Device control apparatus and device control method

Abstract

A device control device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with: a base panel (101); a screen (106) that displays information; a switch panel (for example, a display panel (102)) that is disposed on the base panel with a space therebetween, is rotatable, and is movable from an original position in at least one of a left-right direction, an up-down direction, and a front-back direction; one or more connectors (103) that movably connect the switch panel and the base panel; a sensor (104) that detects the movement of the switch panel; and a controller (105) that displays first information associated with the detected first movement and relating to the at least one external device, and controls one of the at least one external device to execute a function item or change a mode in response to the second movement of the switch panel.

Description

[0001] This invention is a divisional application of the invention patent with application number 201980064455.0. The application date of the parent case is August 9, 2019, and the invention name of the parent case is "Equipment control device and equipment control method". Technical Field

[0002] The invention relates to an equipment control device and an equipment control method. Background Art

[0003] At present, switch devices or switch panels are widely used to control various electronic devices in spaces such as houses, buildings, and motor vehicles. Conventional switch devices are used to turn on or off electronic devices, or to select and adjust one of their functions. For example, a switch is used to turn on or off a ceiling light, or to adjust the brightness of a light. In another example, a switch is used to turn on or off an air conditioner, set a timer, adjust a set temperature, change the wind direction, or adjust the wind intensity.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, in order to reduce the burden on the user in selecting a device to be operated, the user's body shape is recognized, and a device is selected based on the recognized body shape.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2018-008225 Summary of the invention

[0008] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0009] In conventional switch devices, one action performed by a user is usually associated with one function and only brings about one result. Therefore, in order to control other functions and obtain other results, other actions are required. Moreover, one switch device usually corresponds to a specific device such as a ceiling light, a table lamp, an air conditioner, and an audio device, so in order to turn each device on or off, or to select and control the function of each device, a separate action by the user is required.

[0010] In addition, in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that a device to be operated is erroneously selected due to misrecognition of body shape or the like, and there is also a possibility that the burden on the user is increased.

[0011] A non-limiting and exemplary aspect of the present invention is to easily provide a device control apparatus capable of controlling multiple functions of a device or multiple devices in a simpler way.

[0012] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0013] A device control device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a base panel; a screen that displays information when in operation; a switch panel that is arranged on the base panel at intervals, is rotatable and is movable from an original position in at least one of the left-right direction, the up-down direction and the front-back direction; one or more connectors that movably connect the switch panel to the base panel; a sensor that detects the movement of the switch panel when in operation; and a controller that controls in the following manner when in operation: displays first information that corresponds to the detected first movement and is related to at least one external device, and instructs one of the at least one external device to execute a function item or change mode in response to a second movement of the switch panel.

[0014] It should be noted that these general or specific solutions can also be implemented through systems, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, storage media, or any combination thereof.

[0015] Effects of the Invention

[0016] A device control apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention can control a plurality of functions of a device or a plurality of devices in a simpler way. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 An example of the device control device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 An example of the configuration of the device control device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0019] Figure 3A Another example of the configuration of the device control device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0020] Figure 3B Another example of the configuration of the device control device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0021] Figure 4 An example of the structure of the base panel according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0022] Figure 5A A display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0023] Figure 5B A display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0024] Figure 5C A display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0025] Figure 5D A display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0026] Fig. 6A Another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0027] Figure 6B Another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0028] Figure 6C Another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0029] Fig.6D Another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0030] Fig. 6E Another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0031] Fig. 7A Still another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0032] Figure 7B Still another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0033] Figure 7C Still another display example of Embodiment 1 is shown.

[0034] Fig. 8A An example of a device control apparatus according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0035] Figure 8B An example of a device control apparatus according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0036] Fig. 9 An example of the configuration of a device control device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0037] Fig. 10A Another example of the device control device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0038] Fig. 10B Another example of the device control device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0039] Fig. 10C Another example of the configuration of the device control device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0040] Fig.11A Another example of the device control device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0041] Fig. 11B Another example of the device control device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0042] Fig.12 An example of the configuration of a device control device according to the third embodiment is shown.

[0043] Fig.13 An example of the configuration of a device control device according to a fourth embodiment is shown.

[0044] Fig.14A An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0045] Fig. 14B An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0046] Fig. 14C An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0047] Fig.14D An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0048] Fig.14E An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0049] Fig.14F An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0050] Figure 14G An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0051] Fig.14H An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0052] Fig.14I An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0053] Fig.14J An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0054] Figure 14K An example of display change in Embodiment 4 is shown.

[0055] Description of Reference Numerals

[0056] 100, 100A, 100B, 200, 200A, 200B, 300, 400 equipment control device

[0057] 101 Base Panel

[0058] 102, 102A, 102B, 202, 202A, 202B, 302 display panel

[0059] 103, 203, 203A, 303, 303A, 303B connectors

[0060] 104 Sensors

[0061] 105 Controller

[0062] 106, 106A, 106B, 206A, 206B, 406 screens

[0063] 402 switch panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0065] It should be noted that the embodiments described below are all embodiments showing general or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, configuration positions and connection methods of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the technical solution.

[0066] In addition, each drawing does not necessarily illustrate strictly. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are attached to substantially the same structure, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0067] (Implementation Method 1)

[0068] Figure 1 An example of the device control apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 The device control apparatus 100 includes a base panel 101 and a display panel 102 having a screen 106. The display panel in this embodiment can be referred to as a switch panel.

[0069] The display panel 102 is arranged above the base panel 101 at a distance. In addition, a screen 106 is installed on the front surface of the display panel 102. The screen 106 may cover the entire front surface of the display panel 102 or may cover a portion of the front surface of the display panel 102. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the display panel 102 is arranged at its original position. However, the display panel 102 can move from its original position to at least one of the left-right direction (x direction), the up-down direction (y direction), and the front-back direction (z direction). The original position of the display panel 102 is a relative position relative to the base panel 101, and refers to a reference position of the display panel 102. Specifically, the original position of the display panel 102 is the position of the display panel 102 when no force is applied to the display panel 102 by the user. The original position may also be referred to as a reference position, a default position, or an initial position.

[0070] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the device control device 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The device control device 100 includes a base panel 101 , a display panel 102 , a plurality of connectors 103 , and a screen 106 .

[0071] Figure 2The base panel 101 can be installed on the wall of the indoor space of a residence, a garage, an office space, a building, a parking lot, or a vehicle including a passenger car, a van, a truck, and an airplane. The base panel 101 can also be installed on the outer wall of a residence or a building, or the outer surface of a vehicle such as a passenger car, a van, a truck, a motorcycle or a bicycle. The shape of the base panel 101 can be a square, a rectangle, a square with rounded corners, a rectangle with rounded corners, an oval, a circle, a triangle, or any other shape. In order to reduce the weight of the base panel 101, the base panel 101 can have more than one cavity.

[0072] The base panel 101 may also be placed in a hole in a drywall such as the hole in which a standard single light switch is usually installed. By installing the base panel 101 in the hole in the drywall for the light switch, the device control device 100 is configured as a semi-permanent device capable of receiving a certain amount of power. In this case, it is preferred that the base panel 101 is small enough to fit in the hole in the drywall for the standard single switch. It should be noted that the size and configuration of the base panel are not limited to this example.

[0073] Figure 2 The display panel 102 is disposed above the base panel 101 at intervals. The display panel 102 is mounted on the base panel 101 via a plurality of connectors 103 .

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 2 The display panel 102 can move from its original position in at least one of the left-right direction, the up-down direction, and the front-back direction. The movement in the front-back direction is achieved by pressing and pulling the display panel 102, respectively. The movement in the left-right direction and the up-down direction can be achieved by pushing or gently pushing (gently pressing and moving) the display panel 102 by the user. In the case where the display panel 102 can move from its original position in all directions of the left-right direction, the up-down direction, and the front-back direction, multiple functional items of a device and / or multiple devices can be controlled through simple actions performed by the user, so the user experience of the device control device 100 is improved.

[0075] The shape and size of the display panel 102 may be the same as or different from the base panel 101. In order to reduce the weight of the display panel 102, the display panel 102 may have one or more holes. The screen 106 may be mounted on the front surface of the display panel 102 so that the holes cannot be seen. In this way, the shape of the screen 106 may be the same as that of the display panel 102. In the present invention, the display panel 102 on which the screen 106 is mounted is sometimes referred to as a "display panel".

[0076] Each connector 103 can be made of a spring, rubber, rope, or any other material that can pull the display panel 102 back to its original position when the display panel 102 moves from its original position. In addition, as long as at least one of the connectors 103 has the ability to pull the display panel 102 back, several of the connectors 103 can also be composed of multiple elements such as a spring and a set of retainers, or a screw and a spring. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the number of connectors 103 is five, but the number of connectors is not limited thereto. As long as the display panel 102 is maintained in its original position when there is no physical action performed by the user, the number of connectors can be one or more. The structures of the connectors 103 can be the same or different.

[0077] Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B Another example of the configuration of the first embodiment is shown in the device control devices 100A and 100B. Figure 3A In the embodiment, the display panel 102A is a square frame, and the screen 106A is mounted on the back of the display panel 102A, so that the user can see the screen through the square frame. The display panel 102A is mounted on the base panel 101 through a plurality of connectors 103. Figure 3B In the embodiment, the display panel 102B is a square frame, and the screen 106B is mounted on the front surface of the base panel 101. The display panel 102B is mounted on the base panel 101 via a plurality of connectors 103.

[0078] exist Figure 2 , Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B In the screens 106, 106A and 106B, known electronic paper display technology can be used. Thus, even without any operation by the user, information can always be displayed on the screens 106, 106A and 106B. Such electronic paper display technology includes E-ink (electronic ink) technology.

[0079] Figure 4 This is an example of the structure of the base panel 101 of Embodiment 1. Figure 4 As shown, the sensor 104 and the controller 105 are arranged inside the base panel 101. However, the positions of the sensor 104 and the controller 105 are not limited thereto. The sensor 104 and the controller 105 may also be arranged in the gap between the base panel 101 and the display panel 102, 102A or 102B, or in the cavity of the display panel 102. By arranging the sensor 104 and the controller 105 in the cavity of the base panel 101 or the cavity of the display panel 102, the shape of the device control device 100 becomes simple, and the thickness and weight of the device control device 100 are reduced.

[0080] Figure 4 The sensor 104 detects the physical movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B. The sensor 104 detects the moving direction and the moving amount of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B from the original position of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to at least one of the left-right direction, the up-down direction and the front-back direction. As long as the moving direction and the moving amount of the physical movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B can be detected, any type of sensor can also be used. In the case where the screen 106, 106A or 106B is a touch screen panel, the sensor 104 can detect the touch on the screen performed by the user. When the sensor 104 detects the physical movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B, it generates and outputs a detection signal representing the moving direction and the moving amount of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B from the original position. When the sensor 104 detects a touch on the screen, it generates and outputs a detection signal indicating the touched position on the screen. The detection signal is output to the controller 105 .

[0081] When the controller 105 receives the detection signal from the sensor 104, it generates a control signal for displaying several pieces of information corresponding to the detected movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B or the detected touch on the screen 106, 106A or 106B. Based on the generated control signal, the information corresponding to the detected movement or the detected touch is displayed on the screen 106, 106A or 106B. In addition, the controller 105 generates a command signal for instructing the external device to execute the function item selected by the user. The details of the controller 105 will be described later.

[0082] For example, when the sensor 104 detects a physical movement of the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B in the left-right direction by the user, the controller 105 generates a control signal for displaying the first information on the screen 106, 106A, or 106B. A correspondence is established in advance between the first information and the movement of the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B in the left-right direction. In another example, when the sensor 104 detects a physical movement of the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B in the up-down direction by the user, the controller 105 generates a control signal for displaying the first information on the screen 106, 106A, or 106B. A correspondence is established in advance between the first information and the movement of the display panel 102 in the up-down direction. In another example, when the sensor 104 detects a physical movement in the front-to-back direction (pulling and / or pushing) of the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B, the controller 105 generates a control signal for displaying the first information on the screen 106, 106A, or 106B. A correspondence is established in advance between the first information and the movement in the front-to-back direction of the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B.

[0083] <First Display Example>

[0084] Figure 5A An example of display of the first information on screen 106, 106A, or 106B is shown. When the user initially moves the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B in the up-down direction, for example, a device identifier of the first external device (e.g., "ceiling light 1") is displayed on screen 106, 106A, or 106B. The device identifier displayed on the screen may be a nickname, a product name, an identification number, or a combination thereof. When the user further moves the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B, or touches the screen 106, 106A, or 106B, several function items of the first external device (e.g., "on / off", "brighter or darker", and "warmer or cooler") are displayed on screen 106, 106A, or 106B. The number of function items displayed on the screen depends on the number of functions that the corresponding external device has, and may be more than one.

[0085] It should be noted that the term "external device" used in the present invention is used to represent any electronic device that can be controlled by the device control device of the present invention. Therefore, the "external device" of the present invention can be any electronic device in the indoor space of a residence, garage, office space, building, parking lot, or transportation vehicles including passenger cars, vans and trucks. In addition, the "external device" can also be any electronic device arranged on the outside of a residence or building, or installed on the outer surface of a transportation vehicle such as a passenger car, van, truck, motorcycle or bicycle.

[0086] When the device identifier displayed on the screen 106, 106A or 106B is consistent with the electronic device that the user wants to control, the user can select one of the function items that he wants to adjust by further moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B in a specified direction. When the device identifier displayed on the screen 106, 106A or 106B is inconsistent with the electronic device that the user wants to control, the user needs to move the display panel 102, 102A or 102B again until the correct device identifier is displayed on the screen 106, 106A or 106B. For example, the user can change the displayed device identifier by moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B upward.

[0087] If the external device controlled based on the initial movement of the display panel is a device located in the movement direction of the initial movement, the user can intuitively use the device control apparatus 100, so the usability is better. Figure 5A In the figure, the device shown ("ceiling light 1") is usually configured above the room.

[0088] Next, the user can select one of the function items by, for example, moving the display panel 102 , 102A or 102B downward or upward and then pressing the display panel 102 , 102A or 102B toward the base panel 101 (eg, against a wall). FIG. 5B to FIG. 5D An example of display changes corresponding to the movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B is shown. When the user wants to turn the ceiling light 1 on or off, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B once after moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B downward once. When the user wants to adjust the brightness of the ceiling light 1, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B once after moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B downward twice. When the user wants to adjust the color of the ceiling light 1, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B once after moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B downward three times. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to FIG. 5B to FIG. 5D The example of display change shown in FIG.

[0089] In addition, the user can select two or more function items to be adjusted by pressing the display panel 102, 102A or 102B while moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B in a predetermined direction. In another example, the user can also select two or more function items from a plurality of function items by touching the screen 106, 106A or 106B.

[0090] After the user selects one or more displayed function items by moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B, or touching the screen 106, 106A or 106B, for example, the user needs to move the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to the right or left. Figure 5B In the example, the user moves the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to the left when he / she wants to turn on the ceiling light 1, and moves the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to the right when he / she wants to turn off the ceiling light 1. Figure 5C In the example, if the user wants to make the brightness of the ceiling light 1 brighter, the user moves the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B to the left, and if the user wants to make the brightness of the ceiling light 1 darker, the user moves the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B to the right. Figure 5D In the embodiment, the user moves the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to the left when the user wants to adjust the color of the ceiling light 1 to a warmer color, and moves the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to the right when the user wants to adjust the color of the ceiling light 1 to a cooler color.

[0091] exist Figure 4 When the sensor 104 detects a physical movement of the display panel 102 in the up-down direction and / or the rear direction by the user, the controller 105 generates a command signal instructing the selected external device to execute the function item selected by the user.

[0092] <Second Display Example>

[0093] Fig. 6A Another display example of the first information on screen 106, 106A, or 106B of embodiment 1 is shown. When the user initially moves display panel 102, 102A, or 102B in the up-down direction, for example, multiple device identifiers of multiple external devices (e.g., "ceiling light 1", "ceiling light 2", "air conditioner", and "ceiling fan") are displayed on screen 106, 106A, or 106B. The device identifier displayed on screen 106, 106A, or 106B may be a nickname, a product name, an identification number, or a combination thereof. Fig. 6A In the embodiment, the number of device identifiers displayed on the screen 106, 106A, or 106B is four, but is not limited thereto. If the external device to be controlled based on the initial movement of the display panel 102, 102A, or 102B is located in the movement direction of the initial movement, the user can intuitively use the device control apparatus 100, so the usability is better. For example, in Fig. 6A In the example, all devices shown are usually arranged above the room.

[0094] When one of the device identifiers displayed on screen 106 , 106A, or 106B matches the electronic device that the user wants to control, the user can select the electronic device that the user wants to control by moving display panel 102 , 102A, or 102B in a predetermined direction. FIG. 6B to FIG. 6E An example of display changes corresponding to the movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B is shown. In the case where the user wants to select ceiling light 1, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B backward once. In the case where the user wants to select ceiling light 2, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B once after moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B to the right. In the case where the user wants to select air conditioning, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B once after moving the display downward once. In the case where the user wants to select a ceiling fan, the user must press the display panel 102, 102A or 102B once after moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B downward once and to the right once. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to FIG. 6B to FIG. 6E The example of display change shown. The required movement direction is not limited to the above example. The user can also touch the screen 106, 106A or 106B to select one of the displayed device identifiers.

[0095] After the selection of the device identifier is detected by the sensor 104 , the second information corresponding to the selected device identifier is displayed on the screen 106 , 106A or 106B. Fig. 7A A display example of the second information on the screen 106, 106A or 106B is shown. Figure 7B as well as Figure 7C 102A or 102B shows an example of display change corresponding to the movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B. Fig. 7A As shown in the example, the selected device identifier and its function items are displayed. The user can select one of the displayed function items by moving the display panel 102, 102A or 102B in the same manner as in the first display example ( Figure 7B as well as Figure 7C ).

[0096] It should be noted that, in the display examples described above, the selection of the device identifier and / or the selection of the function item may also be performed by touching the screen by the user.

[0097] The selection of the specified device identifier is Figure 2After the sensor 104 detects the movement, the controller 105 of FIG. 3 generates a command signal for displaying the first information or the second information on the screen 106, 106A or 106B according to the detected movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B.

[0098] Furthermore, after the selection of at least one function item in the specified device identifier is detected by the sensor 104, the controller 105 generates a command signal instructing the external electronic device corresponding to the selected device identifier to adjust the function item according to the detected movement of the display panel 102, 102A or 102B.

[0099] According to the first embodiment described above, the user can more easily control a plurality of functions of an electronic device or a plurality of electronic devices using a single device control apparatus 100 , 100A, or 100B.

[0100] It should be noted that all interactions such as pushing and nudging can also be supported by a mechanical structure for obtaining appropriate tactile feedback. Appropriate tactile feedback may or may not be enhanced by a tactile motor. The tactile motor can be installed on the base panel 101, or the display panel 102, 102A or 102B. The tactile motor can also be installed on both the base panel 101 and the display panel 102, 102A or 102B. By using a tactile motor, tactile feedback can be given to the user. In addition, the user can easily recognize that these actions are effectively transmitted to the device control device 100, 100A or 100B.

[0101] (Implementation Method 2)

[0102] Fig. 8A as well as Figure 8B An example of a device control apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention is shown. Fig. 8A The device control device 200 includes a base panel 101 and a display panel 202 arranged at a distance from the base panel 101. In addition, a screen 106 is installed on the front surface of the display panel 202. In order to simplify the description, only the differences between the device control device 200 of embodiment 2 and the device control device 100, 100A or 100B of embodiment 1 are described. Other structures, functions, and display examples are as described in embodiment 1. The components with the same reference numbers as those in embodiment 1 have the same structures or functions as those described in embodiment 1. It should be noted that the display panel in this embodiment can be called a switch panel.

[0103] In Embodiment 2, the display panel 202 is rotatable. In this case, the user can rotate the display panel 202 clockwise or counterclockwise. Before and after the rotation, the user can move the display panel 202 in at least one of the left-right direction (x direction), the up-down direction (y direction), and the front-back direction (z direction).

[0104] Fig. 9 An example of the structure of the device control device 200 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention is shown. The device control device 200 includes a base panel 101 , a display panel 202 , a single connector 203 , and a screen 106 .

[0105] Fig. 9 The display panel 202 is mounted on the base panel 101 through a single connector 203. The connector 203 may be composed of multiple elements such as screws and retainers, or bolts and nuts, so that the display panel 202 can be rotated. In addition, the connector 203 may also be made of springs, rubber, ropes, or any other materials that can keep the display panel 102 in its original position and pull it back to its original position when the display panel 102 is pressed in or pulled out from its original position. In addition, the connector 203 may also be composed of multiple elements such as a spring and a set of retainers, or screws and springs.

[0106] Fig. 10A as well as Fig. 10B Another example of the second embodiment is a device control device 200A. Fig. 10A as well as Fig. 10B In the example, the display panel 202A is a square frame, and the screen 206A is mounted on the front surface of the base panel 101, so that the user can see the screen 206A through the square frame. In this example, the display panel 202A is mounted on the base panel 101 using one or more invisible connectors (not shown). Fig. 10A as well as Fig. 10B As shown, the display panel 202A can rotate. The display panel 202A can rotate in a clockwise direction, a counterclockwise direction, or both directions.

[0107] Fig. 10C Show Fig. 10A as well as Fig. 10B An example of the structure of the device control device 200A. Fig. 10CAs shown, the screen 206A is mounted on the front surface of the front part of the base panel 101 and is partially covered by the display panel (square frame) 202A. The rear part of the base panel 101 can be mounted on a wall or a hole provided in the wall. In this structural example, the display panel 202A is mounted on the base panel 101 via a plurality of connectors 203A. Each connector 203A can be formed by a spring and holds the display panel 202A at a predetermined position. The connector 203A can be mounted on the display panel 202A or on the base panel 101. It should be noted that the position of the connector is not limited to this example. Fig. 10C In the structure, even if the display panel 202A is rotated by the user, the screen 206A will not rotate, so it is easy to provide the user with stress-free information display.

[0108] Fig.11A as well as Fig. 11B Another example of the second embodiment is a device control device 200B. Fig.11A as well as Fig. 11B In the embodiment, the display panel 202B is a square frame, and the screen 206B is mounted on the back of the display panel 202B, so that the user can see the screen 206B through the square frame. The display of the screen 206B rotates automatically with the rotation of the display panel 202B. In this example, the display panel 202B is mounted on the base panel 101 using one or more connectors (not shown).

[0109] As in the first embodiment, Fig. 9 , Figures 10A to 10C as well as Figure 11A to Figure 11B The known electronic paper display technology is used in the screens 106, 206A and 206B. Thus, even without any operation by the user, information can be always displayed on the screens 106, 206A and 206B. Such electronic paper display technology includes E-ink (electronic ink) technology.

[0110] like Figure 8B , Figure 10A to Figure 10B or Figure 11A to Figure 11B As shown, when the display panel 202, 202A or 202B is rotated by the user, Figure 2The sensor 104 detects the rotation angle and rotation direction of the display panel 202, 202A, or 202B. For example, when the sensor 104 detects that the display panel 202, 202A, or 202B is rotated by more than 90 degrees, the controller 105 controls the display of information on the screen 106, 206A, or 206B. In another example, when the sensor 104 detects that the display panel 202, 202A, or 202B is rotated by more than 90 degrees, the controller 105 controls the display of information on the screen 106, 206A, or 206B to be eliminated.

[0111] The user can rotate the display panel 202, 202A or 202B to Figure 5A to Figure 5D Alternatively, the user can adjust the selected function by rotating the display panel 202, 202A, or 202B. Figure 5B When the user wants to turn the ceiling light on or off, the user can turn on the ceiling light 1 by rotating the display panel 202, 202A or 202B counterclockwise by more than 90 degrees (turn on), and can turn off the ceiling light 1 by rotating the display panel 202, 202A or 202B clockwise by more than 90 degrees (turn off). Figure 5C If the user wants to adjust the brightness of the ceiling light, the user can adjust the brightness of the ceiling light 1 by rotating the display panel 202, 202A or 202B counterclockwise (brighter) or clockwise (darker). Figure 5D In the case where the user wants to adjust the color of the ceiling light 1, the user can adjust the color of the ceiling light 1 by rotating the display panel 202, 202A or 202B counterclockwise (warmer) or clockwise (colder). In the last two examples, the user can adjust the function according to the rotation angle. By using the rotatable display panel 202, 202A or 202B, the user can more easily adjust the function item of the selected external device and can make more subtle adjustments, so the user experience is improved.

[0112] Furthermore, the controller 105 may also Figure 8A to Figure 8B , Figures 10A to 10C or Figure 11A to Figure 11B The content of the first information or the second information is changed by adjusting the rotation angle of the display panel 202, 202A or 202B.

[0113] According to the second embodiment described above, the user can control each of a plurality of functions of the electronic device more accurately and more easily using the single device control apparatus 200 , 200A, or 200B.

[0114] The pushing or flicking of the end of the display panel 202, 202A or 202B by the user may be combined with or replaced with some of the above-mentioned rotations, and may also establish a correspondence with the display of several pieces of information on the screen.

[0115] It should be noted that all interactions such as rotation, pushing and nudging can also be supported by a mechanical structure for obtaining appropriate tactile feedback. Appropriate tactile feedback may or may not be enhanced by a tactile motor. The tactile motor can be installed on the base panel 101 or the display panel 202, 202A, 202B. The tactile motor can also be installed on both the base panel 101 and the display panel 202, 202A, 202B. By using a tactile motor, tactile feedback can be given to the user. In addition, the user can easily recognize that these actions are effectively transmitted to the device control device 200, 200A or 200B.

[0116] (Implementation method 3)

[0117] Fig.12 An example of the structure of the device control device 300 according to the third embodiment of the present invention is shown. The device control device 300 includes a base panel 101, a display panel 302, a plurality of connectors 303, and a screen 106. In order to simplify the description, only the differences between the device control device 300 according to the third embodiment and the device control device 100, 100A, or 100B according to the first embodiment are described. The other structures, functions, and displays are as described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment. The components with the same reference numbers as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment have the same structures or functions as those described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment. It should be noted that the display panel in this embodiment can be called a switch panel.

[0118] Fig.12 The display panel 302 is arranged at intervals above the base panel 101. The display panel 302 is mounted on the base panel 101 via a plurality of connectors 303A and 303B. The central connector 303A includes four joints, each of which connects the base panel 101 and the display panel 302. Each joint can be made of a spring, rubber, rope, or any other material that can pull the display panel 302 back to its original position when the display panel 302 moves from its original position. Each outer connector 303B can be made of a spring, rubber, rope, or any other material. In addition, as long as the display panel 302 can be connected to the base panel 101, each outer connector 303B can also be composed of a plurality of elements such as screws and retainers, or bolts and nuts. Fig.12 In the embodiment, the number of the external connectors 303B is four, but the number of the external connectors is not limited thereto.

[0119] Fig.12 The display panel 302 has a cross-shaped hole so as to correspond to the four joints of the central connector 303A. It should be noted that the shape of the hole is not limited to Fig.12 The example shown. The cavity can also be circular, oval or star-shaped, for example.

[0120] Furthermore, the screen 106 is mounted on the display panel 302. The screen 106 may cover the front surface of the display panel 302, or may cover a portion of the front surface of the display panel 302, so that the hole cannot be seen. Fig.12 , the display panel 302 is arranged at its original position. Figure 1 Similarly, the device control device 100 equipped with the screen 106 Fig.12 The display panel 302 can move from its original position in at least one of the left-right direction, the up-down direction, and the front-back direction.

[0121] As in Embodiment 1, Fig. 9 A sensor 104 and a controller 105 are disposed inside the base panel 101. The configuration and function of the sensor 104 and the controller 105 are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0122] Furthermore, similarly to the first and second embodiments, Fig.12 The known electronic paper display technology is used in the screen 106. Thus, even without any operation by the user, information can be always displayed on the screen 106. Such electronic paper display technology includes E ink (electronic ink) technology.

[0123] According to the third embodiment described above, the user can control a plurality of functions of the electronic device more easily using the single device control apparatus 300 .

[0124] It should be noted that all interactions such as pushing and nudging can also be supported by a mechanical structure for obtaining appropriate tactile feedback. Appropriate tactile feedback can be enhanced by a tactile motor or not. The tactile motor can be installed on the base panel 101 or the display panel 302. The tactile motor can also be installed on both the base panel 101 and the display panel 302. By using the tactile motor, tactile feedback can be given to the user. In addition, the user can easily recognize that these actions are effectively transmitted to the device control device 300.

[0125] (Implementation 4)

[0126] Fig.13An example of the structure of the device control device 400 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown. The device control device 400 includes the base panel 101, the switch panel 402, and the screen 406. For simplicity of description, only the differences between the device control device 400 according to the fourth embodiment and the device control device 100 according to the first embodiment are described. The other structures, functions, and displays are as described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment.

[0127] from Fig.13 It can be seen that the screen 406 is mounted on the base panel 101 and is arranged separately from the switch panel 402. Fig.13 In the screen 406 of the present invention, known electronic paper display technology is used. Thus, even in the absence of user operation, information can always be displayed on the screen 406. Such electronic paper display technology includes E ink (electronic ink) technology. The screen 406 can also be a touch sensor.

[0128] Fig.13 The base panel 101 is as Figure 4 As shown, the base panel 101 includes a sensor 104 and a controller 105. The base panel 101 may also include a battery. The base panel 101 may also include a speaker. Fig.13 The base panel 101 also functions as a housing of the device control device 400. Similar to the display panel 202 of the second embodiment, Fig.13 The switch panel 402 can be rotated. The user can rotate the switch panel 402 clockwise or counterclockwise. The user can also move the switch panel 402 in at least one direction of the left-right direction (x direction), the up-down direction (y direction), and the front-back direction (z direction) before and after the rotation. The movement in the left-right direction and the up-down direction can be achieved by pushing or gently pushing the switch panel 402 by the user.

[0129] <Display example>

[0130] Figure 14A to Figure 14K An example of display changes on the screen 406 is shown. Fig.14A An example of an initial display showing that all lights in a bedroom are off is shown.

[0131] When the user presses Fig.13 When the switch panel 402 is pressed, the sensor 104 in the base panel 101 detects the pressing movement, and the controller 105 Fig. 14B The controller 105 controls the display on the screen 406 in a manner as shown in the figure. In addition, the controller 105 sends a command signal for turning on all the lighting in the bedroom.

[0132] Next, the user rotates the switch panel 402 clockwise or counterclockwise by more than 90 degrees, and the sensor 104 in the base panel 101 detects the rotation, and the controller 105 responds as follows: Figure 14C to Figure 14E The controller 105 controls the lighting device in such a way as to change the mode displayed on the screen 406 as shown. In addition, the controller 105 sends a command signal to the lighting device to change or adjust the color, tone and / or temperature of the lighting device according to the displayed mode.

[0133] When the user pushes the switch panel 402 upward or downward, the display on the screen 406 is as follows: Fig.14F When the user continues to push the switch panel 402 upwards, as shown in FIG. Figure 14G As shown in FIG. 4 , the number of light bars increases, which indicates that the brightness of the lighting increases. Similarly, when the user continues to push the switch panel 402 downward, as shown in FIG. Fig.14H As shown, the number of light bars decreases, which indicates that the brightness of the lighting is reduced. When the upward or downward push is completed, a confirmation button and / or a confirmation message may also be displayed on screen 406. In this case, the brightness of the lighting may also be adjusted after the touch of the confirmation button is detected. In this way, the user can easily control the mode and brightness of the lighting that he wants to control.

[0134] When the user pushes the switch panel 402 horizontally (to the right or left), the display of the screen 406 is as follows: Figure 14I to Figure 14K When the user finds a specific device or apparatus that he wants to control, the user can press the switch panel 402 to turn it on or off. The user can also rotate the switch panel 402 to change the mode or function. The user can also push the switch panel 402 upward or downward to adjust the brightness or the intensity of a specific function. In this way, the user can easily select and control the device or apparatus that he wants to control.

[0135] According to the fourth embodiment described above, the user can control multiple functions of an electronic device or multiple electronic devices more easily using a single device control apparatus 400 .

[0136] It should be noted that all interactions such as pushing or nudging can also be supported by a mechanical structure for obtaining appropriate tactile feedback. Appropriate tactile feedback can be enhanced by a tactile motor or not. The tactile motor can be installed on the base panel 101 or the switch panel 402. The tactile motor can also be installed on both the base panel 101 and the switch panel 402. By using the tactile motor, tactile feedback can be given to the user. In addition, the user can easily recognize that these actions are effectively transmitted to the device control device 400.

[0137] It should be noted that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. The above-mentioned embodiments can be combined.

[0138] For example, in the above embodiments, the switch panel is implemented by a mechanical structure, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the switch panel may also be implemented by a graphic object displayed on the screen. In this case, the user can rotate and / or move the switch panel by touching and / or gently pushing the switch panel displayed on the screen.

[0139] The present invention can be implemented by software, hardware, or software in coordination with hardware. The functional modules used in the description of the above-mentioned embodiments can be implemented by LSI such as integrated circuits, and the various processes described in the embodiments can also be controlled by LSI. These functional modules can be formed as chips respectively, or they can be formed as a chip including part or all of the functional modules. These functional modules can also include data inputs and outputs coupled thereto. The LSI mentioned here is sometimes also referred to as IC, system LSI (system LSI), super LSI (superLSI), and ultra LSI (ultra LSI) depending on the degree of integration. In addition, the method of implementing an integrated circuit is not limited to LSI, and can also be implemented using a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. In addition, an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) that can be programmed after LSI manufacturing, or a reconfigurable processor that can reconfigure the connection and settings of the circuit units configured inside the LSI can also be used.

Claims

1. A device control apparatus, wherein: The equipment control device comprises: Base panels; a screen, which displays information during action; A switch panel is arranged on the base panel at intervals, and is rotatable and movable from an original position in at least one of a left-right direction, an up-down direction, and a front-back direction; One or more connectors, which movably connect the switch panel to the base panel; a sensor that detects movement of the switch panel when actuated; and A controller which, when in operation, controls in the following manner: first information which establishes a correspondence with a detected first movement of the switch panel and is capable of identifying only a plurality of external devices located in a moving direction of the first movement is displayed on the screen, the first information including respective device identifiers of the plurality of external devices, an external device is selected from the plurality of external devices by further movement of the switch panel, second information including a plurality of function items or modes of the selected external device included in the first information and information of the selected external device included in the first information are displayed on the screen in response to a second movement of the switch panel detected after the first movement, the selected external device is commanded to execute a function item or change a mode selected by a user in response to the display of the second information, and the information of the selected external device included in the first information and the second information continue to be displayed during the execution of the command.

2. The device control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The first information is information including at least one of nicknames, product names, identification numbers, and a combination thereof of the plurality of external devices.

3. The device control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The switch panel can rotate clockwise.

4. The device control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: When the sensor detects a rotation of the switch panel of 90 degrees or more, the controller performs control so that information corresponding to the detected rotation is displayed on the screen.

5. The device control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: When the sensor detects that the switch panel is rotated by 90 degrees or more, the controller performs control so as to erase the display of the information on the screen.

6. The device control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: Contents of the first information vary according to a rotation angle of the switch panel.

7. The device control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The controller controls in the following manner: a confirmation button is displayed on the screen, and after detecting a touch of the confirmation button, the controller instructs the external device to execute the selected function item.

8. The device control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more connectors are springs, and the one or more connectors pull the switch panel back to its original position when the switch panel moves from its original position.

9. The device control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The base panel is disposed in a hole of a wall of an indoor space, and the plurality of external devices are arranged in the indoor space.

10. A device control method, used in a device control device, the device control device comprising a base panel, a screen, and a switch panel movably arranged on the base panel, wherein: detecting the movement of the switch panel including the rotation of the switch panel and the movement from an original position to at least one of the left-right direction, the up-down direction, and the front-back direction, Displaying first information corresponding to the detected first movement of the switch panel and capable of identifying only a plurality of external devices located in a moving direction of the first movement on the screen, the first information including device identifiers of the respective plurality of external devices, selecting an external device from the plurality of external devices by further moving the switch panel, In response to a second movement of the switch panel or a second touch to the screen detected at a timing after the first movement, second information including a plurality of function items or modes of the selected external device included in the first information and information of the selected external device included in the first information are displayed on the screen, instructing the selected external device to execute a function item or change a mode selected by a user in response to display of the second information, While the command is being executed, the information on the selected external device included in the first information and the second information continue to be displayed.

Images