Information processing apparatus, operation mode control method, and program

The device dynamically adjusts threshold values for mode switching based on user interaction, optimizing power management and energy savings by aligning with user behavior, thus enhancing energy conservation and user convenience.

JP2026018261APending Publication Date: 2026-02-05NEC PERSONAL COMPUTERS LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024119503
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-07-25
Publication Date
2026-02-05

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional mode switching methods in information processing devices use uniform threshold values for determining no-operation, leading to suboptimal energy savings and inefficiencies in power management.

Method used

An information processing device with a timer and threshold update mechanism that dynamically adjusts the threshold value based on user operation, updating it to smaller values upon no-operation confirmations and resetting it to optimal levels based on user interaction patterns.

Benefits of technology

This approach optimizes power management by reducing the time to switch to power-saving modes, enhancing energy conservation and improving user convenience by aligning threshold settings with actual usage patterns.

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Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an operation mode control method, and a program capable of optimizing a threshold used for non-operation determination.SOLUTION: An information processor includes a timer 31a for measuring a non-operation period of a user, a non-operation determination unit 32 for performing non-operation confirmation determination when a measurement value TM of the timer 31a exceeds a reference value T, and a reference value update unit 34 for updating the reference value T. The threshold update section 34 updates the threshold T to the first threshold smaller than the current value each time the non-operation confirmation determination is made and until the updated threshold T reaches the lower limit value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an operation mode control method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, information processing devices such as notebook PCs, tablet devices, and smartphones have a normal mode that does not limit power consumption and a power-saving mode that limits power consumption. These modes are switched depending on the user's usage status and the status of the information processing device, thereby suppressing power consumption and extending operating time (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-68499 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a conventional mode switching method, for example, when a period of no operation by the user exceeds a preset warning threshold, the screen is darkened as a warning period, and when no operation is performed during this warning period and the period of no operation exceeds the threshold, the control is performed to switch to power saving mode. However, since the threshold values ​​used for mode switching are set uniformly, there is room for further energy savings.

[0005] Furthermore, the mode switching based on the no-operation determination as described above is used for various purposes, such as the energy-saving mode switching as described above, as well as mode switching for displaying advertisements, mode switching for locking the screen for security purposes, etc. In these applications as well, optimizing the threshold for mode switching can increase opportunities to display advertisements and improve security.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide an information processing device, an operation mode control method, and a program that can optimize the threshold value used for determining no operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is an information processing device that includes a timer that measures a period of no operation by a user, a no-operation determination unit that makes a no-operation confirmation determination when the measured value of the timer exceeds a threshold, and a threshold update unit that updates the threshold, wherein the threshold update unit updates the threshold to a first threshold that is smaller than the current value each time the no-operation confirmation determination is made and until the updated threshold reaches a lower limit value.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is an information processing device that includes a timer that measures a period of no operation by a user, a no-operation determination unit that determines whether no operation has occurred when the measured value of the timer exceeds a threshold, and a threshold update unit that updates the threshold, wherein the threshold update unit updates the threshold to a value smaller than the current value when a predetermined period of time has passed during which the measured value of the timer never exceeds the threshold.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is an operation mode control method that determines whether a user has performed no operation and switches modes when the measured value of a timer that measures the user's period of no operation exceeds a threshold value, in which a computer updates the threshold value to a value smaller than the current value each time the determination of whether a user has performed no operation is made, and until the updated threshold value reaches a lower limit value.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is an operation mode control method that determines whether a user has performed no operation and switches modes when the measurement value of a timer that measures the period of no operation by the user exceeds a threshold value, and that updates the threshold value to a value smaller than the current value when a predetermined period of time has passed during which the measurement value of the timer does not exceed the threshold value even once.

[0011] One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as the information processing device described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to optimize the threshold value used for determining whether or not an operation has occurred. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of functions provided in an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of a threshold value update process according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of a measurement value determination process executed in a threshold value update process according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] An information processing device, an operation mode control method, and a program according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Examples of the information processing device according to this embodiment include a notebook PC, a desktop PC, a tablet terminal, an all-in-one PC in which the PC main body and the display are integrated into a single housing, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a game terminal, and a 2-in-1 PC.

[0015] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing device 1 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit: processor) 11, a main memory 12, a secondary storage (memory) 13, a communication interface 14, a display 15, and an input device 16. These components are connected to each other, for example, via a bus 18. The display 15 and the input device 16 may also be connected, for example, via an external interface (not shown).

[0016] The CPU 11 controls the entire information processing device using, for example, an OS (Operating System) stored in a secondary storage device 13 connected via a bus 18, and executes various processes by executing various programs stored in the secondary storage device 13. One or more CPUs 11 may be provided, and they may work together to realize processes.

[0017] The main memory 12 is composed of writable memory such as cache memory or RAM (Random Access Memory), and is used as a working area for reading out the execution program of the CPU 11 and writing data processed by the execution program.

[0018] The secondary storage device 13 is a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Examples of the secondary storage device 13 include a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, and a semiconductor memory. Examples of the secondary storage device 13 include a read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid-state drive (SSD), and a flash memory. The secondary storage device 13 stores, for example, an operating system (OS) for controlling the entire information processing device, such as iOS (registered trademark), Android (registered trademark), or Windows (registered trademark), a basic input / output system (BIOS), various device drivers for operating peripheral devices, various application software, and various data and files. The secondary storage device 13 also stores a program for implementing a threshold update process (described later) and various data (such as initial values) required for implementing the threshold update process. A plurality of secondary storage devices 13 may be provided, and the programs and data described above may be stored separately in each secondary storage device 13.

[0019] The communication interface 14 is an interface for connecting to a network to communicate with other devices and send and receive information. Display 15 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display, etc. Display 15 may also be a touch panel display on which a touch panel is superimposed. The input device 16 is a user interface that allows the user to give input instructions to the information processing device 1, such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touchpad.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of an operation mode control system (operation mode control function) 30 included in the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment. Hereinafter, as an example, a case will be described in which the operation mode control system 30 has a normal mode and a power saving mode, and switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is performed based on a no-operation determination.

[0021] A series of processes for realizing the functions of the operation mode control system 30 described below is stored in the secondary storage device 13 or the like in the form of a program, for example, and the CPU (processor) 11 reads this program into the main memory 12 and executes information processing and arithmetic processing to realize various functions. Note that the program may be pre-installed in the secondary storage device 13, provided in a state stored in another non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, or distributed via wired or wireless communication means. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable storage media include magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, and semiconductor memories.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, the operation mode control system 30 includes timers 31a and 31b, a no-operation determining unit 32, a mode switching unit 33, and a threshold updating unit .

[0023] The timer 31a measures a period of no operation by the user. For example, the timer 31a starts counting when it detects no operation by the user, and resets the count when the user performs an operation. The measurement value (count value) TM of the timer 31a is output to the no-operation determination unit 32.

[0024] The timer 31b measures the period of continuous operation by the user. The timer 31b starts counting, for example, when an operation by the user is detected, and resets the count when a no-operation determination unit 32 (described later) determines that no operation has been performed, or when the count value exceeds the review period W. The measurement value (count value) TW of the timer 31b is output to the threshold update unit 34.

[0025] The no-operation determination unit 32 performs a no-operation confirmation determination (hereinafter referred to as a "confirmation determination") when the measurement value TM of the timer 31a is equal to or greater than the threshold value T (TM≧T).

[0026] The no-operation determination unit 32 performs a no-operation cancellation determination (hereinafter referred to as a "cancellation determination") when the measurement value TM of the timer 31a is greater than or equal to the predicted threshold value TP and less than or equal to the threshold value T (TP≦TM≦T) and the user performs an input operation. For example, when the measurement value TM of the timer 31a reaches the notice threshold value TP, the operation mode control system 30 darkens the display screen of the display 15 and notifies the user that mode switching will occur unless the user performs an input operation. If the user performs an input operation during this notice period, a cancellation determination is made and the count of the no-operation period by the timer 31a is reset.

[0027] The threshold value T is updated by a threshold value update unit 34, which will be described later. The advance notice threshold value TP is a value that varies depending on the threshold value T, and specifically, is set to a value that is a predetermined value Tf smaller than the threshold value T. That is, the advance notice threshold value TP is expressed as TP=T-Tf.

[0028] The mode switching unit 33 has, for example, a plurality of modes related to power management, and switches modes by setting one of the plurality of modes as the execution mode. In the present embodiment, as an example, the mode switching unit 33 has a normal mode and a power saving mode.

[0029] The normal mode consumes more power than the power-saving mode and allows certain devices and components that consume the most power to operate without forcibly restricting their operation. Examples of certain devices include the display and the CPU. Examples of certain components include the OS and applications.

[0030] The power saving mode is a mode that forcibly limits power consumption, for example, by lowering the brightness of the display compared to normal mode and restricting the operation of the CPU, OS, and applications. In the power saving mode, the brightness of the display may be set to change in stages according to the remaining battery power. Note that, since there are many known power saving modes that reduce power consumption, any of these modes may be adopted as appropriate.

[0031] When the normal mode is set as the execution mode and a confirmation determination is made by the no-operation determination unit 32, the mode switching unit 33 switches the mode by setting the power saving mode as the execution mode. Furthermore, when the power saving mode is set as the execution mode and an input operation by the user is detected, the mode switching unit 33 switches the mode by setting the normal mode as the execution mode.

[0032] The threshold update unit 34 updates the threshold T. For example, the threshold updating unit 34 updates the threshold T to a first threshold T1 that is smaller than the current value every time the no-operation determining unit 32 makes a final determination. The threshold updating unit 34 also updates the threshold T until the updated threshold T reaches a lower limit value Tmin. Here, the lower limit value Tmin may be set to an initial value of an adjustment parameter M, which will be described later.

[0033] The threshold update unit 34 updates the threshold T to a second threshold T2 that is smaller than the current value when the measurement value TW of the timer 31b exceeds a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as the "review period W"), in other words, when the state in which the measurement value TM of the timer 31a never exceeds the threshold T exceeds the review period W.

[0034] For example, the threshold update unit 34 calculates the first threshold and the second threshold using an adjustment parameter M that is dynamically set in response to a user operation. Details of the adjustment parameter M will be described later. Specifically, the threshold update unit 34 calculates the first threshold T1 and the second threshold T2 using the following arithmetic expressions (1) and (2).

[0035] T1=M+a(TM) (1) T2=M+b(TM) (2)

[0036] Here, a and b are predetermined coefficients, and are set to values ​​such that 1≧a≧b≧0. That is, T1 is a value greater than T2 (T1>T2).

[0037] Furthermore, when the no-operation determination unit 32 makes a cancellation determination a predetermined number of times in succession, the threshold updating unit 34 updates the threshold T to a third threshold T3, which is a value greater than the current value. Here, the third threshold T3 is, for example, the previous value of the threshold T.

[0038] In order for the threshold updating unit 34 to realize the above functions, the threshold updating unit 34 includes, for example, an adjustment parameter storage unit 41, an adjustment parameter updating unit 42, an updating unit 43, and a threshold storage unit 44.

[0039] The adjustment parameter storage unit 41 stores the adjustment parameter M.

[0040] The adjustment parameter update unit 42 updates the adjustment parameter M stored in the adjustment parameter storage unit 41. Specifically, when a user performs an operation before the measurement value TM of the timer 31a reaches the threshold value T, the adjustment parameter update unit 42 updates the value of the adjustment parameter M to the measurement value TM.

[0041] For example, when a user performs an operation before the measurement value TM of the timer 31a reaches the threshold value T, the adjustment parameter update unit 42 may compare the measurement value TM at that time with the value of the adjustment parameter M stored in the adjustment parameter memory unit 41, and if the measurement value TM is greater than the value of the adjustment parameter M, update the adjustment parameter M to the measurement value TM.

[0042] The update unit 43 calculates the first threshold T1 and the second threshold T2 using the adjustment parameter M stored in the adjustment parameter storage unit 41, and updates the threshold T using these values ​​or the value stored in the threshold storage unit 44. The update unit 43 also stores the threshold T, the first threshold T1, and the second threshold T2 in the threshold storage unit 44 at a predetermined timing. The update unit 43 will be described in detail later in the threshold update process.

[0043] The threshold storage unit 44 is, for example, a LIFO (Last In First Out) storage unit.

[0044] According to the operation mode control system 30 having the above configuration, the timer 31a measures the no-operation period, and the no-operation determination unit 32 compares this measured value TM with the threshold value T to make a confirmation determination or a cancellation determination. Specifically, if the measured value TM is equal to or greater than the advance threshold value TP and equal to or less than the threshold value T, and the user performs an operation, a cancellation determination is made, and if the measured value TM exceeds the threshold value T, a confirmation determination is made. Then, if a confirmation determination is made, the mode switching unit 33 switches the execution mode to the power saving mode. Furthermore, if the user performs an input operation when the power saving mode is set as the execution mode, the execution mode is switched to the normal mode.

[0045] Next, the update process of the threshold T used by the no-operation determination unit 32 (threshold update process) will be mainly described with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 are flowcharts showing an example of the processing procedure of the threshold update process according to this embodiment. The threshold update process described below is repeatedly executed when, for example, the normal mode is set as the execution mode.

[0046] First, when the information processing device 1 is started up, initial values ​​are set for the adjustment parameters M, threshold T, advance threshold TP (=Tf), various coefficients a, b, review period W, predetermined number of times N, etc. stored in the adjustment parameter memory unit 41 (SA1).

[0047] Subsequently, the timers 31a and 31b are activated. As a result, the timer 31a starts counting when no operation by the user is detected, and the timer 31b starts counting when an operation by the user is started.

[0048] Next, the measured value TM of the timer 31a and the measured value TW of the timer 31b are acquired, and TM and TW are updated to the latest values ​​(SA2). Thereafter, the measured values ​​TM and TW are used in each determination process.

[0049] Next, it is determined whether or not a user operation has been detected (SA3). As a result, if a user operation has been detected (SA3: YES), a determination process of the measurement value TM (measurement value determination process) is performed (SA4). Details of this measurement value determination process will be described later. Next, it is determined whether the measurement value TW of the timer 31b has passed the review period W (SA5). As a result, if the measurement value TW has not exceeded the review period W (SA5: NO), the process returns to step SA2.

[0050] On the other hand, if the judgment in step SA5 is positive (SA5: YES), the current threshold value T and the adjustment parameter M are used in the above-mentioned equation (2) to calculate the second threshold value T2, and after storing the current threshold value T in the threshold value memory unit 44, the second threshold value T2 is stored (SA6).

[0051] Next, the adjustment parameter M is set to the threshold value T (SA7). Next, the adjustment parameter M is initialized, the timer 31b is reset, and the advance notice threshold value TP is updated based on the current threshold value T (SA8), and the process returns to step SA2.

[0052] That is, when the measured value TW of the timer 31b exceeds the review period W (a state in which SA5 returns a positive determination), it means that the power saving mode has never been entered during the review period W. In this case, the currently set threshold value T is considered to be too large, so the threshold value T is set to a boldly shorter value by setting the adjustment parameter M as the threshold value T. This makes it easier to enter the power saving mode.

[0053] Next, if the determination in step SA3 is negative (SA3: NO), it is determined whether the measurement value TM of the timer 31a is greater than the threshold value T (SA9). As a result, if the determination is negative (SA9: NO), the process returns to step SA2. On the other hand, if the determination at step SA9 is affirmative (SA9: YES), a final determination is made by the no-operation determination unit 32 (SA10). Next, the current threshold value T is stored in the threshold value storage unit 44 (SA11). Next, the current threshold value T and the adjustment parameter M are used in the above equation (1) to calculate a first threshold value T1, and the threshold value T is updated to the first threshold value T1 (SA12).

[0054] Next, it is determined whether or not a user operation has been detected (SA13). As a result, if no operation has been performed (SA13: NO), the system enters a standby state until an operation is performed. Then, if a user operation is detected, the system proceeds to step SA8, and then returns to step SA2.

[0055] Next, the measurement value determination process performed in step SA4 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the measurement value determination process.

[0056] First, when the measurement value TM is greater than the adjustment parameter M and is equal to or less than the advance notice threshold value TP, it is determined whether or not an operation has been performed by the user (SB1). As a result, if the determination is affirmative (SB1: YES), the measurement value TM of the timer 31a is set to the adjustment parameter M (SB2), this determination process is terminated, and the process returns to step SA5 in FIG. 3.

[0057] On the other hand, if the determination in step SB1 is negative (SB1: NO), it is determined whether or not an operation has been performed by the user when the measurement value TM is greater than the advance threshold value TP and equal to or less than the threshold value T (SB3). As a result, if the determination is negative (SB3: NO), this determination process is terminated and the process returns to step SA5 in FIG. 3.

[0058] On the other hand, if the determination in step SB3 is affirmative (SB3: YES), a cancel determination is made by the no-operation determination unit 32 (SB4). Next, it is determined whether the cancel determination has been made N times in succession (SB5). As a result, if the determination is negative (SB5: NO), this determination process ends and the process returns to step SA5 in FIG. 3.

[0059] On the other hand, if the determination in step SB5 is affirmative (SB5: YES), the latest value stored in the threshold storage unit 44 is acquired, the threshold T is updated to the acquired latest value, and the advance notice threshold TP is updated based on the updated threshold T (SB6), the present determination process is terminated, and the process returns to step SA5 in Fig. 3. Thereafter, the processes from step SA5 onwards described above are continued.

[0060] Next, the above-mentioned threshold value updating process will be described in detail using specific examples with specific numerical values.

[0061] [First round of the flow] First, the adjustment parameter M is set to "2 minutes" and the threshold value T is set to "10 minutes." In addition, the advance threshold value TP is set to "9.45 minutes," the review period W is set to "60 minutes," the coefficient a is set to "0.7," the coefficient b is set to "0.3," and the predetermined number of cancellation decisions N is set to "2" (SA1).

[0062] Subsequently, timers 31a and 31b are activated, and the counts by these are acquired (SA2). And, for example, when an operation by the user is performed when the measured value TM is 5 minutes (M < TM ≤ TP) (SA3: YES, and SB1: YES in FIG. 4), the adjustment parameter M is updated by setting 5 minutes to the adjustment parameter M (SB2). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the measured value TW of timer 31b has exceeded the review period W (= 60 minutes). As a result, assuming the case where it has not exceeded the review period W, an affirmative determination is made in step SA5, and the process returns to step SA2.

[0063] 〔Second pass of the flow〕 · Values of various current parameters M = 5 minutes T = 10 minutes TP = 9.45 minutes Latest value of the threshold memory unit = none

[0064] And again, measurement of the non-operation period by timer 31a is started. If no operation is performed by the user even when the measured value TM exceeds 10 minutes (SA3: NO, and SA9: YES), a confirmation determination is made (SA10), and the mode switching unit 33 switches to the energy saving mode. Subsequently, the current threshold value T (= 10 minutes) is stored in the threshold memory unit 44 (SA11). Subsequently, using the current adjustment parameter M (= 5 minutes), the first threshold value T1 is calculated as follows.

[0065] T1 = M + a(T - M) = 5 + 0.7×(10 - 5) = 8.5

[0066] And by setting the first threshold value T1 (= 8.5 minutes) to the threshold value T, the threshold value T is updated (SA12).

[0067] Thereafter, when an operation by the user is detected (SA13: YES), the initial value (= 2 minutes) is set to the adjustment parameter M, 8.35 minutes (= 8.5 - 0.15) is set to the warning threshold value TP, and the count of timer 31b is reset (SA8), and the process returns to step SA2. <00​​[Flow 3rd round] Current parameter values M=2 minutes T=8.5 minutes TP=8.35 minutes Latest value of threshold memory = 10 minutes

[0069] Then, the timer 31a starts measuring the no-operation period again, and if the no-operation period exceeds 8.5 minutes (SA3: NO and SA9: YES), a determination is made again (SA10), the current threshold value T (= 8.5 minutes) is stored in the threshold value memory unit 44 (SA11), and the first threshold value T1 is calculated as follows:

[0070] T1=M+a(TM)=2+0.7×(8.5-2)=6.55

[0071] Then, the threshold value T is updated by setting the first threshold value T1 (=6.55 minutes) as the threshold value T (SA12).

[0072] Thereafter, when a user operation is detected (SA13: YES), the adjustment parameter M is set to the initial value (= 2 minutes), the warning threshold TP is set to 6.4 minutes (= 6.55 - 0.15), the count of the timer 31b is reset (SA8), and the process returns to step SA2.

[0073] [4th round of flow] Current parameter values M=2 minutes T=6.55 minutes TP=6.4 minutes Latest value of threshold memory = 8.5 minutes

[0074] Then, the measurement of the idle period by timer 31a is started again. Now, assume that an operation is performed by the user when the measured value TM of timer 31a is 6.5 minutes (TP < TM ≤ T). In this case, an affirmative determination is made in step SA3, and a measured value determination process is performed (SA4). In the measured value determination process (Fig. 4), a negative determination is made in step SB1 and an affirmative determination is made in step SB3, and a cancellation determination is made (SB4). And since the cancellation determination is only once so far, a negative determination is made in step SB5, this determination process is ended, and the process proceeds to step SA5 in Fig. 3.

[0075] Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the measured value TW of timer 31b has exceeded the review period (SA5). Here, it is assumed that the measured value TW has not exceeded the review period W (SA5: NO), and the process returns to step SA2.

[0076] 〔Fifth round of the flow〕 · Values of current various parameters M = 2 minutes T = 6.55 minutes TP = 6.4 minutes Latest value of the threshold memory unit = 8.5 minutes

[0077] Then, the measurement of the idle period by timer 31a is started again. Assume that an operation is performed by the user when the measured value TM of timer 31a is 6.5 minutes (TP < TM ≤ T). In this case, an affirmative determination is made in step SA3, and in the measured value determination process, a negative determination is made in step SB1 and an affirmative determination is made in step SB3, and a cancellation determination is made (SB4). And in step SB5, this time, since the cancellation determination has occurred twice continuously, an affirmative determination is made (SB5: YES), the latest value (= 8.5 minutes) stored in the threshold memory unit 44 is set as the threshold T, and the warning threshold TP (= 8.35 minutes) is updated based on the updated threshold T (SB6).

[0078] 3, it is determined whether the measured value TW of the timer 31b has exceeded the review period W. As a result, it is assumed that the measured value TW of the timer 31b has not exceeded the review period W (SA5: NO), and the process returns to step SA2.

[0079] [Flow Round 6] Current parameter values M=2 minutes T=8.5 minutes TP=8.35 minutes Latest value of threshold memory = 10 minutes

[0080] Thereafter, if the measured value TW by the timer 31a never exceeds the value of the adjustment parameter M (= 2 minutes) and the state in which the user is constantly performing operations exceeds the review period W (= 60 minutes) (SA3: YES and SA5: YES), the second threshold T2 is calculated as follows using the current threshold T (= 8.5) and the value of the adjustment parameter (= 2 minutes).

[0081] T2=M+b(TM)=2+0.3×(8.5-2)=3.95

[0082] Then, the current threshold value T (=8.35 minutes) and the second threshold value (=3.95 minutes) are stored in this order in the threshold value storage unit 44 (SA6). As a result, the latest value in the threshold value storage unit 44 becomes 3.95 minutes.

[0083] Next, the threshold value T is set to the adjustment parameter M (=2 minutes) (SA7), and then the adjustment parameter M is set to the initial value (=2 minutes), the advance threshold value TP is set to 1.85 minutes, the timer 31b is reset, and the process returns to step SA2.

[0084] [Flow Round 7] Current parameter values M=2 minutes T=2 minutes TP=1.85 minutes Latest value of threshold memory = 3.95 minutes

[0085] Then, by repeating the above-described process from the seventh round onwards, the threshold value T is updated to an appropriate value depending on the operation state of the user at that time.

[0086] As described above, the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment includes the timer 31a that measures the user's no-operation period, the no-operation determination unit 32 that makes a no-operation confirmation determination when the measurement value TM of the timer 31a exceeds the threshold T, and the threshold update unit 34 that updates the threshold T. Then, the threshold update unit 34 updates the threshold T to a first threshold T1 that is smaller than the current value every time a no-operation confirmation determination is made until the updated threshold T reaches the lower limit value.

[0087] In this way, according to this embodiment, the value of the threshold T is gradually updated to a smaller value each time a no-operation determination is made. This makes it possible to bring the threshold T closer to an optimal value, thereby shortening the determination period before mode switching. As a result, for example, it becomes possible to effectively achieve energy conservation.

[0088] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the measurement value TM of the timer 31a never exceeds the threshold value T, in other words, when the measurement value TW of the timer 31b has passed a predetermined period (review period W), the threshold update unit 34 updates the threshold value T to a second threshold value T2, which is a value smaller than the current value. Here, the second threshold value T2 is a value that is reduced by a larger amount than the first threshold value T1. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the threshold value T. That is, when the measurement value TM of the timer 31a does not exceed the threshold value T, the threshold value T may be set to a value that is excessively large compared to the user's operation status. Therefore, in such a case, by significantly reducing the threshold value T, it is possible to create a situation in which it is easier to determine that no operation has been performed. This increases the frequency of switching to the power saving mode, thereby enabling energy conservation.

[0089] According to this embodiment, the no-operation determination unit 32 makes a no-operation cancellation determination when the user performs an operation while the measurement value TM of the timer 31a is equal to or greater than the advance threshold value TP, which is a value that is a predetermined value smaller than the threshold value T, and is equal to or less than the threshold value T, and the threshold update unit 34 updates the threshold value T to a third threshold value T3, which is a value greater than the current value, when the no-operation cancellation determination is made a predetermined number of times in succession.

[0090] When the measured value TM of the timer 31a is equal to or greater than the advance notice threshold TP, which is a value smaller than the threshold T by a predetermined value, and equal to or less than the threshold T, the user performs an operation. In other words, the user performs an input operation during the advance notice period. In this way, when the user performs an input operation during the advance notice period, it is possible that the user is refusing to switch modes, and it is highly likely that the threshold T is set too small. Therefore, in such a case, the threshold T is updated to a larger value. For example, it is returned to the latest value stored in the threshold memory unit 44. This allows the threshold T to approach optimization, making it possible to reduce the hassle of the user having to perform an operation to refuse mode switching.

[0091] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the threshold update unit 34 calculates the first threshold and the second threshold T2 using adjustment parameters that are dynamically set in response to user operations, thereby making it possible to set an appropriate value as the threshold T in response to user operations.

[0092] Although the present invention has been described above using the embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. Various changes or improvements can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the gist of the present invention, and such changes or improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0093] Furthermore, the processing procedures described in the above embodiment are also examples, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged within the scope of the present invention.

[0094] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the mode switching unit 33 switches between the normal mode and the power-saving mode, but this is not limiting. For example, mode switching based on the no-operation determination can be used for various purposes, such as mode switching for displaying advertisements, mode switching for locking the screen for security purposes, etc., in addition to the above-described energy-saving mode switching. Furthermore, even in these applications, optimizing the threshold for mode switching can increase opportunities to display advertisements and improve security. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1: Information processing equipment 11: CPU 12: Main memory 13:Secondary storage device 14: Communication interface 15: Display 16: Input device 18: Bus 30: Operation mode control system 31a, 31b: Timer 32: No-operation determination section 33: Mode switching section 34: Threshold update unit 41: Adjustment parameter storage section 42: Adjustment parameter update section 43: Update section 44: Threshold memory unit

Claims

1. a timer for measuring a period of inactivity by a user; a no-operation determination unit that determines whether or not a no-operation has been confirmed when the measured value of the timer exceeds a threshold value; a threshold updating unit that updates the threshold; Equipped with The threshold updating unit updates the threshold to a first threshold that is smaller than the current value every time the no-operation confirmation determination is made and until the updated threshold reaches a lower limit value.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed during which the measured value of the timer has never exceeded the threshold value, the threshold value update unit updates the threshold value to a second threshold value that is smaller than the current threshold value.

3. the no-operation determination unit performs a no-operation cancellation determination when a user performs an operation while the measured value of the timer is equal to or greater than a notice threshold value that is a value smaller than the threshold value by a predetermined value and is equal to or less than the threshold value; The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the threshold updating unit updates the threshold to a third threshold that is greater than the current threshold when a no-operation cancel determination is made a predetermined number of times in succession.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the third threshold value is a previous value of the threshold value.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the threshold updating unit calculates the first threshold using an adjustment parameter that is dynamically set in response to a user operation.

6. an adjustment parameter update unit that updates the adjustment parameters; The information processing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein, when a user performs an operation before the measured value of the timer reaches the threshold value, the value of the adjustment parameter is updated to the measured value.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the adjustment parameter update unit updates the value of the adjustment parameter to the measured value when the measured value of the timer is greater than the value of the adjustment parameter.

8. a timer for measuring a period of inactivity by a user; a no-operation determination unit that determines whether or not a no-operation has been confirmed when the measured value of the timer exceeds a threshold value; a threshold updating unit that updates the threshold; Equipped with The threshold updating unit updates the threshold to a value smaller than the current value when a predetermined period of time has elapsed during which the measured value of the timer has never exceeded the threshold.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8 , wherein the threshold updating unit updates the threshold using an adjustment parameter that is dynamically set in response to a user operation.

10. an adjustment parameter update unit that updates the adjustment parameters; The information processing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the adjustment parameter update unit updates the value of the adjustment parameter to the measured value when a user performs an operation before the measured value of the timer reaches the threshold value.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the adjustment parameter update unit updates the value of the adjustment parameter to the measured value when the measured value of the timer is greater than the value of the adjustment parameter.

12. An operation mode control method for determining whether a user has performed no operation and switching modes when a measurement value of a timer that measures a period of no operation by a user exceeds a threshold, comprising: The operation mode control method includes a computer updating the threshold to a value smaller than the current value each time the no-operation determination is made, until the updated threshold reaches a lower limit value.

13. An operation mode control method for determining whether a user has performed no operation and switching modes when a measurement value of a timer that measures a period of no operation by a user exceeds a threshold, comprising: An operation mode control method in which a computer updates the threshold to a value smaller than the current value when a predetermined period of time has elapsed during which the measured value of the timer has never exceeded the threshold.

14. A program for causing a computer to function as the information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

Citation Information

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