Reading terminal, reading program

Abstract

To improve the convenience of the reading terminal while suppressing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal caused by dropping it. [Solution] The portable reading terminal 10 has an imaging unit provided on the back of the housing 13 and is configured to optically read information codes. The reading terminal 10 is also equipped with a touch panel display device 11. The memory of the reading terminal 10 stores specific information, which is information related to the point of hand contact with the display surface 35 of the display device 11 and is used to identify whether the reading terminal 10 is being held correctly. When the control mode of the reading terminal 10 is in code reading mode, the MPU of the reading terminal 10 acquires detection information, which is information indicating the point of hand contact with the display surface 35, from the display device 11, determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to the specific information, and permits the reading of the information code if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a reading terminal and a reading program. [[Background Art]]

[0002] For example, some reading terminals that optically read information codes such as one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes include an imaging unit capable of capturing the information code, and a touch-panel display that displays various information such as reading results (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In recent years, along with the weight reduction and thickness reduction of reading terminals, the style in which workers carry reading terminals around has become widespread. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-67252 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] Here, consideration of the portability of the reading terminal as described above is preferable for improving the convenience of the reading terminal and the like. However, for this type of reading terminal, the increased degree of freedom in how the user holds it raises a concern that opportunities to accidentally drop the reading terminal during use will increase. In particular, if the way the user holds the reading terminal is not appropriate, it is assumed that the reading terminal is likely to slip out of the user's hand when the user moves their hand to read an information code, for example. Increased opportunities for the reading terminal to fall cause damage or failure of the reading terminal, and may hinder proper performance of the information code reading function and the like. As described above, there is still room for improvement in the configuration related to the reading terminal in order to suppress damage and failure of the reading terminal while improving convenience.

[0005] This invention has been made in view of the problems exemplified above, and its main purpose is to improve the convenience of the reading terminal while suppressing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal caused by dropping. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The following describes the means to solve the above problems.

[0007] The first means: A portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) configured to be able to optically read an information code (information code 61), A touch panel type display device (display device 11) having a display surface (display surface 35), A storage unit (memory 52) that stores specific information (judgment criterion information), which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is information for determining whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct, A control unit (MPU51) obtains detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the location of hand contact with the display surface, determines whether the obtained detection information corresponds to the specific information, and permits reading the information code if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information. It is equipped with.

[0008] To improve the convenience of reading terminals, miniaturizing and reducing the weight of the terminals to enhance their portability is effective. However, if the reading terminals become smaller, they can be held in various ways, and it is anticipated that if the terminals are not held properly when reading information codes, they may easily slip from the user's hand. In other words, there is a concern that the opportunities to drop the reading terminals will increase compared to conventional terminals. This is undesirable as it can lead to damage or malfunction of the reading terminals.

[0009] In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this means, specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to identify whether the reading terminal is being held correctly, is stored in advance. When reading an information code, detection information, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, is acquired from the display device, and if the detection information corresponds to the specific information, reading the information code is permitted. With such a configuration, when reading an information code, it becomes necessary to hold the reading terminal in the correct way, and in other words, it becomes difficult to read the information code if it is held improperly, thereby preventing reading operations from being performed with an improper grip. This is desirable in order to improve the convenience of the reading terminal by considering portability, while also suppressing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal due to dropping.

[0010] Second means: A portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) configured to be able to optically read the information code (information code 61), A touch panel type display device (display device 11) having a display surface (display surface 35), A storage unit (memory 52) that stores specific information (judgment criterion information), which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is information for determining whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct, A restriction unit that restricts the use of the aforementioned reading terminal (a function that executes operation restriction processing in the MPU51), A release unit (a function that executes operation permission processing in the MPU51) acquires detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to the specific information, and if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information, releases the restriction. It is equipped with.

[0011] The configuration shown in this method can suppress damage or malfunction of the reading terminal due to dropping.

[0012] A third means. A reading program applied to a portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) having a touch panel type display device (display device 11) and an imaging unit (imaging unit 14), and capable of optically reading an information code (information code 61) located within the imaging range (imaging range IR) of the imaging unit, Detection information, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface (display surface 35) of the display device, is obtained from the display device. The system determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to specific information (judgment criterion information), which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to determine whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct. The system is configured to allow reading of the information code when it is determined that the detected information corresponds to the specified information.

[0013] The configuration shown in this method can suppress damage or malfunction of the reading terminal due to dropping. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] (a) Front view of the reading terminal in the first embodiment, (b) Side view of the reading terminal. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the reading terminal. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram showing the trigger icon for reading information codes. [Figure 4] A schematic diagram to explain the problem. [Figure 5] (a)(b)Schematic diagram illustrating the ideal way to hold the hand (one hand), (c)Schematic diagram illustrating the ideal way to hold the hand (both hands). [Figure 6] A flowchart showing the process for verifying how the device is held, which is executed by the MPU of the reading terminal. [Figure 7] (a) A schematic diagram showing the area related to the estimation of how the object is held, (b) A schematic diagram illustrating an example of a detection pattern. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing the relationship between detection patterns and whether or not the code can be read. [Figure 9](a) is a schematic diagram for explaining determination items in a second embodiment, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between detection patterns and whether code reading is possible. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing a flow of registering how to hold the terminal in a third embodiment. [Figure 11] A flowchart showing an update process executed by an MPU of a reading terminal. [Figure 12] A schematic diagram showing the relationship between detection patterns and whether code reading is possible in a fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] A schematic diagram showing a modified example.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] <First Embodiment> Hereinafter, a first embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, the invention is embodied as a portable reading terminal applied to an inventory management system or the like using information codes such as one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1(a), the reading terminal 10 includes a display device 11 on which a menu screen, a GUI such as application icons, various types of data and the like are displayed, a control board 12 (see FIG. 2) provided on the back side of the display device 11, and a substantially rectangular housing 13 that accommodates the display device 11 and the control board 12 in an overlapping state and constitutes the outer shell of the reading terminal 10. A display surface 35 (operation surface) of the display device 11 is exposed through an opening 27 formed in a front portion 21 of the housing 13. A bezel 28 is formed on the front portion 21 of the reading terminal 10 (housing 13) so as to surround the opening 27 (display surface 35), the bezel 28 and the display surface 35 are positioned on the same plane, and are in contact with each other such that no gap is formed between the bezel 28 and the display surface 35.

[0017] The display device 11 consists of a display unit 31, which is a liquid crystal display, and an input unit 32, which is a touch panel equipped with a capacitive sensor 33 that can detect the position (touch position) when a user touches the display surface 35. The input unit 32 is stacked so as to cover the display unit 31. The display device 11 is connected to a control board 12 (see Figure 2), and the display of the display unit 31 is controlled by the MPU 51 of the control board 12. The touch position information detected by the input unit 32 (for example, information on the contact area and its center coordinates) is input to the control board 12, and the MPU 51 of the control board 12 determines what operation has been performed based on the touch position information and the current display content on the display unit 31, and executes processing according to the operation. For example, if it is determined that a tap operation has been performed on an application icon (hereinafter referred to as an app icon) displayed on the display surface 35, the process of opening the application associated with that app icon (starting or restarting the application) is executed.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1(b), a bulge 29 is formed on the rear portion 22 of the reading terminal 10 (housing 13) near the upper end 25 of the housing 13, and an imaging unit 14 capable of capturing information codes is disposed on this bulge 29. By offsetting the imaging unit 14 (bulge 29) toward the upper end 25 side of the housing 13, the thickness of the housing 13 is reduced in the central part of the rear portion 22, resulting in a housing structure that makes it easy to hold the reading terminal 10 with one hand. The imaging unit 14 is tilted so that its optical axis points diagonally backward, preventing the hand from interfering with imaging when the reading terminal 10 is held from the rear.

[0019] The imaging unit 14 is connected to the control board 12 (see Figure 2), and the captured image data (scan data) is transmitted to the control board 12. The MPU 51 mounted on the control board 12 decodes this image data to obtain product information such as the serial number contained in the information code, and transmits this product information to the management server via the communication network. The product information is aggregated on the management server, and the management server transmits management information such as inventory information to the reading terminal 10 in response to requests from the reading terminal 10. On the reading terminal 10, for example, by opening an inventory management application, inventory information and the like are displayed on the display surface 35.

[0020] Hard keys 15 used for various operations are provided on the side portions 23 and 24 of the reading terminal 10 (housing 13). The hard keys 15 protrude from the side portions 23 and 24 and are operated by pushing them inward into the housing 13. In this embodiment, the hard keys 15 on the left side portion 23 (hereinafter also referred to as the left side portion 23) and the hard keys 15 on the right side portion 24 (hereinafter also referred to as the right side portion 24) are arranged symmetrically, so that there is no difference in operability regardless of whether the reading terminal 10 is held in the left or right hand. The hard keys 15 are connected to the control board 12, and the operation information (signals) of the hard keys 15 are input to the control board 12.

[0021] In addition to the electrical components such as the control board 12 described above, the housing 13 also houses a speaker as a means of notification and a battery 16 as a power source for the various electrical components. For example, when an operation such as reading an information code is received, or when processing is performed based on the operation (for example, reading an information code), a notification sound (beep) indicating this is output from the speaker.

[0022] While making the reading terminal smaller (for example, thinner) is desirable for improving its portability, it also increases constraints on the position and size of the physical trigger (read button) for reading the information code. The reading terminal 10 shown in this embodiment incorporates features that address these issues. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the display surface 35 of the display device 11 can display a trigger icon 42 that functions as a software trigger. The trigger icon 42 is displayed on the display surface 35 when the control mode of the reading terminal 10 is set to code reading mode for reading information codes.

[0023] The trigger icon 42 is a vertically extending line (rod) and is displayed along the outer edge 36 of the display surface 35. The display position of the trigger icon 42 can be changed by the user according to their preference. Specifically, it is possible to select between placing the trigger icon 42 at the left edge of the display surface 35 (closer to the left edge 36aL) or at the right edge of the display surface 35 (closer to the right edge 36aR), and the vertical position of the trigger icon 42 can be changed by the user as desired.

[0024] To change the position of the trigger icon 42, press and hold the trigger icon 42 while it is displayed. This will allow you to move the trigger icon 42 to the left or right edge of the display surface 35. After moving the trigger icon 42, release your finger from it to return it to its current position. Figure 3 shows an example where the trigger icon 42 is placed at the left edge of the display surface 35.

[0025] As mentioned above, considering the portability of the reading terminal is desirable in order to improve the convenience of the terminal. However, with this type of miniaturized reading terminal, there is a concern that the increased freedom in how it is held will increase the chances of accidentally dropping the terminal while using it. In particular, if the reading terminal is not held properly, it is assumed that the terminal is more likely to slip from the hand when moving the hand to read the information code.

[0026] For example, in the example shown in Figure 4 (an inappropriate example), the reader terminal 10X is resting on the palm of the user's hand, but the index finger F2, middle finger F3, ring finger F4, and little finger F5, which are resting on the back 22 of the reader terminal 10X, are not touching the sides or front 21 of the reader terminal 10X. In other words, the reader terminal 10X is not being gripped. In this type of grip, since the index finger F2, middle finger F3, ring finger F4, and little finger F5 are not hooked onto the reader terminal 10X, it is assumed that it would be difficult to stop the reader terminal 10X from sliding vertically or horizontally. In other words, it is assumed that there is a high possibility that the reader terminal 10X will slip from the hand H.

[0027] An increased chance of the reading terminal being dropped can lead to damage or malfunction of the terminal, potentially hindering its proper functioning in reading information codes. One of the features of this embodiment is that it incorporates measures to address these issues. Below, with reference to Figure 5, a preferred way of holding the reading terminal 10 to prevent it from being dropped will be described. Note that all of the holding methods described below assume that the user can see the display surface 35 and does not cover the imaging unit 14 with their hand.

[0028] Figure 5(a) illustrates a case where the user holds the reader terminal 10 with one hand (left hand LH). In this example, the palm of the left hand LH is in contact with the back surface 22 of the reader terminal 10, and the thumb F1 (specifically the thenar eminence TN) is in contact with the front surface 21 of the reader terminal 10. As a result, the reader terminal 10 is held between the palm and the thenar eminence TN. In addition, the index finger F2, middle finger F3, ring finger F4, and little finger F5 are in contact with the right side surface 24 of the reader terminal 10, and the reader terminal 10 is held between the thenar eminence TN and the middle finger F3, etc. Furthermore, a part of the finger in contact with the right side surface 24, the middle finger F3 in the example shown in Figure 5(a), is in contact with (hooked onto) the front surface 21 of the reader terminal 10, preventing the gripped reader terminal 10 from slipping out of the fingertips. When the reader terminal 10 is held in this manner, the chances of it slipping from the left hand (LH) are reduced compared to the example shown in Figure 4. Figure 5(b) illustrates the case where the user holds the reader terminal 10 with one hand (right hand (RH)). Although there is a difference between the left hand (LH) and the right hand (RH), the way the reader terminal 10 is held is the same as in the example shown in Figure 5(a).

[0029] As shown in Figures 5(a) and (b), if the reader terminal 10 is held with one hand, users with small hands may find that their fingertips, such as the middle finger F3, cannot reach (or grip) the front part 21 of the reader terminal 10. In contrast, as shown in Figure 5(c), by holding the reader terminal 10 between both hands from both sides, the palm of the left hand LH contacts the left side part 23, front part 21, and back part 22 of the reader terminal 10, and the palm of the right hand RH contacts the right side part 24, front part 21, and back part 22 of the reader terminal 10, allowing the reader terminal 10 to be held between the hands in both the front-to-back and left-to-right directions. With this method of holding, even users with small hands can effectively prevent the reader terminal 10 from falling.

[0030] One of the features of the reading terminal 10 shown in this embodiment is that it prevents the reading terminal 10 from falling by allowing it to read the information code 61 on the condition that it is held in the manner shown in Figures 5(a) to (c), that is, in a manner that is preferable (proper) for preventing the reading terminal 10 from falling. Hereinafter, a supplementary explanation will be given on how to estimate whether or not the reading terminal 10 is being held in a proper manner.

[0031] As already explained, the display device 11 shown in this embodiment is a touch panel type, and can detect the point of contact with the display surface 35 when the user's hand H is in contact with the display surface 35. In particular, since the display surface 35 constitutes almost the entire front portion 21 of the reading terminal 10, the display device 11 can be used to detect the point of contact even near the edge of the front portion 21 of the reading terminal 10. Here, in the grip shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b), one of the thenar eminence TN of the thumb F1 and the fingertips (pads of the fingers) of the middle finger F3, etc., may be in contact with the area around the left edge 36aL of the display surface 35, and the other of the thenar eminence TN of the thumb F1 and the fingertips (pads of the fingers) of the middle finger F3, etc., may be in contact with the area around the right edge 36aR of the display surface 35. Furthermore, in the grip shown in Figure 5(c), the thenar eminence TN of the left hand LH may contact the periphery of the left edge 36aL of the display surface 35, and the thenar eminence TN of the right hand RH may contact the periphery of the right edge 36aR of the display surface 35. In other words, whether the reading terminal 10 is being held in one of the three appropriate grips described above can be estimated based on the presence or absence of contact with the display surface 35 and the position (range) of contact.

[0032] In this embodiment, judgment criterion information, which is information related to the contact point of the hand H with respect to the display surface 35 and is used to identify whether the way the reading terminal 10 is held is correct, is stored in the memory 52 of the control board 12. The MPU 51 of the control board 12 acquires detection information, which is information indicating the contact point of the hand H with respect to the display surface 35, and decides whether or not to allow the reading of the information code 61 (see Figure 4) based on the judgment criterion information and the detection information. The process related to this decision (holding method confirmation process) executed by the MPU 51 will be described below with reference to the flowchart in Figure 6. The holding method confirmation process is a process executed by the MPU 51 as part of periodic processing.

[0033] In the process for confirming how the device is held, it is first determined whether the control mode of the reading terminal 10 is in code reading mode (S101). Code reading mode is a control mode that is entered when the user launches an application for code reading. If the device is not in code reading mode (S101: NO), the confirmation process is terminated. On the other hand, if the device is in code reading mode (S101: YES), it is determined whether the reading of the information code 61 is currently permitted (reading permitted) (S102). If reading is not permitted (S102: NO), the detection information is obtained from the display device 11 (S103). The detection information includes not only information on whether or not there is contact with the display surface 35, but also information indicating the location of the contact point. After obtaining the detection information, a comparison process (matching process) is performed using the obtained detection information and the judgment criterion information stored in the memory 52 (S104). Here, the detection information and judgment criterion information will be explained in more detail with reference to Figure 7.

[0034] In this embodiment, two contact monitoring areas for checking how the device is held are set on the display surface 35: an area near the left edge 36aL (left edge area LA) and an area near the right edge 36aR (right edge area RA). The central part of the display surface 35 is set as a display area where the reading result of the information code 61 is displayed, and contact monitoring areas are set on both the left and right sides of the display area.

[0035] The leftmost area LA includes the left edge 36aL and is a band-shaped area extending vertically along the left edge 36aL. The rightmost area RA includes the right edge 36aR and is a band-shaped area extending vertically along the right edge 36aR. The above judgment criterion information defines the detection pattern (appropriate pattern) of the contact portion DP that can be detected when the above-described appropriate grip is being used. Specifically, in this embodiment, the detection pattern defines a pattern in which at least one contact portion DP exists in the leftmost area LA and at least one contact portion DP exists in the rightmost area RA.

[0036] Furthermore, it is possible to subdivide and manage the appropriate patterns. For example, when considering the positional relationship and number of contact points DP in the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, the appropriate way of holding the object can be divided into multiple patterns, and judgment criterion information can be set for each of these patterns. In such a configuration, the above comparison process (matching process) should compare (match) each judgment criterion information with the detection information.

[0037] Referring again to Figure 6, if the detection pattern of the contact portion DP based on the detection information matches the above-mentioned appropriate pattern, the reading terminal 10 is considered to be held correctly (S105: YES), and the reading of the information code 61 is permitted. This makes it possible to operate the trigger icon 42. The read permission state continues from the time reading is permitted until a predetermined permission period (3 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed. In other words, after the reading of the information code 61 is permitted because the reading terminal 10 is held correctly, changes in the detection pattern are permitted as long as it is within the predetermined permission period. That is, for example, even if the thenar eminence TN of the thumb F1 momentarily lifts (moves away from) the display surface 35 when operating the trigger icon 42, such changes are permitted as long as they are within the predetermined allowable period.

[0038] In response to this, if the detection pattern of the contact portion DP does not match the above-mentioned appropriate pattern based on the detection information, the reading terminal 10 is deemed not to be held correctly (S105: NO), and an alert is output. Specifically, the display device 11 and speaker are used to notify that the reading terminal 10 is not being held correctly. The output of the alert ends when the pre-set notification period has elapsed or when it is determined that the device is being held correctly.

[0039] Returning to the explanation of S102, if reading is permitted (S102:YES), it is determined whether the predetermined permission period described above has elapsed (S108). If the predetermined permission period has not elapsed (S108:NO), this confirmation process is terminated. If the predetermined permission period has elapsed (S108:YES), the detection information is obtained from the display device 11 to decide whether to continue or terminate the permission to read information code 61. Specifically, based on the detection information and the judgment criterion information, it is determined (matched) whether the detection pattern of the contact portion DP corresponds to an appropriate pattern, and if it is an appropriate pattern (S111:YES), the permission to read is continued (S112). In this case, the predetermined permission period will be reset. On the other hand, if the detection pattern does not correspond to an appropriate pattern (S111:NO), the permission to read is terminated (S113). As a result, the operation of the trigger icon 42 is disabled (operation becomes impossible), and reading of information code 61 is prohibited.

[0040] Next, referring to Figure 8, we will explain the relationship between the detection pattern of the contact portion DP and the permission / denial of reading the information code 61.

[0041] If no contact points DP are detected in either the leftmost area LA or the rightmost area RA (Pattern A1), reading information code 61 is not permitted. Similarly, if one or more contact points DP (specifically 1 to 4) are detected in the leftmost area LA, but none are detected in the rightmost area RA (Pattern A2), or if no contact points DP are detected in the leftmost area LA, but one or more contact points DP (specifically 1 to 4) are detected in the rightmost area RA (Pattern A3), reading information code 61 is also not permitted. In other words, the detection of contact points DP in either the leftmost area LA or the rightmost area RA alone is not sufficient to satisfy the permission conditions.

[0042] In contrast, if one contact portion DP is detected in both the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA (Pattern A4), if one contact portion DP is detected in the leftmost area LA while two or more (specifically 2 to 4) contact portion DPs are detected in the rightmost area RA (Pattern A5), if two or more (specifically 2 to 4) contact portion DPs are detected in the leftmost area LA while one contact portion DP is detected in the rightmost area RA (Pattern A6), or if multiple (2 to 4) contact portion DPs are detected in both the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA (Pattern A7), then reading of information code 61 is permitted.

[0043] In other words, in this embodiment, during code reading mode (except when reading is permitted), reading of the information code 61 is permitted only if contact portions DP are detected in the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, respectively. However, the number of contact portions DP detected in the leftmost area LA and the number of contact portions DP detected in the rightmost area RA, as well as the size and relative positions of these contact portions DP, are arbitrary.

[0044] In this embodiment, in order to improve the accuracy of estimating how the device is held, the fact that the contact portion DP detected in the leftmost area LA and the contact portion DP detected in the rightmost area RA are discontinuous is also included as one of the conditions for granting permission to read; however, this condition can be omitted.

[0045] According to the first embodiment described in detail above, judgment criterion information (corresponding to "specific information"), which is information related to the contact point of the hand H with respect to the display surface 35 and is used to identify whether the way the reading terminal 10 is being held is correct, is stored in advance. When reading the information code 61, detection information, which is information indicating the contact point of the hand H with respect to the display surface 35, is acquired from the display device 11, and if the detection information corresponds to the judgment criterion information, reading the information code 61 is permitted. With this configuration, when reading the information code 61, it becomes necessary to hold the reading terminal 10 in the correct way, and in other words, it becomes difficult to read the information code 61 if it is held improperly, thereby preventing reading operations from being performed with an improper grip. This is desirable in order to improve the convenience of the reading terminal 10 by considering portability, while also suppressing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal 10 due to dropping.

[0046] As described above, if the correct way to hold the reader terminal 10 is to grip it from the back, the reader terminal 10 will be held between the user's hands H in both the width direction and the thickness direction. This is advantageous in reducing the chance of dropping the reader terminal 10 compared to simply resting it on the palm of the hand or gripping it by one end. Here, as described above, when the reader terminal 10 is held by gripping it from the back, the thumb F1 will be located on one end of the reader terminal 10, and the other fingers F2 to F5 will be located on the other end. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the reading of the information code 61 is permitted only on the condition that at least one contact is detected on each side of the reader terminal 10, it is possible to suppress loose grips on the reader terminal 10 and reduce work errors such as dropping the reader terminal 10.

[0047] <Second Embodiment> When the reading terminal 10 is held in the proper grip as shown in the first embodiment (see Figure 7), the thenar eminence TN of the hand H holding the reading terminal 10 may come into contact with the display surface 35. When the thenar eminence TN comes into contact with the display surface 35, the shape (size) of the contact portion DP detected tends to be a shape that extends vertically along the edge (edges 36aL, 36aR) of the display surface 35. In other words, the shape (size) of the contact portion DP detected when the thumb F1, index finger F2, middle finger F3, ring finger F4, and little finger F5 come into contact with the display surface 35 tends to be different from the shape (size) of the contact portion DP detected when the thenar eminence TN comes into contact. One of the features of this embodiment is that the accuracy of estimating the grip is improved by setting the judgment criterion information (proper pattern) based on these circumstances, that is, measures are taken to reduce the opportunities for reading to be permitted when the grip is not proper. The characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, with reference to Figure 9. Note that the configuration common to the first embodiment will not be explained.

[0048] In the MPU 51 shown in this embodiment, when analyzing detection information acquired from the display device 11, it identifies not only the presence or absence of a contact portion DP and its position, but also its size, specifically its vertical width. Then, as shown in Figure 9(a), it determines whether the vertical width L1 of the contact portion DP detected in the leftmost area LA and the vertical width L2 of the contact portion DP detected in the rightmost area RA are larger than the reference vertical width DL (e.g., 20 mm), and based on the determination result, it decides whether to allow or deny reading the information code 61. Note that Figure 9(a) illustrates a case where the reading terminal 10 is held in one hand (left hand LH), and the vertical width L1 of the contact portion DP in the leftmost area LA is larger than the reference vertical width DL, and the vertical width L1 of the contact portion DP in the rightmost area RA is smaller than the reference vertical width DL.

[0049] In this embodiment, the conditions for allowing the reading of the information code 61 are that a contact portion DP is detected in each of the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, and that the vertical width of at least one of these contact portions DP is greater than the reference vertical width DL. In other words, as shown in patterns B1 to B4 and B13 of Figure 9(b), if a contact portion DP is not detected in each of the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, or if a contact portion DP is detected in each of the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, but both vertical widths L1 and L2 are smaller than the reference vertical width DL, the reading of the information code 61 is not permitted.

[0050] In contrast, as shown in patterns B5 to B12, if contact portions DP are detected in both the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, and at least one of the vertical widths L1 of the contact portion DP detected in the leftmost area LA and L2 of the contact portion DP detected in the rightmost area RA is greater than the reference vertical width DL, then reading of information code 61 is permitted. Note that if multiple contact portions DP are detected in the leftmost area LA, it is sufficient that the one with the largest vertical width among them is greater than the reference vertical width DL, and if multiple contact portions DP are detected in the rightmost area RA, it is sufficient that the one with the largest vertical width among them is greater than the reference vertical width DL. In other words, it is not necessary for all detected contact portions DP to be greater than the reference vertical width DL.

[0051] According to the second embodiment described in detail above, the estimation accuracy when estimating whether the way the reading terminal 10 is held is improved. For example, when the reading terminal 10 is held by grasping it from the front part 21 side, more specifically, when the reading terminal 10 is held by sandwiching it from both sides with at least one of the thumb F1 and index finger F2, middle finger F3, ring finger F4, and little finger F5, it is possible to suitably suppress the permission to read the information code 61 even though the way it is held is not the proper way shown in Figure 5.

[0052] <Third Embodiment> The way the reader terminal 10 is held can vary depending on the size and preference of the user's hand. One of the features of this embodiment is that, while taking such versatility into consideration, measures have been taken to reduce the chances of the reader terminal 10 being dropped. The characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described below, with reference to Figures 10 to 11, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. Configurations common to the first embodiment will not be described.

[0053] In this embodiment, the reading terminal 10 is configured to allow the aforementioned judgment criterion information (appropriate pattern) to be registered in advance. Specifically, the application for reading the information code 61 is provided with a registration menu for pre-registering the way the device is held, and when this registration menu is specified by the user, the MPU 51 executes a pre-registration sequence.

[0054] As shown in Figure 10, in the pre-registration sequence, first, the user ID, which is information to identify the user using the reading terminal 10, is confirmed (ST1). Next, the user is presented with three options for how to hold the device: one hand (left hand LH), one hand (right hand RH), and both hands (ST2). Next, when the user selects one of these three options, a teaching image is displayed on the display surface 35 to instruct the user on the correct way to hold the device according to the selected option (ST3). After that, when the user holds the reading terminal 10 according to the teaching content, detection information indicating the contact portion DP to the display surface 35 is acquired as a sample from the display device 11 (ST4). Next, it is determined whether the sample acquired is appropriate based on the position and number of contact portion DPs analyzed from the detection information and the registration criteria information stored in the memory 52 (ST5). The registration criteria information is the same as the judgment criteria information shown in the first embodiment above, so its explanation is omitted.

[0055] If the number of samples determined to be appropriate reaches N (3 in this embodiment) (ST6:YES), these samples (detection information) are stored in the library of memory 52, associated with the user ID (ST7), and the pre-registration sequence is terminated. The information stored in the library of memory 52 includes the coordinates (center coordinates) of the contact portion DP. The criteria for determining permission to read the information code 61 are determined based on the acquired samples (detection information). Specifically, the average of the coordinates of the three samples is calculated, and the calculated average value with a certain range added is stored as the criteria information. If there are multiple contact portion DPs in the leftmost area LA, the coordinates (center coordinates) of the largest contact portion DP among them are used as the sample, and if there are multiple contact portion DPs in the rightmost area RA, the coordinates (center coordinates) of the largest contact portion DP among them are used as the sample.

[0056] If the acquired sample is not suitable, it is determined whether the number of failed sample acquisition attempts has reached M (3 in this embodiment) (ST8). If M has been reached (ST8:YES), the pre-registration sequence is forcibly terminated. In this case, pre-registration must be restarted from the beginning. On the other hand, if M has not been reached (ST8:NO), an alert indicating that the handling method is incorrect is output, and then the sample is acquired again (ST4).

[0057] After the registration of the grip is complete, a determination is made whether or not to allow the reading of information code 61 using the judgment criterion information set based on each sample. However, the preferred grip may change for the user as the reading terminal 10 is used repeatedly. In other words, the grip sampled during pre-registration may differ from the grip arrived at through repeated use. If such a change occurs within a range that does not deviate from the appropriate grip, it would be unfair to the user if reading were to be denied due to such a change. One of the features of this embodiment is that, as part of the grip confirmation process described above, a process (update process) is executed to automatically update the judgment criterion information to match the actual situation. The grip confirmation process in this embodiment will be explained below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0058] In this embodiment, the process for verifying how to hold the device is performed. Based on the detection information and the judgment criteria described above, if the device is deemed to be holding it correctly, an update process (see S200 in Figure 6) is executed to update the judgment criteria information. As shown in Figure 11, the update process first compares the detection information acquired with the samples registered in the library of memory 52 (S201). Specifically, the coordinates of the detected contact portion DP are compared with the coordinates of the sample. If the coordinates related to the detection information acquired match the coordinates related to the registered sample (S202: NO), the update process is terminated.

[0059] On the other hand, if the coordinates related to the detection information obtained this time do not match the coordinates related to the registered sample, i.e., if it is a new way of handling the sample, the detection information is added to the library in memory 52, linked to the user ID (S203). Note that there is an upper limit to the number of samples that can be stored, and if the number of already stored samples has reached the upper limit, the old samples are deleted and the detection information this time is stored as a new sample. After that, the judgment criteria are adjusted based on the newly stored sample (S204), i.e., the judgment criterion information is reset, and this update process is terminated. In this adjustment, the average of the coordinates related to each sample is recalculated, and the result is used as the new judgment criterion, taking into account the above-mentioned certain range.

[0060] The way a user holds the reader terminal 10 can vary depending on the size of their hands, etc. Even if the system is configured to allow reading of the information code 61 only when the reader terminal 10 is held correctly, it is necessary to allow for a certain degree of variation in what constitutes a correct grip to accommodate the individual differences mentioned above. On the other hand, a large variation in this variation is undesirable in terms of reducing the chances of dropping the reader terminal 10. In this regard, by providing a configuration that allows the user to register their grip in advance, it becomes possible to minimize the above variation and accurately determine whether the grip is correct. Furthermore, according to the configuration shown in this embodiment, the judgment criteria information is set according to how the user actually holds the reader terminal 10, so the effects of the aforementioned pre-registration can be effectively demonstrated. It can be made to happen.

[0061] <Fourth Embodiment> If the reading terminal 10 can be held in one hand, other tasks can be performed with the free hand. This is desirable for improving work efficiency. However, for users with small hands, even if they try to hold the reading terminal 10 in one hand, their index finger F2 and middle finger F3 may not be able to reach the display surface 35. In other words, there is a concern that trying to hold the reading terminal 10 in a proper manner may hinder the improvement of work efficiency. One of the features of this embodiment is that it takes these circumstances into consideration. The characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, with reference to Figures 1 and 12. The configuration common to the first embodiment will not be described.

[0062] As shown in Figure 1, hard keys 15 are provided on the left side 23 and right side 24 of the reading terminal 10 as means of operation. In this embodiment, the configuration is such that the reading of the information code 61 is permitted or not, taking into account not only the detection information from the display device 11 but also the operation status of the hard keys 15. In other words, for example, if the index finger F2 or middle finger F3 cannot reach the display surface 35, the permission condition can be met by pressing the hard key 15.

[0063] Specifically, as shown in patterns C10 to C13 in Figure 12, even if the contact portion DP is not detected on either the left or right end of the reading terminal 10, if the hard key 15 on the undetected side is pressed and an ON signal is input to the control board 12, the same treatment as when the contact portion DP is detected on the undetected side will be applied, and reading of the information code 61 will be permitted. With this configuration, even users whose index finger F2 or middle finger F3 cannot reach the display surface 35 can operate the reading terminal 10 with one hand by using the hard key 15 as a substitute, and an improvement in work efficiency can be expected. Furthermore, when operating the hard key 15, the reading terminal 10 is held between the hand H, so the reading terminal 10 is prevented from falling out.

[0064] <Other Embodiments> Furthermore, the implementation is not limited to the descriptions of each embodiment above, and may be carried out as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied individually to each of the above embodiments, or some or all of them may be applied to each of the above embodiments in combination. In addition, it is possible to arbitrarily combine all or some of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects exhibited) of each configuration to be combined is ensured. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration consisting of a combination of embodiments, or some or all of them may be applied in combination.

[0065] In each of the above embodiments, the reading operation of the information code 61 was illustrated in which, in a reading terminal 10 that is substantially rectangular in shape when viewed from the front, the reading operation of the information code 61 is permitted on the condition that contact of the user's hand H (finger F) is detected at a position near the left edge 36aL and a position near the right edge 36aR of the display surface 35. However, the conditions for permitting the reading operation can be changed as follows. That is, instead of or in addition to the above conditions, the reading operation can be permitted on the condition that contact of the user's hand H (finger F) is detected at a position near the upper edge and a position near the lower edge of the display surface 35. In other words, the reading operation may be permitted on the condition that contact of the user's hand H (finger F) is detected at one side and the other side of a pair of edges of the reading terminal 10 when viewed from the front.

[0066] The reading terminal 10 described in each of the above embodiments is configured to read the information code 61 when the user performs a reading operation while the information code 61 is located within the imaging range of the imaging unit 14, but it is not limited to this configuration. For example, it is also possible to configure the device to automatically read the information code 61 when the information code 61 enters the imaging range of the imaging unit 14 while the device is in code reading mode. Even with such a configuration, it is necessary to properly grip the reading terminal 10 when reading the information code 61, thus preventing the reading operation from being performed with a loose grip. This makes it less likely that the reading terminal 10 (imaging unit 14) will be dropped when pointing it towards the information code 61.

[0067] In each of the above embodiments, if the reading terminal 10 is not held correctly, the reading of the information code 61 is prevented by disabling the operation of the trigger icon 42, which is an operating means for reading operations. However, the specific configuration for preventing the reading of the information code 61 when the reading terminal 10 is not held correctly is arbitrary. For example, the trigger icon 42 may be hidden, or the reading of the information code 61 may be prevented by accepting operation of the trigger icon 42 but not making a determination to allow reading or invalidating the result of that determination.

[0068] • In the touch panel type display device 11 shown in each of the above embodiments, the display unit 31 and the input unit 32 are arranged in layers. However, as shown in Figure 13(a) of the reading terminal 10A (display device 11A), it is also possible to make the width of the input unit 32A larger than the width of the display unit 31, so that the left and right ends of the input unit 32A extend from the left and right edges 31aL, 31aR of the display unit 31. With such a configuration, when a user holds the reading terminal 10A from the back side, it is possible to prevent the user's hand H (fingers F) from being able to be properly detected even though the user's hand has moved to the front side of the reading terminal 10A. This is preferable, for example, in preventing the reading terminal from becoming difficult to handle for users with small hands.

[0069] In each of the above embodiments, the front portion 21 of the reading terminal 10 is configured using the display device 11. The placement area of ​​the display device 11 may be extended to the side portions 23 and 24 of the reading terminal 10. Specifically, as in the reading terminal 10B of Figure 13(b), the display surface 35B of the display device 11B is positioned so as to straddle the boundary portion (corner) between the front portion 21B and the side portions 23B and 24B of the reading terminal 10B, and the boundary portion between the front portion 21B and the side portions 23B and 24B, and a part of the side portions 23B and 24B are included in the left end area LA and the right end area RA for contact monitoring. With such a configuration, if the tip of a finger F that is in contact with the side portions 23B and 24B is even slightly overlapping the front portion 21B of the reading terminal 10B, that finger F can be detected. This is a preferred configuration for users with small hands.

[0070] In the embodiments described above, the system is configured to detect contact when the user's finger F (hand H) is in contact with the display surface 35. However, in addition to this, the system may also be configured to detect the user's finger F (hand H) even when it is slightly lifted from the display surface 35. In other words, it is possible to set the area for determining whether or not there is contact on the front side of the display surface 35. For example, in the reading terminal 10C shown in Figure 13(c), the finger F is positioned facing the display surface 35 but is not in contact with it. Even in such a case, if the hand H (finger F) is located in the space (extended area UA) on the front side of the display surface 35, the hand H (finger F) will be detected by the input unit 32C. With such a configuration, even a user with small hands who cannot reach the display surface 35 will be allowed to perform a reading operation if their fingertips are positioned on the front side of the reading terminal 10C. In other words, even if it is difficult to reduce the width of the bezel 28 of the housing 13 from a manufacturing or strength standpoint, it is possible to prevent the operating terminal from becoming difficult to handle for users with small hands. Furthermore, even if a finger momentarily lifts off the display surface 35 while operation is permitted, as long as the finger remains in close proximity to the display surface 35, the state in which reading operation is permitted can be maintained, thus preventing the reading terminal from falling while considering ease of use of the reading terminal.

[0071] In each of the above embodiments, the system is configured to output an alert if it is determined that the way the reader terminal 10 is being held is not appropriate during code reading mode. Considering that accidental contact with the touch panel may be detected when the system is in code reading mode, a practically preferable configuration can be achieved by configuring the system to avoid outputting an alert when the following exclusion conditions are met. That is, for example, when the reader terminal 10 is placed in the cradle (charging device), the system may be configured to avoid outputting an alert. It is also possible to provide a proximity sensor capable of detecting objects approaching the front part 21 of the reader terminal 10, and configure the system to avoid outputting an alert when an object is detected by this proximity sensor. With such a configuration, for example, if the reader terminal 10 is placed in a pocket while in code reading mode, the fabric of the pocket or the like may come into close proximity to the front part 21 of the reader terminal 10, which can suppress the output of an alert from the reader terminal 10. Furthermore, it is possible to configure the system so that an alert is not output if it is determined that the reading terminal 10 is stationary based on information from an acceleration sensor, gyroscope, etc., built into the reading terminal 10. With such a configuration, it is possible to effectively avoid the output of an alert when the reading terminal 10 is placed face down on a desk or the like while in code reading mode.

[0072] In the above embodiments, the reading of the information code 61 is permitted only when it is confirmed that the device is being held correctly during the code reading mode. However, this can be changed as follows: The reading of the information code 61 may be permitted only when the device is held correctly for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 second).

[0073] In each of the above embodiments, if it is determined that the way the reading terminal 10 is being held is incorrect during code reading mode, an alert indicating that the way it is being held is output. However, it is also possible to display an image or the like explaining the correct way to hold the reading terminal 10 instead of, or in addition to, the alert.

[0074] Even if the reading terminal 10 is determined to be held correctly during code reading mode, if there is room for improvement in the grip, the configuration may display an image or the like explaining the correct grip. In other words, even if the grip is correct, the response may differ depending on the degree of correctness (large margin, small margin). For example, if the area of ​​the contact portion DP is smaller than the standard area, or if the coordinates of the contact portion DP are outside (closer to the edge) than the standard coordinates, or if it is assumed that the number of fingers making contact is less than the standard number, the configuration may determine that the margin is small and display the image or the like for explanation. As shown in this modified example, taking a step-by-step approach is effective in suppressing the dropping of the reading terminal 10 while considering convenience.

[0075] In the embodiments described above, the configuration allows the reading operation of the information code 61 when the reading terminal 10 is held correctly, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, the configuration may allow the launch or launch operation of the application for reading the information code 61 when the reading terminal 10 is held correctly, or it may allow operations within the reading application (such as displaying history or manually entering the code), or it may allow making a call or operations related to making a call.

[0076] In each of the above embodiments, the device is configured to maintain the permitted state even if the way it is held changes, at least until the permitted period (1 second in the above embodiments) has elapsed since the permission to read the information code 61 was granted. This is a measure to prevent the permission from being revoked if, for example, a part of the finger F lifts off the display surface 35 when performing a reading operation with the hand H (finger F) holding the reading terminal 10.

[0077] Here, in order to suppress the revocation of permission contrary to the user's intentions as described above, it is not necessarily required to use the permission period described above, and the following configuration is also possible. That is, after permission is granted, the system can be configured to maintain the permission state even if one of the left and right contact parts becomes non-contact, and to revoke the permission when both the left and right contact parts become non-contact. In particular, when combined with the third embodiment, it is preferable to make it possible to register changes in the contact parts when a reading operation is performed, and to allow such changes (not to use them as grounds for revoking permission) when a registered change occurs during a reading operation.

[0078] In each of the above embodiments, the information code 61 is read by operating the trigger icon 42 (software trigger) displayed on the display surface 35. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the information code 61 may be read by operating the hard key 15.

[0079] In the above embodiments, the configuration does not determine whether to release the read permission while the information code 61 is being read (e.g., during decoding), but it is not limited to this. It is also possible to configure the system to determine whether to release the read permission while the information code 61 is being read, and if the determination result is to release the read permission, to release the read permission after the information code 61 has been read (e.g., decoded).

[0080] In the embodiments described above, the reading operation is permitted only if it is confirmed that there is at least one contact portion DP on both the left and right sides of the display surface 35. However, this can be changed as follows: The reading operation is permitted only if it is confirmed that there is at least one contact portion DP on both the left and right sides of the display surface 35, and that there are multiple contact portions DP on either the left or right side.

[0081] In each of the above embodiments, an example was given of a configuration in which reading of the information code 61 by the reading terminal 10 is permitted when contact is detected at the left edge area LA, which is near the left edge 36aL of the display surface 35, and at the right edge area RA, which is near the right edge 36aR of the display surface 35. These left edge area LA and right edge area RA are set to span both the upper and lower edges of the display surface 35, but are not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to limit the left edge area LA and right edge area RA to the vicinity of the center in the vertical direction. In other words, even if the user's hand (fingers) is in contact with the upper edge or lower edge of the display surface 35, it is possible to configure the system so that such contact does not constitute a factor in permitting the reading of the information code 61.

[0082] In each of the above embodiments, the display area for displaying the reading result of the information code 61 is set between the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA, and the configuration is such that the display area for displaying the reading result does not overlap with the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA. However, it is also possible to change this so that the display area for displaying the reading result of the information code 61 overlaps with at least one of the leftmost area LA and the rightmost area RA.

[0083] In the third embodiment described above, for example, if the update process is frequently performed while the reading terminal 10 is in operation, it is also possible to configure the system to prompt the user to re-register their grip.

[0084] In each of the above embodiments, the bezel 28 of the housing 13 and the display surface 35 of the display device 11 are configured to be on the same plane, but this does not preclude configurations in which there is a slight difference in height between the bezel 28 and the display surface 35.

[0085] In the display devices 11 shown in each of the above embodiments, the input unit 32 is constructed using a capacitive sensor 33, but the method for detecting touch operations (touch position) is not limited to the capacitive method. For example, a resistive sensor, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave sensor, or an infrared sensor can also be used.

[0086] In each of the above embodiments, a configuration was described in which reading of the information code 61 by the information code 61 reading terminal 10 is permitted only when the reading terminal 10 is held correctly. The technical ideas shown in each embodiment can also be applied to portable operating terminals for operating robots such as industrial robots. For example, a configuration may be provided in which the operation of the robot or the movement of the robot by the operating terminal is permitted only when the operating terminal is held correctly.

[0087] <Regarding the group of inventions extracted from the above embodiments> The following describes the features of the group of inventions extracted from the above embodiments, showing their effects and other aspects as necessary. For ease of understanding, corresponding configurations in the above embodiments will be indicated in parentheses as appropriate, but the invention is not limited to these specific configurations.

[0088] The following set of features are related to the background technology described in Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-67252, which states that "For example, reading terminals that optically read information codes such as one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes are equipped with an imaging unit capable of capturing images of the information codes and a touch panel display that displays various information such as the reading results (see, for example, Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-67252). In recent years, with the lighter and thinner reading terminals, the style of workers carrying the reading terminals around has become widespread." The text then goes on to explain that "Considering the portability of the reading terminal as described above is desirable in order to improve the convenience of the reading terminal. However, for this type of reading terminal, the way in which it is held is important." As a result of increased user freedom, there are concerns that the opportunities for users to accidentally drop the reader terminal will increase. In particular, if the reader terminal is not held properly, it is assumed that it is more likely to slip from the user's hand when moving to read an information code. An increase in the opportunities for the reader terminal to be dropped could lead to damage or malfunction of the reader terminal, which could hinder the proper functioning of the information code reading function. Thus, in order to improve convenience while suppressing damage and malfunction of the reader terminal, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of the reader terminal. This was done in consideration of this issue.

[0089] Feature 1. A portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) configured to enable optical reading of an information code (information code 61), A touch panel type display device (display device 11) having a display surface (display surface 35), A storage unit (memory 52) that stores specific information (judgment criterion information), which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is information for determining whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct, A control unit (MPU51) obtains detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the location of hand contact with the display surface, determines whether the obtained detection information corresponds to the specific information, and permits reading the information code if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information. A reading terminal equipped with [a specific feature / technology].

[0090] To improve the convenience of reading terminals, miniaturizing and reducing the weight of the terminals to enhance their portability is effective. However, if the reading terminals become smaller, they can be held in various ways, and it is anticipated that if the terminals are not held properly when reading information codes, they may easily slip from the user's hand. In other words, there is a concern that the opportunities to drop the reading terminals will increase compared to conventional terminals. This is undesirable as it can lead to damage or malfunction of the reading terminals.

[0091] In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand on the display surface and is used to identify whether the reading terminal is being held correctly, is stored in advance. When reading an information code, detection information, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand on the display surface, is acquired from the display device, and if the detection information corresponds to the specific information, reading the information code is permitted. With such a configuration, when reading an information code, it becomes necessary to hold the reading terminal in the correct way, and in other words, it becomes difficult to read the information code if it is held improperly, thereby preventing reading operations from being performed with an improper grip. This is desirable in that it improves the convenience of the reading terminal by considering portability, while also suppressing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal due to dropping.

[0092] Furthermore, the configuration shown in this feature can also be described as "a portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) configured to be able to optically read an information code (information code 61), comprising a touch panel type display device (display device 11) having a display surface (display surface 35), and a control unit (MPU 51) that acquires detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, estimates whether the way the reading terminal is held is a predetermined way based on the acquired detection information, and permits the reading of the information code if it is estimated that the predetermined way of holding is being used." Incidentally, the term "way of holding" in this feature may be changed to "way of gripping."

[0093] Feature 2. The reading terminal is roughly rectangular in shape. The reading terminal according to feature 1, wherein the control unit determines that the detection information corresponds to the specific information, on the condition that it has obtained the detection information indicating that one or more contacts have been detected at each end of the reading terminal.

[0094] For example, if the correct way to hold a reader terminal is to grip it from the back, the reader terminal will be held between the user's hands from both sides in the width direction and from both sides in the thickness direction. This is advantageous in reducing the chance of dropping the reader terminal compared to simply resting it on the palm of the hand or gripping it by one end. Here, as mentioned above, when holding the reader terminal by gripping it from the back, the thumb will be positioned on one end of the reader terminal and the other fingers on the other end. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the system is configured to allow the reading of information codes only when at least one contact point is detected on each side of the reader terminal, it is possible to suppress loose grips on the reader terminal and reduce work errors such as dropping the reader terminal.

[0095] Furthermore, the configuration described in this feature can also be described as "a reading terminal as described in Feature 1, wherein the reading terminal has a vertically elongated, substantially rectangular shape, and the control unit determines that the detection information corresponds to the specific information on the condition that it has obtained the detection information indicating that contact has been detected at one or more locations on each of the long sides of the reading terminal."

[0096] Feature 3. The reading terminal according to Feature 1, wherein the control unit determines that the detection information corresponds to the specific information, on the condition that it has obtained the detection information indicating that at least one contact has been detected on one end of the reading terminal and multiple contacts have been detected on the other end of the reading terminal.

[0097] For example, if the correct way to hold a reader terminal is to grip it from the back, the reader terminal will be held between the user's hands from both sides in the width direction and from both sides in the thickness direction. This is advantageous in reducing the chance of dropping the reader terminal compared to simply resting it on the palm of the hand or gripping it by one end. Here, as described above, when holding the reader terminal by gripping it from the back, the thumb will be positioned on one end of the reader terminal and the other fingers on the other end. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the system is configured to allow reading of the information code only when at least one contact point is detected on one end of the reader terminal and multiple contact points are detected on the other end, it is possible to suppress loose gripping of the reader terminal and reduce work errors such as dropping the reader terminal. Furthermore, requiring multiple contact points on the other end is preferable in stabilizing the posture of the reader terminal and enhancing the effect of reducing work errors.

[0098] Feature 4. The reading terminal according to Feature 2 or Feature 3, wherein the control unit determines that the detected information corresponds to the specific information, provided that the magnitude of the portion of the contact being detected in the direction along the end of the reading terminal is greater than a standard for at least one of the contact locations.

[0099] For example, when holding the reader terminal from the back, the thenar eminence of the thumb may come into contact with the display surface at one end of the reader terminal. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the size of the contact detection area (size in the direction along the edge) is set to be larger than the standard as a permit condition, the aforementioned mitigation effect can be made even more effective.

[0100] Furthermore, if the reader is held by gripping it between the thumb and index or middle finger with the palm facing the display surface, the risk of dropping the reader increases because it will fall immediately if the fingers loosen. However, considering that the thenar eminence of the thumb is less likely to come into contact with the display surface in this grip, setting the conditions described in this feature makes it less likely that the information code will be read by such an unusual grip.

[0101] Feature 5. The reading terminal according to any one of Feature 2 to Feature 4, wherein the control unit determines that the detected information corresponds to the specific information on the condition that the portion where the contact is detected at one end of the reading terminal and the portion where the contact is detected at the other end of the reading terminal are discontinuous.

[0102] The configuration described in this feature reduces the chances of accidental permission being granted to read the information code when a user touches the display surface.

[0103] Feature 6. The display device is capable of detecting not only the hand touching the display surface but also any hand in close proximity to the display surface. The aforementioned specific information is information related to the proximity or contact point of the hand with the display surface, The control unit acquires the detection information, which is information indicating the proximity or contact point of a hand with the display surface, from the display device, determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to the specific information, and permits the reading of the information code if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information, according to any one of features 1 to 5.

[0104] In preventing the reader terminal from falling, some effectiveness can be expected even when the fingers are in close proximity to the display surface of the reader terminal. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the configuration allows the reading of information codes to be permitted even when the hand is in close proximity to the display surface, just as when it is in contact, it is less likely that the requirements for how to hold the reader terminal will become excessively strict, making the reader terminal difficult to use. In particular, for users with small hands, even if the hand (fingers) is positioned to rest on the display surface, there may be cases where the hand (fingers) is slightly lifted from the display surface. By applying the above configuration, it is possible to contribute to providing a reader terminal that is easy to use even for users with small hands.

[0105] Furthermore, when performing operations such as reading while holding the reader terminal, it is possible that the hand (fingers) may lift slightly from the display surface during operation. This could lead to the reading permission being revoked, which is a concern as it would reduce the usability of the reader terminal. In this regard, the configuration shown in this feature prevents the permission from being immediately revoked even if the hand (fingers) lifts slightly from the display surface during operation, as long as the hand (fingers) is in close proximity. This contributes to resolving the above concern.

[0106] Feature 7. The reading terminal according to any one of Feature 1 to Feature 6, wherein the control unit, when it permits the reading of the information code, maintains the permit state for a predetermined period (e.g., 3 seconds).

[0107] When performing operations such as reading while holding a reader terminal, it is possible that the hand (fingers) may lift slightly from the display surface during operation. This could lead to the reading permission being revoked, which is a concern as it would reduce the usability of the reader terminal. However, with the configuration shown in this feature, even if the hand (fingers) lifts slightly from the display surface during operation, the permission will not be immediately revoked as long as the hand (fingers) are in close proximity. This contributes to resolving the above concern.

[0108] Feature 8. The control unit permits reading the information code on the condition that the situation in which the detected information corresponds to the specific information continues for a specific period of time (e.g., 1 second), as described in any one of Feature 1 to Feature 7.

[0109] The accidental permission to read information codes can cause malfunctions in the reading terminal. In this regard, as shown in this feature, if the reading of information codes is permitted only if the detected information corresponds to specific information for a certain period of time, the occurrence of the above-mentioned problems can be suitably suppressed. In particular, when the reading terminal is placed face down on a table or the like, the contact points that are detected may change in various ways in a short period of time. Here, with the configuration shown in this feature, accidental permission to read while the terminal is placed on a table or the like can be easily avoided.

[0110] Feature 9. A reading terminal according to any one of Feature 1 to Feature 8, further comprising a notification means for notifying the user that the device is not being held correctly when the control unit determines that the detected information does not correspond to the specific information.

[0111] The configuration described in this feature reduces the likelihood of users becoming confused or frustrated when they are unable to read information codes because they do not understand why reading is not permitted.

[0112] Feature 10. When the control unit determines that the detected information does not correspond to the specific information, it is equipped with a notification means that notifies the user that the device is not being held correctly. The reading terminal according to any one of features 1 to 8, characterized in that the control unit restricts the notification by the notification means if the location where contact is detected has changed, even if it determines that the acquired detection information does not correspond to the specific information.

[0113] The configuration described in this feature reduces the likelihood of users becoming confused or frustrated when they are unable to read information codes because they do not understand why reading is not permitted.

[0114] In this case, if the reading terminal is placed face down on a table or the like, the detected contact points may change (shift) in various ways in a short period of time. However, with the configuration described in this feature, it is possible to make it less likely for the above notification to occur frequently when the terminal is placed on a table or the like.

[0115] In addition, while feature 9 or feature 10 is configured to notify the user if the grip is not correct, it is also possible to use a configuration in which, if the control unit determines that the detected information corresponds to the specific information, the user is notified that the grip is correct. For example, an image indicating that the grip is correct could be displayed on the display surface 35, or a beep sound or the like could be output from the speaker to indicate that the grip is correct.

[0116] Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the system so that "even if it is determined that the detection information does not correspond to the specific information, if the detection information partially corresponds to the specific information or the deviation from the specific information is within a predetermined range, the user is notified that their current grip is close to the correct grip." There is technical significance in informing the user that they are almost at the correct grip and helping them approach the correct grip. For example, if the finger placement is correct and the thenar eminence is in contact with the display surface of the reading terminal, but the area or vertical width of the contact portion of the thenar eminence is smaller than the area or vertical width that would be considered the correct grip, it is good to notify the user that they are almost at the correct grip. In this case, it is preferable to inform the user of the items that have not yet been met (for example, insufficient contact with the thenar eminence).

[0117] Feature 11. A reading terminal described in any one of Feature 1 to Feature 10, which allows the user to pre-register the aforementioned specific information.

[0118] The way a user holds the reading terminal can vary depending on the size of their hands, etc. As shown in Feature 1, even if the system is configured to allow reading of information codes only when the reading terminal is held correctly, it is necessary to allow for some leeway in what constitutes a correct grip to accommodate the individual differences mentioned above. On the other hand, a large range in this range is undesirable in terms of reducing the chances of dropping the reading terminal. In this regard, by configuring the system so that users can register specific information in advance, it becomes possible to minimize the above range and accurately determine whether the user is holding the terminal correctly.

[0119] Feature 12. The reading terminal according to any one of Feature 1 to Feature 11, wherein, when the control unit is in a setting mode for setting the specific information, and the user is holding the reading terminal in the correct manner, the control unit acquires detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, determines the specific information based on the acquired detection information, and stores the determined specific information in the storage unit.

[0120] The way a user holds the reading terminal can vary depending on the size of their hands, etc. As shown in Feature 1, even if the system is configured to allow reading of information codes only when the reading terminal is held correctly, it is necessary to allow for some leeway in what constitutes a correct grip to accommodate the individual differences mentioned above. On the other hand, a large range in this range is undesirable in terms of reducing the chances of dropping the reading terminal. In this regard, by configuring the system so that users can register specific information in advance, it becomes possible to minimize the above range and accurately determine whether the user is holding the terminal correctly.

[0121] Furthermore, according to the configuration described in this feature, specific information is determined according to how the user actually holds the reading terminal, thus allowing the effects of the aforementioned pre-registration to be effectively realized.

[0122] Feature 13. The reading terminal according to Feature 11 or Feature 12, characterized in that when the control unit determines that the detected information corresponds to the specific information and permits reading the information code, and the detected information satisfies the conditions for updating the specific information, it updates the specific information using the detected information.

[0123] If a user continues to use the reading terminal, there may be a difference between the initially registered grip and the actual grip. In this case, if the actual grip is one that allows reading and the update conditions are met, the grip can be determined in a manner that reflects reality by updating specific information using the acquired detection information.

[0124] Feature 14. The reading terminal according to any one of Feature 1 to Feature 13, wherein the display device includes a planar detection unit (input unit 32A) for detecting contact with the display surface, and the detection unit extends from the edges (left edge 36aL, right edge 36aR) of the display surface.

[0125] For example, when holding the reader terminal from the back, the amount of contact the hand (fingers) have with the front of the reader terminal may vary depending on the size of the user's hand (fingers). Therefore, by configuring the detection unit to extend from the edge of the display surface, it becomes possible to easily detect missed contact by the hand (fingers) even when the contact area is small, while keeping the size of the display surface to a minimum.

[0126] Feature 15. The reading terminal is configured such that at least a portion of the front portion (front portion 21) of the reading terminal is made up of the display surface. The reading terminal according to any one of features 1 to 13, wherein the display surface is formed so as to straddle the boundary between the side portion (left side portion 23 or right side portion 24) of the reading terminal and the front portion (front portion 21) of the reading terminal.

[0127] For example, when holding the reader terminal from the back, the amount of contact the hand (fingers) with the front of the reader terminal may vary depending on the size of the user's hand (fingers). Therefore, by forming the display surface so as to straddle the boundary between the side and front of the reader terminal, it becomes easy to detect when the contact area is small and the user misses contact with their hand (fingers). This is desirable in preventing users with small hands from having difficulty reading information codes.

[0128] Feature 16. A portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) configured to enable optical reading of an information code (information code 61), A touch panel type display device (display device 11) having a display surface (display surface 35), A storage unit (memory 52) that stores specific information (judgment criterion information), which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is information for determining whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct, A restriction unit that restricts the use of the aforementioned reading terminal (a function that executes operation restriction processing in the MPU51), A release unit (a function that executes operation permission processing in the MPU51) acquires detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to the specific information, and if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information, releases the restriction. A reading terminal equipped with [a specific feature / technology].

[0129] To improve the convenience of reading terminals, miniaturizing and reducing the weight of the terminals to enhance their portability is effective. However, if the reading terminals become smaller, they can be held in various ways, and it is anticipated that if the terminals are not held properly when reading information codes, they may easily slip from the user's hand. In other words, there is a concern that the opportunities to drop the reading terminals will increase compared to conventional terminals. This is undesirable as it can lead to damage or malfunction of the reading terminals.

[0130] In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand on the display surface and is used to identify whether the reading terminal is being held correctly, is stored in advance. When the reading terminal is used, detection information, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand on the display surface, is acquired from the display device, and if the detection information corresponds to the specific information, the restriction on the information code is released. With such a configuration, when reading information codes, it becomes necessary to hold the reading terminal in the correct way, and in other words, it becomes difficult to read information codes if the terminal is held improperly, thereby preventing the reading terminal from being used while being held improperly. This is desirable in that it improves the convenience of the reading terminal by considering portability, while also preventing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal due to dropping.

[0131] Furthermore, the description of "restriction unit that restricts the use of the reading terminal (function that executes operation restriction processing on the MPU 51)" in this feature can also be changed to "restriction unit that restricts predetermined operations on the reading terminal (function that executes operation restriction processing on the MPU 51)".

[0132] Incidentally, each of the technical features described in Features 2 through 15 may be applied to Feature 16.

[0133] Feature 17. A reading program applicable to a portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) having a touch panel type display device (display device 11) and an imaging unit (imaging unit 14), and capable of optically reading an information code (information code 61) located within the imaging range (imaging range IR) of the imaging unit, Detection information, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface (display surface 35) of the display device, is obtained from the display device. The system determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to specific information (judgment criterion information), which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to determine whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct. A reading program configured to permit the reading of the information code when it is determined that the detected information corresponds to the specific information.

[0134] To improve the convenience of reading terminals, miniaturizing and reducing the weight of the terminals to enhance their portability is effective. However, if the reading terminals become smaller, they can be held in various ways, and it is anticipated that if the terminals are not held properly when reading information codes, they may easily slip from the user's hand. In other words, there is a concern that the opportunities to drop the reading terminals will increase compared to conventional terminals. This is undesirable as it can lead to damage or malfunction of the reading terminals.

[0135] In this regard, according to the configuration described in this feature, specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to identify whether the reading terminal is being held correctly, is stored in advance. When reading an information code, detection information, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, is acquired from the display device, and if the detection information corresponds to the specific information, reading the information code is permitted. With such a configuration, when reading an information code, it becomes necessary to hold the reading terminal in the correct way, and in other words, it becomes difficult to read the information code if it is held improperly, thereby preventing reading operations from being performed with an improper grip. This is desirable in preventing damage or malfunction of the reading terminal due to dropping it.

[0136] Incidentally, the configuration shown in this feature can also be described as "a control program applied to a portable reading terminal (reading terminal 10) having a touch panel type display device (display device 11) and an imaging unit (imaging unit 14), and capable of optically reading an information code (information code 61) located within the imaging range (imaging range IR) of the imaging unit, wherein the program restricts the use of the reading terminal, acquires detection information from the display device which is information indicating the location of hand contact with the display surface, determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to specific information which is information related to the location of hand contact with the display surface and is used to determine whether the reading terminal is being held correctly, and releases the restriction if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information." Furthermore, the phrase "restricts the use of the reading terminal" in this feature can also be changed to "restricts predetermined operations on the reading terminal."

[0137] Furthermore, each of the technical features described in Features 2 to 15 may be applied to Feature 17. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 10...Reading terminal, 11...Display device, 12...Control board, 13...Housing, 14...Imaging unit, 15...Hard key, 21...Front panel, 23...Left side panel, 24...Right side panel, 31...Display unit, 32...Input unit, 35...Display surface, 36aL...Left edge, 36aR...Right edge, 42...Trigger icon, 51...MPU, 52...Memory, 61...Information code, DP...Contact area, LA...Left edge area, RA...Right edge area.

Claims

1. A portable reading terminal configured to enable optical reading of information codes, A touch panel type display device having a display surface, A storage unit that stores specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to identify whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct, A control unit obtains detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the location of hand contact with the display surface, determines whether the obtained detection information corresponds to the specific information, and permits reading the information code if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information. A reading terminal equipped with [a specific feature / technology].

2. The aforementioned reading terminal has a roughly rectangular shape, The reading terminal according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines that the detection information corresponds to the specific information, on the condition that it has obtained the detection information indicating that it has detected one or more contacts on each end of the reading terminal.

3. The reading terminal according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines that the detected information corresponds to the specific information on the condition that, for at least one of the contact locations, the magnitude of the portion detecting the contact in the direction along the end of the reading terminal is greater than a standard.

4. The reading terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit, in a setting mode for setting the specific information, acquires detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the point of contact of the hand with the display surface, when the user is holding the reading terminal in an appropriate manner, determines the specific information based on the acquired detection information, and stores the determined specific information in the storage unit.

5. A portable reading terminal configured to enable optical reading of information codes, A touch panel type display device having a display surface, A storage unit that stores specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to identify whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct, A restriction unit that restricts the use of the aforementioned reading terminal, A release unit acquires detection information from the display device, which is information indicating the location of hand contact with the display surface, determines whether the acquired detection information corresponds to the specific information, and releases the restriction if it is determined that the detection information corresponds to the specific information. A reading terminal equipped with [a specific feature / technology].

6. A reading program applied to a portable reading terminal having a touch panel display device and an imaging unit, and capable of optically reading information codes located within the imaging range of the imaging unit, Detection information, which is information indicating the point of hand contact with the display surface of the display device, is obtained from the display device. It is determined whether the acquired detection information corresponds to specific information, which is information related to the point of contact of the hand with the display surface and is used to identify whether the way the reading terminal is held is correct. A reading program configured to permit the reading of the information code when it is determined that the detected information corresponds to the specific information.

Images