Control device and control method

Abstract

This invention provides a control device that allows for large changes or fine adjustments to set values ​​with simple one-handed operation. [Solution] The control device has a display control means that displays an operation unit for changing the setting value of an electronic device and changes the display size of the operation unit by a predetermined operation, and a changing means that changes the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the setting value by a predetermined amount according to the display size of the operation unit. The predetermined operation is a drag operation between the center and the outer edge of the operation unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device and a control method.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, imaging devices such as video cameras have been standardly equipped with a wireless communication function and a wired connection function. Applications for controlling an imaging device connected wirelessly or wired to an information terminal such as a smartphone have been published, and a user can operate the imaging device by operating the application on the smartphone. Since a smartphone is operated by a touch panel, a plurality of operation parts in a tile shape or a wheel shape are arranged on the screen so that settings can be easily changed.

[0003] In recent years, the number of users who shoot videos for posting on SNS has been increasing, and a user may operate an imaging device with an application on a smartphone and shoot alone. Depending on the shooting situation, there are scenes where it is desired to greatly change setting values such as brightness and color, and there are also scenes where fine adjustment is desired. When shooting alone, the user holds the imaging device with one hand and operates the application on the smartphone with the other hand. In the operation of the application, when the operation parts are displayed at various locations on the screen, it may be difficult to operate with a finger of one hand.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for accelerating scrolling according to the user's input speed. However, when scrolling with one hand, the range of finger movement is limited, making it difficult to accelerate sufficiently. Patent Document 2 discloses a technology for adjusting the playback position by sliding in a circular direction. However, since the speed at which the playback position moves does not change with the sliding operation, whether the user wants to move the playback position a large amount or make a fine adjustment, the user has to adjust the distance of the sliding operation according to the amount of movement of the playback position. For this reason, it can be difficult for the user to accurately adjust the playback position to the desired position.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a control device that enables significant changes or fine adjustments to set values ​​with simple one-handed operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The control device according to the present invention is characterized by having a display control means that displays an operation unit for changing a set value of an electronic device and changes the display size of the operation unit by a predetermined operation, and a changing means that changes the amount of operation to the operation unit for changing the set value by a predetermined amount according to the display size of the operation unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a control device that enables large changes or fine adjustments to set values ​​with simple one-handed operation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the system configuration. [Figure 2] This diagram shows an example of a camera configuration. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration and appearance of a mobile phone. [Figure 4] This figure shows examples of how users use their mobile phones while taking photos. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example screen for a camera control application. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates how to change the display size of the control panel. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the display configuration of the control panel. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates an example of how the shape of the control panel changes. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates a series of operations on the control unit. [Figure 10A] This flowchart illustrates the process of changing settings in response to user actions. [Figure 10B] This flowchart illustrates the process of changing settings in response to user actions. [Figure 10C] This flowchart illustrates the process of changing settings in response to user actions. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] [Embodiment] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] <System Configuration> Figure 1 shows the system configuration. The system according to this embodiment includes a camera 100 as an example of an electronic device and a mobile phone 200 as an example of a control device. The camera 100 and the mobile phone 200 are connected by a network N.

[0012] Network N is, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), but is not limited to this. Network N may also be Bluetooth (registered trademark) or other wireless communication methods. Network N may also be wired communication. Examples of wired communication methods include RS-232C, RS-422A, USB, and Ethernet (registered trademark). Network N may be any communication method that can transmit and receive images and settings of camera 100.

[0013] <Configuration of the Camera> FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the camera 100. The camera 100 can communicate with the mobile phone 200 as a control device, and it may be any electronic device that can be operated by the mobile phone 200. The electronic device is not limited to imaging devices such as video cameras and digital still cameras, and may be a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like. The camera 100 includes a control unit 101, an imaging unit , a nonvolatile memory 103, a working memory 104, an operation member 105, a display unit 106, a recording medium 110, and a connection unit 111.

[0014] The control unit 101 controls each part of the camera 100 according to the input signal and various programs for realizing the functions of the camera 100. Instead of the control unit 101 controlling the entire camera 100, a plurality of hardware may share the processing to control the whole or part of the camera 100.

[0015] The imaging unit 102 converts the subject image (optical image) formed by the lens included in the imaging unit 102 into an electrical signal. The imaging unit 102 performs noise reduction processing and the like on the electrical signal, converts it into digital data, and outputs it as image data. The output image data is stored in the buffer memory. The control unit 101 performs a predetermined arithmetic processing on the image data in the buffer memory and records it on the recording medium 110.

[0016] The nonvolatile memory 103 is an electrically erasable and recordable nonvolatile memory, and stores programs executed by the control unit 101 and the like. The working memory 104 is used as a buffer memory for temporarily holding the image data captured by the imaging unit 102, an image display memory for the display unit 106, and a working area for the control unit 101.

[0017] The operating component 105 is used to receive instructions from the user for the camera 100. The operating component 105 includes, for example, a power button for the user to switch the camera 100 on and off, a shutter release button for receiving shooting operations from the user, and a playback button for instructing playback of image data. The operating component 105 also includes a touch panel formed on the display unit 106.

[0018] The release button has a first shutter switch SW1 and a second shutter switch SW2. The first shutter switch SW1 is turned on during the operation of the release button, so-called half-press (preparation for shooting). When the first shutter switch SW1 is turned on, shooting preparation processes such as AF (autofocus), AE (automatic exposure), AWB (auto white balance), and EF (flash pre-flash) are started. The second shutter switch SW2 is turned on when the operation of the release button is completed, so-called full-press (preparation for shooting). When the second shutter switch SW2 is turned on, a series of shooting processes are started, from generating an image file containing the captured image to writing it to the recording medium 110.

[0019] The display unit 106 displays the live view image during shooting, the captured image, and text information for interactive operation. The display unit 106 does not necessarily have to be built into the camera 100. The camera 100 only needs to have a display control function that connects to an external display unit 106 and controls the display of the connected display unit 106.

[0020] The recording medium 110 can record image data output from the imaging unit 102. The recording medium 110 may be detachable from the camera 100, or it may be built into the camera 100. The camera 100 only needs to have the function of recording data on the recording medium 110 and reading data from the recording medium 110.

[0021] The connection unit 111 is an interface for connecting to an external device. The camera 100 can exchange data with the external device via the connection unit 111. The connection unit 111 includes an interface for communicating with the external device via wireless LAN. The control unit 101 enables wireless communication with the external device by controlling the connection unit 111. Note that the communication method is not limited to wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0022] Furthermore, camera 100 can operate as a slave device in the infrastructure mode of wireless LAN communication. When operating as a slave device, camera 100 can connect to nearby access points (hereinafter referred to as APs) and participate in the network formed by the APs. Camera 100 is a type of AP, but it can also operate as a simpler AP with more limited functionality (hereinafter referred to as a simplified AP). An AP is an example of a relay device. When camera 100 operates as a simplified AP, camera 100 forms its own network. Devices around camera 100 recognize camera 100 as an AP and can participate in the network formed by camera 100. The program for camera 100 to operate as an AP or a simplified AP is stored in non-volatile memory 103.

[0023] Although camera 100 is a type of AP, it does not have a gateway function to forward data received from slave devices to internet providers, etc. Therefore, even if camera 100 itself receives data from other devices participating in the network it has formed, The Mera100 does not transfer received data to the internet or other networks.

[0024] The connection unit 111 is not limited to a wireless communication interface, but may also be a wired communication interface. The connection unit 111 may also be an interface compatible with wired communication methods such as RS-232C, RS-422A, USB, or Ethernet®.

[0025] <Control device configuration> The mobile phone 200 will be described with reference to Figures 3(A) and 3(B). Figure 3(A) is a diagram showing an example configuration of the mobile phone 200. Note that the mobile phone 200 is just one example of a control device, and the control device is not limited to the mobile phone 200. The control device can be any device that can communicate with the camera 100 by wire or wireless connection and can run an application for operating the camera 100. Examples of control devices include digital cameras, media players, tablet devices, personal computers, and smartphones.

[0026] The control unit 201 controls various parts of the mobile phone 200 according to the input signals and various programs that realize the functions of the mobile phone 200. Alternatively, instead of the control unit 201 controlling the entire mobile phone 200, multiple hardware components may share the processing to control the entire or a part of the mobile phone 200.

[0027] The imaging unit 202 converts the subject image (optical image) formed by the lens included in the imaging unit 202 into an electrical signal. The imaging unit 202 performs noise reduction processing on the electrical signal and converts it into digital data to output as image data. The output image data is stored in a buffer memory. The control unit 201 performs predetermined calculations on the image data in the buffer memory and records it on the recording medium 210.

[0028] The non-volatile memory 203 is an electrically erasable and recordable non-volatile memory that stores the operating system (OS), which is the basic software executed by the control unit 201, as well as various programs.

[0029] The non-volatile memory 203 also holds a program for communicating with the camera 100. This program for communicating with the camera 100 is installed on the mobile phone 200 as a camera control application. The mobile phone 200's processing is achieved by the control unit 201 reading and executing the program provided by the camera control application. The camera control application has a program for utilizing the basic functions of the OS installed on the mobile phone 200 (for example, wireless LAN function, Bluetooth® function, function to call other applications, etc.). The camera control application has the function of displaying the live view image received from the camera 100 on the display unit 206 and remotely controlling the camera 100 based on user instructions. The camera control application has the function of performing actions such as taking pictures with the camera 100, viewing image data recorded on the camera 100's recording medium 110, and receiving image data, via remote control from the mobile phone 200.

[0030] Alternatively, the camera control application may be included in the mobile phone 200's operating system, rather than being installed on the mobile phone 200 itself.

[0031] The working memory 204 is used as a buffer memory for temporarily storing image data generated by the imaging unit 202, as well as for the image display memory of the display unit 206 and the working area of ​​the control unit 201.

[0032] The operating member 205 is used to receive instructions from the user for the mobile phone 200. The operating member 205 includes, for example, a power button for the user to switch the mobile phone 200 on and off, and a touch panel formed on the display unit 206.

[0033] The display unit 206 displays image data, text information for interactive operation, etc. Note that the display unit 206 does not necessarily have to be built into the mobile phone 200. The mobile phone 200 only needs to have a display control function that connects to an external display unit 206 and controls the display of the connected display unit 206.

[0034] The recording medium 210 can record image data output from the imaging unit 202 and image data received from the camera 100. The recording medium 210 may be detachable from the mobile phone 200, or it may be built into the mobile phone 200. The mobile phone 200 only needs to have the function of recording data on the recording medium 210 and reading data from the recording medium 210.

[0035] The connection unit 211 is an interface for connecting to an external device. The mobile phone 200 can exchange data with the external device via the connection unit 211. The connection unit 211 includes an interface for communicating with the external device via wireless LAN. The control unit 201 enables wireless communication with the external device by controlling the connection unit 211.

[0036] Furthermore, the mobile phone 200 can operate as a slave device in the infrastructure mode of wireless LAN communication and can participate in the network formed by surrounding access points (APs). Alternatively, the camera 100 may operate as a simple AP, and the mobile phone 200 may participate in the camera 100's simple AP.

[0037] The public network connection unit 212 is an interface used when performing public wireless communication. The mobile phone 200 can make calls and data communications with other devices via the public network connection unit 212. During a call, the control unit 201 inputs and outputs voice signals via the microphone 213 and speaker 214, respectively. The public network connection unit 212 includes an interface for communication using, for example, 3G. However, the public network connection unit 212 may use other communication methods such as LTE, WiMAX, ADSL, FTTH, 4G, and 5G, not just 3G. Furthermore, the connection unit 211 and the public network connection unit 212 do not need to be composed of separate hardware; they can share a single antenna.

[0038] The appearance of the mobile phone 200 will be described with reference to Figure 3(B). Figure 3(B) is an illustrative diagram of the appearance of the mobile phone 200. The power button 205a, home button 205b, and touch panel 205c are examples of operating members 205. When the user presses the home button 205b, the control unit 201 interrupts the running application and displays the home screen on the display unit 206 for selecting another application.

[0039] The home screen of the mobile phone 200 has items corresponding to each application. By pressing (touching) an item, the user can launch an application or call up an application running in the background. For example, item 221 is an item for launching a camera control application that allows the mobile phone 200 to communicate with the camera 100. Item 222 is an item for launching an image display application that allows the user to view images stored on the mobile phone 200. Item 223 is an item for launching an SNS (Social Networking Service) application that communicates with a server to share images, text, etc. with other users.

[0040] The camera control application is provided by the manufacturer of camera 100. The image display application is, for example, an application that is standard on the OS of mobile phone 200 and is pre-installed on mobile phone 200. The SNS application is provided by the developer that provides the SNS.

[0041] When item 221 is pressed (touched) on the home screen, the control unit 201 launches the camera control application and displays the initial screen if the camera control application is not already running. If the camera control application is already running in the background, the control unit 201 brings the screen of the running camera control application back to the foreground.

[0042] In the mobile phone 200, the user can switch between or run applications without going through the home screen by inputting a predetermined instruction to the OS. When the predetermined instruction is input, the application that was running will no longer be displayed on the display unit 206 and will continue to run in the background. The application that the user has instructed to switch to will either be launched anew or switched from background execution to foreground execution.

[0043] In the following description, when the mobile phone 200 is described as the main processing unit, the control unit 201 actually performs various processes by reading and executing a program stored in the non-volatile memory 203. Similarly, when the camera 100 is described as the main processing unit, the control unit 101 actually performs various processes by reading and executing a program stored in the non-volatile memory 103.

[0044] <Explanation of mobile phone usage examples> Figures 4(A) and 4(B) show examples of how a user uses the mobile phone 200 while taking a picture. Figure 4(A) shows user 300 using the mobile phone 200 while taking a picture with camera 100. Camera 100 and mobile phone 200 are connected via network N as shown in Figure 1. Figure 4(B) shows user 300 operating the camera control application on mobile phone 200. Since user 300 is holding camera 100 with one hand, they will be operating mobile phone 200 with one hand. In this case, user 300 will be operating the camera control application with just their thumb.

[0045] <Description of the camera control application screen> Figure 5 shows an example of the screen of the camera control application displayed on the display unit 206 of the mobile phone 200. The camera control application can receive information about the image being captured by the camera 100 and the current settings of the camera 100 through communication with the camera 100, and display this information on the screen of the camera control application.

[0046] Figure 5 shows an example of the operation screen 500 of the camera control application. The camera control application is connected to the camera 100 and receives the image being captured by the camera 100 and information on the camera 100's current settings, and displays them on the screen of the display unit 206.

[0047] Image area 501 is the area that displays the image received from camera 100. Setting item 502 displays the setting item whose setting value is to be changed. Setting value 503 displays the current setting value of setting item 502. The camera control application can send the setting value changed by the user's operation to camera 100. Camera 100 will then receive the changed The setting value of the target setting item is changed to the received modified setting value. The operation unit 504 is an operation item for changing the setting value displayed in setting value 503, and is displayed on the operation screen 500. In the example in Figure 5, the operation unit 504 is shown as a circular wheel, but it may also be in other shapes such as a triangle or a square. In the following description, unless otherwise specifically distinguished from operation units in other display modes, the term operation unit 504 is used to include operation units in various display modes with changed display size, shape, and color.

[0048] Figures 6(A) to 6(D) illustrate how to change the display size of the operation unit 504. The user can change the display size of the operation unit 504 displayed on the operation screen 500 by performing a predetermined operation. The predetermined operation is an operation to change the display size of the operation unit 504, and is, for example, a drag operation between the center and the outer edge of the operation unit 504. The operation units 504 and 604 shown in Figures 6(A) to 6(D) are arranged so that they share a common center coordinate.

[0049] Figure 6(A) shows a drag operation 601 being performed on the operation unit 504. Figure 6(B) shows the operation screen 500 displaying the operation unit 604 that has been reduced in size by the drag operation 601. The drag operation 601 is a drag operation from the outside of the outer circumference of the operation unit 504 toward the center. When the touch position (coordinates of the touch position) is moved within the outer circumference of the reduced operation unit 604 by the drag operation 601, the display size of the operation unit 504 is reduced to the display size of the operation unit 604 in Figure 6(B).

[0050] The operation units 504 and 604 have different operation amounts for changing the set value by a predetermined amount when an operation to change the set value (hereinafter also referred to as a setting change operation) is performed. A setting change operation is, for example, an operation to move the touch position along the outer circumference of the operation units 504 and 604. The outer circumference here may include the inner and outer areas of the operation units 504 and 604.

[0051] Furthermore, the mobile phone 200 is not limited to changing the amount of change applied to the operation unit 504 to change the setting value by a predetermined amount according to the display size of the operation unit 504; it may also change the amount of change in the setting value corresponding to an operation of a predetermined amount applied to the operation unit 504. By changing the amount of change in the setting value corresponding to an operation of a predetermined amount applied to the operation unit 504 according to the display size of the operation unit 504, the user can easily switch between coarse and fine adjustments with one hand.

[0052] The larger the display size of the control unit 504, the larger the amount of operation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount on the control unit 504. Therefore, in Figures 6(A) and 6(B), the amount of operation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount on the control unit 504 is greater than the amount of operation required on the control unit 604. In this case, the user can change the set value by a predetermined amount with a smaller operation amount on the control unit 604 than on the control unit 504, thus enabling rough adjustment of the set value. Furthermore, the user can change the set value by a predetermined amount with a larger operation amount on the control unit 504 than on the control unit 604, thus enabling fine adjustment of the set value.

[0053] The magnitude of the operation amount used to change the set value by a predetermined amount is set in advance according to the display size of the operation units 504 and 604. In other words, the operation amount for operation units 504 and 604 used to change the set value by a predetermined amount is changed according to the display size of the operation units 504 and 604. Figures 6(A) and 6(B) illustrate operation units 504 and 604 with two display sizes, but the display sizes of the operation units are not limited to two and may be three or more.

[0054] Figure 6(C) shows a drag operation 602 being performed on the operation unit 604. Figure 6(D) shows the operation screen 500 displaying the operation unit 504 enlarged by the drag operation 602. The drag operation 602 is a drag operation from the center of the operation unit 604 toward the outer edge. When the touch position (coordinates of the touch position) moves to the outside of the outer edge of the operation unit 604 by the drag operation 602, the display size of the operation unit 604 is enlarged to the display size of the operation unit 504 in Figure 6(D).

[0055] Users can change settings by continuing to touch the screen without lifting their finger during drag operations 601 and 602. Users can also change the setting value of the target setting item by operating in a direction different from drag operation 601 or 602 (along the outer edge of the operation parts 504 and 604).

[0056] In Figure 6(B), when the control unit 604 is at its smallest size, drag operations from the outer edge of the control unit 604 towards the center are not accepted, and the display size of the control unit 604 cannot be reduced any further. Also, in Figure 6(D), when the control unit 504 is at its largest size, drag operations from the center of the control unit 504 towards the outer edge are not accepted, and the display size of the control unit 504 cannot be enlarged. The minimum and maximum sizes of the control unit 504 are pre-set to appropriate sizes according to the size of the operation screen 500.

[0057] Figures 7(A) to 7(E) illustrate the display modes of the operation unit 504. The operation units 701 to 705 shown in Figures 7(A) to 7(E) are different display examples of the operation unit 504.

[0058] Figures 7(A) to 7(C) show examples of changing the color of the control panel 504 according to the display size. When there are multiple display sizes for the control panel 504, it may not be immediately clear to the user whether the display size of the control panel 504 has been enlarged or reduced when transitioning from another screen to the operation screen 500. The display unit 206 displays the control panels 701, 702, and 703 in different colors according to the display size of the control panel 504. This allows the user to easily determine whether the control panel 504 has been enlarged or reduced.

[0059] The control unit 201 can change the amount of manipulation performed on the operation unit 504 to change the set value by a predetermined amount, according to the display size of the operation unit 504, in order to facilitate coarse and fine adjustment of the set value.

[0060] The control unit 201 determines that a click has occurred when the touch position moves by an amount (distance) corresponding to the display size, for example, through a drag or flick operation on the operation unit 504, and changes the set value by a predetermined amount (the amount of change in the set value corresponding to one click). For coarse adjustment, the number of clicks for the same amount of operation (distance moved by the touch position) should be set to be large, and for fine adjustment, the number of clicks for the same amount of operation should be set to be small.

[0061] Figures 7(D) and 7(E) show an example of an operating unit 504 with a scale indicating the amount of manipulation required to change a set value by a predetermined amount. The user can change the set value by a predetermined amount by dragging the touch position one division on the scale. The user can easily understand how much the set value will change by dragging along the scale.

[0062] The interval between scale divisions (width of one division) on the control unit 704 in Figure 7(D) is narrower than the interval between scale divisions on the control unit 705 in Figure 7(E). Therefore, the user can change the setting value by a larger amount with a smaller operation on the control unit 704 than with the control unit 705. This is possible. The interval or number of divisions on the scale is changed based on the manipulated amount to the operation unit 504 for changing the set value by a predetermined amount.

[0063] Figures 8(A) to 8(D) illustrate examples of how the shape of the operating section 504 changes. The operating section 801 in Figure 8(A) deforms into an ellipse with the horizontal direction as its major axis, as shown in the operating section 803 in Figure 8(B). The operating section 804 in Figure 8(C) deforms into an ellipse with the vertical direction as its major axis, as shown in the operating section 806 in Figure 8(D).

[0064] Figure 8(A) shows a user performing a drag operation 802 on the control unit 801. The control unit 801 displays a scale representing the amount of manipulation required to change a set value by a predetermined amount. The drag operation 802 is a lateral drag operation from the center of the control unit 801 outwards. When the drag operation 802 is performed, the control unit 801 is deformed into an ellipse shape with the lateral direction as its major axis, as shown in the control unit 803 in Figure 8(B).

[0065] The amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount varies depending on the position dragged on the control unit 803. That is, the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount differs depending on whether the setting change operation is performed on the part intersecting the major axis of the elliptical control unit 803 or on the part intersecting the minor axis. The user can make coarse adjustments to the set value by dragging horizontally on the upper and lower parts of the control unit 803 (the parts intersecting the minor axis). Furthermore, the user can make fine adjustments to the set value by dragging vertically on the left and right parts of the control unit 803 (the parts intersecting the major axis). The interval between the scales displayed on the parts intersecting the major axis and the minor axis of the control unit 803 differs depending on the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount in each respective part.

[0066] Figure 8(C) shows a user performing a drag operation 805 on the control unit 804. The control unit 804 displays a scale representing the amount of manipulation required to change a set value by a predetermined amount. The drag operation 805 is a vertical drag operation from the center of the control unit 804 outwards. When the drag operation 805 is performed, the control unit 804 deforms into an ellipse shape with the vertical direction as its major axis, as shown in the control unit 806 in Figure 8(D).

[0067] The amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount varies depending on the position dragged on the control unit 806. That is, the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount differs depending on whether the setting change operation is performed on the part intersecting the major axis of the elliptical control unit 806 or on the part intersecting the minor axis. The user can fine-tune the set value by dragging horizontally on the upper and lower parts of the control unit 806 (the parts intersecting the major axis). The user can also coarsely adjust the set value by dragging vertically on the left and right parts of the control unit 806 (the parts intersecting the minor axis). The interval between the scales displayed on the parts intersecting the major axis and the minor axis of the control unit 806 differs depending on the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount in each respective part.

[0068] Figures 9(A) and 9(B) illustrate a series of operations on the control unit. Figure 9(A) shows how to temporarily enlarge the size of the control unit 901a after changing a setting value using the control unit 901a. First, the user changes the setting value by dragging the control unit 901a 902 (setting change operation). Next, the user moves the touch position to the center of the control unit 901a by dragging 903. The setting value is not changed by dragging 903.

[0069] Furthermore, the user moves the touch position from the center of the control unit 901a to the outer edge of the control unit 901a by dragging operation 904. When the touch position moves to the outer edge of the control unit 901a by dragging operation 904, the display size of the control unit 901a is enlarged. The operation unit 901b shows the operation unit 901a with its display size enlarged. The user's finger 906 remains touching the touch panel 205c after the drag operation 904. The user then further changes the setting value by dragging operation 907 (setting change operation) on the operation unit 901b. When the user lifts their finger 906 from the touch panel 205c and the touch position is no longer detected, the control unit 201 returns the display size of the operation unit 901b to its original size and displays the operation unit 901a.

[0070] Figure 9(B) shows a method for temporarily reducing the size of the control unit 901c after changing a setting value using the control unit 901c. First, the user changes the setting value by dragging the control unit 901c 912 (setting change operation). Next, the user moves the touch position to the outside of the outer edge of the control unit 901c by dragging 913. The setting value is not changed by the dragging operation 913.

[0071] Furthermore, the user moves the touch position from outside the outer perimeter of the operation unit 901c towards the center of the operation unit 901c by dragging operation 914. When the touch position moves within the outer perimeter of the operation unit 901d, which is the size of the operation unit 901c when its display size is reduced, the display size of the operation unit 901c is reduced. The operation unit 901d indicates the state in which the display size of the operation unit 901c has been reduced. The user's finger 916 remains in contact with the touch panel 205c after the dragging operation 914. The user then further changes the setting value by dragging operation 917 (setting change operation) on the operation unit 901d. When the user lifts their finger 916 from the touch panel 205c and the touch position is no longer detected, the control unit 201 returns the display size of the operation unit 901b to its original size and displays the operation unit 901c.

[0072] Figures 10A to 10C are flowcharts illustrating the process of changing setting values ​​in response to user operations. The processes shown in Figures 10A to 10C are examples of processes that change setting values ​​in response to user operations on the screen UI of a camera control application executed on a mobile phone 200. In the explanation of Figures 10A to 10C, the term "operation unit 504" is used as a general term for the various types of operation units described in Figures 6, 7(A) to 7(E), 8(A) to 8(D), 9(A), and 9(B).

[0073] In step S1001 of Figure 10A, the control unit 201 detects a drag operation on the touch panel 205c. In step S1002, the control unit 201 determines whether the zoom mode, which changes the display size of the operation unit 504 by a predetermined operation, is on. If the zoom mode is on, the control unit 201 changes the display size of the operation unit 504 by a predetermined operation from the user. The control unit 201 (switching means) can switch the zoom mode on and off by instruction from the user. If the zoom mode is on, the process proceeds to step S1003. If the zoom mode is not on, the process proceeds to step S1032 of Figure 10B. If the zoom mode is off, the control unit 201 (display control means) does not change the display size of the operation unit 504.

[0074] In step S1003, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation detected in step S1001 is a drag operation from the center of the operation unit 504. The control unit 201 only needs to determine whether the starting position of the drag operation is in the center (or near the center) of the operation unit 504. If the drag operation is an operation from the center of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1004. If the drag operation is not an operation from the center of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1020 in Figure 10B.

[0075] In step S1004, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation detected in step S1001 is a drag operation to the outside of the outer circumference of the operation unit 504. To proceed, it is necessary to determine whether the end position of the drag operation is outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504. If the drag operation is an operation outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1005. If the drag operation is not an operation outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1006. Note that if the display size of the operation unit 504 is at its maximum size, it will not be enlarged further, so the process proceeds to step S1006.

[0076] In step S1005, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation detected in step S1001 is a horizontal drag operation. If the drag operation is a horizontal operation, the process proceeds to step S1007. If the drag operation is not a horizontal operation, the process proceeds to step S1011.

[0077] In step S1006, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation has finished. If the drag operation has finished, the process proceeds to step S1038 in Figure 10C. If the drag operation has not finished, the process returns to step S1004.

[0078] In step S1007, the control unit 201 (display control means) deforms the operation unit 504 into a horizontally elongated ellipse with the horizontal direction as the long axis. In step S1008, the control unit 201 (change means) changes the amount of operation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount when operating the upper and lower parts of the operation unit 504 to D1. In step S1009, the control unit 201 (change means) changes the amount of operation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount when operating the left and right parts of the operation unit 504 to D2.

[0079] The manipulated variables D1 and D2 may be set to values ​​greater than or less than the normal manipulated variable D0 used to change the set value by a predetermined amount. For example, by making the manipulated variable D1 in the upper and lower parts of the control unit 504 smaller than the normal manipulated variable D0, the user can roughly adjust the set value by operating the upper and lower parts. By making the manipulated variable D2 in the left and right parts of the control unit 504 larger than the normal manipulated variable D0, the user can finely adjust the set value by operating the left and right parts.

[0080] In step S1010, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation is continuing. If the drag operation is continuing, the process returns to step S1003. If the drag operation is not continuing, the process proceeds to step S1035 in Figure 10C.

[0081] In step S1011, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation detected in step S1001 is a vertical drag operation. If the drag operation is a vertical operation, the process proceeds to step S1012. If the drag operation is not a vertical operation, the process proceeds to step S1015.

[0082] In step S1012, the control unit 201 (display control means) deforms the operation unit 504 into a vertically elongated ellipse with the vertical direction as the major axis. In step S1013, the control unit 201 (change means) changes the amount of operation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount when operating the left and right portions of the operation unit 504 to D1. In step S1014, the control unit 201 (change means) changes the amount of operation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount when operating the upper and lower portions of the operation unit 504 to D2.

[0083] The manipulated variables D1 and D2 may be set to values ​​greater than or less than the normal manipulated variable D0 used to change the set value by a predetermined amount. For example, by making the manipulated variable D1 on the left and right parts of the control unit 504 smaller than the normal manipulated variable D0, the user can roughly adjust the set value by operating on the left and right parts. By making the manipulated variable D2 on the top and bottom parts of the control unit 504 larger than the normal manipulated variable D0, the user can roughly adjust the set value by operating on the top and bottom parts. It can be fine-tuned.

[0084] In step S1015, the control unit 201 (display control means) enlarges the display size of the operation unit 504. In step S1016, the control unit 201 (change means) changes the operation amount for the operation unit 504 to D1 for changing the set value by a predetermined amount. The operation amount D1 may be set to a value larger or smaller than the normal operation amount D0 for changing the set value by a predetermined amount.

[0085] In step S1017, the control unit 201 changes the display color of the operation unit 504 to C1. Color C1 may be set by the user in the settings screen of the camera control application or elsewhere.

[0086] In step S1018, the control unit 201 changes the interval of the scale on the operating unit 504 to W1. The interval of the scale W1 is changed based on the manipulated variable D1. The interval of the scale W1 can be set to a different interval from the normal interval of the scale W0.

[0087] In step S1019, the control unit 201 sets the size change flag, which indicates whether the display size of the operation unit 504 has been changed, to ON. The control unit 201 records the setting of the size change flag in, for example, the working memory 204 of the mobile phone 200.

[0088] In step S1020 of Figure 10B, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation detected in step S1001 is a drag operation from outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504. The control unit 201 only needs to determine whether the starting position of the drag operation is outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504. If the drag operation is an operation from outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1021. If the drag operation is not an operation from outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1028.

[0089] In step S1021, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation detected in step S1001 is a drag operation to the center of the operation unit 504. The control unit 201 only needs to determine whether the end position of the drag operation is within the outer circumference of the operation unit (for example, the operation unit 604 in Figure 6) when the display size of the operation unit 504 is reduced. If the drag operation is an operation to the center of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1022. If the drag operation is not an operation to the center of the operation unit 504, the process proceeds to step S1027.

[0090] In step S1022, the control unit 201 (display control means) reduces the display size of the operation unit 504. In step S1023, the control unit 201 changes the manipulated amount for the operation unit 504 to D2 for changing the set value by a predetermined amount. The manipulated amount D2 may be set to a value larger or smaller than the normal manipulated amount D0 for changing the set value by a predetermined amount.

[0091] In step S1024, the control unit 201 changes the display color of the operation unit 504 to C2. Color C2 may be set by the user in the settings screen of the camera control application or elsewhere.

[0092] In step S1025, the control unit 201 changes the interval of the scale on the operating unit 504 to W2. The interval of the scale W2 is changed based on the manipulated variable D1. The interval of the scale W2 can be set to a different interval from the normal interval of the scale W0.

[0093] In step S1026, the control unit 201 sets the size change flag, which indicates whether the display size of the operation unit 504 has been changed, to ON. The setting is recorded, for example, in the working memory 204 of the mobile phone 200. After step S1026, the process proceeds to step S1010 in Figure 10A.

[0094] In step S1027, the control unit 201 determines whether the drag operation has finished. If the drag operation has finished, the process proceeds to step S1038 in Figure 10C. If the drag operation has not finished, the process returns to step S1021.

[0095] In step S1028, the control unit 201 determines whether the shape of the operating unit 504 is elliptical. If the shape of the operating unit 504 is elliptical, the process proceeds to step S1029. If the shape of the operating unit 504 is not elliptical, the process proceeds to step S1032.

[0096] In step S1029, the control unit 201 determines whether the user has dragged the left or right portion of the operation unit 504. If the left or right portion has been dragged, the process proceeds to step S1030. If the left or right portion has not been dragged (i.e., the top and bottom portion has been dragged), the process proceeds to step S1031.

[0097] In step S1030, the control unit 201 changes the setting value to be changed based on the amount of operation required to change the setting value by a predetermined amount when operating the left and right portions of the operation unit 504, and the amount of movement (distance) of the touch position due to the user's drag operation. After step S1030, the process proceeds to step S1010 in Figure 10A.

[0098] In step S1031, the control unit 201 changes the setting value to be changed based on the amount of operation required to change the setting value by a predetermined amount when operating the upper and lower parts of the operation unit 504, and the amount of movement (distance) of the touch position due to the user's drag operation. After step S1031, the process proceeds to step S1010 in Figure 10A.

[0099] In step S1032, the control unit 201 changes the setting value to be modified based on the display size of the operation unit 504 and the amount of movement (distance) of the touch position due to the user's drag operation. The amount of operation required to change the setting value by a predetermined amount is predetermined according to the display size of the operation unit 504.

[0100] In steps S1030 to S1032, the control unit 201 can decide whether to increase or decrease the set value depending on the direction of the drag operation. For example, the control unit 201 increases the set value if the drag operation is performed clockwise, and decreases the set value if the drag operation is performed counterclockwise.

[0101] In step S1033, the control unit 201 turns on a setting value change flag that indicates whether or not the setting value has been changed by a setting change operation on the operation unit 504. The control unit 201 records the setting of the setting value change flag in, for example, the working memory 204 of the mobile phone 200.

[0102] In step S1034, the control unit 201 stores the display size of the operation unit 504 when the setting value was changed in step S1032. The control unit 201 records the display size in, for example, the working memory 204 of the mobile phone 200. After step S1034, the process proceeds to step S1010 in Figure 10A.

[0103] In step S1035 of Figure 10C, the control unit 201 determines whether the display size of the operation unit 504 when the setting value is updated is stored in the working memory 204 or the like. If the display size is stored, the process proceeds to step S1036. If the display size is not stored, the process proceeds to step S1038.

[0104] In step S1036, the control unit 201 determines whether the resize flag is on or off. If the resize flag is on, the control unit 201 sets the resize flag off and proceeds to step S1037. If the resize flag is not on, the control unit 201 erases the display size of the operation unit 504 stored in the working memory 204 and proceeds to step S1038.

[0105] In step S1037, the control unit 201 changes the display size of the operation unit 504 to the display size stored in the working memory 204. The control unit 201 then erases the stored display size of the operation unit 504 and proceeds to step S1038.

[0106] In step S1038, the control unit 201 detects a flick operation on the touch panel 205c. In step S1039, the control unit 201 determines whether the starting position of the flick operation detected in step S1038 is located in the center (or near the center) of the operation unit 504. If the starting position of the flick operation is in the center, the process proceeds to step S1040. If the starting position of the flick operation is not in the center, the process proceeds to step S1042.

[0107] In step S1040, the control unit 201 determines whether the end position of the flick operation detected in step S1038 is outside the outer perimeter of the operation unit 504. If the end position of the flick operation is outside the outer perimeter, the control unit 201 terminates the setting change process shown in Figures 10A to 10C without changing the display size of the operation unit 504 or the setting value. In other words, if the control unit 201 detects a flick operation from the center of the operation unit 504 toward the outer perimeter, it does not change the display size of the operation unit 504. If the end position of the flick operation is not outside the outer perimeter, the process proceeds to step S1041.

[0108] In step S1041, the control unit 201 changes the setting value to be changed based on the amount of operation performed on the operation unit 504 to change the setting value by a predetermined amount, and the direction and amount of movement of the flick operation. The amount of operation performed on the operation unit 504 to change the setting value by a predetermined amount is preset according to the display size of the operation unit 504.

[0109] In step S1042, the control unit 201 determines whether the starting position of the flick operation detected in step S1038 is outside the outer circumference of the operation unit 504. If the starting position of the flick operation is outside the outer circumference, the process proceeds to step S1043. If the starting position of the flick operation is not outside the outer circumference, the process proceeds to step S1044.

[0110] In step S1043, the control unit 201 determines whether the end position of the flick operation detected in step S1038 is located in the center of the operation unit 504. If the end position of the flick operation is in the center, the control unit 201 terminates the setting change process shown in Figures 10A to 10C without changing the display size of the operation unit 504 or the setting value. In other words, the control unit 201 does not change the display size of the operation unit 504 if a flick operation is detected from the outer edge of the operation unit 504 toward the center. If the end position of the flick operation is not in the center, the process proceeds to step S1044.

[0111] In step S1044, the control unit 201 changes the setting value to be changed based on the amount of operation performed on the operation unit 504 to change the setting value by a predetermined amount, and the direction and amount of movement of the flick operation. The amount of operation performed on the operation unit 504 to change the setting value by a predetermined amount is preset according to the display size of the operation unit 504.

[0112] According to the above embodiment, the mobile phone 200 changes the display size of the operation unit 504 by operation with one hand by the user, and changes the set value by a predetermined amount according to the display size. The amount of control applied to the control unit 504 can be changed. Therefore, the user can easily change or fine-tune the set value with a simple one-handed operation.

[0113] Furthermore, the mobile phone 200 changes the shape of the control unit 504 to an oval shape through one-handed operation by the user, and changes the amount of operation required to change the setting value by a predetermined amount depending on the position (up or down or left or right) where the setting change operation is performed. Therefore, the user can make large changes or fine adjustments to the setting value by changing the position where the setting change operation is performed, without changing the display size of the control unit 504.

[0114] The present invention also includes cases in which a system or device having a computer capable of executing programs receives a software program that realizes the functions of the above embodiments directly from a recording medium or by wired / wireless communication, and executes the received program. Therefore, program code supplied to and installed on a computer to realize the functional processing of the above embodiments can realize the present invention. In other words, the present invention also includes the computer program itself for realizing the functional processing of the above embodiments. The form of the program only needs to have the functions of a program, and may be object code, a program executed by an interpreter, script data supplied to an OS, etc.

[0115] The recording medium for supplying the program is, for example, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium such as magnetic tape, an optical / magneto-optical storage medium, or a non-volatile semiconductor memory. As a method of supplying the program, for example, a client computer can connect to a server on a computer network and download a computer program that realizes the functional processing of the above embodiment stored on the server. The client computer can realize the present invention by executing the downloaded program.

[0116] The various controls described above may or may not be performed by a single piece of hardware (e.g., a processor or circuit). Multiple pieces of hardware (e.g., multiple processors, multiple circuits, or a combination of one or more processors and one or more circuits) may share the processing to control the entire device.

[0117] Furthermore, the above-mentioned processors are processors in a broad sense, including general-purpose processors and specialized processors. General-purpose processors include, for example, CPUs (Central Processing Units), MPUs (Micro Processing Units), and DSPs (Digital Signal Processors). Specialized processors include, for example, GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), and PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices). Programmable logic devices include, for example, FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) and CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices).

[0118] Furthermore, although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various forms that do not depart from the spirit of the invention are also included in the present invention. Moreover, each of the embodiments described above is merely one embodiment of the present invention, and it is possible to combine each embodiment as appropriate.

[0119] <Other Embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. This can also be achieved by circuits that perform one or more functions.

[0120] This embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, programs, and media. (Composition 1) A display control means that displays an operation section for changing the settings of an electronic device, and changes the display size of the operation section by a predetermined operation, A changing means for changing the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the set value by a predetermined amount according to the display size of the operation unit. A control device characterized by having the following features. (Configuration 2) The shape of the operating part is circular or elliptical. The control device according to configuration 1, characterized by the above. (Composition 3) The predetermined operation is a drag operation between the center and the outer edge of the operating part. A control device according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized by the above. (Composition 4) The display control means enlarges the display size of the operation unit when, during a drag operation from the center of the operation unit toward the outer edge, the touch position moves to the outer edge of the operation unit. The control device according to configuration 3, characterized by the above. (Composition 5) The display control means reduces the display size of the operation unit when, during a drag operation from the outer edge of the operation unit toward the center, the touch position moves within the outer edge of the operation unit where the display size is reduced. The control device according to configuration 3 or 4, characterized by the above. (Composition 6) The operation to change the aforementioned setting value is an operation to move the touch position along the outer circumference of the operation unit. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized by the above. (Composition 7) The display control means displays a scale on the operation unit that represents the amount of operation on the operation unit for changing the set value by a predetermined amount. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized by the above. (Composition 8) The display control means changes the interval of the scale or the number of scales based on the amount of operation on the operation unit for changing the set value by a predetermined amount. The control device according to configuration 7, characterized by the features described above. (Composition 9) The control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that the display control means changes the color of the operation unit according to the display size of the operation unit. (Composition 10) The display control means deforms the operating section into an ellipse shape with the lateral direction as its major axis when a lateral drag operation is performed from the center of the operating section outwards to the outer circumference. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized by the above. (Composition 11) The amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount differs depending on whether the operation to change the set value is performed on the portion intersecting the major axis of the ellipse or on the portion intersecting the minor axis of the ellipse. The control device according to configuration 10, characterized by the above. (Composition 12) The interval between the scale markings displayed at the point where the major axis of the ellipse intersects with the minor axis of the ellipse differs in each section according to the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount. The control device according to configuration 11, characterized by the above. (Composition 13) The display control means deforms the operating section into an ellipse shape with the vertical direction as its major axis when a drag operation is performed vertically from the center of the operating section. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized by the above. (Composition 14) The amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount differs depending on whether the operation to change the set value is performed on the portion intersecting the major axis of the ellipse or on the portion intersecting the minor axis of the ellipse. The control device according to configuration 13, characterized by the above. (Composition 15) The interval between the scale markings displayed at the point where the major axis of the ellipse intersects with the minor axis of the ellipse differs in each section according to the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount. The control device according to configuration 14, characterized by the above. (Composition 16) If a flick operation is detected from the center of the operation unit toward the outer edge, the display control means will not change the display size of the operation unit. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 15, characterized by the above. (Composition 17) If a flick operation is detected from the outer edge of the operating section toward the center, the display control means will not change the display size of the operating section. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 16, characterized by the above. (Composition 18) The display control means is After the setting value is changed by the operation to change the setting value, if the touch position moves to the center of the operation unit, and then further moves from the center of the operation unit to the outer edge of the operation unit, the display size of the operation unit is enlarged. If the setting value is further changed by the subsequent operation to change the setting value, and the touch position is no longer detected, the display size of the operation unit will be returned to its original size. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 17, characterized by the above. (Composition 19) The display control means is After the setting value is changed by the operation to change the setting value, if the touch position moves outside the outer circumference of the operation unit, and then moves from outside the outer circumference of the operation unit to inside the outer circumference of the operation unit when the display size is reduced, the display size of the operation unit is reduced. If the setting value is further changed by the subsequent operation to modify the setting value, and the touch position is no longer detected, the display size of the operation unit will be returned to its original size. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 18, characterized by the above. (Composition 20) The system further includes a switching means for switching on and off the zoom mode for changing the display size of the operation unit by the predetermined operation, The display control means does not change the display size of the operation unit when the scaling mode is off. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 19, characterized by the above. (Composition 21) The aforementioned modification means increases the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the set value by a predetermined amount, as the display size of the operation unit increases. A control device according to any one of configurations 1 to 20, characterized by the above. (method) The steps include displaying an operation panel for changing the settings of an electronic device, and changing the display size of the operation panel by a predetermined operation, A step of changing the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the set value by a predetermined amount, according to the display size of the operation unit. A control method characterized by having the following features. (program) A program for causing a computer to function as one of the control devices described in any of configurations 1 to 21. (medium) A computer-readable storage medium containing a program for causing the computer to function as one of the control devices described in configurations 1 to 21. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 200: Mobile phone (control unit), 201: Control unit

Claims

1. A display control means that displays an operation section for changing the settings of an electronic device, and changes the display size of the operation section by a predetermined operation, A changing means for changing the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the set value by a predetermined amount according to the display size of the operation unit. A control device characterized by having the following features.

2. The shape of the operating part is circular or elliptical. The control device according to feature 1.

3. The predetermined operation is a drag operation between the center and the outer edge of the operating part. The control device according to feature 1.

4. The display control means enlarges the display size of the operation unit when, during a drag operation from the center of the operation unit toward the outer edge, the touch position moves to the outer edge of the operation unit. The control device according to claim 3.

5. The display control means reduces the display size of the operation unit when, during a drag operation from the outer edge of the operation unit toward the center, the touch position moves within the outer edge of the operation unit where the display size is reduced. The control device according to claim 3.

6. The operation to change the aforementioned setting value is an operation to move the touch position along the outer circumference of the operation unit. The control device according to feature 1.

7. The display control means displays a scale on the operation unit that represents the amount of operation on the operation unit for changing the set value by a predetermined amount. The control device according to feature 1.

8. The display control means changes the interval of the scale or the number of scales based on the amount of operation on the operation unit for changing the set value by a predetermined amount. The control device according to feature 7.

9. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means changes the color of the operation unit according to the display size of the operation unit.

10. The display control means deforms the operating section into an ellipse shape with the lateral direction as its major axis when a lateral drag operation is performed from the center of the operating section outwards to the outer circumference. The control device according to feature 1.

11. The amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount differs depending on whether the operation to change the set value is performed on the portion intersecting the major axis of the ellipse or on the portion intersecting the minor axis of the ellipse. The control device according to claim 10.

12. The interval between the scales displayed at the point where the major axis of the ellipse intersects with the minor axis of the ellipse is the operating amount for changing the set value by the predetermined amount in each respective part. It varies depending on the circumstances. The control device according to feature 11.

13. The display control means deforms the operating section into an ellipse shape with the vertical direction as its major axis when a drag operation is performed vertically from the center of the operating section. The control device according to feature 1.

14. The amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount differs depending on whether the operation to change the set value is performed on the portion intersecting the major axis of the ellipse or on the portion intersecting the minor axis of the ellipse. The control device according to claim 13.

15. The interval between the scale markings displayed at the point where the major axis of the ellipse intersects with the minor axis of the ellipse differs in each section according to the amount of manipulation required to change the set value by a predetermined amount. The control device according to feature 14.

16. If a flick operation is detected from the center of the operation unit toward the outer edge, the display control means will not change the display size of the operation unit. The control device according to feature 1.

17. If a flick operation is detected from the outer edge of the operating section toward the center, the display control means will not change the display size of the operating section. The control device according to feature 1.

18. The display control means is After the setting value is changed by the operation to change the setting value, if the touch position moves to the center of the operation unit, and then further moves from the center of the operation unit to the outer edge of the operation unit, the display size of the operation unit is enlarged. If the setting value is further changed by the subsequent operation to change the setting value, and the touch position is no longer detected, the display size of the operation unit will be returned to its original size. The control device according to feature 1.

19. The display control means is After the setting value is changed by the operation to change the setting value, if the touch position moves outside the outer circumference of the operation unit, and then moves from outside the outer circumference of the operation unit to inside the outer circumference of the operation unit when the display size is reduced, the display size of the operation unit is reduced. If the setting value is further changed by the subsequent operation to modify the setting value, and the touch position is no longer detected, the display size of the operation unit will be returned to its original size. The control device according to feature 1.

20. The system further includes a switching means for switching on and off the zoom mode for changing the display size of the operation unit by the predetermined operation, The display control means does not change the display size of the operation unit when the scaling mode is off. The control device according to feature 1.

21. The aforementioned modification means increases the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the set value by a predetermined amount, as the display size of the operation unit increases. The control device according to feature 1.

22. The steps include displaying an operation panel for changing the settings of an electronic device, and changing the display size of the operation panel by a predetermined operation, A step of changing the amount of operation on the operation unit to change the set value by a predetermined amount, according to the display size of the operation unit. A control method characterized by having the following features.

23. A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of the control device described in any one of claims 1 to 21.

24. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing the computer to function as one of the means of the control device described in any one of claims 1 to 21.

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