a certain time exceeds a predetermined correction mode execution threshold (JLa). When the second reference value (reference level ref (0)) different from the first reference value is changed, the reference value changing unit executes the correction mode, and the first value is set to the second reference value. The structure which is more than a value and below the said 1st reference value may be sufficient.

According to the above configuration, when the reference value changes beyond the correction mode execution threshold, the reference value can be returned to the value before the change with the first value as the upper limit value.

Therefore, for example, even if the reference value is extremely lowered to the sensor value in a state where the user grips the grip portion by performing calibration of the reference value while the user grips the grip portion, Thus, the reference value can be returned to the value before calibration, and the gripping determination can be performed normally.

Furthermore, since the increase in the reference level is limited by the first value, the reference value and the threshold value do not increase excessively due to the influence of noise. For this reason, even when the influence of the RF noise suddenly disappears and the sensor value rapidly decreases, the sensor value does not easily exceed the threshold value, so that malfunction can be suppressed.

In the information processing device according to aspect 10 of the present invention, in the aspect 9, in the correction mode, the reference value changing unit may change the first value when the sensor value changes beyond the first value. The structure which sets a value as the said reference value may be sufficient.

According to the above configuration, when the sensor value changes beyond the first value, the reference value can be changed to the first value. Therefore, after the reference level is extremely lowered, the reference level can be returned to the value before calibration at an early stage, and the gripping determination can be performed normally.

In the aspect 9 or 10, the first value may be a value equal to the first reference value.

In the aspect 9 or 10, the first value may be a value obtained by adding a predetermined value to the second reference value.

In addition, in the said aspect 9 or 10, the structure which is a value equal to the said contact threshold value may be sufficient as the said correction mode execution threshold value.

The control method of the information processing apparatus according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention includes a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value provided at a position where a user's hand holding the gripping unit touches, and the gripping unit is gripped. A reference value is set to represent the sensor value in a state where the sensor is not in contact, and the grip portion is gripped when the sensor value exceeds a contact threshold that is a value having a predetermined difference from the reference value. A control method of an information processing apparatus that recognizes that the sensor value includes a reference value changing step that changes the reference value in accordance with a change in the sensor value. In the reference value changing step, the sensor value is the reference value When the reference value is changed so as to follow the change of the sensor value when the value changes without exceeding the first value set to limit the change of the value, the sensor value is If the changes beyond the first value, and executes a correction mode for setting the reference value without follow the change of the sensor value.

An information processing apparatus (portable terminal 1) according to an aspect 12 of the present invention is provided at a position where a user's hand holding the gripping unit comes into contact, and changes with an object approaching or contacting the gripping unit. A contact sensor (11) that outputs a value, a reference value (reference level) corresponding to the sensor value when the object is not in contact, and a difference value between the output sensor value and An information processing apparatus comprising: a grip determination unit (12) that determines presence / absence; and a reference value change unit (25) that changes the reference value in accordance with a change in the sensor value. A change amount detection unit (24) for detecting a change amount per unit time of the sensor value is provided, and the reference value changing unit, when the change amount is smaller than a change threshold value that is a predetermined value, The value of the sensor value is And executes a first mode to be set as a value (normal mode), if the change amount is equal to or larger than the variation threshold, characterized in that it does not execute the first mode.

According to the above configuration, the reference value changing unit does not execute the first mode when the change amount of the sensor value per unit time is equal to or greater than the change threshold value, so even if the sensor value has changed, The reference value is not changed following the change in value.

Generally, the change amount of the sensor value based on the influence of disturbance such as RF noise is larger than the change amount of the sensor value based on environmental change such as temperature change.

Therefore, based on the influence of the disturbance by setting a value suitable for classifying the change amount of the sensor value based on the influence of the disturbance and the change amount of the sensor value based on the environmental change as a change threshold. Thus, when the sensor value changes, the reference value may not be changed following the change of the sensor value.

Thus, even if the influence of disturbance suddenly disappears, the sensor value does not easily exceed the contact threshold value, so that malfunction due to the influence of disturbance can be suppressed.

In the information processing device according to aspect 13 of the present invention, in the aspect 12, the sensor value changes as the object approaches or touches the grip portion, and the change amount detection unit is set to the first time. Increase amount from the first sensor value as the sensor value detected at (time t1) to the second sensor value as the sensor value detected at the second time (time t2) after the first time Is detected as the amount of change, and the reference value changing unit sets the value of the second sensor value as the reference value in the first mode when the amount of change is smaller than the change threshold. It may be.

According to the above configuration, the reference value can be appropriately set in response to the change in the sensor value based on the change in the environment, and the malfunction that may occur due to the change in the environment around the sensor can be suppressed.

In the information processing device according to aspect 14 of the present invention, in the

aspect

12 or 13, the reference value changing unit sets the value of the sensor value as the reference value when the amount of change is equal to or greater than the change threshold. The second mode (U mode) is executed, and the reference value changing unit is configured to set a mode threshold value (U mode) in which the sensor value output from the contact sensor during execution of the second mode is a predetermined value. If the release threshold is exceeded, the first mode may be executed instead of the second mode.

According to the above configuration, the first mode and the second mode can be appropriately switched according to a predetermined mode threshold value.

In the aspect 14, the mode threshold value may be a value equal to the reference value during execution of the second mode.

In the information processing apparatus according to aspect 15 of the present invention, in the aspect 14, when the absolute value of the change amount of the sensor value per unit time during execution of the second mode is smaller than the absolute value of the change threshold value, The reference value changing unit may be configured to increase or decrease the reference value and the mode threshold according to the change amount.

According to the above configuration, even during execution of the second mode, it is possible to appropriately set the reference level and the threshold corresponding to the environmental change, and to suppress malfunction that may occur due to the environmental change around the sensor. Can do.

In the information processing device according to aspect 16 of the present invention, in the aspect 14 or 15, the reference value changing unit is configured to detect the first reference value, which is the reference value at a certain time, from the sensor in a state where the gripping part is gripped. After the change to the value, during the period until the sensor value exceeds the first reference value, even if the change amount is not less than the change threshold value, the first mode is executed without shifting to the second mode. It may be a configuration.

According to the above configuration, even if the reference value is extremely increased or decreased due to calibration of the reference value while the user is holding the information processing apparatus, the reference value is set to the value before calibration at an early stage. Thus, the gripping determination can be made normally.

The control method of the information processing apparatus according to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention is provided at a position where the user's hand that holds the gripping unit touches, and sensor values that change as the object approaches or touches the gripping unit. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus including an output contact sensor, based on a difference value between a reference value corresponding to the sensor value when the object is non-contact and the output sensor value A gripping determination step for determining the presence or absence of gripping, a reference value changing step for changing the reference value as the sensor value changes, and a change amount for detecting a change amount per unit time of the sensor value at an arbitrary time A detection step, and when the change amount is smaller than a change threshold value that is a predetermined value in the reference value changing step, the sensor value is used as the reference value. And it executes a first mode in which the constant, if the change amount is equal to or larger than the variation threshold, characterized in that it does not execute the first mode.

The mobile terminal according to each aspect of the present invention may be realized by a computer. In this case, the mobile terminal is realized by the computer by causing the computer to operate as each unit included in the mobile terminal. A control program and a computer-readable recording medium on which the control program is recorded also fall within the scope of the present invention.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, a new technical feature can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment.

The present invention can be used for an information processing device (such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, a remote controller, a dryer, a vacuum cleaner, and other information processing devices operated with a handle) provided with a contact sensor.

1, 101, 201 Mobile terminal (information processing apparatus)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11

Contact sensor

12, 112, 212 Grasp determination part 24 Change amount detection part 25 Reference value change part t1 Time (1st time)
t2 time (second time)
124 reference value changing unit JLa correction mode execution threshold Z2 reference level (first reference value)
214 timer 221 sensor control unit 222 contact determination unit 223 calibration unit 224 abnormality determination unit 225 processing stop unit 226 determination release unit

Claims

Provided at the position where the user's hand that grips the gripping part comes into contact, and includes a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value,
In order to give a reference for determining the presence or absence of gripping, an information processing apparatus in which a reference value for representing the sensor value when gripped is set to be changeable,
When the direction that changes as the sensor value is gripped is defined as the negative direction,
When the sensor value is equal to or less than a second threshold value that is less than the first threshold value used to determine that the grip portion is being gripped by the user, the information processing apparatus is in contact with foreign matter such as water. An information processing apparatus comprising: an abnormality determination unit that determines that an abnormal state is present.
The abnormality determination unit has a value less than a third threshold that is less than the first threshold and greater than or equal to the second threshold at a predetermined time after the sensor value becomes less than or equal to the second threshold. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus determines that the information processing apparatus is in an abnormal state in which a foreign object such as water is in contact.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a process stop unit that stops a part of the processes performed in the information processing apparatus when the abnormality determination unit determines that the state is abnormal. Or the information processing apparatus according to 2;
When the sensor value is a value equal to or greater than a third threshold value that is less than the first threshold value and greater than or equal to the second threshold value, a determination cancellation unit that cancels the determination of an abnormal state by the abnormality determination unit is further provided. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the information processing apparatus is characterized.
The determination canceling unit determines that the abnormality is detected when the sensor value continues to be a value equal to or greater than the third threshold for a predetermined time after the sensor value is equal to or greater than the third threshold. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the determination by the determination unit is canceled as an abnormal state.
Provided at the position where the user's hand that grips the gripping part comes into contact, and includes a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value,
In order to give a reference for determining the presence or absence of gripping, a control method for an information processing apparatus in which a reference value for representing the sensor value when gripped is set to be changeable,
When the direction that changes as the sensor value is gripped is defined as the negative direction,
When the sensor value is equal to or less than a second threshold value that is less than the first threshold value used to determine that the grip portion is being gripped by the user, the information processing apparatus is in contact with foreign matter such as water. A control method for an information processing apparatus, comprising: an abnormality determination step for determining that an abnormal state is present.
It is provided with a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value provided at a position where the user's hand holding the gripping part comes into contact.
A reference value for representing the sensor value in a state where the grip portion is not gripped is set,
An information processing apparatus that recognizes that the grip portion is gripped when the sensor value exceeds a contact threshold value that is a value having a predetermined difference from the reference value,
A reference value changing unit that changes the reference value in accordance with the change in the sensor value is provided.
The reference value changing unit is configured to follow the change in the sensor value when the sensor value changes without exceeding the first value set to limit the change in the reference value. And a correction mode for setting the reference value without tracking the change in the sensor value when the sensor value changes beyond the first value. Processing equipment.
When the direction in which the sensor value changes with gripping is defined as a negative direction, the first value is set to a value larger than the sensor value when the gripping portion is not gripped. ,
When the direction in which the sensor value changes with gripping is defined as a positive direction, the first value is set to a value smaller than the sensor value in a state where the gripping portion is not gripped. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.
When the first reference value, which is the reference value at a certain time, exceeds a predetermined correction mode execution threshold and is changed to a second reference value different from the first reference value, the reference value changing unit Run the correction mode,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first value is a value that is greater than or equal to the second reference value and less than or equal to the first reference value.
In the correction mode, the reference value changing unit sets the first value as the reference value when the sensor value changes beyond the first value. The information processing apparatus described.
It is provided with a contact sensor that outputs a sensor value provided at a position where the user's hand holding the gripping part comes into contact.
A reference value for representing the sensor value in a state where the grip portion is not gripped is set,
A control method for an information processing apparatus that recognizes that the grip portion is gripped when the sensor value exceeds a contact threshold that is a value having a predetermined difference from the reference value,
A reference value changing step for changing the reference value in accordance with a change in the sensor value;
In the reference value changing step, when the sensor value changes without exceeding the first value set to limit the change of the reference value, the reference value is changed so as to follow the change of the sensor value. And a correction mode for setting the reference value without tracking the change in the sensor value when the sensor value changes beyond the first value. A method for controlling a processing apparatus.
A contact sensor that is provided at a position where a user's hand holding the gripping unit comes into contact, and that outputs a sensor value that changes as the object approaches or contacts the gripping unit;
A gripping determination unit that determines the presence or absence of gripping based on a difference value between a reference value corresponding to the sensor value when the object is non-contact and the output sensor value;
A reference value changing unit that changes the reference value in accordance with a change in the sensor value;
A change amount detection unit that detects a change amount per unit time of the sensor value at an arbitrary time is provided,
The reference value changing unit executes a first mode in which the sensor value is set as the reference value when the change amount is smaller than a change threshold that is a predetermined value, and the change amount is The information processing apparatus, wherein the first mode is not executed when the change threshold value is equal to or greater than the change threshold value.
The sensor value changes as the object approaches or touches the grip part,
The change amount detection unit changes from the first sensor value as the sensor value detected at the first time to the second sensor value as the sensor value detected at the second time after the first time. Is detected as the amount of change above,
The said reference value change part sets the value of the said 2nd sensor value as the said reference value in the said 1st mode, when the said variation | change_quantity is smaller than the said change threshold value, The said reference value is characterized by the above-mentioned. Information processing device.
The reference value changing unit executes a second mode in which the value of the sensor value is not set as the reference value when the change amount is equal to or greater than the change threshold value.
When the sensor value output from the contact sensor during execution of the second mode exceeds a mode threshold value that is a predetermined value, the reference value changing unit is replaced with the second mode. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the first mode is executed.
When the absolute value of the change amount of the sensor value per unit time during execution of the second mode is smaller than the absolute value of the change threshold value, the reference value changing unit sets the reference value and the mode threshold value to The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the information processing apparatus increases or decreases according to a change amount.
The reference value changing unit changes the first reference value, which is the reference value at a certain time, to the sensor value in a state where the grip unit is gripped, and then the sensor value exceeds the first reference value. 16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first mode is executed without shifting to the second mode even if the change amount is equal to or greater than the change threshold during a period.
This is a control method for an information processing apparatus provided with a contact sensor that is provided at a position where a user's hand holding the gripping unit comes in contact and outputs a sensor value that changes as the object approaches or contacts the gripping unit. And
A grip determination step of determining presence or absence of gripping based on a difference value between a reference value corresponding to the sensor value when the object is non-contact and the output sensor value;
A reference value changing step for changing the reference value in accordance with a change in the sensor value;
A change amount detecting step for detecting a change amount per unit time of the sensor value at an arbitrary time, and
In the reference value changing step, when the amount of change is smaller than a change threshold that is a predetermined value, a first mode for setting the value of the sensor value as the reference value is executed, and the amount of change is A control method for an information processing apparatus, wherein the first mode is not executed when the change threshold is not less than the threshold value.