Information processing system, writing tool, and electronic device

Abstract

The invention provides an information processing system, a writing instrument and an electronic device, which can start communication between the writing instrument and the electronic device through simple operation of a user. An information processing system includes a writing instrument having a communication function and an electronic device that communicates with the writing instrument, the writing instrument including: a sensor that detects an operation; a determination unit that determines whether or not the operation detected by the sensor is a predetermined operation; and a transmission unit that transmits a predetermined signal to the electronic device, and when it is determined that the operation detected by the sensor is the predetermined operation, the transmission unit transmits the predetermined signal for executing the first operation in the electronic device to the electronic device without an operation by a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an information processing system, a writing tool and an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] A writing tool having a communication function and an information processing function is known. Such a writing tool sends data to a user's communication terminal according to a user's operation, so that the communication terminal performs a predetermined process based on the data. Patent document 1 describes a writing tool that sends the angular velocity of the writing tool to an information processing terminal when a user operates a button or switch installed on the writing tool.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-209566 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Users sometimes find it troublesome to operate buttons or switches of the writing tool in order to make the writing tool communicate with the communication terminal.

[0008] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system, a writing tool, and an electronic device that can start communication between a writing tool and an electronic device through an operation that is easy for a user.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] An information processing system involved in an embodiment of the present invention includes a writing tool with a communication function and an electronic device that communicates with the writing tool, wherein the writing tool has: a sensor for detecting an action; a determination unit for determining whether the action detected by the sensor is a prescribed action; and a sending unit for sending a prescribed signal to the electronic device, and when it is determined that the action detected by the sensor is a prescribed action, the sending unit sends a prescribed signal for executing a first action in the electronic device to the electronic device without requiring any user operation.

[0011] An information processing system involved in an embodiment of the present invention includes a writing tool with a communication function and an electronic device that communicates with the writing tool, wherein the writing tool has: a sensor for detecting an action; and a sending unit that sends a signal from the sensor to the electronic device, and the electronic device has: a receiving unit that receives the signal sent from the sending unit; a determination unit that determines whether the action of the writing tool is a prescribed action based on the signal received by the receiving unit; and a control unit, which controls the execution of a first action in the electronic device without user operation when the determination unit determines that the action of the writing tool is a prescribed action.

[0012] Preferably, the first action is executed with priority over the second action executed in the electronic device.

[0013] Preferably, the first action is an action of performing another display in a superimposed manner on the display on the display executed as the second action in the electronic device.

[0014] Preferably, the first action is an action of preventing a display action on a display performed as the second action in the electronic device.

[0015] The writing tool involved in an embodiment of the present invention communicates with an electronic device, and the writing tool comprises: a sensor for detecting an action; a determination unit for determining whether the action detected by the sensor is a prescribed action; and a sending unit for sending a prescribed signal to the electronic device, wherein when the determination unit determines that the action detected by the sensor is a prescribed action, the sending unit sends the prescribed signal for executing a first action in the electronic device to the electronic device without requiring any user operation.

[0016] Preferably, the sensor has at least one of an acceleration sensor for detecting acceleration applied to the writing tool, an angular velocity sensor for detecting angular velocity applied to the writing tool, a pressure sensor for detecting pressure applied to the writing tool when writing, and a sensor for detecting tapping or rotation that causes the core of the writing tool to extend.

[0017] Preferably, the writing tool also has a pen cap that can be loaded and unloaded relative to the pen barrel, the pen cap accommodates a magnet, and has a magnetic field sensor as a sensor. The magnetic field sensor is accommodated in the pen barrel and is used to detect the magnetic field emitted by the magnet. The determination unit determines whether the pen cap is removed from the pen barrel as a prescribed action based on the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor. When the pen cap is removed from the pen barrel, the sending unit sends a prescribed signal.

[0018] Preferably, the predetermined signal is a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark) beacon signal.

[0019] An embodiment of the present invention involves an electronic device that communicates with a writing tool, and the electronic device comprises: a receiving unit that receives a signal sent from the writing tool; and a control unit that performs a prescribed action, wherein when the receiving unit receives a prescribed signal sent from the writing tool when the writing tool is subjected to a prescribed action, the control unit performs a first action without requiring any user operation.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] The information processing system, writing tool, and electronic device according to the present invention can start communication between the writing tool and the electronic device through an operation that is easy for the user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the communication system 1 .

[0023] Figure 2 It is an exemplary functional block diagram of the communication terminal 2.

[0024] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the writing tool 3.

[0025] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view of the writing tool 3 .

[0026] Figure 5 (A) and (B) are perspective views of the fixing device 44.

[0027] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the writing tool 3.

[0028] Figure 7 It is a cross-sectional view of the writing tool 3 .

[0029] Figure 8 This is an exemplary functional block diagram of the pen 4.

[0030] Fig. 9 : is a figure which shows an example of the notification screen G1.

[0031] Fig.10 2 is a diagram showing an example of the application screen G2.

[0032] Fig.11 1 is a diagram showing an example of state transition of the writing tool 3 .

[0033] Fig.12 It is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of connection processing.

[0034] Fig.13 It is a diagram showing an example of the point management screen G3.

[0035] Fig.14 2 is a diagram showing an example of the status display screen G4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but extends to the inventions described in the claims and their equivalents.

[0037] (Communication System)

[0038] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a communication system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The communication system 1 is an example of an information processing system. The communication system 1 includes a communication terminal 2 and a writing tool 3 .

[0039] (Communication Terminal)

[0040] Figure 2 : is an illustrative functional block diagram of the communication terminal 2. The communication terminal 2 is an example of an electronic device. The communication terminal 2 is an information processing device such as a portable phone, a smart phone, a PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, a portable game console, etc., which is held by a user of the writing tool 3. The communication terminal 2 communicates with the writing tool 3 and performs a predetermined action. The communication terminal 2 has a storage unit 21, a communication unit 22, a display unit 23, an operation unit 24, a sound output unit 25, a vibration unit 26, and a processing unit 27.

[0041] The storage unit 21 is a structure for storing programs and data, and includes, for example, a semiconductor memory. As programs, the storage unit 21 stores operating system programs, drivers, application programs, etc. used in the processing performed by the processing unit 27. The programs are installed in the storage unit 21 from a computer-readable and non-transitory portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory) or a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory).

[0042] The communication unit 22 is a structure for enabling the communication terminal 2 to communicate with other devices, and includes a communication interface circuit. The communication interface circuit is an interface circuit for a short-range wireless communication method such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark). The communication unit 22 sends data provided by the processing unit 27 to other devices, and provides data sent from other devices to the processing unit 27.

[0043] The display unit 23 is configured to display an image, and includes a display such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 23 displays an image based on display data supplied from the processing unit 27 .

[0044] The operation unit 24 is a structure for accepting operations on the communication terminal 2, and includes buttons, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, etc. The operation unit 24 may also include a touch panel integrated with the display unit 23. The operation unit 24 generates an operation signal corresponding to the accepted operation and provides the operation signal to the processing unit 27.

[0045] The sound output unit 25 is a structure for outputting sound, and includes a speaker. The sound output unit 25 outputs sound based on the sound signal which is an electrical signal supplied from the processing unit 27 .

[0046] The vibration unit 26 is a structure for vibrating the communication terminal 2 and includes a vibrator. The vibrator may be a vibrator of any type such as an eccentric rotating mass type or a linear resonance actuator type. The vibration unit 26 vibrates the communication terminal 2 based on the vibration supplied from the processing unit 27 .

[0047] The processing unit 27 is a structure that comprehensively controls the operation of the communication terminal 2, and includes one or more processors and their peripheral circuits. The processing unit 27 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processing unit 27 may also include a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an LSI (Large Scale Integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc. The processing unit 27 controls the operation of each structure and performs various processes, so that various processes of the communication terminal 2 are performed in an appropriate procedure based on the program stored in the storage unit 21.

[0048] The processing unit 27 includes a receiving unit 271 and a control unit 272 as functional blocks. These units are functional blocks implemented by executing a program by the processing unit 27. These units may be mounted in the communication terminal 2 as a dedicated processing circuit.

[0049] The receiving unit 271 receives a predetermined signal from the writing tool 3. The predetermined signal is sent when a predetermined action is detected in the writing tool 3. The predetermined action includes an action during writing. The predetermined action may also include, for example, an action for starting writing, an action when writing is temporarily interrupted after starting writing, and an action when writing is not performed although the writing tool 3 is held.

[0050] When receiving a predetermined signal, the control unit 272 executes a predetermined information processing without requiring any operation by the user. That is, the communication terminal 2 executes a predetermined information processing in response to the predetermined signal being transmitted from the writing tool 3. The predetermined information processing is, for example, a process of measuring the learning time to assist learning using the writing tool 3. In this case, the communication terminal 2 executes a pre-installed clock application.

[0051] (Writing tools)

[0052] The writing tool 3 has a communication function for communicating with the communication terminal 2. In response to detecting a predetermined action, the writing tool 3 sends a predetermined signal for starting communication with the communication terminal 2 to the communication terminal 2. For example, the predetermined action is an action for starting writing. For example, the action for starting writing is an action of removing the cap of the writing tool 3.

[0053] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional diagram of a writing tool 3, Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view of the writing tool 3 . Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The writing implement 3 has a pen body 4 and a pen cap 5. In the following, the end of the pen body 4 that contacts a medium such as paper during writing is sometimes referred to as the front end of the pen body 4, and the end on the side opposite to the front end is sometimes referred to as the rear end of the pen body 4. In addition, the direction along the axial direction of the pen body 4 and where the front end is located is sometimes referred to as the front of the writing implement 3 or the pen body 4, and the direction opposite to the front is sometimes referred to as the rear of the writing implement 3 or the pen body 4.

[0054] The pen holder 4 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The pen holder 4 has a cylindrical portion 4a having a constant cross-sectional shape along the axial direction, and a tapered portion 4b formed in front of the cylindrical portion 4a and having a cross-sectional shape that becomes smaller as it moves forward along the axial direction. A notch 4c is formed at the rear end of the cylindrical portion 4a so that the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portion 4a is no longer circular.

[0055] The pen holder 4 accommodates a writing body 41, a sensor 42, a switch 43, a fixing device 44, a notification unit 45, and a charging unit 46. In addition, the pen holder 4 accommodates a first substrate B1 in the front and a second substrate B2 in the rear. The sensor 42 and the switch 43 are arranged on the first substrate B1, and the notification unit 45 and the charging unit 46 are arranged on the second substrate B2. The first substrate B1 and the second substrate B2 are supplied with current from a power source P which is a secondary battery.

[0056] The writing body 41 is a member used for writing on a medium. Figure 4 In the example shown, the writing body 41 is a ball pen refill that contains ink and transfers the ink to a medium. Figure 4 As shown, the central axis of the writing body 41 is not consistent with the central axis of the pen body 4. That is, the writing body 41 is eccentrically arranged relative to the pen body 4. Thus, a space for accommodating components such as the first substrate B1 is ensured inside the pen body 4.

[0057] The sensor 42 is a structure for detecting the movement of the pen body 4. The sensor 42 includes a magnetic field sensor 421, an inertial sensor 422, and a pressure sensor 423. The magnetic field sensor 421 is a sensor for detecting a magnetic field, such as a Hall sensor. The inertial sensor 422 is a sensor for detecting the three-axis acceleration and angular velocity applied to the pen body 4, such as an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor. In addition, a gyro sensor is an example of an angular velocity sensor. The pressure sensor 423 is a sensor for detecting the pressure applied from the medium to the writing body 41 during writing, and is a resistive film pressure sensor. The pressure sensor 423 is configured so that the detection surface for detecting the pressure is orthogonal to the axial direction of the writing body 41. The sensor 42 generates information related to the movement of the pen body 4 periodically or irregularly.

[0058] Without being limited to the above-mentioned example, in the case where the writing implement 3 is of a knocking type in which the writing body 41 is exposed from the pen body 4 by pressing a knock button, the sensor 42 may also include a sensor for detecting the action of knocking a button to extend the writing body 41 of the writing implement 3. In addition, in the case where the writing implement 3 is of a rotational type in which the writing body 41 is exposed from the pen body 4 by axially rotating the cylindrical portion 4a of the pen body 4 such as twisting the cylindrical portion 4a of the pen body 4, a sensor for detecting the rotation of the cylindrical portion 4a may also be included. In these cases, the sensor 42 may include any sensor such as a button sensor, a magnetic field sensor, an optical sensor, etc. according to its detection object. The sensor 42 includes at least one of the various sensors mentioned above.

[0059] The switch 43 is a structure for accepting a user's operation, and includes, for example, a tactile switch. The switch 43 is arranged to be depressible from the outside of the pen body 4 .

[0060] The fixture 44 is a member for transmitting the pressure applied to the writing body 41 to the pressure sensor 423. The fixture 44 is formed of resin or metal.

[0061] Figure 5 (A) and (B) are perspective views of the fixing device 44. Figure 5 (A) is a stereoscopic view of the fixing device 44 viewed from the front. Figure 5 (B) is a stereoscopic view of the fixing device 44 as viewed from the rear. The fixing device 44 has the following shape: a first portion 441 having a substantially quadrangular prism shape and a second portion 442 having a substantially cylindrical shape are staggered in the axial direction of the pen holder 4 in such a way that the first portion 441 is located further forward than the second portion 442. The front bottom surface 443 of the first portion 441 contacts the rear end of the writing body 41. The rear bottom surface 444 of the second portion 442 contacts the detection surface of the pressure sensor 423. Figure 5 As shown in (A) and (B), the axis A1 of the first portion 441 is parallel to and not coincident with the axis A2 of the second portion 442. That is, the center C1 of the bottom surface 443 is offset from the center C2 of the bottom surface 444 when viewed from the axial direction.

[0062] In order to properly detect pressure by the resistive film type pressure sensor 423, the area of ​​the detection surface needs to be large. On the other hand, as described above, in order to ensure a space for accommodating components inside the pen barrel 4, the writing body 41 needs to be configured eccentrically relative to the pen barrel 4. Assuming that the writing body 41 and the pressure sensor 423 are configured in such a manner that the rear end of the writing body 41 abuts against the detection surface without passing through the fixing device 44, the rear end of the writing body 41 abuts against the end of the detection surface. In this case, there is a possibility that the resistive film type pressure sensor 423 cannot properly detect pressure. The fixing device 44 is configured so that the axis A1 of the first part 441 is roughly consistent with the axis of the writing body 41 and the axis A2 of the second part 442 passes through the approximate center of the detection surface, so that the pressure sensor 423 can properly detect the pressure applied to the writing body 41. By doing so, it is possible to ensure a space for accommodating components inside the pen barrel 4 and to properly detect the pressure applied to the writing body 41.

[0063] In addition, the bottom surface 444 of the rear of the fixing device 44 protrudes in the direction of the detection surface of the pressure sensor 423. As a result, the pressure applied to the pressure sensor 423 increases, and the pressure sensor 423 can appropriately detect the pressure. Figure 5 In the example shown in (B), the bottom surface 444 is formed in a truncated cone shape, but the present invention is not limited to this example, and the bottom surface 444 may be formed in any shape protruding toward the detection surface, such as a conical shape or a hemispherical shape.

[0064] Back to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The notification unit 45 is a structure for outputting notification by flashing, and for example, includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The notification unit 45 is arranged near the rear end of the pen body 4. The notification unit 45 outputs a notification about the communication between the communication terminal 2 and the writing tool 3. For example, the notification unit 45 lights up in response to a predetermined signal being sent from the communication terminal 2. Without being limited to such an example, the notification unit 45 may also be a speaker that outputs notification by sound or a vibrator that outputs notification by vibration.

[0065] The charging unit 46 is a structure for charging the power source P. The charging unit 46 includes a connection portion for connecting a terminal and a power circuit for supplying current from the connection portion to the power source P to charge the power source P. The connection portion is formed to be connectable to a terminal conforming to a standard such as USB-C (Universal Serial Bus Type C).

[0066] The cap 5 can be attached to and detached from the front end and the rear end of the pen body 4. The cap 5 includes a cylinder 51, a magnet 52, and a decorative member 53.

[0067] The barrel 51 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom surface formed on one side. The inner diameter of the barrel 51 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 4a of the pen body 4. The pen cap 5 is mounted on the front end or rear end of the pen body 4 by accommodating the front end or rear end of the pen body 4 inside the barrel 51.

[0068] An opening 511 is formed on the side of the barrel 51. The opening 511 is formed at a position that does not overlap with the tapered portion 4b of the barrel 4 when the cap 5 is mounted on the front end of the barrel 4. That is, the opening 511 is formed at a position that is further rearward than the boundary between the barrel 4a and the tapered portion 4b of the barrel 4 when the cap 5 is mounted on the front end of the barrel 4. Thus, even if the opening 511 is not covered with a light-transmitting resin or the like, the airtightness of the inside of the barrel 51 is improved when the cap 5 is mounted on the front end of the barrel 4, thereby preventing the ink of the writing body 41 from drying out.

[0069] The magnet 52 is a permanent magnet such as an alnico magnet or a ferrite magnet. The magnet 52 is accommodated in a recess 512 formed along the side of the barrel 51. Since the magnet 52 is accommodated in the pen cap 5, when the pen cap 5 is installed at the front end of the pen barrel 4, the distance between the magnet 52 and the magnetic field sensor 421 arranged in front of the pen barrel 4 becomes closer, and when the pen cap 5 is installed at the rear end of the pen barrel 4, the distance between the magnet 52 and the magnetic field sensor 421 becomes farther. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the pen cap 5 is installed at the front end of the pen barrel 4 based on the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 421.

[0070] The decorative member 53 is attached to the cylindrical body 51 so as to cover the recessed portion 512 in which the magnet 52 is housed. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the example shown, the decorative member 53 is a clamp that can clamp an article between the barrel 51. Without being limited to such an example, the decorative member 53 may also be a crown. By covering the recess 512 with the decorative member 53, it is possible to prevent the magnet 52 from falling off the recess 512, and it is possible to prevent the deterioration of the appearance quality caused by visually confirming the recess 512 and the magnet 52 from the outside.

[0071] Figure 6 3 is a perspective view of the writing tool 3 in which the pen cap 5 is removed from the front end of the pen barrel 4 and installed at the rear end. Figure 7 It is a cross-sectional view of the writing tool 3 . Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view at section VII-VII of .

[0072] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the opening 511 is formed at a position where the notification portion 45 can be visually confirmed from the outside through the opening 511 when the pen cap 5 is mounted on the rear end of the pen barrel 4. Figure 7 As shown, the interior of the barrel 51 of the pen cap 5 has a shape complementary to the rear end of the pen barrel 4, so that it can be engaged with the rear end of the pen barrel 4 formed with the cutout 4c. The cross-sectional shape of the rear end of the pen barrel 4 is non-circular due to the cutout 4c, so the barrel 51 is restricted from rotating in the circumferential direction relative to the pen barrel 4 when engaged with the rear end of the pen barrel 4. Therefore, when the pen cap 5 is mounted on the rear end of the pen barrel 4, the notification portion 45 can always be visually confirmed through the opening 511.

[0073] Figure 8 4 is a functional block diagram of the pen holder 4. The pen holder 4 also has a storage unit 47, a communication unit 48, and a processing unit 49. The storage unit 47, the communication unit 48, and the processing unit 49 are arranged on the first substrate B1, but Figure 4 and Figure 7 The storage unit 47, the communication unit 48, and the processing unit 49 may also be arranged on the second substrate B2.

[0074] The storage unit 47 is a structure for storing programs and data, and includes, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 47 stores, as programs, operating system programs, drivers, and application programs used in the processing performed by the processing unit 49. The programs are installed in the storage unit 47 from a computer-readable and non-transitory portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory) or a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory).

[0075] The communication unit 48 is a structure for enabling the writing tool 3 to communicate with other devices, and has a communication interface circuit. The communication interface circuit is an interface circuit of a short-range wireless communication method such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark). The communication unit 48 sends data provided by the processing unit 49 to other devices, and provides data sent from other devices to the processing unit 49.

[0076] The processing unit 49 is a structure that comprehensively controls the actions of the writing tool 3, and includes one or more processors and their peripheral circuits. The processing unit 49 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processing unit 49 may also include a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an LSI (Large Scale Integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc. The processing unit 49 controls the actions of each structure and performs various processes so that various processes of the writing tool 3 are performed in an appropriate process based on the program stored in the storage unit 47. For example, the processing unit 49 obtains information related to the action from the sensor 42, obtains information indicating whether the switch 43 is operated from the switch 43, and provides a signal for outputting a notification to the notification unit 45.

[0077] The processing unit 49 includes an acquisition unit 491, a determination unit 492, a transmission unit 493, and a notification control unit 494. These units are functional modules implemented by executing a program in the processing unit 49. These units may be mounted on the pen 4 as a dedicated processing circuit.

[0078] (Operation and screen display of communication terminal)

[0079] The control unit 272 of the communication terminal 2 executes a first action and a second action in response to a predetermined signal being sent from the writing tool 3. The first action is an action that is executed in priority over the second action in response to a predetermined signal being sent from the writing tool 3. For example, the first action is an action that is executed without requiring an operation by a user. The second action is an action that is executed regardless of whether a predetermined signal is sent from the writing tool 3. For example, the second action is an action that is executed in response to an operation performed by the user on the operation unit 24.

[0080] The first action takes precedence over the second action, which means that the second action is interrupted when the first action is executed, or the second action is executed in parallel with the first action. That is, the first action takes precedence over the second action, which means that the first action will not be interrupted by the second action. For example, in the case where the second action is an action of displaying an image on the display unit 23 based on an operating system program or an application, the first action may be an action of displaying a banner notification superimposed on the image.

[0081] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram showing an example of notification screen G1 displayed on display unit 23 of communication terminal 2 when the first action and the second action are the above-mentioned actions. Notification screen G1 is displayed in response to the writing tool 3 starting to be used and a predetermined signal being transmitted from the writing tool 3.

[0082] The notification screen G1 includes a main screen G12 and a banner notification G11. The banner notification G11 is displayed superimposed on the main screen G12. That is, the first action of displaying the banner notification G11 is executed preferentially over the second action of displaying the main screen G12. The banner notification G11 includes the name G13 of the application corresponding to the writing tool 3 pre-stored in the communication terminal 2 and a message G14 indicating that the writing tool 3 is used. Fig. 9 In the example shown, “Learning Timer” is displayed as the application name G13 . The user can cause the communication terminal 2 to execute the application with the name G13 displayed in the banner notification G11 by selecting the banner notification G11 .

[0083] exist Fig. 9 In the example shown, the banner notification G11 is superimposed on the main screen G12 , but the present invention is not limited to this example. The banner notification G11 may be superimposed on any screen being displayed on the display unit 23 by the operating system program or application program when a predetermined signal is transmitted from the writing tool 3 .

[0084] Fig.102 is a diagram showing an example of an application screen G2 displayed on the communication terminal 2. The application screen G2 is displayed when the banner notification G11 is selected in the notification screen G1. The selection is made by operating the operation unit 24. When the operation unit 24 has a touch panel, the selection is made by tapping the touch panel. The application screen G2 may also be displayed when the communication terminal 2 is operated to execute an application corresponding to the writing tool 3.

[0085] Fig.10 The application screen G2 shown includes a timer display G21 and a start object G22. When the user selects (e.g., taps the screen) the start object G22, the time indicated by the timer display G21 starts. When the time indicated by the timer display G21 has passed, the communication terminal 2 notifies the user of the elapsed time through sound, vibration, etc.

[0086] exist Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the example shown, the second action is an action of displaying the main screen G12 on the display unit 23, and the first action is an action of displaying the banner notification G11 superimposed on the main screen G12. The first action and the second action are not limited to the above-mentioned examples. For example, as other examples of the first action and the second action, the following examples can be cited.

[0087] (1) The second action may be an action of executing a message application for exchanging messages. In this case, the first action to be executed in priority to the second action may be an action of blocking notification of message reception, etc., which is a function of the message application. Notification of message reception, etc. is performed by displaying an image on the display unit 23, outputting sound from the sound output unit 25, or generating vibrations by the vibration unit 26. That is, when the first action is being executed, notification by sound, image, or vibration of the message application is not performed.

[0088] (2) The second action may be an action of executing a phone application for making a voice call. In this case, the first action that is executed in priority to the second action is an action of preventing the output of a call voice or notification of an incoming call, etc., which is a function of the phone application. That is, when the first action is being executed, the output of the call voice is not performed. In addition, when the first action is being executed, notification by sound, screen display, or vibration is not performed.

[0089] (3) When an arbitrary application program is being executed as the second action, the first action to be executed with priority over the second action is an action of outputting a sound such as predetermined music.

[0090] (4) When any application is being executed as the second action, the first action to be executed in priority to the second action is an action of outputting a predetermined smell. The action of outputting a smell may be performed by an external device communicating with the communication unit 22 of the communication terminal 2, or by the communication terminal 2 having the function of outputting a smell.

[0091] (5) When any application is being executed as the second action, the first action executed with priority over the second action is an action of outputting a predetermined image (still image or moving image) on the display unit 23 of the communication terminal 2. The predetermined image may be, for example, an image indicating that the first action is currently prioritized.

[0092] It is desirable that the first action described above is an action that does not hinder concentration during learning or writing, or an action that has the effect of improving concentration, for example.

[0093] The first action that is preferentially executed in the communication terminal 2 in response to the transmission of a predetermined signal from the writing tool 3 is realized by, for example, automatically starting an application program by the control unit 272. Thus, the second action based on other applications executed in the communication terminal 2 and the second action executed by the operating system program of the communication terminal 2 can be controlled without the user's operation. The first action may also be realized by the operating system stored in the communication terminal 2.

[0094] The application automatically started in the communication terminal 2 is, for example, a program having a restriction function that prevents the second action (e.g., notification based on sound, image, or vibration that disturbs the user's attention) from being executed in the communication terminal 2. The application automatically started in the communication terminal 2 may also have at least one of a timer function, a music playing function, a smell emitting function, etc., for the purpose of improving attention.

[0095] (State transition of writing tools)

[0096] Fig.11 1 is a diagram showing an example of state transition of the writing tool 3. The writing tool 3 takes any one of an off state S1 in which the power of the communication unit 48 is off, an on state S2 in which the power of the communication unit 48 is turned on so as to be able to communicate with the communication terminal 2, and a sleep state S3 for suppressing the power consumption of the communication unit 48.

[0097] When the writing tool 3 is in the closed state S1, if the action of the writing tool 3 detected by the sensor 42 is a prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 starts to be used, or if the switch 43 is operated, the writing tool 3 changes to the open state S2 (transition T12). For example, the writing tool 3 changes to the open state S2 by starting to supply power from the power source P to the storage unit 47 and the processing unit 49. At this time, the writing tool 3 performs a connection process for starting communication with the communication terminal 2. The details of the connection process will be described later.

[0098] The prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 starts to be used is, for example, the action of removing the pen cap 5 from the front end of the pen barrel 4. In this case, the acquisition unit 491 acquires information related to the magnetic field emitted by the magnet 52 from the magnetic field sensor 421. The determination unit 492 determines that the pen cap 5 is removed from the front end of the pen barrel 4 when the intensity of the magnetic field indicated by the acquired information changes from a value greater than a threshold value to a value less than the threshold value. The threshold value is set to a value between the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 421 when the pen cap 5 is attached to the front end of the pen barrel 4 and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 421 when the pen cap 5 is attached to the rear end of the pen barrel 4, for example.

[0099] The operation of the switch 43 is, for example, an operation of pressing the switch 43 for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds). In this case, the determination unit 492 determines whether the switch 43 is on by supplying a current to the switch 43. When the switch 43 is on for a predetermined time or longer, the determination unit 492 determines that the operation of pressing the switch 43 for a predetermined time has been performed.

[0100] When the writing tool 3 is in the on state S2, if the action of the writing tool 3 is a prescribed action indicating that the use of the writing tool 3 is temporarily interrupted, the writing tool 3 transitions to the sleep state S3 (transition T23). For example, the writing tool 3 transitions to the sleep state S3 by stopping the power supply to the processing unit 49 while the power supply from the power source P to the storage unit 47 continues.

[0101] The prescribed action indicating that the use of the writing implement 3 is temporarily interrupted is, for example, the action of attaching the pen cap 5 to the front end of the pen barrel 4. In this case, the acquisition unit 491 acquires information related to the magnetic field emitted by the magnet 52 from the magnetic field sensor 421. When the intensity of the magnetic field indicated by the acquired information changes from a value below the threshold to a value greater than the threshold, the determination unit 492 determines that the pen cap 5 is attached to the front end of the pen barrel 4 and the use of the writing implement 3 is temporarily interrupted.

[0102] When the writing tool 3 is in the open state S2 and a predetermined action indicating the end of use of the writing tool 3 is detected, the writing tool 3 cuts off communication with the communication terminal 2 and stops the communication unit 48, and changes to the closed state S1 (transition T21). For example, the writing tool 3 changes to the closed state S1 by stopping the power supply from the power source P to the storage unit 47 and the processing unit 49.

[0103] The prescribed action indicating the end of the use of the writing tool 3 is that the writing tool 3 does not move for a prescribed time (for example, 10 minutes). In this case, the acquisition unit 491 acquires information on the acceleration and angular velocity applied to the writing tool 3 from the inertial sensor 422. In addition, the acquisition unit 491 acquires information on the pressure applied to the writing body 41 from the pressure sensor 423. When the magnitude of the acceleration, angular velocity, and pressure shown in the acquired information is continuously below the threshold for a prescribed time, the determination unit 492 determines that the writing tool 3 has not moved for a prescribed time and the use of the writing tool has ended.

[0104] When the writing tool 3 is in the dormant state S3, if the action of the writing tool 3 is a prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 starts to be used, the writing tool 3 changes to the on state S2 (transition T32). For example, the writing tool 3 changes to the on state S2 by restarting the power supply from the power source P to the processing unit 49. The prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 starts to be used is the action of removing the pen cap 5 from the front end of the pen barrel 4.

[0105] When the writing tool 3 is in the dormant state S3, the writing tool 3 changes to the closed state S1 (transition T31) when the movement of the writing tool 3 is a prescribed movement indicating the end of use of the writing tool 3. For example, the writing tool 3 changes to the closed state S1 by stopping the power supply from the power source P to the storage unit 47. The prescribed movement indicating the end of use of the writing tool 3 is that the writing tool 3 does not move for a prescribed time.

[0106] (Connection Processing)

[0107] Fig.12 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of the connection process executed by the communication system 1. The connection process is executed in transition T12. The connection process is realized by the processing units of the communication terminal 2 and the writing tool 3 cooperating with other components of each device.

[0108] First, the sending unit 493 of the writing tool 3 sends a beacon signal (step S101). The beacon signal is an example of a predetermined signal. That is, when it is determined that the action of the writing tool 3 is an action related to writing, the predetermined signal is sent without the user's operation. The beacon signal is, for example, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark) beacon signal using a BLE broadcast packet. The beacon signal includes information for identifying the writing tool 3.

[0109] Next, in response to receiving the beacon signal, the communication terminal 2 displays a notification indicating that the writing tool 3 has started to be used (step S102). When the pre-stored information for identifying the writing tool 3 is included in the predetermined frame position of the beacon signal, the receiving unit 271 of the communication terminal 2 determines that the beacon signal has been received from the writing tool 3. The control unit 272 displays a notification screen G1 to display a notification indicating that the writing tool 3 has started to be used. The notification is displayed without requiring any operation by the user.

[0110] Next, the control unit 272 executes the application program in response to the user's operation (step S103). In response to the user's operation of selecting (e.g., tapping the screen) the banner notification G11 of the notification screen G1, the control unit 272 executes the application program corresponding to the writing tool 3 and displays the application screen G2. In addition, in response to the user's operation of selecting the banner notification G11, the control unit 272 sends an operation signal indicating that the user's operation has been accepted to the writing tool 3.

[0111] In response to receiving the operation signal, the notification control unit 494 of the writing tool 3 controls the notification unit 45 (step S104). The notification control unit 494 receives the operation signal via the communication unit 48. The notification control unit 494 controls the notification unit 45 to flash at a predetermined interval by supplying current to the notification unit 45. The connection process ends above.

[0112] As described above, when the action of the writing tool 3 is a prescribed action, the writing tool 3 transmits a beacon signal to the communication terminal 2 without the user's operation of the communication terminal 2 and the writing tool 3. That is, the user does not need to operate the writing tool 3 and the communication terminal 2 except for causing the writing tool 3 to perform a prescribed action for using the writing tool. Therefore, the writing tool 3 can communicate with the communication terminal 2 through an operation that is simple for the user.

[0113] In addition, when the action of the writing tool 3 is an action related to writing, a predetermined signal for executing the first action in the communication terminal 2 without the user's operation is sent from the writing tool 3 to the communication terminal 2, so that the first action is executed in priority to the second action being executed in the communication terminal 2. Therefore, when the user performs an action related to writing using the writing tool 3, it is not easy to be distracted by the second action executed in the communication terminal 2, and it becomes easy to concentrate on the action related to writing.

[0114] In addition, the writing implement 3 accommodates the magnet 52 in the recess 512 formed in the pen cap 5. In this way, it is not necessary to use insert molding in the manufacturing process, and the magnet 52 can be accommodated in the pen cap 5 after the pen cap 5 is formed. In the case where the magnet 52 is accommodated in the pen cap 5 by insert molding, there is a possibility of an increase in manufacturing cost and a decrease in the magnetic force of the magnet 52 due to the high temperature during molding. By accommodating the magnet 52 in the recess 512, the writing implement 3 can suppress the manufacturing cost of the pen cap 5 and prevent the magnetic force of the magnet 52 from decreasing.

[0115] In addition, the writing tool 3 determines whether the pen cap 5 is removed from the front end of the pen barrel 4 based on the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 421, and transmits a beacon signal when the pen cap 5 is removed from the front end of the pen barrel 4. The determination based on the magnetic field emitted by the magnet 52 housed in the pen cap 5 is highly accurate, so the writing tool 3 can reliably start communication with the communication terminal 2 through simple operation.

[0116] (Variation Example)

[0117] The communication system 1 can also be applied to the following modified examples.

[0118] In the above description, the prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 starts to be used is the action of removing the pen cap 5 from the front end of the pen barrel 4, but it is not limited to such an example. The prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 starts to be used may also be the action of the writing tool 3 continuing to move. In this case, in transition T12, the acquisition unit 491 acquires information on the acceleration and angular velocity applied to the pen barrel 4 from the inertial sensor 422. In addition, the acquisition unit 491 acquires information on the pressure applied to the writing body 41 from the pressure sensor 423. The determination unit 492 determines that the writing tool 3 is continuing to move when the magnitude of the acceleration, angular velocity, and pressure shown in the acquired information meets the prescribed conditions. The prescribed conditions are, for example, that the acceleration, angular velocity, or pressure exceeds a threshold value for more than a certain period of time. In this way, the writing tool 3 can also communicate with the communication terminal 2 through operations that are simple for the user.

[0119] In the above description, it is assumed that the magnetic field sensor 421 is housed in front of the pen barrel 4, but it is not limited to such an example. The magnetic field sensor 421 may also be housed in the rear of the pen barrel 4. For example, the magnetic field sensor 421 may also be configured on the second substrate B2 housed in the rear of the pen barrel 4. In this case, in transition T12, the writing tool 3 determines whether the pen cap 5 is installed on the rear end of the pen barrel 4 as a prescribed action indicating that the writing tool 3 begins to be used. For example, the determination unit 492 determines that the pen cap 5 is removed from the front end of the pen barrel 4 and installed on the rear end of the pen barrel 4 when the intensity of the magnetic field indicated by the information obtained from the magnetic field sensor 421 changes from a value below the threshold to a value greater than the threshold.

[0120] In the above description, the recess 512 for accommodating the magnet 52 is formed along the side of the barrel 51, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. The recess 512 may also be formed on the inner side or the outer side of the bottom surface of the barrel 51. In this way, the writing tool 3 can also suppress the manufacturing cost of the cap 5 and prevent the magnetic force of the magnet 52 from being reduced. In addition, the magnet 52 may be accommodated in the cap 5 by insert molding without being limited to the above description.

[0121] In the above description, when the action of writing tool 3 is a predetermined action indicating that writing tool 3 starts to be used, transmitting unit 493 transmits a BLE beacon signal, but the present invention is not limited to this example. Writing tool 3 may transmit a signal conforming to another communication standard different from BLE.

[0122] In the above description, in step S104 of the connection process, the notification control unit 494 controls the notification unit 45 in response to receiving the operation signal, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the notification control unit 494 may control the notification unit 45 to output the notification in response to transmitting a beacon signal.

[0123] In the above description, the application corresponding to the writing tool 3 is assumed to be an application for timing, but the present invention is not limited to this example. The application corresponding to the writing tool 3 may be any application. For example, the application corresponding to the writing tool 3 may also be a calendar application for recording whether or not learning is performed every day.

[0124] In addition, the application corresponding to the writing tool 3 may also be a point management application that gives points to the user based on information acquired by the writing tool 3 or the communication terminal 2. The point management application may be executed as a first action that takes priority over a second action executed in the communication terminal 2, or may be executed in the background of the second action.

[0125] For example, the point management application performs the following processing: according to the information detected by the sensor of the writing tool 3 or the result obtained by information processing in the communication terminal 2 that receives the information detected by the sensor, the number of items related to the writing action is counted, and points are given to the user based on the count. For example, it can also be set to count the case where a part or multiple data of the acceleration data of the writing tool 3, the number of times the cap 5 is opened and closed, the pressure data of the sensor detecting the pen pressure, the data of the sensor sensing the rotation of the writing tool 3, the number of times the writing tool 3 is tapped, etc., among the information obtained by the writing tool 3 or the communication terminal 2, exceeds a certain threshold.

[0126] Fig.13 2 is a diagram showing an example of a points management screen G3 displayed on the display unit 23 by executing a points management application program by the processing unit 27. The points management screen G3 includes: a total points display G31, which displays the total of the points obtained by the user, and an achievement display G32, which displays a chart showing the degree of achievement for each item related to the writing action and the corresponding points obtained. For example, in the achievement display G32, a bar chart, a graphic such as a medal, the number of points, etc., showing the degree of achievement relative to a pre-initialized target or a target set by the user are displayed. It can also be set to switch the display of the points obtained daily, weekly, or for the entire period according to the selection of a tab.

[0127] The points obtained by each user can be stored and managed in the communication terminal 2 or in an external management server connected to the communication terminal 2 via a network. The points obtained through the point management application can be exchanged for digital data, goods, services, or donated.

[0128] Furthermore, the application corresponding to the writing tool 3 may be a status display application that displays the status of the writing tool 3 on the display unit 23 of the communication terminal 2 .

[0129] Fig.14 1 is a diagram showing an example of a status display screen G4 displayed on the display unit 23 by executing the status display application program by the processing unit 27. The status display screen G4 includes a remaining battery level G41 of the writing tool 3, an illustration G42 imitating the writing tool 3, an application initialization button G43, and a connection setting button G44.

[0130] Illustration G42 displays information about the inclination or angle of the writing tool 3. For example, the inclination or angle of the writing tool 3 is displayed by tilting illustration G42 in conjunction with the inclination. The inclination and angle can be obtained by detecting the direction of gravity acceleration using an acceleration sensor provided in the writing tool 3. In addition to the inclination and angle of the writing tool 3, information indicating whether the communication terminal 2 and the writing tool 3 are communicating can also be displayed using icons, etc., and information indicating whether the pen pressure is detected can also be displayed.

[0131] The application initialization button G43 is used to initialize the information and conditions set in the status display application. The connection setting button G44 is used to connect and disconnect the communication between the writing tool 3 and the communication terminal 2. The information indicating the status of the writing tool 3 shown on the status display screen G4 is not limited to the above-mentioned content.

[0132] During the execution of the status display application, the control unit 272 obtains information on the status of the writing tool 3 at a predetermined frequency via the communication unit 22. For example, the control unit 272 obtains the battery remaining amount at a frequency of about 1 time per minute to about 500 times per second, and obtains information on the pen pressure, tilt, angle, etc. detected by the sensor 42 at a frequency of about 1 time per second to about 500 times per second. The frequency may be automatically set in consideration of the battery remaining amount and power consumption.

[0133] In addition, the above-described sensors for detecting motion, such as acceleration sensors, pressure sensors, and Hall sensors, may also be included in the motion detection device, which acquires the previously described information related to the movement and motion of the body, thereby bringing the same effect.

[0134] The motion detection device may be provided as an accessory that can be attached to a writing tool. In this case, the motion detection device can also be regarded as a writing tool.

[0135] In addition, in the above description, the case where the determination unit 492 is provided in the writing tool 3 is described, but the determination unit 492 may also be provided in the communication terminal 2. In this case, the writing tool 3 sends a signal from a sensor to the communication terminal 2, and the communication terminal 2 receives the signal sent from the writing tool 3, and the determination unit of the communication terminal 2 determines whether the action of the writing tool 3 is a prescribed action based on the received signal. Furthermore, when the determination unit of the communication terminal 2 determines that the action of the writing tool 3 is a prescribed action, the control unit of the communication terminal 2 performs control to execute the first action without the user's operation.

[0136] As described above, according to the present embodiment, there are provided the writing instrument 3 , the communication system 1 , and the communication terminal 2 which can start communication by an operation that is easy for the user.

[0137] It is to be understood that those skilled in the art can make various changes, substitutions and modifications to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications can also be implemented in appropriate combinations within the scope of the present invention.

[0138] Description of Reference Numerals

[0139] 3: writing tool; 4: pen body; 421: magnetic field sensor; 422: inertial sensor; 423: pressure sensor; 491: acquisition unit; 492: determination unit; 493: sending unit; 494: notification control unit; 5: pen cap; 512: recess; 52: magnet; 53: decorative component.

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising a writing tool having a communication function and an electronic device communicating with the writing tool, wherein: The writing instrument has: Sensors, which are used to detect motion; a determination unit that determines whether the motion detected by the sensor is a prescribed motion; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit a predetermined signal to the electronic device; When it is determined that the motion detected by the sensor is the predetermined motion, the transmission unit transmits a predetermined signal for executing a first motion in the electronic device to the electronic device without requiring a user operation.

2. An information processing system comprising a writing tool having a communication function and an electronic device communicating with the writing tool, wherein: The writing instrument has: Sensors for detecting motion; and a transmitting unit that transmits the signal from the sensor to the electronic device, The electronic device comprises: a receiving unit that receives the signal sent from the sending unit; a determination unit that determines whether the movement of the writing tool is a predetermined movement based on the signal received by the receiving unit; as well as The control unit controls the electronic device to execute a first action without requiring a user's operation, when the determination unit determines that the action of the writing tool is a predetermined action.

3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first action is executed with priority over a second action executed in the electronic device.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first action is an action of performing another display in a superimposed manner on the display performed as the second action in the electronic device.

5. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first action is an action of preventing a display action on a display performed as a second action in the electronic device.

6. A writing tool for communicating with an electronic device, the writing tool having: Sensors, which are used to detect motion; a determination unit that determines whether the motion detected by the sensor is a prescribed motion; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit a predetermined signal to the electronic device; in, When the determination unit determines that the motion detected by the sensor is the predetermined motion, the transmission unit transmits a predetermined signal for executing a first motion in the electronic device to the electronic device without requiring a user operation.

7. The writing instrument according to claim 6, wherein: The sensor has at least one of an acceleration sensor for detecting acceleration applied to the writing tool, an angular velocity sensor for detecting angular velocity applied to the writing tool, a pressure sensor for detecting pressure applied to the writing tool when writing, and a sensor for detecting tapping or rotation that causes the core of the writing tool to extend.

8. The writing instrument according to claim 6, wherein: The pen also has a pen cap that can be attached to and detached from the pen body, and the pen cap contains a magnet. As the sensor, there is a magnetic field sensor, which is accommodated in the pen holder and is used to detect the magnetic field emitted by the magnet. The determination unit determines whether or not the cap is removed from the pen body as the predetermined action based on the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor. The transmitting unit transmits the predetermined signal when the pen cap is removed from the pen body.

9. The writing instrument according to claim 6, wherein: The specified signal is a Bluetooth low energy beacon signal, namely a BLE beacon signal.

10. An electronic device for communicating with a writing tool, the electronic device comprising: a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the writing tool; and A control unit that performs a specified control action, in, The control unit executes the first operation without requiring a user's operation, when the receiving unit receives a predetermined signal transmitted from the writing tool when the writing tool performs a predetermined operation.

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