Information processing device and control method

Abstract

This invention relates to an information processing apparatus and a control method. The information processing apparatus switches between a first operating state, a second operating state where system processing is restricted, and a third operating state where system processing is stopped; switches between a first display mode that controls the display by treating the screen area as a single display area and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and switches between a first setting that allows the user to select either the first or second display mode based on whether the display is bent, a second setting that performs display mode switching based on this change, and a third setting that does not perform display mode switching even if the change occurs. When returning to the first operating state after transitioning from the first operating state to the second operating state, the information processing apparatus controls the display to the state it was in before transitioning to the second operating state and the settings it was in before transitioning to the second operating state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing apparatus and a control method. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, an information processing device has also been disclosed in which a foldable flexible display (display unit) is provided that can be bent across the first and second housings depending on the rotation of the first and second housings (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this way, when a display is provided across the first and second housings, it can not only be used as a single-screen mode with a single display, but also be divided into a display area on the first housing side and a display area on the second housing side and used as a dual-screen mode.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-13850

[0004] When using an information processing device to run an application for work, there may be situations where you want to display the application window in a single screen, or multiple applications in a dual-screen mode. However, there may be situations where work is temporarily interrupted and then restarted in single-screen or dual-screen mode, or where a job ends and a new job begins. For example, when a job is interrupted, or when the information processing device goes to sleep or shuts down due to the completion of a job, sometimes the screen mode may not be what the user wants when the information processing device is restarted to resume the job. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and one of its objects is to provide an information processing apparatus and control method for appropriately controlling the display to a foldable display.

[0006] The present invention was made to solve the aforementioned problems. The information processing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a foldable display; a memory storing at least a program; and a processor executing the program stored in the memory. The processor, by executing the program stored in the memory, performs the following processes: an operation state switching process, switching the system's operation state to a first operation state, a second operation state where, compared to the first operation state, system processing is restricted and at least the display is not displayed, and a third operation state where system processing is stopped; a display mode switching process, switching between a first display mode that controls the display by treating the screen area of ​​the display as a single display area and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and a setting switching process, switching between a first setting, a second setting, and a third setting, wherein... The first setting controls the user to be able to select either the first display mode or the second display mode based on whether the display is in a bent state. The second setting performs the display mode switching process based on whether the display is in a bent state. The third setting does not perform the display mode switching process even if the display is in a bent state. After transitioning from the first operating state to the second operating state, and then returning from the second operating state to the first operating state, the display mode switching process controls the user to use either the first display mode or the display mode from the second display mode before transitioning to the second operating state. Furthermore, the setting switching process controls the user to use either the first setting, the second setting, or the third setting from the setting before transitioning to the second operating state.

[0007] In the aforementioned information processing apparatus, it may also be configured such that, after transitioning from the first operating state or the second operating state to the third operating state, and then returning from the third operating state to the first operating state, the processor controls the display mode to a preset display mode among the first display mode and the second display mode through the aforementioned display mode switching process, and controls the display mode to a setting before transitioning to the third operating state among the first setting, the second setting, and the third setting through the aforementioned setting switching process.

[0008] In the aforementioned information processing apparatus, it may also be configured to further include a first sensor that detects the orientation of the information processing apparatus. The processor, by executing the program stored in the memory, further performs: orientation detection processing, which detects the orientation of the screen area based on the detection result of the first sensor; and display control processing, which changes the display orientation of the screen area according to the change in the orientation of the screen area detected by the orientation detection processing. When returning from the second operating state or the third operating state to the first operating state, the display control processing controls the display orientation of the screen area according to the orientation of the screen area at the time of the return.

[0009] In the aforementioned information processing apparatus, the processor may also be configured such that, by executing the program stored in the memory, it further performs connection detection processing to detect the connection with an external keyboard. When returning from the second or third operating state to the first operating state, the processor detects the presence or absence of a connection with the keyboard through the connection detection processing. If a connection with the keyboard is detected, the processor switches to a third display mode through the display mode switching processing, where the first display area, which divides the screen area of ​​the display into a first display area and a second display area, is the only display object.

[0010] In the aforementioned information processing apparatus, the second display mode may also be configured such that the display screen area is divided into two display areas, a first display area and a second display area, to control the display. Through the display mode switching process, the second display mode can be configured to control the display in two different ways: one where the first display area is used as the primary screen and the second display area is used as the secondary screen, and the other where the second display area is used as the primary screen and the first display area is used as the secondary screen.

[0011] In the aforementioned information processing apparatus, it may also be configured to further include: a first housing and a second housing connected in a manner that allows relative rotation; and a second sensor for detecting the relative rotation state of the first housing and the second housing, wherein the display is provided throughout the first housing and the second housing and is foldable according to the rotation of the first housing and the second housing, and the processor performs detection processing based on the detection result of the second sensor to detect whether the display is in a bent state by executing the program stored in the memory.

[0012] Furthermore, the information processing apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention includes: a foldable display; a memory storing at least a program; and a processor executing the program stored in the memory. The processor performs the following processes by executing the program stored in the memory: an operation state switching process, switching the system's operation state to a first operation state, a second operation state where the system's processing is restricted compared to the first operation state and at least the display is not displayed, and a third operation state where the system's processing is stopped; a display mode switching process, switching between a first display mode that controls the display by treating the screen area of ​​the display as a single display area and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and a setting switching process, switching between a first setting, a second setting, and a third setting, wherein the first setting is controlled according to whether the display is in a folded state to allow the user to... The user can select either the first display mode or the second display mode. The second setting performs the display mode switching process based on the state change of whether the display is in a bent state. The third setting does not perform the display mode switching process even if there is a state change of whether the display is in a bent state. After transitioning from the first operation state to the second operation state, and then returning from the second operation state to the first operation state, the user is controlled to use the display mode switching process to control the display mode before transitioning to the second operation state (either the first display mode or the second display mode). After transitioning from the first operation state or the second operation state to the third operation state, and then returning from the third operation state to the first operation state, the user is controlled to use the display mode switching process to control the display mode to a preset display mode (either the first display mode or the second display mode).

[0013] Furthermore, the control method in the information processing apparatus according to the third aspect of the present invention, which includes a foldable display, a memory storing at least a program, and a processor executing the program stored in the memory, includes the following steps: the processor executes the program stored in the memory to perform the following steps: switching the system's operating state to a first operating state, a second operating state in which the system's processing is restricted and at least the display is not displayed compared to the first operating state, and a third operating state in which the system's processing is stopped; switching a first display mode that controls the display by treating the screen area of ​​the display as a single display area, and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and switching a first setting, a second setting, and a third setting, wherein the first setting is based on the above... The control of whether the display is in a bent state allows the user to select either the first display mode or the second display mode. The second setting switches between the first and second display modes based on the state change of whether the display is in a bent state. The third setting does not switch between the first and second display modes even if the state change of whether the display is in a bent state occurs. Furthermore, when transitioning from the first operating state to the second operating state, and then returning to the first operating state, the control is applied to the first display mode and the display mode from the second display mode before transitioning to the second operating state, and to the settings from the first setting, the second setting, and the third setting before transitioning to the second operating state.

[0014] Furthermore, the control method in the information processing apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, which includes a foldable display, a memory storing at least a program, and a processor executing the program stored in the memory, includes the following steps: the processor executes the program stored in the memory to perform the following steps: switching the system's operating state to a first operating state, a second operating state in which the system's processing is restricted and at least the display is not displayed compared to the first operating state, and a third operating state in which the system's processing is stopped; switching a first display mode that controls the display by treating the screen area of ​​the display as a single display area, and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and switching a first setting, a second setting, and a third setting, wherein the first setting is controlled to be selectable by the user based on whether the display is in a folded state. The first display mode and the second display mode mentioned above, wherein the second setting switches between the first display mode and the second display mode based on the state change of whether the display is in a bent state, and the third setting does not switch between the first display mode and the second display mode even if there is a state change of whether the display is in a bent state; the step of controlling the display to the first display mode and the display mode before the transition to the second operation state in the first operation state after transitioning from the first operation state to the second operation state; and the step of controlling the display to a preset display mode in the first display mode and the second display mode in the third operation state after transitioning from the first operation state or the second operation state to the third operation state.

[0015] According to the above-described method of the present invention, the display of a foldable display can be appropriately controlled. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the information processing apparatus involved in the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a side view of an example of an information processing device that illustrates the bending state according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a side view of an example of an information processing device showing the state of a plane involved in an implementation.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating specific examples of various display modes of the information processing apparatus involved in the implementation method.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation specifications for the display mode switching operation involved in the implementation method.

[0021] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of the operating specifications for setting the display mode switching involved in the implementation method.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of an information processing device involved in an implementation.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating a functional structure example related to the display control processing involved in the implementation method.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a display control process based on opening / closing detection involved in an implementation.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching process involved in the implementation method.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the information retention processing involved in the implementation method.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching process when resuming from a stopped state, as described in the implementation method.

[0028] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching process when resuming from a standby state, as described in the implementation method.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching setting process during restoration involved in the implementation method.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 10…Information processing device; 101…First housing; 102…Second housing; 103…Hinge mechanism; 11…Communication unit; 12…RAM; 13…Storage unit; 14…Speaker; 15…Display unit; 16…Camera; 150…Display; 155…Touch sensor; 161…First accelerometer; 162…Second accelerometer; 17…Hall sensor; 18…Control unit; 181…System processing unit; 1811…Application information generation unit; 182…Detection processing unit; 1821…Opening / closing detection unit; 1822…Posture detection unit; 1823…Connection detection unit; 1824…Operation detection unit; 183…Display processing unit; 1831…Display mode determination unit; 1832…Display mode switching unit; 1833…Setting switching unit; 1834…Display control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 10 according to this embodiment is a clamshell (notebook) type PC (personal computer). The information processing device 10 includes: a first housing 101, a second housing 102, and a hinge mechanism 103. The first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are generally quadrilateral plate-shaped (e.g., flat plate-shaped) housings. One side of the first housing 101 and one side of the second housing 102 are joined (connected) via the hinge mechanism 103, and the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 can rotate relative to each other about a rotation axis formed by the hinge mechanism 103. The state in which the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 about the rotation axis is approximately 0° is the state in which the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 overlap and are closed. The state in which the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are closed is called the "closed state". In the closed state, the surfaces of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 facing each other are referred to as "inner surfaces," and the surfaces opposite to the inner surfaces are referred to as "outer surfaces." The opening angle θ can also refer to the angle formed by the inner surfaces of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. The state in which the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are opened relative to the closed state is called the "open state." The open state is the state in which the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 rotate relative to each other until the opening angle θ becomes greater than a preset threshold (e.g., 10°).

[0034] Additionally, the information processing device 10 includes a camera 16 and a display 150. The camera 16 is disposed on the inner surface of the first housing 101. The display 150 extends from the inner surface of the first housing 101 to the inner surface of the second housing 102. The camera 16, for example, is disposed on the outer portion of the screen area of ​​the display 150 on the inner surface of the first housing 101, and is capable of capturing images of users or similar individuals located on the side opposite to the display 150. The display 150 is a flexible display capable of bending according to the opening angle θ formed by the relative rotation of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 (see reference). Figure 2 , 3 As a flexible display, an organic EL display or the like is used. The information processing device 10 can control the display as a single-screen structure by treating the entire screen area of ​​the display 150 as a single-screen area DA, or it can divide the screen area of ​​the display 150 into two display areas, a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2, and control the display as a dual-screen structure. Here, the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are non-overlapping display areas. Here, the display area in the screen area of ​​the display 150 corresponding to the inner surface side of the first housing 101 is the first display area DA1, and the display area corresponding to the inner surface side of the second housing 102 is the second display area DA2. Hereinafter, the display mode controlled by the single-screen structure will be referred to as "single-screen mode", and the display mode controlled by the dual-screen structure will be referred to as "dual-screen mode".

[0035] Furthermore, a touch sensor is provided on the screen area of ​​the display 150. The information processing device 10 is capable of detecting touch operations on the screen area of ​​the display 150. By turning on the information processing device 10, the user can visually confirm the display of the display 150 provided on the inner surface of each of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, perform touch operations on the display 150, and use the information processing device 10.

[0036] Next, the usage modes and display modes of the information processing device 10 will be described in detail. First, the usage modes of the information processing device 10 are divided into two states: a bent form (the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are bent), and a flat form (the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are not bent). Hereinafter, the bent form (the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are simply referred to as the "bent form"), and the flat form (the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are simply referred to as the "flat form." In the bent form, the display 150, which extends throughout the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, is also bent. In the flat form, the display 150 is also flat.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a side view of an example of an information processing device 10 representing a bent form. A display 150 is configured to extend (span) across the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. The screen area of ​​the display 150 (…) Figure 1 The display area DA shown can be bent along a fold line corresponding to the hinge mechanism 103. Using this fold line as a boundary, the display area on the first housing 101 side is designated as the first display area DA1, and the display area on the second housing 102 side is designated as the second display area DA2. The display 150 bends according to the rotation (opening angle θ) of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. The information processing device 10 determines whether it is in a bent form based on the opening angle θ. As an example, when 10° < θ < 170°, the information processing device 10 determines it to be in a bent form. This form corresponds to usage modes such as clamshell mode or book mode.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a side view of an example of an information processing device 10 representing a flat form. The information processing device 10 is typically identified as a flat form when the opening angle θ is 180°, but as an example, it can also be identified as a flat form when 170° ≤ θ ≤ 180°. For example, when the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 is 180°, the display 150 also becomes a flat form. This state corresponds to a usage mode such as a so-called flat panel mode.

[0039] Next, refer to Figure 4 The display modes based on the various usage forms of the information processing device 10 will be described in detail.

[0040] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates specific examples of various display modes of the information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. The information processing apparatus 10 displays different modes depending on its usage configuration, categorized by the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, the orientation (direction) of the information processing apparatus 10, and whether it is a single-screen mode or a dual-screen mode. Furthermore, a single-screen mode is also referred to as a single-screen display, and a dual-screen mode is also referred to as a split-screen display or a dual-screen display.

[0041] Display mode (a) is the display mode when the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 are in a closed state, as the usage mode. For example, in this closed state, the information processing device 10 is in a sleep / dormant (hibernation) standby state, and the display 150 is in a display off state. This sleep / dormant (hibernation) standby state is, for example, equivalent to the power state S3 or S4 of the system as defined by ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface).

[0042] Display mode (b) is a dual-screen display mode where the display 150 is in a bent form and the screen area is divided into two display areas, a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2, to control the display. Furthermore, the orientation of the information processing device 10 is such that the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are arranged horizontally along the vertical direction. A vertical display area means that the longest side of a rectangular display area is vertical and the shortest side is horizontal. When the display area is vertical, the display direction is also vertical, with the long side corresponding to the vertical direction and the short side corresponding to the horizontal direction. This usage mode is similar to the left and right screens when a book is opened, hence the term "book mode." This usage mode is a bent form, and the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are arranged horizontally, forming a horizontally elongated display area; therefore, it is also called a "Fold Landscape."

[0043] In this display mode (b), for example, in its normal operating state, the information processing device 10 uses the first display area DA1 on the left as the primary screen and the second display area DA2 on the right as the secondary screen, forming a dual-screen display mode. Furthermore, in display mode (b), the correspondence between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 and the primary and secondary screens can also be reversed.

[0044] Display mode (c-1) is similar to display mode (b) in that it is a bent form, and it is a dual-screen display mode in which the screen area of ​​the display 150 is divided into two display areas, a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2, to control the display. However, the orientation of the information processing device 10 is different. The orientation of the information processing device 10 is the direction in which the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are arranged horizontally along the vertical direction. A horizontal display area means that the longer side of the four sides of the rectangular display area is horizontal and the shorter side is vertical. When the display area is horizontal, the display direction is also horizontal, with the direction along the shorter side corresponding to the vertical direction and the direction along the longer side corresponding to the horizontal direction. This usage mode is one of the general usage modes of clamshell-type PCs.

[0045] In this display mode (c-1), for example, in its normal operating state, the information processing device 10 uses the first display area DA1 as the primary screen and the second display area DA2 as the secondary screen, forming a dual-screen display mode. Furthermore, in display mode (c-1), the correspondence between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 and the primary and secondary screens can also be reversed.

[0046] For example, the information processing device 10 automatically switches from display mode (b) to display mode (c-1) or from display mode (c-1) to display mode (b) by detecting changes in the posture (direction) of the information processing device 10. For example, display mode (c-1) is a state in which the display 150 in the illustration is rotated 90 degrees to the right relative to display mode (b). Therefore, if the information processing device 10 detects that the display has rotated more than a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees) to the right from the state of display mode (b), it switches to display mode (c-1). Similarly, display mode (b) is a state in which the display 150 in the illustration is rotated 90 degrees to the left relative to display mode (c-1). Therefore, if the information processing device 10 detects that the display has rotated more than a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees) to the left from the state of display mode (c-1), it switches to display mode (b).

[0047] Display mode (c-2) is similar to display mode (c-1) in that it is in a bent form and the orientation of the information processing device 10 is the same, but the difference is that an external keyboard 30 (Dockable mini KBD: KeyBord) that can be connected to the information processing device 10 is attached. This usage mode is a state in which a physical keyboard 30 is attached to the general usage mode of a clamshell-type PC. For example, the keyboard 30 is almost the same size as the second display area DA2 and is configured to be mounted on the second display area DA2. As an example, the keyboard 30 has magnets provided inside (at the end) of its bottom surface, and when mounted on the second display area DA2, it is attracted and fixed to the metal part at the end of the inner surface of the second housing 102. Thus, it becomes the same usage mode as a conventional clamshell-type PC that originally has a physical keyboard. In addition, the information processing device 10 and the keyboard 30 are connected, for example, via Bluetooth (registered trademark). In this display mode (c-2), the second display area DA2 in the information processing device 10 cannot be visually confirmed due to the keyboard, so it is controlled to be black or the display is turned off. In other words, this display mode (c-2) is a display mode in which only half of the screen is effective (hereinafter referred to as "half-screen mode"), which becomes a single-screen mode that only uses the first display area DA1.

[0048] For example, if the information processing device 10 detects a connection to an external keyboard while in display mode (c-1), it automatically switches from display mode (c-1) to display mode (c-2) (Switch by Dock).

[0049] Display mode (d) is similar to display mode (b) in that it is in a bent form and the orientation of the information processing device 10 is the same. However, the difference is that the entire screen area of ​​the display 150 is controlled as a single-screen mode, which controls the display. This usage mode differs from display mode (b) in that it is a single-screen mode, but in a bent form, and the display area DA is horizontally elongated; therefore, it is also called "Fold Landscape". The display area DA is horizontal, and the display direction is also horizontal.

[0050] Here, for example, the user operates to switch between single-screen and dual-screen modes in the bent form state. For instance, the information processing device 10 displays an operator capable of switching between single-screen and dual-screen modes (UI) anywhere on the screen, and based on operations on this operator, switches from display mode (b) to display mode (d). Specific examples of this display mode switching operation will be described later.

[0051] Display mode (e) is similar to display mode (c-1) in that it is in a bent form, and the orientation of the information processing device 10 is also the same. However, the difference is that the entire screen area of ​​the display 150 is controlled as a single-screen mode, using a single-screen display area DA. This usage mode differs from display mode (c-1) in that it is a single-screen mode, but based on the bent form and the orientation of the information processing device 10, it is equivalent to the usage mode of a clamshell-type PC. The display area DA is vertical, and the display orientation is also vertical.

[0052] For example, the information processing device 10 automatically switches from display mode (d) to display mode (e) or from display mode (e) to display mode (d) by detecting changes in the posture (direction) of the information processing device 10. For example, display mode (e) is a state in which the display 150 in the illustration is rotated 90 degrees to the right relative to display mode (d). Therefore, if the information processing device 10 detects that it has rotated more than a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees) to the right from the state of display mode (d), it switches to display mode (e). Similarly, display mode (d) is a state in which the display 150 in the illustration is rotated 90 degrees to the left relative to display mode (e). Therefore, if the information processing device 10 detects that it has rotated more than a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees) to the left from the state of display mode (e), it switches to display mode (d).

[0053] The display mode (d′) is the same as the display mode (d), which is a single-screen mode. The orientation of the information processing device 10 is also the horizontal direction of the display area DA, but the difference is that it is a flat form. A flat form refers to a state where the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 is approximately 180°. This usage configuration corresponds to the reference... Figure 3The so-called flat panel mode described herein is a planar state with a horizontally elongated display area DA, hence also called a "Flat Landscape". This display mode (d′) differs from display mode (d) only in the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. Similar to display mode (d), the display area DA is horizontal, and the display direction is also horizontal.

[0054] Display mode (e′) is a single-screen mode, similar to display mode (e). The orientation of the information processing device 10 is also the longitudinal direction of the display area DA, but it differs in that it is a flat form. This usage mode is a flat form, and the display area DA is longitudinal, therefore it is also called "Flat Portrait". The only difference between display mode (e) and display mode (e) is the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. Similar to display mode (e), the display area DA is longitudinal, and the display direction is also longitudinal.

[0055] For example, the information processing device 10 automatically switches from display mode (d′) to display mode (e′) or from display mode (e′) to display mode (d′) by detecting changes in the posture (direction) of the information processing device 10. For example, display mode (e′) is a state in which the display 150 in the illustration is rotated 90 degrees to the right relative to display mode (d′). Therefore, if the information processing device 10 detects that it has rotated to the right by a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees or more) from the state of display mode (d′), it switches to display mode (e′). Similarly, display mode (d′) is a state in which the display 150 in the illustration is rotated 90 degrees to the left relative to display mode (e′). Therefore, if the information processing device 10 detects that it has rotated to the left by a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees or more) from the state of display mode (e′), it switches to display mode (d′).

[0056] Furthermore, in display modes (d′) and (e′), users can switch between flat and dual-screen modes while maintaining the flat form by manipulating the aforementioned display mode switching icons. For example, if switching from display mode (d′) to dual-screen mode, the display state in flat form is the same as in display mode (b). Similarly, if switching from display mode (e′) to dual-screen mode, the display state in flat form is the same as in display mode (c-1).

[0057] Furthermore, if the information processing device 10 detects a connection to the keyboard 30 while in display mode (e′), it automatically switches from display mode (e′) to display mode (c-2′). Display mode (c-2′) is a flat form, differing from display mode (c-2) only in the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. In this display mode (c-2′), the second display area DA2 in the information processing device 10 cannot be visually confirmed due to the keyboard, and is therefore controlled to be either black or turned off. In other words, this display mode (c-2′), like display mode (c-2), is a half-screen mode where only half of the screen is active.

[0058] Furthermore, when the information processing device 10 detects a change from a flat state to a bent state, it can also switch from a single-screen mode to a dual-screen mode. For example, when the information processing device 10 detects a change from display mode (d′) to a bent state based on the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, it automatically switches from display mode (d′) to display mode (b). Similarly, when the information processing device 10 detects a change from display mode (e′) to a bent state based on the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, it automatically switches from display mode (e′) to display mode (c-1).

[0059] (Display mode switching operation)

[0060] Next, we will explain the specific examples of the operating procedures for switching display modes through user operations.

[0061] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of the operation specifications for the display mode switching operation involved in this embodiment. For example, such as... Figure 5 As shown in (A), the icon C1 that displays the display mode switching menu is displayed on the taskbar B2. The taskbar B2 is displayed in any area of ​​the screen area of ​​the monitor 150. For example, whether in single-screen mode or dual-screen mode, the taskbar B2 is displayed only in one place (e.g., at the bottom of the screen area) of the monitor 150. In addition, in the case of dual-screen mode, the taskbar B2 can also be displayed in each area of ​​the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 (e.g., at the bottom of each area).

[0062] If you interact with icon C1, which displays the mode switching menu, a pop-up window will appear showing the mode switching menu. Additionally, the pop-up window also appears when changing from a bent form to a flat form.

[0063] The switching menu displays a display mode switching icon as a selection option for the display mode. This icon is used by the user to indicate the switching between single-screen mode and dual-screen mode, as well as the replacement of the display data displayed in each area of ​​the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 in dual-screen mode (the replacement of the primary screen and the secondary screen). The switching menu displays a selection of display modes that the user can choose according to the current usage mode (the orientation of the monitor 150).

[0064] Figure 5 (B) shows the switching menu M1 displayed when the mode is "Landscape" (display mode (b), display mode (d), display mode (d′), etc.). Furthermore, "1" in the figure indicates the primary screen, and "2" indicates the secondary screen. Display mode switching icons C11, C12, and C13 are displayed in the switching menu M1. Display mode switching icon C11 is displayed as a selector for single-screen modes (display mode (d) and display mode (d′)). Display mode switching icon C12 is displayed as a selector for selecting the primary screen (first display area DA1) and the secondary screen (second display area DA2) in dual-screen mode (display mode (b)). Display mode switching icon C13 is displayed as a selector for selecting the primary screen (second display area DA2) and the secondary screen (first display area DA1) in dual-screen mode (display mode (b)). In the following explanation, in a dual-screen mode where the first display area DA1 is the primary screen and the second display area DA2 is the secondary screen, the case where the second display area DA2 is the primary screen and the first display area DA1 is the secondary screen is referred to as "reverse dual-screen mode".

[0065] Furthermore, the display mode switching icon corresponding to the current display mode is displayed in a way that distinguishes it from other display mode switching icons. Here, the display mode switching icon C11 is highlighted relative to other display mode switching icons C12 and C13 so that it is known that the display mode switching icon C11 is the current display mode.

[0066] Figure 5 (C) shows the switching menu M2 displayed when the mode is "Clamshell" (display mode (c-1), display mode (e), display mode (e′), etc.). Display mode switching icons C21, C22, and C23 are displayed in the switching menu M2. Display mode switching icon C21 is displayed as a selector for single-screen modes (display mode (e) and display mode (e′)). Display mode switching icon C22 is displayed as a selector for selecting a display mode in dual-screen mode (display mode (c-1)) where the first display area DA1 is the primary screen and the second display area DA2 is the secondary screen. Display mode switching icon C23 is displayed as a selector for selecting a display mode in dual-screen mode (display mode (c-1)) where the second display area DA2 is the primary screen and the first display area DA1 is the secondary screen (i.e., inverting dual-screen mode).

[0067] In addition, with Figure 5 Similarly, in the switching menu M1 shown in (B), the display mode switching icon corresponding to the current display mode is displayed in a way that distinguishes it from other display mode switching icons. Here, the display mode switching icon C21 is highlighted relative to the other display mode switching icons C22 and C23 so that it is known that the display mode switching icon C21 is the current display mode.

[0068] The user can arbitrarily select any of the display mode switching icons displayed in switch menu M1 or switch menu M2. If the user selects any display mode switching icon, the display of the switch menu ends. Alternatively, even if a predetermined time (e.g., 3-5 seconds) has elapsed after displaying switch menu M1 or switch menu M2, and the user has not selected any display mode switching icon, the display of the switch menu ends. Furthermore, the display of the switch menu ends if the user operates the close button "×" in the upper right corner of the switch menu, if the user operates outside the pop-up switch menu screen, or if the orientation of the information processing device 10 is changed. Additionally, when the keyboard 30 is connected, it is fixed in a half-screen mode (display mode (c-2)) where only the first display area DA1 is active, therefore the switch menu is not displayed.

[0069] Furthermore, the UI used to switch between single-screen and dual-screen modes is not limited to... Figure 5 The example shown can use any UI. For example, you could display an icon that alternates between single-screen and dual-screen modes with each operation, or an icon that alternates between single-screen, dual-screen, and reversed dual-screen modes with each operation, on the taskbar B2.

[0070] (Display mode switching settings)

[0071] In this embodiment, when changing from a bent form to a flat form, or vice versa, the user can select from multiple settings related to controlling whether to switch display modes. Here, see... Figure 6 This section provides an example of the operational guidelines for switching between user-selectable display modes.

[0072] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of the operation specifications for setting the display mode switching according to this embodiment. In this diagram, the taskbar B2 displayed in the screen area of ​​the display 150 shows... Figure 5 The icon C1 shown in (A) can be long-pressed or right-clicked to bring up the settings menu M3. For example, the settings menu M3 displays the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask) as options for the user to select settings.

[0073] The first setting (Always ask) allows the user to select either single-screen mode or dual-screen mode (or inverted dual-screen mode) depending on whether the monitor 150 is in a bent state. For example, when changing from a bent state to a flat state, or vice versa, the display... Figure 5 The switch menu M1 shown in (B) or Figure 5 The user can select the display mode using the switching menu M2 shown in (C). Which of the switching menus M1 and M2 is displayed depends on the current orientation of the monitor 150. This initial setting is the default setting and is only set as the default after OOBE (Out-Of-Box Experience).

[0074] The second setting (Always change) switches between single-screen mode and dual-screen mode (or inverted dual-screen mode) based on whether the monitor 150 is in a bent state. For example, it always switches to single-screen mode when changing from a bent state to a flat state, and always switches to dual-screen mode (or inverted dual-screen mode) when changing from a flat state to a bent state.

[0075] The third setting (Never ask) prevents switching between single-screen and dual-screen modes (or inverted dual-screen modes) even if the monitor 150 is in a bent state. The display mode remains unchanged and no image is displayed even if the monitor 150 is bent. Figure 5 The toggle menu M1 shown in (B) and Figure 5 The switching menu M2 is shown in (C). That is, even if there is a change in the state of whether the monitor 150 is bent, if it is in single-screen mode, it will remain in single-screen mode, and if it is in dual-screen mode, it will remain in dual-screen mode.

[0076] Users can switch to the selected setting by choosing any one of the three settings displayed in the setting menu M3: the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask). The selected setting is retained even after the information processing device 10 enters standby or stopped mode, or after being restarted.

[0077] The so-called standby state is a state that restricts at least a portion of the system's processing relative to the normal operating state, including at least the state where the display of the monitor 150 is OFF (non-display). The so-called normal operating state is an operating state that can perform processing without particular restrictions, such as the S0 state defined by ACPI. Standby states include sleep, hibernation (dormancy), etc., and are equivalent to states such as S3 and S4 defined by ACPI. Additionally, the stop state is a state where the system is shut down and the power is turned off, such as the S5 state defined by ACPI.

[0078] If the user selects any one of the first, second, or third settings in the settings menu M3, the settings menu M3 will close and become invisible. Alternatively, even if the user operates on the screen area outside the settings menu M3 area, the settings menu M3 will still close and become invisible.

[0079] (Structure of information processing device 10)

[0080] The specific structure of the information processing device 10 will be described below.

[0081] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. The information processing apparatus 10 includes: a communication unit 11, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12, a storage unit 13, a speaker 14, a display unit 15, a camera 16, a first accelerometer 161, a second accelerometer 162, a Hall sensor 17, and a control unit 18. These units are connected in a manner that enables communication via a bus or the like.

[0082] The communication unit 11 may be configured as a communication device that includes multiple Ethernet ports, multiple USB (Universal Serial Bus) digital input / output ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and other wireless communication capabilities. For example, the communication unit 11 can communicate with the aforementioned external keyboard 30 using Bluetooth.

[0083] In RAM 12, the programs and data processed by the control unit 18 are expanded, and various data are appropriately saved or erased. For example, RAM 12 also functions as video memory (V-RAM) for display of the display 150. As an example, RAM 12 functions as video memory for data displayed in display area DA when the display 150 is controlled in single-screen mode. In addition, RAM 12 functions as video memory for data displayed in the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 when the display 150 is controlled in dual-screen mode. Furthermore, RAM 12 stores information about the running application, the application currently in use (the application of the active window), information about other inactive windows, and information about which display area each window is displayed in. In addition, since RAM 12 is volatile memory, data is not retained if power to RAM 12 is stopped. Data that needs to be retained when power to RAM 12 is stopped is migrated to storage unit 13.

[0084] The storage unit 13 is configured to include any one or more of the following: SSD (Solid State Drive), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), ROM (Read Only Memory), Flash-ROM, etc. For example, the storage unit 13 stores the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) program, configuration data, OS (Operating System), application programs that operate on the OS, and various data used in the applications.

[0085] Speaker 14 outputs electronic sounds, audio, etc.

[0086] The display unit 15 includes a display 150 and a touch sensor 155. The display 150, as described above, is a flexible display capable of bending according to an opening angle θ formed by the relative rotation of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. The display 150 performs operations related to a reference under the control of the control unit 18. Figure 4 The display modes described herein are as follows. A touch sensor 155 is installed on the screen of the display 150 to detect touch operations on the screen. For example, in single-screen mode, the touch sensor 155 detects touch operations on the display area DA. In dual-screen mode, the touch sensor 155 detects touch operations on one or both of the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2. Touch operations include tapping, swiping, clicking, striking, and pressing. The touch sensor 155 detects touch operations and outputs operation information based on the detected operations to the control unit 18.

[0087] The camera 16 is configured to include a lens and an imaging element. Under the control of the control unit 18, the camera 16 captures images (still images, videos) and outputs the data of the captured images.

[0088] The first accelerometer 161 is disposed inside the first housing 101 and detects the orientation of the first housing 101 and changes in orientation. For example, if the direction parallel to the long side of the first display area DA1 is defined as the X1 direction, the direction parallel to the short side is defined as the Y1 direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X1 and Y1 directions is defined as the Z1 direction, then the first accelerometer 161 detects the acceleration in each of the X1, Y1, and Z1 directions and outputs the detection result to the control unit 18.

[0089] The second accelerometer 162 is disposed inside the second housing 102 and detects the orientation of the second housing 102 and changes in orientation. For example, if the direction parallel to the long side of the second display area DA2 is defined as the X2 direction, the direction parallel to the short side is defined as the Y2 direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X2 and Y2 directions is defined as the Z2 direction, then the second accelerometer 162 detects the acceleration in each of the X2, Y2, and Z2 directions and outputs the detection result to the control unit 18.

[0090] The Hall sensor 17 is provided for detecting the connection of the keyboard 30. For example, if the keyboard 30 is placed on the second display area DA2 of the second housing 102, the magnetic field changes due to the proximity of the magnet located inside the bottom surface of the keyboard 30, causing the detection value (output value) of the Hall sensor 17 to change. In other words, the Hall sensor 17 outputs different detection results depending on whether the keyboard 30 is placed on it.

[0091] The control unit 18 is configured to include processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a microcomputer. These processors execute programs (BIOS, OS, applications running on the OS, etc.) stored in the storage unit 13 to perform various functions. For example, the control unit 18 detects the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162. Furthermore, the control unit 18 detects whether the device is in an open or closed state based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162, and if it is in an open state, whether it is in a bent or flat state.

[0092] Additionally, the control unit 18 detects display mode switching operations performed by the user (e.g., for...). Figure 5 (The operation of the display mode switching icon is shown). Additionally, the control unit 18 detects the connection to the keyboard 30 based on the detection result of the Hall sensor 17. Furthermore, the connection to the keyboard 30 refers to the keyboard 30 being mounted on the second display area DA2, not a communication connection. For the communication connection to the keyboard 30, the control unit 18 uses functions such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) for detection.

[0093] In addition, the control unit 18 makes references to the status of the detection system, the posture (direction) of the information processing device 10, whether it is in an open or closed state, whether it is in a bent or flat state when it is in an open state, the display mode switching operation performed by the user, and the connection with the keyboard 30. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Control of the display on monitor 150 for explanation.

[0094] Next, the functional structure related to the display control processing in the processing performed by the control unit 18 will be explained.

[0095] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional structure related to the display control processing according to this embodiment. The control unit 18 includes a system processing unit 181, a detection processing unit 182, and a display processing unit 183. Here, the system processing unit 181 is, for example, a functional structure in which a CPU performs processing based on an OS or BIOS. Furthermore, the detection processing unit 182 is, for example, a functional structure in which a microcomputer, different from the CPU that performs processing on an OS or BIOS, performs various detection processes. The display processing unit 183 is, for example, a functional structure in which a CPU performs processing based on a program that operates on an OS.

[0096] The system processing unit 181 transitions the OS's operating state to a normal operating state by starting the OS. In the normal operating state, the system processing unit 181 executes various programs such as drivers and applications that operate on the OS. Furthermore, the system processing unit 181 transitions the OS's operating state from the normal operating state to a standby state or a stopped state, and restores the OS's operating state from the standby state or the stopped state back to the normal operating state. Additionally, the system processing unit 181 includes an application information generation unit 1811. The application information generation unit 1811 generates application information, which includes identification information of the running application (e.g., application ID) and information indicating which application is currently being used by the user (i.e., the application with the active window). The application information generation unit 1811 stores and maintains the generated application information in RAM 12.

[0097] The detection processing unit 18 has a functional structure that detects the state of the information processing device 10, including an opening / closing detection unit 1821, a posture detection unit 1822, and a connection detection unit 1823. The opening / closing detection unit 1821 detects whether the information processing device 10 is in an open or closed state based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162. Furthermore, when the information processing device 10 is in an open state, the opening / closing detection unit 1821 detects the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162. Moreover, the opening / closing detection unit 1821 detects whether the device is in a bent or flat state based on the detected opening angle θ. The posture detection unit 1822 detects the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162. The connection detection unit 1823 detects the connection with the keyboard 30. For example, the connection detection unit 1823 detects whether a keyboard 30 is mounted on the second display area DA2 based on the detection result of the Hall sensor 17, thereby detecting the connection with the keyboard 30. The detection processing unit 182 outputs the detection results (state of the information processing device 10) of the opening / closing detection unit 1821, the posture detection unit 1822, and the connection detection unit 1823 to the display processing unit 183.

[0098] Furthermore, the detection processing unit 182 includes an operation detection unit 1824 as a functional structure for detecting operations on the information processing device 10. The operation detection unit 1824 detects user operations based on operation information output from the touch sensor 155 provided on the screen of the display 150. For example, the operation detection unit 1824 acquires switching menus M1 and M2 (see reference) based on the user's selection of display modes. Figure 5 The operation detection unit 1824 acquires operation information of the user's display mode switching operation based on the acquired operation information. Additionally, the operation detection unit 1824 acquires the setting menu M3 (see reference) based on the user's settings for selecting display modes. Figure 6 The detection processing unit 182 collects the operation information of the user's selected display mode switching setting and, based on the acquired operation information, detects the user's selection of display mode switching setting operation. The detection processing unit 182 outputs the detected user operation information to the display processing unit 183.

[0099] The display processing unit 183 determines and switches the display mode based on the open / closed state and posture (direction) of the information processing device 10 obtained from the detection processing unit 182, as well as user operations. Furthermore, the display processing unit 183 controls the display of the windows (active and inactive windows) of the running application based on application information obtained from the system processing unit 181 and according to the display mode. Specifically, it includes: a display mode determination unit 1831, a display mode switching unit 1832, a setting switching unit 1833, and a display control unit 1834.

[0100] The display mode determination unit 1831 performs display mode determination processing based on the detection results of the information processing device 10's state or the user's operation detected by the detection processing unit 182. For example, the display mode determination unit 1831 obtains from the detection processing unit 182 the detection results of the information processing device 10's open / closed state, whether it is bent or flat when open, the information processing device 10's posture (orientation), and the user's operation. Figure 5 The operation information for the switching menus M1 and M2 is shown. Furthermore, the display mode determination unit 1831 determines the reference mode based on the detection results and operation information obtained from the detection processing unit 182. Figure 4 The display mode for providing explanations.

[0101] In addition, Figure 6 When the display mode switching setting is set to the second setting (Always change), the display mode determination unit 1831 determines whether the display mode is single-screen mode or dual-screen mode (or inverted dual-screen mode) based on the state change of whether the screen is in a bent form or a flat form. On the other hand, in Figure 6 When the display mode switching setting is set to the third setting (Never ask), the display mode determination unit 1831 does not determine the display mode even if there is a change in state from bent form to flat form. Furthermore, in Figure 6When the display mode switching setting is set to the first setting (Always ask), the display mode determination unit 1831 displays either the switching menu M1 or the switching menu M2 based on the change in state between a bent form and a flat form. Furthermore, the display mode determination unit 1831 determines the display mode based on the display mode switching icon selected by the user through the switching menu M1 or the switching menu M2, specifying either single-screen mode or dual-screen mode (or inverted dual-screen mode).

[0102] The display mode switching unit 1832 switches to the reference mode based on the display mode determined by the display mode determination unit 1831. Figure 4 The display mode switching process is explained below. For example, the display mode switching unit 1832 sets the display mode such as switching between single-screen mode and dual-screen mode (or inverting dual-screen mode) based on the display mode determined by the display mode determination unit 1831, the orientation of each display area, and the display content of each display area.

[0103] Furthermore, when the OS transitions from the normal operating state to the standby state, the display mode switching unit 1832 retains screen mode information indicating which mode—single-screen mode, dual-screen mode, or inverted dual-screen mode—is being used. For example, the display mode switching unit 1832 stores and retains the screen mode information in RAM 12. Moreover, after transitioning from the normal operating state to the standby state, and then returning to the normal operating state from the standby state, the display mode switching unit 1832 refers to the retained screen mode information and controls the screen mode to be either single-screen mode, dual-screen mode, or inverted dual-screen mode—the mode it was in before transitioning to the standby state. On the other hand, when the OS transitions from the normal operating state to the stop state, the display mode switching unit 1832 does not retain screen mode information indicating which mode—single-screen mode, dual-screen mode, or inverted dual-screen mode—is being used. Alternatively, the display mode switching unit 1832 may retain the screen mode information when transitioning to the stop state, but not use the retained screen mode information when returning to the normal operating state from the stop state. Furthermore, after transitioning from the normal operating state to the stopped state, and then returning to the normal operating state from the stopped state, the display mode switching unit 1832 controls the display to a preset screen mode among single-screen mode, dual-screen mode, and inverted dual-screen mode. The preset screen mode is the default screen mode, such as single-screen mode.

[0104] In addition, when transitioning from the normal operating state to the standby state, and then returning from the standby state to the normal operating state, the display mode switching unit 1832 switches to half-screen mode (display mode (C-2)) when the connection detection unit 1823 detects the presence or absence of a connection with the keyboard 30 and detects a connection with the keyboard 30.

[0105] Furthermore, when resuming from the normal operating state, the display mode switching unit 1832 also controls the display mode according to the orientation (direction) of the information processing device 10 at the time of resumption. For example, when transitioning from the normal operating state to the standby state, the display mode is Portrait (Clamshell) (c-1). Then, when resuming from the standby state to the normal state, if the orientation of the information processing device 10 changes to Landscape, even if it is the same dual-screen mode, the display mode switching unit 1832 does not control it to display mode (c-1) but controls it to display mode (b). In other words, if there is no connection to the keyboard 30 when resuming from the standby state, the display mode switching unit 1832 controls the single-screen mode or dual-screen mode (or, reverses the dual-screen mode) to the screen mode before entering the standby state, but controls it to a display mode different from the display mode before entering the standby state according to the orientation of the information processing device 10.

[0106] Setting switch unit 1833 based on user settings Figure 6 The settings menu M3 shown is used to switch between the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask).

[0107] Furthermore, when transitioning from the normal operating state to the standby state, the setting switching unit 1833 retains setting information indicating which setting among the first, second, and third settings is being used. Similarly, when transitioning from the normal operating state to the stop state, the setting switching unit 1833 retains setting information indicating which setting among the first, second, and third settings is being used. For example, the setting switching unit 1833 stores and retains the setting information in the storage unit 13 (SSD, HDD, Flash-ROM, etc.). In particular, in the case of transitioning during the stop state, the setting switching unit 1833 retains the setting information in the non-volatile storage unit 13. Moreover, after transitioning from the normal operating state to the standby state, and then returning to the normal operating state from the standby state, the setting switching unit 1833 refers to the retained setting information and controls the setting to the one before transitioning to the standby state, whichever among the first, second, and third settings is being used. Furthermore, when transitioning from the normal operating state to the stopped state, and then returning to the normal operating state from the stopped state, the setting switching unit 1833 is also controlled to the setting before transitioning to the stopped state in the first setting, second setting, and third setting.

[0108] The display control unit 1834 controls the display of the monitor 150. For example, the display control unit 1834 controls the on / off (display / non-display) of the display of the monitor 150, and outputs and displays display data such as application windows to each display area according to the display mode set by the display mode switching unit 1832. In addition, when transitioning from a standby state or a stop state to a normal operating state, and in the normal operating state, the display control unit 1834 controls the display direction within the screen area of ​​the monitor 150 according to the direction of the information processing device 10 (the direction of the screen area of ​​the monitor 150).

[0109] Next, the operation of the display control processing performed by the control unit 18 will be explained.

[0110] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display control processing based on opening / closing detection involved in this embodiment.

[0111] (Step S101) The control unit 18 detects whether the information processing device 10 is in an on or off state based on the detection results of the first acceleration sensor 161 and the second acceleration sensor 162. Then, it proceeds to the processing in step S103.

[0112] (Step S103) Based on the detection result of step S101, the control unit 18 determines whether a change from the closed state to the open state or from the open state to the closed state of the information processing device 10 has been detected. If the control unit 18 determines that a change from the closed state to the open state has been detected, it proceeds to step S105. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that a change from the open state to the closed state has been detected, it proceeds to step S107.

[0113] (Step S105) When the control unit 18 determines that a change from the closed state to the open state has been detected, it controls the display of the display 150 to be turned on.

[0114] (Step S107) When the control unit 18 determines that a change from the open state to the closed state has been detected, it controls the display of the display 150 to be turned off.

[0115] Furthermore, in step S105, when the control unit 18 controls the display of the monitor 150 to be turned on, it sets the display mode to single-screen mode by default when resuming from a stopped state, and to the display mode before transitioning from the normal operating state to the standby state when resuming from a standby state. Then, when the display is controlled to be on, the display mode switching process of switching between single-screen mode and dual-screen mode (or reversing dual-screen mode) is performed as described below.

[0116] Next, the operation of the display mode switching process performed by the control unit 18 will be explained.

[0117] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching process involved in this embodiment. Here, the control unit 18... Figure 9 The process shown is an explanation of the display control processing based on opening / closing detection, which detects the change from a closed state to an open state and thus controls the display to its normal operating state after it is turned on.

[0118] (Step S201) The control unit 18 detects the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 based on the detection results of the first acceleration sensor 161 and the second acceleration sensor 162. Then, it proceeds to the processing in step S203.

[0119] (Step S203) The control unit 18 determines the current display mode switching setting. If the control unit 18 determines that the current display mode switching setting is the first setting (Always ask), it proceeds to step S205. If the control unit 18 determines that the current display mode switching setting is the second setting (Always change), it proceeds to step S209. If the control unit 18 determines that the current display mode switching setting is the third setting (Never ask), it proceeds to step S217.

[0120] (Step S205) In the first setting (Always ask), the control unit 18 determines, based on the opening angle θ detected in step S201, whether there is a change from a bent form to a flat form or vice versa. If the control unit 18 determines that neither the change from a bent form to a flat form nor the change from a flat form to a bent form exists (No), it proceeds to step S217. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that either the change from a bent form to a flat form or the change from a flat form to a bent form exists (Yes), it proceeds to step S207.

[0121] (Step S207) The control unit 18 displays the mode switching menu (e.g., Figure 5 The switching menu M1 or switching menu M2 shown is automatically displayed on the monitor 150 as a pop-up screen. Then, proceed to step S217.

[0122] (Step S209) The control unit 18 determines whether the state has changed from a bent form to a flat form based on the opening angle θ detected in step S201. If the control unit 18 determines that the state has changed from a bent form to a flat form (Yes), it proceeds to step S211. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the state has not changed from a bent form to a flat form (No), it proceeds to step S213.

[0123] (Step S211) If the control unit 18 determines in step S209 that the state has changed from a bent form to a flat form, it sets the screen to single-screen mode. For example, if the control unit 18 was set to dual-screen mode before the determination, it switches from dual-screen mode to single-screen mode. Alternatively, if the control unit 18 was set to single-screen mode before the determination, it continues to use single-screen mode. Furthermore, the control unit 18 controls the information processing device 10 based on the posture (orientation) detected by the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162. Figure 4 The displayed display mode (d′) or display mode (e′) is selected as the display mode. Then, the process returns to step S201.

[0124] (Step S213) The control unit 18 determines whether the plane has changed from a flat state to a bent state based on the opening angle θ detected in step S201. If the control unit 18 determines that the plane has changed to a bent state (Yes), it proceeds to step S215. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the plane has not changed to a bent state (No), it proceeds to step S217.

[0125] (Step S215) If the control unit 18 determines in step S213 that the state has changed from a flat form to a bent form, it sets the screen to dual-screen mode. For example, if the control unit 18 was set to dual-screen mode before the determination, it continues to set the screen to dual-screen mode. Alternatively, if the control unit 18 was set to single-screen mode before the determination, it switches from single-screen mode to dual-screen mode. Furthermore, the control unit 18 controls the information processing device 10 based on the posture (orientation) detected by the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162. Figure 4 The display mode shown (b) or display mode (c-1) is used as the display mode. Return to the processing of step S201.

[0126] (Step S217) The control unit 18 determines whether there is a user's display mode switching operation based on the operation information output from the touch sensor 155. Here, the so-called display mode switching operation refers, for example, to the switching menu M1 or switching menu M2 displayed in step S207 under the first setting (Always ask) condition (see...). Figure 5The operation of switching display modes, or the so-called display mode switching operation, occurs when there is no change from the bent state to the flat state or from the flat state to the bent state, based on the user's selection of icon C1 (see reference). Figure 5 The operation performed on the user's input will display the switching menu M1 or M2. Alternatively, the so-called display mode switching operation, in the case of the second setting (Always change) or the third setting (Never ask), will be based on the user's input to icon C1 (see reference). Figure 5 The operation performed displays either the switch menu M1 or the switch menu M2. For example, when selecting to display... Figure 5 If either the display mode switching icon of the switch menu M1 or switch menu M2 is activated, the control unit 18 determines that a display mode switching operation has occurred. If the control unit 18 determines that a display mode switching operation has occurred (Yes), it proceeds to step S219. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that no display mode switching operation has occurred (No), it returns to step S201.

[0127] (Step S219) The control unit 18 determines the display mode of the display mode switching icon selected by the user through the display mode switching operation, and controls the display mode. For example, the control unit 18 selects a display mode switching icon C11 or C21 corresponding to the single-screen mode (see...). Figure 5 If the operation is performed as described above, the process proceeds to step S221. Additionally, the control unit 18 displays a selection icon C12 or C22 corresponding to the dual-screen mode (see reference). Figure 5 If the operation is performed as described above, proceed to step S223. Additionally, if the control unit 18 displays a display mode switching icon C13 or C23 corresponding to the selection and inversion dual-screen mode (see reference...), it will proceed to step S223. Figure 5 In the case of operation ), proceed to step S225.

[0128] (Step S221) The control unit 18 is set to a single-screen display mode. For example, if the display mode switching operation was performed before the dual-screen mode was set, the control unit 18 switches from dual-screen mode to single-screen mode. Alternatively, if the display mode switching operation was performed before the single-screen mode was set, the control unit 18 continues to be set to single-screen mode. Specifically, when the display mode switching icon C11 is selected, the control unit 18 controls the display mode to be (d) if the screen is in a bent form, and (d′) if the screen is in a flat form. Conversely, when the display mode switching icon C21 is selected, the control unit 18 controls the display mode to be (e) or (e′). Then, the process returns to step S201.

[0129] (Step S223) The control unit 18 is set to a dual-screen display mode. For example, if the setting before the display mode switching operation was a single-screen mode, the control unit 18 switches from single-screen mode to dual-screen mode. Additionally, if the setting before the display mode switching operation was a reversed dual-screen mode, the control unit 18 switches from reversed dual-screen mode to dual-screen mode. Furthermore, if the setting before the display mode switching operation was a dual-screen mode, the control unit 18 continues with the dual-screen mode setting. Specifically, when there is an operation to select the display mode switching icon C12, the control unit 18 controls the display to be in display mode (b) if it is in a bent form, and in display mode (b) if it is in a flat form. Furthermore, when the display mode switching icon C22 is selected, the control unit 18 controls the display to switch to display mode (c-1) if the state is bent (Bentform), and to display in the same flat state as display mode (c-1) if the state is flat (Flatform). Additionally, in either display mode (b) or display mode (c-1), the first display area DA1 is the primary screen, and the second display area DA2 is the secondary screen. Then, the process returns to step S201.

[0130] (Step S225) The control unit 18 is set to the inverted dual-screen mode display mode. For example, if the setting before the display mode switching operation is to single-screen mode, the control unit 18 switches from single-screen mode to inverted dual-screen mode. Alternatively, if the setting before the display mode switching operation is to dual-screen mode, the control unit 18 switches from dual-screen mode to inverted dual-screen mode. Furthermore, if the setting before the display mode switching operation is to inverted dual-screen mode, the control unit 18 continues to invert the dual-screen mode setting. Specifically, when there is an operation to select the display mode switching icon C13, the control unit 18 controls the display to be in display mode (b) if it is in a bent state (Bent form), and to display in the same flat state (Flat form) as display mode (b). Furthermore, when the display mode switching icon C23 is selected, the control unit 18 controls the display to switch to display mode (c-1) if the state is bent (Bent form) and to display in the same flat form as display mode (c-1) if the state is flat (Flat form). Additionally, in either display mode (b) or display mode (c-1), the second display area DA2 is the primary screen, and the first display area DA1 is the secondary screen. Then, the process returns to step S201.

[0131] Next, the process of retaining screen mode information and setting information when transitioning from normal operation state to standby state or stop state will be explained.

[0132] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the information retention processing involved in this embodiment.

[0133] (Step S301) The control unit 18 determines whether there is an opportunity to transition from the normal operating state to the standby state. If the control unit 18 determines that there is no opportunity to transition from the normal operating state to the standby state (No), it proceeds to step S307. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that there is an opportunity to transition from the normal operating state to the standby state (Yes), it proceeds to step S303.

[0134] (Step S303) The control unit 18 retains screen mode information indicating which mode—single-screen mode, dual-screen mode, or inverted dual-screen mode—is being used. Additionally, the control unit 18 retains setting information indicating which of the following settings is being used: the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), or the third setting (Never ask). For example, the control unit 18 stores and retains the setting information in RAM 12. Then, the process proceeds to step S305.

[0135] (Step S305) The control unit 18 transitions from the normal operating state to the standby state.

[0136] (Step S307) The control unit 18 determines whether there is an opportunity to transition from the normal operating state to the stop state. If the control unit 18 determines that there is no opportunity to transition from the normal operating state to the stop state (No), the process ends. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that there is an opportunity to transition from the normal operating state to the stop state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S309.

[0137] (Step S309) The control unit 18 retains setting information indicating which of the following settings the display mode switching setting is set to: the first setting (Alwaysask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask). For example, the control unit 18 stores the setting information in the storage unit 13 (a non-volatile area such as SSD, HDD, Flash-ROM, etc.) and retains it. Then, the process proceeds to step S311.

[0138] (Step S311) The control unit 18 transitions from the normal operating state to the stop state.

[0139] Next, the process of switching display modes when resuming from standby or stopped state to normal operation state will be explained.

[0140] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching process when resuming from a stopped state according to this embodiment.

[0141] (Step S500) The control unit 18 performs a display mode switching setting process. Here, when resuming from the stop state to the normal operation state, the control unit 18 is set to the setting before entering the stop state, which is one of the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask). See [reference] Figure 14 The details of the display mode switching settings will be described later.

[0142] (Step S401) When the control unit 18 resumes operation from the stop state, it detects whether a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected and determines whether a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected. If the control unit 18 determines that a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected (Yes), it proceeds to step S403. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that a connection with the keyboard 30 is not detected (No), it proceeds to step S405.

[0143] (Step S403) The control unit 18 selects a half-screen mode, for example, it decides to... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (c-2) or display mode (c-2'). Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operating state.

[0144] (Step S405) The control unit 18 determines whether the display mode switching setting is the second setting (Alwayschange). If the control unit 18 determines that it is the second setting (Yes), it proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that it is not the second setting (first setting or third setting) (No), it proceeds to step S417.

[0145] (Step S407) Based on the detection results of the first acceleration sensor 161 and the second acceleration sensor 162, the control unit 18 detects the opening angle θ of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102 and the posture (direction) of the information processing device 10. Then, it proceeds to the processing in step S409.

[0146] (Step S409) The control unit 18 determines whether the form is bent based on the opening angle θ detected in step S407. If the control unit 18 determines that the form is bent (Yes), it proceeds to step S411. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the form is not bent (No), it proceeds to step S417.

[0147] (Step S411) Based on the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 detected in step S407, the control unit 18 determines whether the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape" or "Portrait (Clamshell)". If the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape", it proceeds to step S413. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Portrait (Clamshell)", it proceeds to step S415.

[0148] (Step S413) The control unit 18 selects the dual-screen mode, for example, it decides to... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (b). Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operating state.

[0149] (Step S415) The control unit 18 selects the dual-screen mode, for example, it decides to... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (c-1). Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operating state.

[0150] (Step S417) Similar to step S411, the control unit 18 determines whether the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape" or "Portrait (Clamshell)" based on the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 detected in step S407. If the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape", it proceeds to step S419. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Portrait (Clamshell)", it proceeds to step S421.

[0151] (Step S419) The control unit 18 selects a single-screen mode, for example, by deciding on... Figure 4 The display mode (d′) is shown. Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operating state.

[0152] (Step S421) The control unit 18 selects a single-screen mode, for example, by deciding on... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (e′). Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operating state.

[0153] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching process when resuming from a standby state, as described in this embodiment.

[0154] (Step S500) The control unit 18 performs display mode switching setting processing. Here, when resuming from standby mode to normal operation mode, the control unit 18 sets the settings from the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask) before entering standby mode. See [reference] Figure 14 The details of the display mode switching settings will be described later.

[0155] (Step S451) When the control unit 18 resumes operation from standby mode, it detects whether a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected and determines whether a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected. If the control unit 18 determines that a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected (Yes), it proceeds to step S453. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that a connection with the keyboard 30 is not detected (No), it proceeds to step S455.

[0156] (Step S453) The control unit 18 selects a half-screen mode, for example, it decides to... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (c-2) or display mode (c-2'). Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operating state.

[0157] (Step S455) The control unit 18 refers to the held screen mode information and determines the screen mode before transitioning to the standby state in either single-screen mode or dual-screen mode (or, inverted dual-screen mode). If the screen mode before transitioning to the standby state is single-screen mode, the control unit 18 proceeds to step S467; if the screen mode is dual-screen mode (or, inverted dual-screen mode), the control unit 18 proceeds to step S457.

[0158] (Step S457) The control unit 18 detects the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 based on the detection results of the first acceleration sensor 161 and the second acceleration sensor 162. Then, it proceeds to the processing in step S459.

[0159] (Step S459) Based on the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 detected in step S457, the control unit 18 determines whether the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape" or "Portrait (Clamshell)". If the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape", it proceeds to step S461. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Portrait (Clamshell)", it proceeds to step S463.

[0160] (Step S461) The control unit 18 selects the dual-screen mode (or, inverts the dual-screen mode), for example, it decides to... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (b). Then, proceed to step S465.

[0161] (Step S463) The control unit 18 selects the dual-screen mode (or, inverts the dual-screen mode), for example, it decides to... Figure 4 The display mode shown is (c-1). Then, proceed to step S465.

[0162] (Step S465) The control unit 18 controls (restores) the display state of the application windows in both the primary and secondary screens to the same display state as before transitioning to the standby state. The display state refers to the position of the application window (relative to its display position on the screen), the size of the window, and the order of the application windows (with the active window in the foreground, and in overlapping order). For example, when transitioning to the standby state, the control unit 18 stores and maintains information related to the display state of the application windows displayed in each of the primary and secondary screens in RAM 12. When resuming from the standby state, it refers to this information and controls the display state of the application windows to the same display state as before transitioning to the standby state. Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operation state.

[0163] (Step S467) The control unit 18 detects the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 based on the detection results of the first acceleration sensor 161 and the second acceleration sensor 162, just as in step S457. Then, it proceeds to the processing in step S469.

[0164] (Step S469) Based on the posture (orientation) of the information processing device 10 detected in step S467, the control unit 18 determines whether the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape" or "Portrait (Clamshell)". If the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Landscape", it proceeds to step S471. On the other hand, if the control unit 18 determines that the usage mode of the information processing device 10 is "Portrait (Clamshell)", it proceeds to step S473.

[0165] (Step S471) The control unit 18 selects a single-screen mode, for example, by deciding on... Figure 4 The display mode (d) or display mode (d′) shown is then selected. Next, the process proceeds to step S475.

[0166] (Step S473) The control unit 18 selects a single-screen mode, for example, by deciding on... Figure 4 The display mode (e) or display mode (e′) is shown. Then, proceed to step S475.

[0167] (Step S475) The control unit 18 controls (restores) the display state of the application windows on the screen (display area DA) to the same display state as before transitioning to the standby state. The display state refers to the position of the application windows (relative to their display position on the screen), the size of the windows, and the order of the application windows (such as the active window being in front and the overlapping order). Furthermore, the function of controlling (restoring) the display state to the same state as before transitioning to the standby state can also be implemented using OS functions, for example. Then, the control unit 18 transitions to the normal operation state.

[0168] Next, refer to Figure 14 Regarding the above Figure 12 and Figure 13 The operation of step S500, which is the display mode switching setting process (the display mode switching setting process when restoring from standby state or stop state to normal operation state), will be explained.

[0169] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the display mode switching setting process during recovery as described in this embodiment.

[0170] (Step S501) When the control unit 18 resumes from the standby state or the stop state to the normal operation state, it refers to the retained setting information and determines the switching setting of the display mode before the transition to the standby state or the stop state. If the control unit 18 has a first setting before the transition to the standby state or the stop state, it controls the mode to the first setting (Always ask) (Step S503). If the control unit 18 has a second setting before the transition to the standby state or the stop state, it controls the mode to the second setting (Always change) (Step S505). If the control unit 18 has a third setting before the transition to the standby state or the stop state, it controls the mode to the third setting (Never ask) (Step S507).

[0171] As described above, the information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes: a foldable display 150, a storage unit 13 (an example of a memory) storing at least a program, and a control unit 18 (an example of a processor such as a CPU, GPU, or microcomputer) executing the program stored in the storage unit 13. The control unit 18 performs the following processes by executing the program stored in the storage unit 13. The control unit 18 performs operation state switching processing, switching the operation state of the OS (an example of a system) to a normal operation state (an example of a first operation state), a standby state where OS-based processing is restricted compared to the normal operation state and at least the display 150 is not displayed (an example of a second operation state), and a stop state where OS-based processing is stopped (an example of a third operation state). In addition, the control unit 18 performs display mode switching processing, switching between a single-screen mode (an example of a first display mode) where the screen area of ​​the display 150 is controlled as a single display area DA, and a dual-screen mode (an example of a second display mode) where the display is controlled by dividing the screen area of ​​the display 150 into multiple display areas (e.g., two display areas). Furthermore, the control unit 18 performs setting switching processing, switching between a first setting, a second setting, and a third setting. The first setting controls the user to be able to select either a single-screen mode or a dual-screen mode based on whether the display 150 is in a bent state. The second setting performs the aforementioned display mode switching processing based on whether the display 150 is in a bent state. The third setting does not perform the aforementioned display mode switching processing even if the display 150 is in a bent state. Moreover, after the control unit 18 transitions from the normal operating state to the standby state, and then returns to the normal operating state from the standby state, it controls the display mode to the screen mode before transitioning to the standby state in either the single-screen mode or the dual-screen mode through the aforementioned display mode switching processing, and controls the settings to the settings before transitioning to the standby state in either the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), or the third setting (Never ask) through the aforementioned setting switching processing.

[0172] Therefore, when the information processing device 10 temporarily interrupts operation in single-screen or dual-screen mode and then resumes operation, it can restart operation with the screen mode before the interruption. Furthermore, the settings for switching screen modes when the display 150 is in a folded or flat state also return to the settings before the interruption, thus providing better convenience for the user. Consequently, the information processing device 10 can appropriately control the switching between single-screen and dual-screen modes; that is, the information processing device 10 can appropriately control the display on the foldable display 150.

[0173] Furthermore, the aforementioned dual-screen mode is a display mode that divides the screen area of ​​the display 150 into two display areas, a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2, to control the display. The control unit 18, through the aforementioned display mode switching process, differentiates between two dual-screen modes: one where the first display area DA1 is used as the primary screen and the second display area DA2 as the secondary screen, and the other where the second display area DA2 is used as the primary screen and the first display area DA1 as the secondary screen.

[0174] Therefore, when the information processing device 10 temporarily interrupts operation in single-screen mode or dual-screen mode and then resumes operation, it can restart operation with the screen mode before the interruption. Furthermore, in dual-screen mode, the settings of the primary and secondary screens are retained from before the interruption, thus providing better convenience for the user. Consequently, the information processing device 10 can appropriately control the switching between single-screen mode and dual-screen mode.

[0175] Furthermore, after transitioning from a normal operating state or a standby state to a stopped state, and then returning from the stopped state to a normal operating state, the control unit 18 controls the display mode to a preset screen mode (e.g., single-screen mode) in either a single-screen mode or a dual-screen mode through the aforementioned display mode switching process, and controls the display mode to the setting before transitioning to the stopped state in the first setting (Always ask), the second setting (Always change), and the third setting (Never ask) through the aforementioned setting switching process.

[0176] Therefore, when the information processing device 10 restarts operation after finishing a task in single-screen or dual-screen mode and shutting down, it can start operation in the default screen mode (e.g., single-screen mode) instead of using the screen mode before the interruption. On the other hand, the settings for switching screen modes when the display 150 is in a bent or flat state are retained from the settings before the interruption, so operation can be performed in a way that suits the user's preferences. Thus, the information processing device 10 can appropriately control the switching between single-screen and dual-screen modes.

[0177] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 includes a first accelerometer 161 and a second accelerometer 162 (an example of the first sensor) for detecting the orientation of the information processing device 10. The control unit 18 performs: orientation detection processing to detect the orientation of the screen area of ​​the display 150 based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162; and display control processing to change the orientation of the display within the screen area based on the change in the orientation of the screen area detected by the orientation detection processing. Moreover, when the control unit 18 resumes from a standby state or a stopped state to a normal operating state, it controls the orientation of the display within the screen area based on the orientation of the screen area at the time of resumption through the above-mentioned display control processing.

[0178] Therefore, when the information processing device 10 resumes from a standby state or a stop state to a normal operating state, it controls the direction of the display in the screen area according to the direction of the screen area of ​​the display 150 when resuming the normal operating state. Thus, it can appropriately control the display regardless of whether it is displayed in single-screen mode or dual-screen mode.

[0179] In addition, the control unit 18 performs connection detection processing to detect the connection with the external keyboard 30. Furthermore, when the control unit 18 resumes from the standby state or the stop state to the normal operation state, it detects whether there is a connection with the keyboard 30 through the above-mentioned connection detection processing. If a connection with the keyboard 30 is detected, it switches to a half-screen mode (an example of a third display mode) in dual-screen mode, where only the first display area DA1 is displayed.

[0180] Therefore, when the information processing device 10 is connected to an external keyboard 30, it always starts in half-screen mode, which is more convenient for users.

[0181] Additionally, the information processing device 10 includes a first housing 101 and a second housing 102 that are rotatably connected, and a first accelerometer 161 and a second accelerometer 162 (an example of the second sensor) for detecting the relative rotational state of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. A display 150 is provided around the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, and can be folded (bent) according to the rotation of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102. The control unit 18 performs detection processing, detecting whether the display is in a bent state based on the detection results of the first accelerometer 161 and the second accelerometer 162.

[0182] Therefore, the information processing device 10 can automatically detect whether the display 150 is bent, and can appropriately control the switching between single-screen mode and dual-screen mode based on whether the display 150 is bent.

[0183] Furthermore, the control method in the information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes the following steps: the control unit 18 (e.g., an example of a processor such as a CPU, GPU, or microcomputer) executes a program stored in the storage unit 13 (an example of a memory) to switch the operating state of the OS (an example of a system) to a normal operating state (an example of a first operating state), a standby state where OS-based processing is restricted compared to the normal operating state and at least the display 150 is not displayed (an example of a second operating state), and a stop state where OS-based processing is stopped (an example of a third operating state); switching between a single-screen mode (an example of a first display mode) that controls the display by treating the screen area of ​​the display 150 as a single display area DA, and a mode that divides the display into multiple display areas (e.g., two display areas). The steps include: controlling the display in a dual-screen mode (an example of a second display mode) by adjusting the display area; switching between a first setting, a second setting, and a third setting, wherein the first setting controls the user to be able to select either a single-screen mode or a dual-screen mode based on whether the display 150 is in a bent state; the second setting performs the display mode switching process based on whether the display 150 is in a bent state; and the third setting does not perform the display mode switching process even if there is a change in whether the display 150 is in a bent state; and controlling the display mode to be the same as the screen mode before the transition from the single-screen mode to the standby mode, and the screen mode to be the same as the screen mode before the transition from the standby mode, either the single-screen mode or the dual-screen mode.

[0184] Therefore, when the information processing device 10 temporarily interrupts operation in single-screen or dual-screen mode and then resumes operation, it can restart operation with the screen mode before the interruption. Furthermore, the settings for switching screen modes when the display 150 is in a folded or flat state also return to the settings before the interruption, thus providing better convenience for the user. Consequently, the information processing device 10 can appropriately control the switching between single-screen and dual-screen modes; that is, the information processing device 10 can appropriately control the display on the foldable display 150.

[0185] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to the above description, and various design changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the structures described in the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily.

[0186] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example was described where the first display area DA1 is used as the primary screen and the second display area DA2 as the secondary screen in the default dual-screen mode, and the second display area DA2 is used as the primary screen and the first display area DA1 as the secondary screen in the inverted dual-screen mode. However, the correspondence between the primary and secondary screens can also be reversed. That is, the second display area DA2 can be used as the primary screen and the first display area DA1 as the secondary screen in the default dual-screen mode, and the first display area DA1 can be used as the primary screen and the second display area DA2 as the secondary screen in the inverted dual-screen mode.

[0187] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of a single-screen mode where the screen area of ​​the display 150 is controlled as a single display area DA, and a dual-screen mode where the display is controlled by dividing it into two display areas, a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2, have been described. However, when dividing the screen area of ​​the display 150, it is not limited to dividing it into only two display areas; it can also be divided into three or more display areas. For example, even in a three-screen mode where the screen area of ​​the display 150 is divided into three display areas to control the display, the display orientation of each of the three display areas can be changed according to the rotation of the display 150 without changing the display data displayed in each of the three display areas.

[0188] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of using a foldable display 150 in single-screen mode and dual-screen mode were described, but two displays can also be used. That is, the processing in the above embodiments can also be applied to switching between single-screen mode, in which the display area of ​​each of the two displays is combined into one display area, and dual-screen mode, in which the display area of ​​each of the two displays is independently controlled.

[0189] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example of touch operation on a multiple touch panel-type display in which the input unit (touch sensor) and the display unit are integrated is described, but it is not limited to touch operation. It can also be set to mouse-based click operation, gesture-based operation, etc.

[0190] Furthermore, the aforementioned control unit 18 has an internal computer system. Moreover, programs for implementing the functions of each structure of the control unit 18 can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the processing in each structure of the control unit 18 can be performed by having the computer system read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium. Here, "having the computer system read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium" includes installing programs on the computer system. The term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices. Additionally, a "computer system" may also include multiple computer devices connected via a network including communication lines such as the Internet, WAN, LAN, and dedicated lines. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as floppy disks, optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Thus, the recording medium containing the program can be a non-temporary recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0191] Furthermore, the recording medium may also include internal or external recording media that can be accessed from a distribution server for distributing the program. Additionally, the program may be divided into multiple parts, each downloaded at different time intervals, and then assembled by various structures within the control unit 18, with each part distributed via a different distribution server. Moreover, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes structures that retain the program for a certain period, such as a server in the case of sending the program via a network, or volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system acting as a client. Furthermore, the aforementioned program may also be a structure used to implement the functions described above. Further, it may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can be implemented by combining the aforementioned functions with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0192] Alternatively, some or all of the functions of the control unit 18 in the above embodiments can be implemented as integrated circuits such as LSI (Large Scale Integration). Each function can be processed independently, or some or all of them can be integrated for processing. Furthermore, the method of integrated circuit implementation is not limited to LSI; it can also be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. In addition, if an integrated circuit technology that replaces LSI emerges with the advancement of semiconductor technology, integrated circuits based on this technology can also be used.

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising: A foldable display; At least the memory for storing programs; and The processor that executes the program stored in the aforementioned memory. The processor performs the following processing by executing the program stored in the memory: The action state switching process causes the system's action state to switch to a first action state, a second action state in which the processing based on the system is restricted compared to the first action state and at least the display becomes non-displaying, and a third action state in which the processing based on the system is stopped. Display mode switching processing, switching between a first display mode that controls the display by treating the entire screen area as a single display area, and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and The settings switch process allows switching between the first, second, and third settings. The first setting controls the user to be able to select either the first display mode or the second display mode based on the state change of whether the display is bent. The second setting performs the display mode switching process based on the state change of whether the display is bent. The third setting does not perform the display mode switching process even if there is a state change of whether the display is bent. After transitioning from the first action state to the second action state, and then returning to the first action state from the second action state, the display mode switching process controls the display mode to the first display mode and the display mode before transitioning to the second action state, whichever is earlier, and the setting switching process controls the display mode to the first setting, the second setting, and the setting before transitioning to the second action state, whichever is earlier.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, After transitioning from the first action state or the second action state to the third action state, and then returning from the third action state to the first action state, the processor controls the display mode to a preset display mode among the first and second display modes through the display mode switching process, and controls the display mode to the setting before transitioning to the third action state among the first setting, the second setting, and the third setting through the setting switching process.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, It also has a first sensor to detect the orientation of the aforementioned information processing device. The processor, by executing the program stored in the memory, further performs the following: Orientation detection processing is performed to detect the orientation of the aforementioned image area based on the detection results of the first sensor. as well as The display control process changes the display orientation within the screen area based on the orientation change detected by the orientation detection process described above. When returning to the first action state from the second or third action state, the display control process controls the display direction within the screen area according to the direction of the screen area at the time of the return.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The processor, by executing the program stored in the memory, also performs connection detection processing to detect the connection to the external keyboard. When returning to the first action state from the second or third action state, the connection detection process detects whether there is a connection with the keyboard. If a connection with the keyboard is detected, the display mode switching process switches to a third display mode that only displays the first display area when the screen area of ​​the display is divided into a first display area and a second display area.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The processor, by executing the program stored in the memory, also performs connection detection processing to detect the connection to the external keyboard. When returning to the first action state from the second or third action state, the connection detection process detects whether there is a connection with the keyboard. If a connection with the keyboard is detected, the display mode switching process switches to a third display mode that only displays the first display area when the screen area of ​​the display is divided into a first display area and a second display area.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The aforementioned second display mode is a display mode that controls the display by dividing the screen area of ​​the display into two display areas: a first display area and a second display area. Through the above display mode switching process, the second display mode distinguishes between two situations: controlling the display by using the first display area as the primary screen and the second display area as the secondary screen, and controlling the display by using the second display area as the primary screen and the first display area as the secondary screen.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, It also has: The first housing and the second housing are connected in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to each other; and A second sensor that detects the relative rotational state of the first housing and the second housing. The aforementioned display is provided throughout the first housing and the second housing, and can be folded by rotating the first housing and the second housing. The processor executes the program stored in the memory, thereby performing a detection process to detect whether the display is bent based on the detection result of the second sensor.

8. An information processing device, comprising: A foldable display; At least the memory for storing programs; and The processor that executes the program stored in the aforementioned memory. The processor performs the following processing by executing the program stored in the memory: The action state switching process causes the system's action state to switch to a first action state, a second action state in which the processing based on the system is restricted compared to the first action state and at least the display becomes non-displaying, and a third action state in which the processing based on the system is stopped. Display mode switching processing, switching between a first display mode that controls the display by treating the entire screen area as a single display area, and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; and The settings switch process allows switching between the first, second, and third settings. The first setting controls the user to be able to select either the first display mode or the second display mode based on the state change of whether the display is bent. The second setting performs the display mode switching process based on the state change of whether the display is bent. The third setting does not perform the display mode switching process even if there is a state change of whether the display is bent. After transitioning from the first action state to the second action state, and then returning to the first action state from the second action state, the display mode switching process controls the display to either the first display mode or the display mode prior to the transition to the second action state within the second display mode. After transitioning from the first action state or the second action state to the third action state, and then returning from the third action state to the first action state, the display mode switching process controls the display to a preset display mode among the first display mode and the second display mode.

9. A control method in an information processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus comprising: a foldable display, a memory storing at least a program, and a processor executing the program stored in the memory, the control method comprising: The processor executes the program stored in the memory to perform the following steps: The steps are: switching the system's operation state to a first operation state, a second operation state in which the processing based on the system is restricted compared to the first operation state and at least the display becomes non-displaying, and a third operation state in which the processing based on the system is stopped. The steps of switching between a first display mode that controls the display by taking the screen area of ​​the above-mentioned display as a single display area and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; The steps of switching between the first setting, the second setting, and the third setting are as follows: The first setting controls the user to be able to select either the first display mode or the second display mode based on whether the display is in a bent state; the second setting switches between the first and second display modes based on whether the display is in a bent state; and the third setting does not switch between the first and second display modes even if there is a change in whether the display is in a bent state. After transitioning from the first action state to the second action state, and then returning from the second action state to the first action state, the control is set to the first display mode and the display mode in the second display mode before transitioning to the second action state, and the control is set to the first setting, the second setting, and the third setting before transitioning to the second action state.

10. A control method in an information processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus comprising: a foldable display, a memory storing at least a program, and a processor executing the program stored in the memory, the control method comprising: The processor executes the program stored in the memory to perform the following steps: The steps are: switching the system's operation state to a first operation state, a second operation state in which the processing based on the system is restricted compared to the first operation state and at least the display becomes non-displaying, and a third operation state in which the processing based on the system is stopped. The steps of switching between a first display mode that controls the display by taking the screen area of ​​the above-mentioned display as a single display area and a second display mode that controls the display by dividing it into multiple display areas; The steps of switching between the first setting, the second setting, and the third setting are as follows: the first setting controls the user to be able to select either the first display mode or the second display mode based on the state change of whether the display is in a bent state; the second setting switches between the first display mode and the second display mode based on the state change of whether the display is in a bent state; and the third setting does not switch between the first display mode and the second display mode even if there is a state change of whether the display is in a bent state. After transitioning from the first operating state to the second operating state, and then returning to the first operating state from the second operating state, the steps of controlling the display to the first display mode and the display mode in the second display mode before transitioning to the second operating state are as follows: After transitioning from the first action state or the second action state to the third action state, and then returning from the third action state to the first action state, the step is to control the display to a preset display mode in the first display mode or the second display mode.

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