Remote control device

Abstract

The present invention aims to provide a remote control device that can improve operability. [Solution] The remote controller 1A includes a display unit 12 that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location. The display unit 12 displays a plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16, each having at least one of a plurality of icons that individually represent a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated, and the plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 are displayed on the display unit 12 in groups separated by a predetermined relationship.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a remote control device used for operating an electric device.

Background Art

[0002] As the functions of an air conditioner, which is an example of an electric device, become more multifunctional and the operations become more complicated, operation technologies using smartphones and voices have become widespread. On the other hand, there is still a demand for a dedicated remote control device (remote controller) for easily operating an air conditioner. In the remote controller, due to the need to display various functions on a limited screen size, a form of information display using scrolling and a hierarchical structure on a screen using a full dot type display device has become common.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in which, in an air conditioner capable of transmitting and receiving air conditioner information by two-way communication between a remote control and an indoor unit main body, information requested from the remote control can be scrolled and displayed on the screen of the remote control. Patent Document 2 discloses a technology in which a control unit provided in a remote control unit stores a plurality of display formats of screens to be displayed on a display unit, and when a first predetermined input is received, items for selecting a menu are displayed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the scrolling information display method disclosed in Patent Document 1 and the information display method disclosed in Patent Document 2, which allows selection from multiple display formats, it is difficult for the user of the remote controller to grasp all of the stored information. Thus, both Patent Documents 1 and 2 can only display a portion of the information stored for the user, making it difficult for the user to grasp all of the information, which leads to a problem of reduced operability of the remote controller.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a remote control device that can improve operability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, a remote control device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a display unit that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location, the display unit displays a plurality of functional image groups, each having at least one of a plurality of functional images that individually show a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be controlled as a part of the image, and the plurality of functional image groups are displayed on the display unit in groups separated by a predetermined relationship. It is characterized by the following:

[0008] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objective, a remote control device according to another aspect of the present invention comprises a display unit that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location, a main body having one surface on which the display unit is arranged, and an explanatory unit arranged on the back surface opposite to the one surface, wherein the display unit displays a plurality of function images that are part of the image and individually show a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated, and the explanatory unit has a pattern having the same shape as the plurality of function images and characters that explain the functions shown by the plurality of function images. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to each aspect of the present invention, operability can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of a remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the display mode of a display unit provided in a remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure schematically shows the external appearance of an air conditioner that is the target of a remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and an example of an equipment display unit provided on the air conditioner. [Figure 4] This figure shows a portion of the icons displayed on the display unit of a remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure (1) shows an example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is Figure (3) showing an example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is Figure (4) showing an example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure (1) shows another example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure (part 2) shows another example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is Figure (3) showing another example of screen transitions of the display unit based on the operation of the remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of a remote control device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of a remote control device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of screen transition of a display unit based on the operation of a remote control device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of screen transition of a display unit based on the operation of a remote control device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of a remote control device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Each embodiment of the present invention exemplifies an apparatus and method for embodying the technical idea of the present invention. The technical idea of the present invention does not specify the material, shape, structure, arrangement, etc. of the components as follows. The technical idea of the present invention can be variously modified within the technical scope defined by the claims described in the claims.

[0012] 〔First Embodiment〕 The remote control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11. The schematic configuration of the remote control device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, and the operation of the remote control device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 11.

[0013] 1-1. Configuration of the remote control device: FIG. 1 is an external view showing an example of the schematic configuration of a remote controller 1A (an example of a remote control device) according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the display state of a display unit 12 provided in the remote controller 1A according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a device display unit 21 provided in an air conditioner 2 which is an operation target of the remote controller 1A according to the present embodiment at the initial stage. The air conditioner 2 is shown on the upper side in FIG. 3, and the device display unit 21 is shown enlarged on the lower side in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a partial enlargement of the icon groups 13, 14, 16 displayed on the display unit 12.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the remote controller (an example of a remote control device) 1A according to this embodiment is a dedicated device for operating electrical equipment (not shown in Figure 1). The remote controller 1A comprises a main unit 11, a display unit 12, a group of icons (an example of a group of functional images) 13, 14, 15, 16, and an operation unit 17A.

[0015] The main body 11 has, for example, a thin, rectangular parallelepiped shape. The main body 11 has a surface 111 (an example of one surface) on which the display unit 12 is arranged. An operating unit 17A is also arranged on the surface 111. The display unit 12 and the operating unit 17A are arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction of the main body 11. At the short side end of the main body 11 on the display unit 12 side, a transmitter (not shown) that emits a signal (for example, infrared) to be transmitted to electrical equipment is arranged with its signal output section exposed. (For example, an infrared light-emitting diode (LED) is arranged with its signal output section exposed.)

[0016] The display unit 12 is positioned on the main unit 11 with its display areas 121 and 122 exposed. The display unit 12 displays images indicating pre-set information in pre-assigned locations. The display unit 12 is, for example, a segment-type liquid crystal display device. Display areas 121 and 122 are a continuous display area. Display area 121, for example, occupies about 3 / 4 of the entire screen of the display unit 12, and display area 122, for example, occupies the remaining area (about 1 / 4) of the entire screen. Display area 121 mainly displays information related to the operation of electrical equipment, and display area 122 mainly displays information related to the date and time.

[0017] The display unit 12 switches between displaying, for example, multiple icon groups (an example of a group of functional images) 13, 14, 15, 16 (details will be described later) or current operating information of electrical equipment (not shown in Figure 1) in the display area 121. The display unit 12 also displays, for example, the current time and day of the week in the display area 122. The icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16, operating information of electrical equipment, current time and day of the week are displayed in pre-assigned locations in the display areas 121 and 122.

[0018] The control unit 17A includes a power button 171, a menu button 172, a directional key button 173, an OK button 174, and a return button 175. Each button on the control unit 17A is not displayed on a screen like a touch panel, but is formed by a physical structure, such as a mechanical switch button. The control unit 17A is operated by the user of the remote controller 1A when setting the operation of electrical equipment or setting the time.

[0019] The power button 171 is a switch button that is pressed to turn the remote controller 1A on or off. The menu button 172 is a switch button that is operated (for example, pressed) when displaying multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 on the display unit 12, and corresponds to an example of the first operation unit. The directional key buttons 173 are switch buttons that are pressed when provisionally selecting one of the multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 displayed on the display unit 12, provisionally selecting one of multiple icons included in the provisionally selected icon group, or setting the date and time. "Provisional selection" refers to a state in the operation process of setting a predetermined function on the air conditioner 2 where the selection of the selected object (for example, the icon group) has not yet been finalized. The operation process of setting a predetermined function on the air conditioner 2 will be described later.

[0020] The directional key buttons 173 have an upper scroll section 173a, a lower scroll section 173b, a left scroll section 173c, and a right scroll section 173d. The upper scroll section 173a is pressed when temporarily selecting an item (e.g., an icon) displayed above the currently temporarily selected item (e.g., an icon) on the display unit 12, or when increasing the set temperature. The lower scroll section 173b is pressed when temporarily selecting an item (e.g., an icon) displayed below the currently temporarily selected item (e.g., an icon) on the display unit 12, or when decreasing the set temperature. The left scroll section 173c is pressed when temporarily selecting an item (e.g., an icon) displayed to the left of the currently temporarily selected item (e.g., an icon) on the display unit 12. The right scroll section 173d is pressed when temporarily selecting an item (e.g., an icon) displayed to the right of the currently temporarily selected item (e.g., an icon) on the display unit 12. The directional key buttons 173 have annular shapes arranged around the confirm button 174. The upper scroll section 173a is located above the confirm button 174, the lower scroll section 173b is located below the confirm button 174, the left scroll section 173c is located to the left of the confirm button 174, and the right scroll section 173d is located to the right of the confirm button 174.

[0021] The confirm button 174 is a switch button that is pressed to confirm the state that was tentatively selected by the directional key button 173. The return button 175 is a switch button that is pressed, for example, to return the display state of the display unit 12 to the previous display state.

[0022] The icons (an example of a functional image) and icon groups (an example of a functional image group) displayed on the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A will be explained using Figures 2 to 4 with reference to Figure 1.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the remote controller 1A is equipped with a plurality of icon groups (an example of a functional image group) 13, 14, 15, 16. As described above, the icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 are displayed on the display unit 12 (more specifically, the display area 121). The icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 are part of an image showing pre-set information and each has at least one of a plurality of icons 131a, 131b, 131c, 132, 141a, 141b, 141c, 142, 151a, 151b, 151c, 151d, 162c, 162b, 162c (an example of a functional image), which individually represent a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated (in this embodiment, an air conditioner; details will be described later), and are displayed on the display unit 12 in groups separated by predetermined relationships.

[0024] The predetermined relationships in icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are, for example, the functional characteristics of electrical equipment. In this embodiment, the electrical equipment is, for example, an air conditioner 2 (not shown in Figure 2, see Figure 3). Therefore, icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are groups of icons that are classified and grouped according to differences in the functional characteristics and operational behavior of the air conditioner 2.

[0025] Icon group 13 includes icons 131a, 131b, 131c, and 132 (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "icons 131a to 132"). Icon 131a has the function name "Powerful" and its function summary indicates "High power for quick heating and cooling." Icon 131b has the function name "Electric Air Purification" and its function summary indicates "Purifies the air with plasma." Icon 131c has the function name "Heat Sterilization" and its function summary indicates "Sterilizes the inside of the indoor unit 20 of the air conditioner 2 with heated moisture." Icon 132 has the function name "Economy" and its function summary indicates "Reduces operation to save energy." In this way, icon group 13 is grouped according to the characteristic of applied function A of the air conditioner 2. Application function A is a function that makes use of the air conditioner 2, such as an energy-saving function or a special operating mode. For example, it is a function that does not allow the user to select a mode or stage after setting the air conditioner 2 to an ON or OFF state.

[0026] Icon group 14 has icons 141a, 141b, 141c, and 142 (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "icons 141a to 142"). Icon 141a has the function name "Outdoor Unit Low Noise" and the function summary indicates that it "reduces the noise of the outdoor unit." Icon 141b has the function name "Absence Eco" and the function summary indicates that it "detects the absence of people and operates in an energy-saving manner." Icon 141c has the function name "Artificial Intelligence (AI)" and the function summary indicates that it "starts operation using AI." Icon 142 has the function name "10°C Heating" and the function summary indicates that it "maintains the indoor temperature so that it does not fall below 10°C." In this way, icon group 14 is grouped by the characteristic of being application function B of air conditioner 2. Application function B includes functions for utilizing the air conditioner 2, such as energy-saving functions and special operating modes. For example, it allows users to select modes and settings after setting the air conditioner 2. In this way, icon group 13 and icon group 14 are distinguished by differences in their operation behavior.

[0027] Icon group 15 includes icons 151a, 151b, 151c, and 151d (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "icons 151a to 151d"). Icon 151a indicates that the function name is "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" and the function description is "Connect the air conditioner 2 to the communication network." Icon 151b indicates that the function name is "Backlight" and the function description is "Reduce the brightness of the screen (i.e., display areas 121, 122) of the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A." Icon 151c indicates that the function name is "LED Dimming" and the function description is "Reduce the brightness of the LED display on the device display unit 21 (not shown in Figure 2, details will be described later) provided on the air conditioner 2." Icon 151d indicates that the function name is "Voice Guidance" and the function description is "Read aloud the operating status of the air conditioner 2." In this way, the icon group 15 is grouped according to the characteristics of device settings for the remote controller 1A and the air conditioner 2. The device settings function allows you to change settings for the remote controller 1A and the air conditioner 2 itself, such as WLAN settings or LED dimming.

[0028] Icon group 16 includes icons 162a, 162b, and 162c (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as icons 162a to 162c). Icon 162a has the function name "Sleep Timer" and its function summary indicates that it "turns the air conditioner 2 on and off after a set time has elapsed." Icon 162b has the function name "On / Off Timer" and its function summary indicates that it "turns the air conditioner 2 on and off at a set time." Icon 163c has the function name "Weekly Timer" and its function summary indicates that it "turns the air conditioner 2 on and off on a daily basis." In this way, icon group 16 is grouped by its characteristic of being a timer function related to the operation of the air conditioner 2.

[0029] As will be explained in more detail later, icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are units that are provisionally selected in response to the pressing of the directional key buttons 173 on the control unit 17A (see Figure 1). Therefore, when icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are displayed on the display unit 12, the remote controller 1A can allow the user to reach the desired function of the air conditioner 2 more quickly and easily than when the provisional selection units are icons 131a~132, 141a~142, 151a~151d, and 162a~162c.

[0030] Multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are subjected to a classification process that distinguishes them from one another. As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, each of the multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 has a classification image 133, 143, 153, and 163 that is arranged around its own icons and has the shape of a separator. Specifically, icon group 13 has a classification image 133 that is arranged around its own icons 131a, 131b, 131c, and 132 and has the shape of a separator. Icon group 14 has a classification image 143 that is arranged around its own icons 141a, 141b, 141c, and 142 and has the shape of a separator. Icon group 15 has a classification image 153 that is arranged around its own icons 151a, 151b, 151c, and 151d and has the shape of a separator. Icon group 16 has a division image 163 that has the shape of a separator and is arranged with its own icons 162a, 162b, and 162c in between. Remote controller 1A performs a division process that separates icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 from each other by arranging division images 133, 143, 153, and 163. Remote controller 1A can visually indicate the boundaries of the functional classifications of the air conditioner 2 using visually recognizable graphic representations such as division images 133, 143, 153, and 163.

[0031] In this embodiment, the delimiter has the shape of a tortoise shell bracket, for example, but it may also be a square bracket, hook bracket, corner bracket, round bracket, angle bracket, or curly bracket. Preferably, the delimiter is a tortoise shell bracket, square bracket, hook bracket, or corner bracket that does not have an outward convex shape. The horizontal direction of the display unit 12 is defined as the left-right direction and the vertical direction of the display unit 12 is defined as the up-down direction when the image displayed on the display unit 12 (for example, icon group 13, 14, 15, 16, etc.) is viewed in its normal state without inverting its orientation. With tortoise shell brackets, square brackets, hook brackets, and corner brackets, the area required in the left-right direction is small, so the remote controller 1A can display more information in the limited display area 121 of the display unit 12.

[0032] The segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163, which have the shape of a separator, may be arranged so as to sandwich icons 131a~132, 141a~142, 151a~151d, and 162a~162c from above and below. As shown in Figure 2, when icons 131a~132, 141a~142, 151a~151d, and 162a~162c are arranged, the segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163 may be arranged so as to sandwich icons 131a~132 and 141a~142 from above and below. Furthermore, assume that icons 131a-132 and 141a-142 are arranged in 2 rows and 2 columns, as shown in icons 151a-151d, and that icons 131a-132, 141a-142, and 151a-151d are arranged above icons 162a-162c in that order from left to right. In this state, segmented images 133, 143, and 153 may be positioned to sandwich icons 131a-132, 141a-142, and 151a-151d from above and below. In this case, segmented image 163 may be positioned to sandwich icons 162a-162c from above and below, or to sandwich them from left to right, as shown in Figure 2.

[0033] Thus, the segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163 are arranged to sandwich the icons 131a-132, 141a-142, 151a-151d, and 162a-162c from above and below, and even if they have the shape of a separator, they may have shapes other than, for example, tortoise shell brackets, square brackets, corner brackets, round brackets, angle brackets, or curly brackets. In this case as well, it is preferable that the separator is a tortoise shell bracket, square bracket, square bracket, or corner bracket that does not have an outward convex shape. With tortoise shell brackets, square brackets, square brackets, and corner brackets, the area required in the vertical direction is small, so the remote controller 1A can display more information in the limited display area 121 of the display unit 12.

[0034] Furthermore, in this embodiment, division images 133, 143, 153, and 163 having the shape of a separator symbol are used for division processing, but images having the shape of an underline, images having a frame shape surrounding the icons included in the icon group, or graphic representations that invert the illumination state of adjacent icon groups may also be used. A graphic representation that inverts the illumination state is, for example, one in adjacent icon groups 13 and 14 where the area around icon group 13 is white and icons 131a, 131b, 131c, and 132 are displayed in black, and the area around icon group 14 is black and icons 141a, 141b, 141c, and 142 are displayed in white.

[0035] In this way, the remote controller 1A allows the user of the remote controller 1A to visually identify the icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 through the arrangement of the segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163, as well as through segmentation processing using other representations. Furthermore, delimiters such as the segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163 are used to indicate that predetermined items are grouped together. Moreover, delimiters such as the segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163 can be displayed in narrow areas between the predetermined items that are grouped together. As a result, the remote controller 1A allows the user to easily and visually distinguish and recognize the icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 within a limited narrow area such as the display area 121 of the display unit 12. Furthermore, the remote controller 1A can display information using many icons 131a~132, 141a~142, 151a~151d, and 162a~162c within a limited narrow area such as the display area 121.

[0036] As described above, in this embodiment, the electrical equipment to be operated by the remote controller 1A is the air conditioner 2. As shown in Figure 3, the air conditioner 2 is provided with an equipment display unit 21 having a plurality of icons 211a, 211b, 211c, 212a, 212b (an example of an image of the function being performed) that indicate the function being performed by the air conditioner 2. Specifically, the indoor unit 20 provided in the air conditioner 2 has an equipment display unit 21. On the back side of each of the icons 211a, 211b, 211c, 212a, 212b (i.e., inside the indoor unit 20), for example, an LED is provided. When each of these LEDs lights up independently, the icons 211a, 211b, 211c, 212a, 212b placed in front of the lit LEDs are displayed independently.

[0037] Multiple icons 211a, 211b, 211c, 212a, and 212b include function-combined icons (an example of a function-combined image) that indicate at least two of the multiple functions that the air conditioner 2 can perform. In this embodiment, icons 212a and 212b correspond to examples of function-combined icons. Icon 212a relates to the timer function of the air conditioner 2 and indicates three functions: "sleep timer," "on / off timer," and "weekly timer," as indicated by icons 162a, 162b, and 162c (see Figure 2). If icon 212a is lit, for example, it indicates that the air conditioner 2 is operating in a state where it is performing one of the "sleep timer," "on / off timer," or "weekly timer."

[0038] Icon 212b represents two functions related to the application functions of the air conditioner 2: "Economy" and "10°C Heating," as indicated by icons 132 and 142 (see Figure 2), respectively. When icon 212b is lit, for example, it indicates that the air conditioner 2 is operating in either the "Economy" or "10°C Heating" mode.

[0039] The device display unit 21 also displays icons 211a, 211b, and 211c, each representing a function. Icon 211a indicates a function not displayed on the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A (see Figure 1), and its function name is "Signal Reception," indicating that it is operating in a state where it has received a signal from the remote controller. Icon 211b has the same shape as icon 151a displayed on the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A, and indicates that it is operating in a state where it has performed a function named "WLAN." Icon 211c has the same shape as icon 131b displayed on the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A, and indicates that it is operating in a state where it has performed a function named "Electric Air Purification."

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, the group of icons 13, 14, 15, 16 (see Figure 2) as a whole has multiple function-related icons (an example of a function-related image) as icons 132, 142, 162a to 162c, which represent the relationship between some of the multiple icons 131a to 132, 141a to 142, 151a to 151d, 162a to 162c (see Figure 2) and icons 212a and 212b (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, icons 132 and 142 correspond to the function-related icons corresponding to icon 212b, and icons 162a to 162c correspond to the function-related icons corresponding to icon 212a.

[0041] Icon group 16, on its own, has icons 162a to 162c that correspond to function-related icons associated with icon 212a. On the other hand, icon groups 13 and 14, when combined, have icons 132 and 142 that correspond to function-related icons associated with icon 212b. Thus, there are two patterns for multiple function-related icons: they may be provided across multiple icon groups, or they may be provided in a single icon group. Therefore, each of all function-related icons is included in one of all icon groups, whether it is in one of these patterns or both.

[0042] Icon 132, a function-related icon, has a common image (an example of an image) 132-1 that has the same shape as icon 212b, and a function-specific image 132-2 that shows one of the functions shared by icon 212b. Icon 142, a function-related icon, has a common image (an example of an image) 142-1 that has the same shape as icon 212b, and a function-specific image 142-2 that shows one of the functions shared by icon 212b. Multiple icons 132, 142 each have different function-specific images 132-2, 142-2. In this way, icons 132, 142 have a relationship with icon 212b by partially having common images 132-1, 142-1 that have the same shape as icon 212b. Furthermore, icons 132 and 142, by partially containing individual function images 132-2 and 142-2 having different shapes from each other, indicate that they are used to set different functions among the functions shared by icon 212b.

[0043] Icon 162a, a function-related icon, has a common image (an example of an image) 162a-1 having the same shape as icon 212a, and a function-specific image 162a-2 that shows one of the functions shared by icon 212a. Icon 162b, a function-related icon, has a common image (an example of an image) 162b-1 having the same shape as icon 212a, and a function-specific image 162b-2 that shows one of the functions shared by icon 212a. Icon 162c, a function-related icon, has a common image (an example of an image) 162c-1 having the same shape as icon 212a, and a function-specific image 162c-2 that shows one of the functions shared by icon 212a. Multiple icons 162a, 162b, and 162c each have different function-specific images 162a-2, 162b-2, and 162c-2. Thus, icons 162a, 162b, and 162c are associated with icon 212a by partially containing common images 162a-1, 162b-1, and 162c-1, which have the same shape as icon 212a. Furthermore, icons 162a, 162b, and 162c are used to define different functions among the functions shared by icon 212a by partially containing individual function images 162a-2, 162b-2, and 162c-2, which have different shapes from each other.

[0044] Icons 132 and 142 share a common image 132-1 and 142-1, which have the same shape as icon 212b. This indicates that icon 212b combines the functions represented by icons 132 and 142. Specifically, icon 212b combines the functions "Economy" and "10°C Heating" represented by icons 132 and 142. Thus, icon 212b indicates that one of the functions represented by icons 132 and 142 is being performed. Furthermore, icon 212b displays the combined results of multiple functions (the functions represented by icons 132 and 142). Furthermore, since icons 132 and 142 have common images 132-1 and 142-1 that have the same shape as icon 212b, it is clear that when icon 132 or icon 142 is selected to set the function of the air conditioner 2, either icon (in this embodiment, icon 212b) will be displayed (i.e., the LED will light up) on the device display unit 21 provided on the indoor unit 20.

[0045] Icons 162a, 162b, and 162c share a common image 162a-1, 162b-1, and 162c-1, which have the same shape as icon 212a. This indicates that icon 212a combines the functions represented by icons 162a, 162b, and 162c. Specifically, icon 212a combines the functions of "Sleep Timer," "On / Off Timer," and "Weekly Timer," which are represented by icons 162a, 162b, and 162c. Thus, icon 212a indicates that one of the functions represented by icons 162a, 162b, and 162c is being performed. Furthermore, icon 212a displays the combined results of multiple functions (the functions represented by icons 162a, 162b, and 162c). Furthermore, since icons 162a, 162b, and 162c have common images 162a-1, 162b-1, and 162c-1, which have the same shape as icon 212a, it is clear that when any of icons 162a to 162c is selected to set the function of the air conditioner 2, any of the icons (in this embodiment, icon 212a) on the device display unit 21 provided on the indoor unit 20 will be displayed (i.e., the LED will light up).

[0046] In this way, the combination of icons 212a and 162a to 162c, and icons 212b and 132, 142, at least one of them, clarifies that there is a one-to-many correspondence between some of the icons displayed on the device display unit 21 of the air conditioner 2 and some of the icons displayed on the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A. Furthermore, by using function-combined icons for at least some of the icons displayed on the device display unit 21 of the air conditioner 2, it becomes unnecessary to place text explaining the function represented by the icon displayed on the device display unit 21. As a result, the display area of ​​the device display unit 21 can be reduced, making it possible to miniaturize the indoor unit 20.

[0047] The "similar shapes" of icons 212a, 162a-162c, 212b, and 132,142 do not include only identical shapes, but also similar shapes, similar shapes (for example, shapes with different aspect ratios, shapes with the same shape but different line thicknesses, etc.), or shapes that represent the same concept. For example, even if icon 212a has a shape that schematically represents a circular clock, and common images 162a-1, 162b-1, and 162c-1 have shapes that schematically represent a rectangular clock, icons 212a and common images 162a-1, 162b-1, and 162c-1 represent the same concept of "clock," and therefore "have the same shape that represents the same concept."

[0048] Icon 131b (see Figure 2) in icon group 13 has the same shape as icon 211c (see Figure 3). Also, icon 151a (see Figure 2) in icon group 15 has the same shape as icon 211b (see Figure 3). In this case, at least one combination of icon 211c and icon 131b, and icon 211b and icon 151a, clearly demonstrates that there is a one-to-one correspondence between some of the icons displayed on the equipment display unit 21 of the air conditioner 2 and some of the icons displayed on the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A.

[0049] 1-2. Operation of the remote control device: The operation of the remote controller 1A as a remote control device according to this embodiment will be explained using Figures 5 to 11. An example of the operation of the remote controller 1A according to this embodiment will be explained using the screen transitions of the display unit 12 when setting the operation of the air conditioner 2 to a predetermined function. First, the screen transitions of the display unit 12 in the operation of the remote controller 1A when setting the function name "Economy" to the air conditioner 2 will be explained using Figures 5 to 8.

[0050] Figure 5(a) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 before starting to set the function named "Economy" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 5(b) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 when the menu button 172 is pressed to set the function named "Economy" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 5(b) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 when the menu button 172 is pressed to set the function named "Economy" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 6(a) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 when icon group 13 is tentatively selected from icon group 13, 14, 15, 16 in order to set the function named "Economy" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 6(b) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 when the tentatively selected icon in icon group 13 is changed from icon 131a to icon 132 in order to set the function named "Economy" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 7 shows the state after a signal with the function name "Economy" has been transmitted from the remote controller 1A to the air conditioner 2. Figure 8 shows the state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the signal with the function name "Economy" was transmitted from the remote controller 1A to the air conditioner 2. In Figures 7 and 8, the remote controller 1A is shown at the bottom, and the indoor unit 20 of the air conditioner 2 is shown at the top. Also, in Figures 7 and 8, the device display unit 21 is shown enlarged above the indoor unit 20 for easier understanding.

[0051] As shown in Figure 5(a), before setting the function name "Economy" to the air conditioner 2, for example, the display area 121 of the display unit 12 on the remote controller 1A displays a group of images 18 indicating the current operating status. The group of images 18 includes, for example, a set temperature image 181, an air conditioning image 182, and an operation image 183. In the example shown in Figure 5(a), the group of images 18 indicates that the set temperature is 28°C according to the set temperature image 181, that the air conditioning is in cooling mode according to the air conditioning image 182, and that the air conditioner 2 is operating in automatic airflow mode according to the operation image 183. In addition, the display area 122 of the display unit 12 displays the current time and day of the week.

[0052] Now, let's assume that the menu button 172 on the operation unit 17A of the remote controller 1A is pressed. Then, as shown in Figure 5(b), the display unit 12 displays all the functions that the air conditioner 2 performs using a total of multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16. Specifically, when the menu button 172 is pressed, the remote controller 1A displays the icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 instead of the image group 18. The display unit 12 can show all the information that the user of the remote controller 1A can set for the air conditioner 2 using the icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16. This allows the user to perform the desired operation using the remote controller 1A while confirming and understanding all the function information that can be set for the air conditioner 2.

[0053] Among the multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12, the provisionally selected icon group (an example of a provisionally selected image group) is displayed in a different manner than the non-provisionally selected icon group (an example of a non-provisionally selected image group) among the multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 that have not been provisionally selected. In Figure 5(b), icon group 13 corresponds to an example of a provisionally selected icon group, and icon groups 14, 15, and 16 correspond to an example of a non-provisionally selected icon group. In the example shown in Figure 5(b), icon group 13 is displayed in a blinking state, for example, and icon groups 14, 15, and 16 are displayed in a lit state, for example. In Figure 5(b), the blinking state of icon group 13 is illustrated in a white outline, and the lit state of icon groups 14, 15, and 16 is illustrated in a black filled state.

[0054] The display modes for the tentatively selected icon group and the non-tentatively selected icon group do not need to be different from each other. For example, in addition to a display mode in which one of the tentatively selected icon group and the non-tentatively selected icon group blinks and the other stays lit, they may also be lit in different colors, or one may be inverted in black and white and the other not. When the menu button 172 is operated, the remote controller 1A displays one of the icon groups 13, 14, 15, or 16 in the display mode of the tentatively selected icon group, and displays the remaining icons in the display mode of the non-tentatively selected icon group, thereby allowing the user to visually recognize the currently tentatively selected icon group.

[0055] Thus, when the menu button 172 is operated on the remote controller 1A, one of the icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 (icon group 13 in the example shown in Figure 5(b)) is displayed on the display unit 12 in the display mode of the tentatively selected icon group, and the remaining icon groups (icon groups 14, 15, and 16 in the example shown in Figure 5(b)) are displayed on the display unit 12 in the display mode of the non-tentatively selected icon group. In addition to suggesting group units for each icon group 13, 14, 15, and 16 using segmented images 133, 143, 153, and 163, the remote controller 1A allows the user to visually recognize the operation unit without having to confirm the selected unit based on the operation, by using the difference in display modes between the tentatively selected icon group and the non-tentatively selected icon group.

[0056] Assume that icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are all displayed, and icon group 13, which includes icon 132 corresponding to the function name "Economy" to be set, is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 in the display mode of the temporarily selected icon group, and then the OK button 174 is pressed. In this case, as shown in Figure 6(a), only the temporarily selected icon group will be displayed on the display unit 12, and the unselected icon group will be hidden. At that time, the images of the current time and day of the week that were displayed in the display area 122 will also be hidden. In the example shown in Figure 6(a), when the OK button 174 is pressed, only icon group 13, which corresponds to an example of the temporarily selected icon group, will be displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12, and icon groups 14, 15, and 16, which correspond to an example of the unselected icon group, will be hidden. Only icon group 13 will be displayed on the display unit 12, and there will be no need to distinguish it from the other icon groups 14, 15, and 16, so the distinction image 133 will also not be displayed. However, the segmented image 133 may remain displayed even after only the icon group 13 is displayed on the display unit 12. In this way, when the select button 174 is pressed while all of the icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 are displayed, only the tentatively selected icon group will be displayed on the display unit 12, and the display status hierarchy of the display unit 12 will move down by one level.

[0057] When the display status hierarchy of the display unit 12 moves down by one level, only one of the multiple icons in the group of provisionally selected icons is displayed in the display mode of the provisionally selected icon, and the remaining icons are displayed in the display mode of the non-provisionally selected icons. A provisionally selected icon is an icon that has been provisionally selected from among multiple icons, and a non-provisionally selected icon is an icon that has not been provisionally selected from among multiple icons. A provisionally selected icon is displayed in a different display mode than a non-provisionally selected icon. For example, a provisionally selected icon is displayed in the same display mode as the group of provisionally selected icons, and a non-provisionally selected icon is displayed in the same display mode as the group of non-provisionally selected icons. By unifying the display modes between the group of provisionally selected icons and provisionally selected icons, when the display switches from the group of provisionally selected icons to a provisionally selected icon, the remote controller 1A makes it easier for the user to recognize which icon is in the provisionally selected state.

[0058] In the example shown in Figure 6(a), among the icons 131a, 131b, 131c, and 132 of the icon group 13, icon 131a corresponds to an example of a tentatively selected icon, and icons 131b, 131c, and 132 correspond to examples of non-tentatively selected icons. Therefore, icon 131a is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 in a blinking state, for example, while icons 131b, 131c, and 132 are displayed in the display area 121 in a lit state. In Figure 6(a), the blinking state of icon 131a is shown as a white outline, and the lit states of icons 131b, 131c, and 132 are shown as a black outline.

[0059] Now, let's assume that the directional key button 173 is operated to select the function named "Economy," which is the function to be set for the air conditioner 2. At that time, the right scroll part 173d of the directional key button 173 is pressed. As a result, as shown in Figure 6(b), the display mode of icon 132 changes from a non-provisional selection icon to a provisional selection icon, and the display mode of icon 131a changes from a provisional selection icon to a non-provisional selection icon.

[0060] When the OK button 174 is pressed while the icon corresponding to the function to be configured is temporarily selected, the temporarily selected icon is displayed on the display unit 12, and the non-temporarily selected icons are hidden. Therefore, when the OK button 174 is pressed in the display state of the display unit 12 shown in Figure 6(b), as shown in Figure 7, the icon 132 corresponding to the function name "Economy" is displayed on the display unit 12, while icons 131a, 131b, and 131c are no longer displayed on the display unit 12.

[0061] When the confirmation button 174 is pressed, the icon 132 changes from a provisional selection state to a confirmed selection state, and the remote controller 1A transmits a signal containing information about the function name "Economy" to the indoor unit 20 of the air conditioner 2. When the remote controller 1A transmits a signal to the air conditioner 2, the display unit 12 displays an image 10 indicating that a signal is being transmitted, as shown in Figure 7. When the air conditioner 2 receives the signal transmitted from the remote controller 1A, it lights up icon 211a to indicate that the signal has been received. In Figure 7, the lit state of icon 211a is shown as a black fill. Note that in Figure 7, the unlit states of icons 211b, 211c, 212a, and 212b are shown as white fills.

[0062] After the air conditioner 2 receives a signal transmitted from the remote controller 1A, a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) has elapsed. As shown in Figure 8, the image group 18 is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12, and the current time and day of the week are displayed in the display area 122. The function name "Economy" is an operation that reduces the operation of the air conditioner 2 to save energy, and in this example, the set temperature and other settings are not changed. Therefore, the image group 18 displays the same content before and after setting the function name "Economy". In addition, the illumination of the icon 211c corresponding to the function name "Economy" indicates that the setting of the function name "Economy" to the air conditioner 2 has been completed. In Figure 8, the illuminated state of the icon 211c is illustrated as a blacked-out state.

[0063] Next, the screen transitions of the display unit 12 during the operation of the remote controller 1A when setting the function named "10°C heating" to the air conditioner 2 will be explained using Figures 5 and 9 to 11.

[0064] Figure 9(a) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 when the provisional selection is changed from icon group 13 to icon group 14 in order to set the function named "10°C heating" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 9(b) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 after the OK button 174 is pressed in the provisional selection state of icon group 14 in order to set the function named "10°C heating" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 9(c) shows an example of the display state of the display unit 12 when the provisional selection icon in icon group 14 is changed from icon 141a to icon 142 in order to set the function named "10°C heating" on the air conditioner 2. Figure 10 shows the state after a signal with the function named "10°C heating" has been transmitted from the remote controller 1A to the air conditioner 2. Figure 11 shows the state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the signal with the function named "10°C heating" was transmitted from the remote controller 1A to the air conditioner 2. In Figures 10 and 11, the remote controller 1A is shown at the bottom, and the indoor unit 20 of the air conditioner 2 is shown at the top. Also in Figures 10 and 11, for ease of understanding, the device display unit 21 is shown enlarged above the indoor unit 20.

[0065] Before setting the function named "10°C Heating" on the air conditioner 2, the display state of the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A is, for example, the state shown in Figure 5(a). Furthermore, when the menu button 172 is pressed while the display state of the display unit 12 is as shown in Figure 5(a), the display state of the display unit 12 of the remote controller 1A changes to, for example, the state shown in Figure 5(b).

[0066] As shown in Figure 5(b), after pressing the menu button 172, the icon group 14, including the icon 142 corresponding to the function name to be set "10°C heating", is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 in the display mode of the non-provisionally selected icon group. Therefore, suppose the directional key button 173 is operated to change the display mode of the icon group 14, including the icon 142 corresponding to the function name to be set "10°C heating", to the display mode of the provisionally selected icon group. At that time, the down scroll part 173b of the directional key button 173 is pressed. Then, as shown in Figure 9(a), the icon group 14 displayed below the icon group 13 is changed to the display state of the provisionally selected icon group, and the icon group 13 is changed to the display state of the non-provisionally selected icon group.

[0067] Assume that the OK button 174 is pressed when icon group 14, which includes icon 142 corresponding to the function name "10°C heating", is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 in the display mode of the temporarily selected icon group, as shown in Figure 9(b). In this case, only icon group 14 corresponding to the temporarily selected icon group will be displayed on the display unit 12, and icon groups 13, 15, and 16 corresponding to the unselected icon group will be hidden. At this time, images such as the current time and day of the week that were displayed in the display area 122 will also be hidden. Since only icon group 14 is displayed on the display unit 12, the classification image 143 will also no longer be displayed. However, the classification image 143 may remain displayed even after only icon group 14 is displayed on the display unit 12.

[0068] When the display state hierarchy of the display unit 12 moves down by one level, as shown in Figure 9(b), icon 141a is displayed on the display unit 12 in a display mode corresponding to a tentatively selected icon, and icons 141b, 141c, and 142 are displayed on the display unit 12 in a display mode corresponding to non-tentatively selected icons. For example, icon 141a is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 in a blinking state, and icons 141b, 141c, and 142 are displayed in the display area 121 in a lit state. In Figure 9(b), the blinking state of icon 141a is shown as a white outline, and the lit states of icons 141b, 141c, and 142 are shown as a black filled state.

[0069] Now, let's assume that the directional key button 173 is operated to select the function named "10°C heating" to be set for the air conditioner 2. At that time, the right scroll part 173d of the directional key button 173 is pressed. As a result, as shown in Figure 9(c), the display mode of icon 142 changes from a non-provisional selection icon to a provisional selection icon, and the display mode of icon 141a changes from a provisional selection icon to a non-provisional selection icon.

[0070] When the OK button 174 is pressed while the display unit 12 is in the state shown in Figure 9(c), as shown in Figure 10, the icon 142 corresponding to the function name to be set, "10°C heating," is displayed on the display unit 12, and icons 141a, 141b, and 141c disappear from the display unit 12.

[0071] When the confirmation button 174 is pressed, the icon 142 changes from a tentative selection state to a confirmed selection state, and the remote controller 1A sends a signal containing information about the function name "10°C heating" to the indoor unit 20 of the air conditioner 2. When the remote controller 1A sends a signal to the air conditioner 2, as shown in Figure 10, the display unit 12 displays an image 10 indicating that a signal is being transmitted. When the air conditioner 2 receives the signal transmitted from the remote controller 1A, it lights up icon 211a to indicate that the signal has been received. In Figure 10, as in Figure 7, the lit state of icon 211a is shown as a black fill, and the unlit states of icons 211b, 211c, 212a, and 212b are shown as white fills. Although not shown in the illustration, an image for selecting the mode or stage of the function set on the air conditioner 2 is displayed in the display area 121, for example, an image for selecting the minimum temperature when operating with the function name "10°C heating" set on the air conditioner 2.

[0072] After an image for selecting the mode or stage of a function set on the air conditioner 2 is displayed, or after a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the air conditioner 2 received a signal related to the selection from the remote controller 1A, as shown in Figure 11, the image group 18 is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12, and the current time and day of the week are displayed in the display area 122. Since the air conditioner 2 is set to a function named "10°C heating", the image group 18 indicates that the temperature is set to 10°C by "10°C" in the set temperature image 181, that the heating state is activated by "HEAT" in the air conditioning image 182, and that the air conditioner 2 is operating in automatic airflow operation mode by "AUTO" in the operation image 183. Furthermore, an icon 142 indicating the function name "10°C heating" set on the air conditioner 2 is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 as image 184 which constitutes the image group 18. Furthermore, the illumination of icon 212b, which corresponds to the function name "10°C heating," indicates that the setting of the function related to the function name "10°C heating" for the air conditioner 2 has been completed.

[0073] 1-3. Effects of remote control devices: In conventional technology, the display unit of a remote controller is composed of, for example, a full-dot liquid crystal display. As a result, some of the information needed by the user of the remote controller is displayed on the screen by scrolling, or grouped information is selectively displayed in response to button presses. This allows conventional technology to display a large amount of information in a limited area of ​​the display screen and to allow the user to quickly access the desired information.

[0074] However, conventional technology has the problem that it is difficult to grasp the overall picture of information regarding the functions of electrical equipment and to recognize whether the desired information can be selected, because it is not possible to simultaneously display all the information stored in the remote controller on the display screen. Furthermore, conventional technology has the problem of being expensive because it uses a full-dot liquid crystal display. In addition, conventional technology has the problem that the user has to switch the screen display in order to access the desired information. Moreover, in some cases, a predetermined icon displayed on the display unit of the electrical equipment is associated with multiple functions. In this case, conventional technology has the problem that it is difficult to understand the relationship between the icon displayed on the remote controller's display unit and the predetermined icon, which can lead to misinterpretation when setting functions or understanding the operating status of the electrical equipment. Furthermore, conventional technology has the problem that it is difficult to understand the relationships between functions because the information regarding the functions of the electrical equipment is arranged in parallel.

[0075] In contrast, the remote controller 1A according to this embodiment can simultaneously display all the functions that the air conditioner 2, which is an example of an electrical appliance, can perform on the display unit 12. Therefore, the remote controller 1A has the effect of making it easier to grasp the overall picture of information regarding the functions of the air conditioner 2 and to recognize whether or not the desired information can be selected. Furthermore, the remote controller 1A can reach the desired information by hiding unnecessary icons that are displayed on the display unit 12, without performing scrolling or screen selection to switch the displayed content.

[0076] Furthermore, the remote controller 1A includes a display unit 12 that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location. Therefore, the display unit 12 can be formed using, for example, a segment-type liquid crystal display device, rather than a full-dot type liquid crystal display device. This allows for cost reduction of the remote controller 1A.

[0077] Furthermore, the remote controller 1A can display function-related icons on the display unit 12, which include common icons having the same shape as the function-combined icons displayed on the air conditioner 2, and individual function icons. Therefore, the relationship between the function-related icons displayed on the display unit 12 and the function-combined icons is easy to understand, and even if the function-combined icons serve multiple functions, the possibility of misinterpretation when setting functions on the air conditioner 2 or understanding its operating status can be suppressed.

[0078] The remote controller 1A can display multiple icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 on the display unit 12, which are displayed in groups divided according to predetermined relationships of the air conditioners 2. This makes it easier for the remote controller 1A to understand the relationships between the functions of the air conditioners 2.

[0079] As described above, the remote controller 1A according to this embodiment includes a display unit 12 that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location. The display unit 12 displays a plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16, each having at least one of a plurality of icons that individually indicate a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated, and the plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 are displayed on the display unit 12 in groups separated by a predetermined relationship.

[0080] A remote controller 1A with this configuration can improve operability.

[0081] [Second Embodiment] A remote control device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 12. The remote control device according to this embodiment is characterized in that it has an explanatory section which has text that explains the function of the electrical equipment shown in the image displayed on the display section. With regard to the components of the remote control device according to this embodiment, components that perform the same actions and functions as the components of the remote controller 1A as the remote control device according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. The electrical equipment to be operated by the remote control device according to this embodiment is the air conditioner 2, as in the first embodiment.

[0082] 2-1. Configuration of the remote control device: Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of the back surface 112 of the remote controller (an example of a remote control device) 1B according to this embodiment.

[0083] The remote controller 1B according to this embodiment has the same configuration as the surface 111 of the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment with respect to one surface on which the display unit 12 is located. That is, it comprises a display unit 12 that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location, and a main body 11 having a surface 111 (an example of a surface) on which the display unit 12 is located (see Figure 1). The display unit 12 displays a plurality of icons 131a~132, 141a~142, 151a~151d, 162a~162c (an example of a function image) which are a part of the image and individually indicate a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated. The remote controller 1B, like the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment described above, has at least one of a plurality of icons 131a-132, 141a-142, 151a-151d, 162a-162c (see Figure 2), and includes a plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 (an example of a functional image group, see Figure 1) that are displayed in groups separated by a predetermined relationship.

[0084] As shown in Figure 12, the remote controller 1B includes an explanatory section 19 located on the back surface 112 opposite to the front surface 111. The explanatory section 19 has patterns 191a, 191b, 191c, 192a, 192b, 192c having the same shape as a plurality of icons 131a, 131b, 132, 141a, 141b, 142 (an example of a functional image), and letters 191d, 191e, 191f, 192d, 192e, 192f that describe the function of the air conditioner 2 (an example of an electrical device, see Figure 3) shown by the plurality of icons 131a, 131b, 132, 141a, 141b, 142.

[0085] Specifically, the explanatory section 19 has a design 191a having the same shape as icon 131a, and the text 191d that reads "POWERFULL," which explains the function of icon 131a, named "POWERFUL." The explanatory section 19 has a design 191b having the same shape as icon 132, and the text 191e that reads "ECONOMY," which explains the function of icon 132, named "Economy." The explanatory section 19 has a design 191c having the same shape as icon 131b, and the text 191f that reads "AIR CLEAN," which explains the function of icon 131b, named "Electric Air Purification." The explanatory section 19 has the text 192d that reads "OUTDOOR UNIT LOW NOISE," which explains the function of icon 141a, named "Outdoor Unit Low Noise." The explanatory section 19 has a design 192b having the same shape as icon 142, and text 192e that reads "MINIMUM HEAT" to explain the function of icon 132, which is named "10℃ heating". The explanatory section 19 also has a design 192c having the same shape as icon 141b, and text 192f that reads "ENERGY SAVING" to explain the function of icon 141b, which is named "Absence Eco".

[0086] When the main body 11 is turned over from a state where the front surface 111 (see Figure 1) is facing forward to a state where the back surface 112 is facing forward, the patterns 191a, 191b, 191c, 192a, 192b, and 192c are positioned in locations corresponding to the positions of the icons 131a, 132, 131b, 141a, 142, and 141b, which have patterns of the same shape as themselves.

[0087] Specifically, for example, when the main body 11 is turned over from a state where the front surface 111 is facing forward to a state where the back surface 112 is facing forward, the pattern 191a is positioned in a location corresponding to the position of the icon 131a, which has a pattern similar in shape to the pattern 191a. In this embodiment, although the position of the pattern 191a in the short direction of the remote controller 1B is offset from the position of the icon 131a, the position of the pattern 191a in the long direction of the remote controller 1B is positioned in approximately the same location as the position of the icon 131a. As a result, the pattern 191a is positioned in a location corresponding to the position of the icon 131a.

[0088] While a detailed explanation is omitted, the pattern 191b has a similar correspondence with icon 132 to the placement of pattern 191a with respect to icon 131a. Similarly, the pattern 191c has a similar correspondence with icon 131b to the placement of pattern 191a with respect to icon 131a. Similarly, the pattern 192a has a similar correspondence with icon 141a to the placement of pattern 191a with respect to icon 131a. Similarly, the pattern 192b has a similar correspondence with icon 142 to the placement of pattern 191a with respect to icon 131a. Similarly, the pattern 192c has a similar correspondence with icon 141b to the placement of pattern 191a with respect to icon 131a.

[0089] By flipping the main body 11 of the remote controller 1B from a state where the front surface 111 is facing forward to a state where the back surface 112 is facing forward, the remote controller 1B can suggest to the user the meaning of the functions indicated by the icons 131a, 132, 131b, 141a, 142, and 141b displayed on the display unit 12. As a result, if the user does not understand the meaning of the functions indicated by the icons 131a, 132, 131b, 141a, 142, and 141b, the remote controller 1B can eliminate the need to consult the air conditioner 2's instruction manual to confirm the meaning. Therefore, the remote controller 1B can be made easier to operate.

[0090] In this embodiment, the explanatory section 19 has patterns 191a, 191b, 191c, 192a, 192b, and 192c corresponding to icons 131a, 132, 131b, 141a, 142, and 141b, but it may also have patterns and characters corresponding to other icons displayed on the display section 12, such as icon 131c.

[0091] 2-1. Operation of the remote control device: The operation of the remote controller 1B according to this embodiment is the same as that of the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment, so a description will be omitted.

[0092] As described above, the remote controller 1B according to this embodiment includes a display unit 12 that displays an image showing pre-set information at a pre-assigned location, a main body 11 having a surface 111 on which the display unit 12 is located, and an explanatory unit 19 located on the back surface 112 opposite to the surface 111. The display unit 12 displays a plurality of icons 131a to 132, 141a to 142 that are part of the image and individually indicate a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated. The display section 19 shows 151a~151d, 162a~162c, and the explanatory section 19 has patterns 191a, 191b, 191c, 192a, 192b, 192c that have the same shape as the multiple icons 131a, 132, 131b, 141a, 142, 141b, and characters 191d, 191e, 191f, 192d, 192e, 192f that explain the function of the electrical equipment shown by the multiple icons 131a, 132, 131b, 141a, 142, 141b.

[0093] Remote controller 1B with this configuration eliminates the need to consult, for example, the instruction manual to understand its functions, thereby improving usability and intuitive operation.

[0094] [Third Embodiment] A remote control device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15. The remote control device according to this embodiment is characterized by having an operating section on which a function-combining image is displayed. Regarding the components of the remote control device according to this embodiment, components that perform the same actions and functions as the components of the remote controller 1A as the remote control device according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. The electrical equipment to be operated by the remote control device according to this embodiment is the air conditioner 2, as in the first embodiment.

[0095] 3-1. Configuration of the remote control device: Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a remote controller (an example of a remote control device) 1C according to this embodiment, and shows an example of the display mode of the display unit 12 after the menu button 172 is pressed.

[0096] As shown in Figure 13, the remote controller 1C according to this embodiment includes a display unit 12 and icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16, respectively, which have the same configuration as the display unit 12 and icon groups 13, 14, 15, and 16 provided in the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment. The remote controller 1C includes an operation unit 17C, which has a partially different configuration from the operation unit 17A provided in the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment.

[0097] The control unit 17C has the same configuration and functions as the power button 171, menu button 172, directional key button 173, select button 174, and return button 175 provided on the control unit 17A. Furthermore, the control unit 17C is equipped with icon buttons (an example of a second control unit) 176 and 177, which are operated when displaying multiple icons 132, 142, 162a, 162b, and 162c (an example of function-related images) on the display unit 12, and which display patterns having the same shape as function-combined icons (an example of function-combined images). As shown in Figure 13, icon button 176 displays a pattern having the same shape as icon 212a (see Figure 3), and icon button 177 displays a pattern having the same shape as icon 212b (see Figure 3). Therefore, in this embodiment, for example, the icons 212a and 212b (see Figure 3) displayed on the equipment display unit 21 provided in the air conditioner 2 correspond to the function-combined icons.

[0098] Icon buttons 176 and 177 are not displayed on a screen such as a touch panel, but are formed by physical structures, such as mechanical switch buttons. As will be described in detail later, when icon button 176 is pressed, icons 162a, 162c, and 162c (see Figure 1), which correspond to an example of a function-related icon in the first embodiment, are displayed on the display unit 12. When icon button 177 is pressed, icons 132 and 142 (see Figure 1), which correspond to an example of a function-related icon in the first embodiment, are displayed on the display unit 12. As a result, the remote controller 1C can immediately guide the user of the remote controller 1C to icons 162a, 162b, and 162c, which have a specific relationship with icon 212a, which corresponds to an example of a function-combined icon having a similar shape to the design shown on icon button 176. Similarly, the remote controller 1C can immediately guide the user of the remote controller 1C to icons 132 and 142, which have a specific relationship with icon 212b, which corresponds to an example of a function-combined icon having a similar shape to the design shown on icon button 177.

[0099] 3-1. Operation of the remote control device: The operation of the remote controller (remote control device) according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 13 and using Figures 14 and 15. One of the operations of the remote controller 1C according to this embodiment, which involves setting a predetermined function to the air conditioner 2, will be explained using the screen transitions of the display unit 12.

[0100] Figure 14 shows an example of the display mode of the display unit 12 after icon button 176 or icon button 177 is operated. Figure 15 shows an example of the display mode of the display unit 12 after icons 132 and 142, which are examples of function-related icons, are displayed on the display unit 12 and the down scroll part 173b of the directional key button 173 is pressed.

[0101] When the menu button 172 on the control unit 17C is pressed, as shown in Figure 13, the display unit 12 displays all the functions that the air conditioner 2 performs, in the form of a group of icons 13, 14, 15, and 16, similar to the remote controller 1A in the first embodiment described above.

[0102] Here, if icon button 176 or icon button 177 is operated, all function-related icons having a function-combination icon with a shape similar to the design shown on the operated icon button 176 or 177 will be displayed on the display unit 12. For example, suppose icon button 177 on the operation unit 17C of the remote controller 1C is pressed. Then, as shown in Figure 14, only icons 132 and 142 having a function-combination icon with a shape similar to the design shown on icon button 177 will be displayed on the display unit 12, and the remaining icons such as icon 131a and the images for the current time and day of the week will be hidden. When icon button 177 is pressed, icons 132 and 142 will be displayed on the display unit 12, for example, in the display mode of non-provisional selected icons. Although not shown in the diagram, when the icon button 176 is pressed, only icons 162a, 162b, and 162c, which have the same shape as the design shown on the icon button 176 and serve multiple functions, are displayed on the display unit 12, while the remaining icons such as icon 131a and the images for the current time and day of the week are hidden.

[0103] Now, let's assume that the down scroll portion 173b of the directional key button 173 is pressed. As a result, as shown in Figure 15, icon 142 changes to the display mode of the tentatively selected icon, and icon 132 remains in the display state of the non-tentatively selected icon. Icon 142 is displayed in the display area 121 of the display unit 12 in a blinking state, for example, and icon 132 is displayed in the display area 121 in a solid state. In Figure 15, the blinking state of icon 142 is illustrated as an outline, and the solid state of icon 132 is illustrated as a solid black. In this way, the remote controller 1C can indicate which icon is tentatively selected by changing the display mode of one of icons 132 or 142 in response to the operation of the directional key button 173.

[0104] Although not shown in the diagram, when the upper scroll section 173a of the directional key button 173 is pressed, icon 132 is changed to the display mode of a tentatively selected icon, and icon 142 is maintained in the display state of a non-tentatively selected icon. Also, when icons 162a, 162b, and 162c are displayed on the display section 12, pressing the left scroll section 173c or the right scroll section 173d of the directional key button 173 will sequentially switch which of icons 162a, 162b, and 162c will display as a tentatively selected icon.

[0105] The operation in which a signal containing information about the function indicated by icon 142 is transmitted to the air conditioner 2 after icon 142 has changed to the display mode of a provisionally selected icon is the same as the operation in the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment described above, so no explanation is given.

[0106] The remote controller 1C can set predetermined functions on the air conditioner 2 by operating in the same way as the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment described above. However, by using the icon buttons 176 and 177, the remote controller 1C can quickly set functions on the air conditioner 2 that correspond to the individual function images 162a-2, 162b-2, 162c-2, 132-2, and 142-2 of the function-related icons.

[0107] As described above, the remote controller 1C according to this embodiment includes a display unit 12 having the same configuration as the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment, and icon buttons 176 and 177 which are operated when displaying icons 132, 142, 162a, 162b, and 162c, which are examples of a plurality of function-related icons, on the display unit 12, and which display patterns having the same shape as the function-combined icons. When an icon button 176 or icon button 177 is operated, all function-related icons having the same shape as the function-combined icons displayed on the operated icon button 176 or 177 are displayed on the display unit 12.

[0108] A remote controller 1C with this configuration can quickly set functions corresponding to the individual function images associated with icon buttons 176 and 177 on the air conditioner 2, thereby improving operability.

[0109] [Fourth Embodiment] A remote control device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 16. The remote control device according to this embodiment is characterized in that it does not display a function image indicating a function that the electrical equipment cannot perform. Regarding the components of the remote control device according to this embodiment, components that perform the same actions and functions as the components of the remote controller 1A as the remote control device according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. The electrical equipment to be operated by the remote control device according to this embodiment is the air conditioner 2, as in the first embodiment.

[0110] 4-1. Configuration of the remote control device: Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a remote controller (an example of a remote control device) 1D according to this embodiment, and shows an example of the display mode of the display unit 12 after the menu button 172 is pressed.

[0111] As shown in Figure 16, the remote controller 1D according to this embodiment includes a display unit 12, which is also provided in the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment. The remote controller 1D includes a plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16, which are part of the image displayed on the display unit 12 and each of the plurality of icons (an example of a group of function images) that individually indicate a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment to be operated, and which are displayed in groups separated by a predetermined relationship.

[0112] In the remote controller 1D, among the multiple icons 131a, 131b, 131c, 132, 141a, 141b, 141c, 142, 151a, 151b, 151c, 151d, 162a, 162b, and 162c, icons indicating functions that an air conditioner (an example of electrical equipment) cannot perform are set to not be displayed. The electrical equipment to be operated by the remote control device according to this embodiment is an air conditioner, similar to the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment described above, but this air conditioner cannot perform the functions named "electric air purification," "heat sterilization," and "voice guidance." For this reason, icon group 13 does not have icons 131b and 131c (see Figure 1) that indicate the functions named "electric air purification" and "heat sterilization," and icon group 15 does not have icon 151d (see Figure 1) that indicates the function named "voice guidance." Therefore, the display unit 12 displays an icon group 13 having icons 131a and 132, an icon group 14 having icons 141a, 141b, 141c, and 142, an icon group 15 having icons 151a, 151b, and 151c, and an icon group 16 having icons 162a, 162b, and 162c.

[0113] Icons 131b, 131c, and 151d are also displayed on the display unit 12. However, the remote controller 1D is configured, for example during the manufacturing stage, so that icons 131b, 131c, and 151d are not displayed. Therefore, the remote controller 1D can always keep icons 131b, 131c, and 151d, which indicate functions that the target air conditioner cannot perform, hidden. Thus, the remote controller 1D can be manufactured by changing the settings of the remote controller 1A. In this way, by simply changing the settings of the icons displayed on the display unit 12, the remote controller can be shared among multiple air conditioners with different functions. For example, if an air conditioner that cannot perform the functions named "electric air purification," "heat sterilization," and "voice guidance" is developed while the target air conditioner 2 operated by the remote controller 1A is on the market, the remote controller 1D can be reused from the remote controller 1A. This makes it possible to reduce the cost of the remote controller 1D.

[0114] 4-1. Operation of the remote control device: The operation of the remote controller 1D according to this embodiment is the same as that of the remote controller 1A according to the first embodiment, so a description will be omitted.

[0115] As described above, the remote controller 1D according to this embodiment includes a display unit 12 that displays an image showing pre-set information in a pre-assigned location. The display unit 12 displays a plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16, each having at least one of a plurality of icons that individually indicate a plurality of functions performed by the air conditioner (an example of an electrical device) that is the object of operation. The plurality of icon groups 13, 14, 15, 16 are displayed on the display unit 12 in groups separated by a predetermined relationship. Of the plurality of icons 131a, 131b, 131c, 132, 141a, 141b, 141c, 142, 151a, 151b, 151c, 151d, 162a, 162b, 162c, the icons 131b, 131c, and 151d that indicate functions that the air conditioner cannot perform are set not to be displayed.

[0116] A remote controller 1D with this configuration can improve operability. Furthermore, the remote controller 1D can be made more cost-effective.

[0117] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. In the embodiments described above, an air conditioner was used as an example of an electrical device, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention can also be applied to remote control devices for operating electrical devices such as water heaters and medical equipment.

[0118] In the embodiments described above, the icon groups 13 and 14 are classified and grouped according to application functions A and B based on differences in their behavior during operation, but the present invention is not limited thereto. At least some of the multiple icon groups may be classified and grouped according to the characteristics of similar functions that the air conditioner 2 can perform, such as "energy-saving functions" or "functions related to wind (volume, direction, etc.)".

[0119] The remote control devices according to the third and fourth embodiments described above may also include the explanatory unit 19 in the second embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D Remote Controllers 2. Air conditioner 10 images 11 Main body 12 Display section Icons 13, 14, 15, 16 17A,17C Operation section 18 Image Groups 19 Explanation Section 20 Indoor unit 21 Device display section 111 Surface 112 Back side 121,122 display area 131a~132,141a~142,151a~151d,162a~162c,211a,211b,211c,212a,212b icons Common image for 132-1, 142-1, 162a-1, 162b-1, and 162c-1. 132-2, 142-2, 162a-2, 162b-2, 162c-2 Functional Individual Images 133,143,153,163 Segmented Images 171 Power button 172 Menu button 173 Directional buttons 173a Upper scroll section 173b Downward scroll section 173c Left scroll section 173d Right scroll section 174 Confirm button 175 Return button 176,177 Icon buttons 181 Set temperature image 182 Air Conditioning Images 183 Driving images 191a, 191b, 191c, 192a, 192b, 192c Design 191d, 191e, 191f, 192d, 192e, 192f characters

Claims

1. It is equipped with a display unit that displays images showing pre-set information in pre-assigned locations. 、 The display unit displays a group of function images, each having at least one of a group of function images that individually show a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment being operated, which is a part of the image. The aforementioned group of functional images is displayed on the display unit in groups separated by a predetermined relationship. A remote control device characterized by the following features.

2. The display unit displays all of the functions performed by the electrical device as a whole from the group of multiple functional images. The remote control device according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned predetermined relationship is a characteristic of the aforementioned function. The remote control device according to feature 1.

4. The aforementioned group of functional images has been subjected to a classification process to distinguish them from one another. The remote control device according to feature 1.

5. Each of the aforementioned group of functional images has a segmented image that is positioned on either side of the functional image it possesses and has the shape of a delimiter. The remote control device according to feature 4.

6. The provisionally selected group of functional images from the aforementioned group of functional images will be displayed in a different manner than the non-provisionally selected group of functional images from the aforementioned group of functional images. A remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the following:

7. The system includes a first operation unit which is operated when displaying the aforementioned group of functional images on the display unit, When the first operation unit is operated, one of the plurality of functional image groups is displayed on the display unit in the display mode of the provisionally selected image group, and the remaining functional image groups are displayed on the display unit in the display mode of the non-provisionally selected image group. The remote control device according to feature 6.

8. A display unit that displays an image showing pre-set information in a pre-assigned location, A main body having one surface on which the display unit is arranged, An explanatory section is located on the back surface opposite to the aforementioned front surface. Equipped with, The display unit displays a plurality of function images, each representing a part of the image and individually indicating a plurality of functions performed by the electrical equipment being operated. The explanatory section includes a pattern having the same shape as the plurality of functional images, and characters that explain the function shown by the plurality of functional images. A remote control device characterized by the following features.

9. When the main body is turned over from a state where one surface is facing forward to a state where the back surface is facing forward, the pattern is positioned in a location corresponding to the placement position of the functional image having a pattern similar in shape to itself. The remote control device according to feature 8.

10. The system comprises a group of functional images, each having at least one of the aforementioned functional images, and displayed in groups separated by a predetermined relationship. The remote control device according to claim 8 or 9.

11. The aforementioned electrical equipment is provided with an equipment display unit that has multiple function images indicating the function being performed by the electrical equipment. The multiple function images include a function-combining image that shows at least two of the multiple functions, The group of functional images as a whole includes a group of functionally related images, each having a configuration that indicates that a relationship has been established between a part of the group of functional images and the combined functional image. The remote control device according to feature 1.

12. The aforementioned function-related image comprises an image having the same shape as the aforementioned function-shared image, and a function-specific image showing one of the functions shared by the function-shared image. The plurality of function-related images have different individual function images from each other. The remote control device according to feature 11.

13. The display unit is operated when displaying the aforementioned plurality of function-related images, and a second operation unit is provided which displays a pattern having the same shape as the function-combined image. When the second operation unit is operated, all of the function-related images having the same shape as the symbol displayed on the operated second operation unit are displayed on the display unit. The remote control device according to feature 11.

14. Of the aforementioned multiple functional images, the functional image that indicates a function that the electrical device cannot perform is set to not be displayed. The remote control device according to feature 1.

15. The aforementioned electrical equipment is an air conditioner. The remote control device according to feature 1.

Images