Character input device, character input method, and character input program

Abstract

To improve operability of a user by controlling input mode.SOLUTION: A character input apparatus includes a screen switching unit and an inference unit. The screen switching unit performs screen switching so as to display, when receiving an operation to input a character of a first character type, a first operation screen on a display unit, and to display, when receiving an operation to input a character of a second character type, a second operation screen on the display unit. When the first operation screen is displayed on the display unit and an input character string of the first character type for which the input operation has been received is defined, the inference unit infers whether an operation to input a character of the second character type is to be performed immediately before or after the defined character string. The screen switching unit causes the display unit to display the second operation screen when the inference unit infers that the operation to input the character of the second character type is to be performed immediately before or after the defined character string.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for assisting character input.

Background Art

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1, a user performs character input using a software keyboard of a terminal (smartphone or tablet). At this time, when switching the input mode (kana characters, numbers, unit symbols) of the character to be input, the user intentionally switches the input mode. As a specific example, when the user inputs "1 piece" ("number" + "classifier"), first, the user inputs "1" in the number input mode, and then switches to the kana input mode to input "piece".

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, it is necessary to switch the input mode of characters a plurality of times. Specifically, the user needs to perform an operation of switching from the number input mode to the kana input mode or from the kana input mode to the number input mode, and the operability is not good.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a character input device that improves the operability of a user by controlling the input mode.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] First, terms used in the present invention are defined. A "classifier" is a word that is attached after a word representing a number to represent the quantity of a thing, and examples thereof are yen, dollar, degree, gram, minute, and second.

[0007] "Unit symbols" include ¥, $, °C, °, g, etc. If the unit symbol is, for example, ¥ or $, it can be presumed that a number is entered immediately after this unit symbol. If it is, for example, °C, °, or g, it can be presumed that a number is entered immediately before this unit symbol.

[0008] The character input device of this invention is configured as shown below to achieve the above object.

[0009] The character input device includes a screen switching unit and a presumption unit. The screen switching unit switches the screen to display a first operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of characters of a first character type, and to display a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of characters of a second character type.

[0010] When the input character string of the first character type for which the input operation is received with the first operation screen displayed on the display is determined, the presumption unit presumes whether an input operation of characters of the second character type is performed immediately before or after this determined confirmed character string.

[0011] When the presumption unit presumes that an input operation of characters of the second character type is performed immediately before or after the confirmed character string, this screen switching unit displays the second operation screen on the display.

[0012] With this configuration, the operations of character input corresponding to each of the first character type and the second character type can be easily performed. Also, when the input of the first character type is determined, it is possible to judge whether an input is made immediately before or after the first character type, improving the operability of the user.

[0013] Also, for example, when the presumption unit of this character input device presumes that an input operation of characters of the second character type is performed immediately before the confirmed character string of the first character type, it may be provided with a position setting unit that sets the character input position immediately before the confirmed character string of the first character type.

[0014] Also, for example, when the position setting unit of this character input device determines the character string of the second character type that was input immediately before the determined character string of the first character type, it may set the character input position immediately after the determined character string of the first character type.

[0015] Also, for example, when the screen switching unit of this character input device is estimated by the estimation unit that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before or after the determined character string of the first character type, after displaying the second operation screen on the display, when the character string of the second character type is determined, it may display the first operation screen on the display.

[0016] Also, for example, the second character type may be a number.

[0017] Also, for example, if the determined character string of the first character type is a classifier, the estimation unit of this character input device may estimate that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before this determined character string.

[0018] Also, for example, if the determined character string of the first character type is a unit symbol of quantity, the estimation unit of this character input device may estimate that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately after this determined character string.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to this invention, by controlling the input mode, it is possible to improve the operability of the user.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to several drawings.

[0022] <1. Application Example> FIGS. 1(A)-1(D) are image diagrams of the character input device 10. FIG. 1(A) is a diagram showing an image in which a user operates the character input device. FIGS. 1(B)-1(D) are diagrams showing an enlarged view of the character display unit 23 in the character input device 10.

[0023] The character input device 10 is, for example, a smartphone. Note that the character input device 10 is not limited to a smartphone, and any device capable of character input such as a tablet or a personal computer may be used.

[0024] Specifically, an example in which a user inputs characters will be described. The character input device 10 includes a display 20. The display 20 has a configuration including a touch panel provided in the character input device 10. The display 20 includes a keypad display unit 21, a candidate display unit 22, and a character display unit 23. For example, the keypad display unit 21, the candidate display unit 22, and the character display unit 23 are arranged on the display screen of the display 20 as shown in FIG. 1(A).

[0025] To input the string "5 years old", the user performs character input in the order of first entering "years old" and then "5". In this example, the character types and operation screens of the present invention are defined. The string to be entered first (in this case, "years old") is defined as the first character type, and the string to be entered second (in this case, "5") is defined as the second character type. Further, the screen that accepts the input operation of the characters of the first character type corresponds to the "first operation screen" of the present invention. Also, the screen that accepts the input operation of the characters of the second character type corresponds to the "second operation screen" of the present invention.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1(A), a key array for kana and kanji input (hereinafter, kana input mode) is displayed on the keypad display unit 21. The screen on which this kana input mode is displayed is the "first operation screen". The candidate display unit 22 displays conversion candidates and predicted conversion candidates for the string input to the character display unit 23. Hereinafter, the conversion candidates and the predicted conversion candidates are collectively referred to as conversion candidates.

[0027] Next, the processing flow of the character input device 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1(B) - 1(D). As shown in FIG. 1(B), the user inputs the string "years old" to the character display unit 23. In the character display unit 23, the string "years old" and a cursor 201 are displayed immediately after the string "years old". The cursor 201 indicates the position where the next character will be input. Note that the cursor 201 corresponds to the "character input position" of the present invention.

[0028] As shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(C), the user selects the string "years old" from the conversion candidates displayed on the candidate display unit 22. At this time, the first character type "years old" is displayed on the character display unit 23, and the keypad display unit 21 displays a key array for numeric input (hereinafter, numeric input mode). The screen on which this numeric input mode is displayed is the "second operation screen". At this time, the cursor 201 moves to immediately before the first character type "years old".

[0029] Note that, unlike the first operation screen, the second operation screen may be a simple operation screen. Specifically, the second operation screen is composed only of a keyboard for numeric input, cursor movement keys, delete keys, etc., and no keyboard switching keys or the like are displayed. That is, it is a screen specialized for inputting the second character type. By this, when the user inputs characters on the second operation screen, the user can clearly understand the characters to be input with a simple configuration.

[0030] The user determines the input of the second character type "5" in the numeric input mode. By this, the character display unit 23 displays the confirmed character string "5 years old". When the character string "5 years old" is confirmed, the cursor 201 moves immediately after the confirmed character string "5 years old". Further, the keypad display unit 21 switches to the first operation screen (katakana input mode).

[0031] By configuring in this way, the user does not need to intentionally switch to the input mode of the second character type (in this case, the numeric input mode) corresponding to the first character type "years old". In other words, since the user can switch the input mode of the second character type to the numeric input mode by confirming the first character type, the procedure for switching the input mode can be omitted.

[0032] Furthermore, when inputting the second character type and after the input of the first and second character types is completed, the cursor 201 moves immediately after the confirmed character, so that subsequent input can be performed smoothly. That is, the operability of the user is improved.

[0033] <2. Configuration example> Figs. 1(A)-1(D) are conceptual diagrams of the character input device 10 of Configuration Example 1. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the character input device 10.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 2, the character input device 10 includes a display 20, an operation detection unit 30, a control unit 40, and a database 50.

[0035] As described above, the display 20 includes a keypad display unit 21, a candidate display unit 22, and a character display unit 23. For example, the keypad display unit 21, the candidate display unit 22, and the character display unit 23 are arranged on the display screen of the display 20 as shown in FIGS. 1(A)-1(D). Various keys for character input are displayed on the keypad display unit 21. The candidate display unit 22 displays conversion candidates obtained by the method described later and filtered conversion candidates. The character display unit 23 displays the reading input using the keypad display unit 21, provisional conversion candidates, and confirmed character strings.

[0036] Specifically, the operation detection unit 30 is a touch panel provided in the display 20. It detects operation inputs to the display 20, that is, operations to the keypad display unit 21, the candidate display unit 22, and the character display unit 23. The detection of an operation includes, for example, the operation position, the duration of the operation, and the temporal change of the operation position. The operation detection unit 30 outputs the operation detection result to the control unit 40.

[0037] The control unit 40 includes a candidate control unit 41, an estimation unit 42, a screen switching unit 43, a position setting unit 44, and a display control unit 45.

[0038] The specific configuration of the character input device 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1(A)-1(D) and FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 1(A), a first operation screen (hiragana input mode) is displayed on the keypad display unit 21. The user inputs the characters "5 years old". As in the above example, the user first inputs "years old" and then inputs "5". The user operates the keypad display unit 21 to input the character string "sai" to the character display unit 23.

[0039] The operation detection unit 30 detects the input of the character string "sai" and outputs the character string "sai" to the candidate control unit 41. The candidate control unit 41 searches the database 50 based on the operation detection result by the operation detection unit 30 using a known method. The candidate control unit 41 outputs conversion candidates to the display control unit 45. The display control unit 45 outputs the conversion candidates to the candidate display unit 22. At this time, for example, "year", "sai", "again", "most", "moment", "difference", "recent" etc. are displayed on the candidate display unit 22.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1(A)-1(D) and FIG. 2, the user selects the character string "year". The operation detection unit 30 detects that the user has selected the first character type "year" of the candidate display unit 22. The operation detection unit 30 outputs the selected first character type "year" to the estimation unit 42. The estimation unit 42 estimates that the first character type "year" is a classifier, and estimates whether the input of the second character type will be performed after the first character type "year" is determined.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, the estimation unit 42 estimates that the first character type "year" is a classifier and the input of the second character type will be performed after the first character type "year". The estimation unit 42 outputs the result to the screen switching unit 43. The screen switching unit 43 estimates that the second operation screen corresponding to the first character type "year" is in the numeric input mode, and switches from the first operation screen (hiragana input mode) to the second operation screen (numeric input mode).

[0042] Furthermore, the estimation unit 42 estimates the position of the cursor 201 for inputting the second character type. The estimation unit 42 estimates that the position of the cursor 201 is immediately before the first character type, and outputs the result to the position setting unit 44. The position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type "year".

[0043] The screen switching unit 43 outputs to the display control unit 45 to switch from the first operation screen to the second operation screen. Furthermore, the position setting unit 44 outputs to the display control unit 45 to move the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type "year".

[0044] The display control unit 45 switches from the first operation screen to the second operation screen and moves the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type "years old".

[0045] The user inputs the second character type "5" (a number) using the second operation screen displayed on the keypad display unit 21. At this time, the cursor 201 is positioned immediately after the second character type "5".

[0046] Next, the user confirms the input of the second character type "5". The user confirms the input of the second character type "5" using, for example, the enter key or the like. The operation detection unit 30 detects the confirmation of the second character type "5". The operation detection unit 30 outputs to the estimation unit 42 that the second character type "5" has been confirmed.

[0047] The estimation unit 42 determines that it is the confirmed character string in which the input of the desired character string "5 years old" has been confirmed. The estimation unit 42 outputs to the screen switching unit 43 to switch the input mode to the first operation screen. Further, the estimation unit 42 outputs to the position setting unit 44 to move the cursor 201 immediately after the confirmed character string "5 years old".

[0048] As a result, the screen switching unit 43 switches from the second operation screen to the first operation screen via the display control unit 45. In other words, the screen switching unit 43 returns to the first operation screen (kana input mode) when the first character type is input. Also, the position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately after the confirmed character string "5 years old" via the display control unit 45.

[0049] Note that the control unit 40 is composed of a hardware CPU, a memory, and other electronic circuits. When the hardware CPU executes the character input program according to the present invention, it operates as a candidate control unit 41, an estimation unit 42, a screen switching unit 43, a position setting unit 44, and a display control unit 45. Further, the memory has a configuration having an area for expanding the character input program according to the present invention and an area for temporarily storing data generated during the execution of this character input program. The control unit 40 may be an LSI integrating the hardware CPU, the memory, etc. Further, the hardware CPU is a computer that executes the character input method according to the present invention.

[0050] <3. Operation Example> FIGS. 3(A)-3(D) are conceptual diagrams for performing character input of the character input device 10 of Configuration Example 1. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the character input device 10 of Configuration Example 1.

[0051] Next, the processing flow of the character input device 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3(A)-3(D), and 4. For example, in order to create an email, the user starts an email application and performs character input. The keypad display unit 21 displays the keyboard of the first operation screen (hiragana input mode) (S101).

[0052] As shown in FIG. 3(A), the character display unit 23 receives the user's key input (S102). At this time, the operation detection unit 30 detects that the character display unit 23 inputs the character string "sai".

[0053] The operation detection unit 30 outputs the detected input of the character string "sai" to the candidate display unit 22. The candidate control unit 41 searches the database 50 for conversion candidates corresponding to the character string "sai". The candidate control unit 41 outputs the conversion candidates corresponding to the character string "sai" to the display control unit 45. The display control unit 45 displays the conversion candidates on the candidate display unit 22 (S103).

[0054] As shown in FIG. 3(B), the operation detection unit 30 detects that the character string "years old" displayed on the candidate display unit 22 has been selected. By this, the input of the first character type "years old" is determined (S104). The operation detection unit 30 outputs the selected first character type "years old" to the estimation unit 42.

[0055] The estimation unit 42 estimates that the input of the second character type is required for the first character type "years old" because the character string "years old" has been selected (S105). As shown in FIG. 3(C), when the estimation unit 42 estimates that the input of the second character type is required (S105: Yes), the screen switching unit 43 switches from the first operation screen to the second operation screen via the display control unit 45 (S106). In other words, the screen switching unit 43 switches the input mode from the kana input mode to the numeric input mode. The display control unit 45 displays the keyboard of the second operation screen (numeric input mode) on the keypad display unit 21.

[0056] Also, as shown in FIG. 3(B), when the estimation unit 42 estimates that the second character type needs to be input immediately before the first character type (S105: Yes), the position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 via the display control unit 45 (S107). For example, the position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 3(C), the operation detection unit 30 inputs the second character type "5" (numeric) on the second operation screen (numeric input mode) displayed on the keypad display unit 21. Further, the operation detection unit 30 detects that the input of the second character type has been determined (S108).

[0058] As shown in FIG. 3(D), since the second character type "5" has been determined, the screen switching unit 43 switches to the first operation screen via the display control unit 45 (S109). In other words, the screen switching unit 43 returns the input mode from the numeric input mode to the kana input mode.

[0059] Further, when the second character type "5" is determined, the estimation unit 42 moves the cursor 201 immediately after the determined character string "5 years old" via the display control unit 45 (S110).

[0060] On the other hand, when the estimation unit 42 estimates that the input of the second character type is unnecessary (S105: No), the display control unit 45 (screen switching unit 43, position setting unit 44) does not switch the operation screen (input mode) and does not move the cursor 201. The user continues character input (S111).

[0061] In the above-mentioned flow, the step S106 of switching the input mode and the step S107 of moving the position of the cursor 201 were described as executing step S107 after executing step S106. However, a configuration in which step S106 is executed after executing step S107 may also be used.

[0062] Similarly, the step S109 of switching the input mode and the step S110 of moving the position of the cursor 201 were described as executing step S110 after executing step S109. However, a configuration in which step S109 is executed after executing step S110 may also be used.

[0063] With the above configuration, the user does not need to intentionally switch from the first operation screen to the second operation screen. In other words, since the user can switch to the second operation screen (numeric input mode) when inputting the second character type, the procedure for changing the input mode can be omitted. Furthermore, after inputting a desired character string (determined character string), the procedure for manually returning the input mode from the second operation screen to the first operation screen can be omitted.

[0064] Also, when the user inputs the second character type and after the input of the first and second character types is completed, the procedure for manually moving the cursor 201 can be omitted, so that subsequent input can be performed smoothly. That is, the user can easily perform character input, improving the operability of the user.

[0065] <4. Variation 1> Next, a character input device according to Modification 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 5 is an image diagram showing character input using a character input device 10A according to Modification 1.

[0066] 5, the character input device 10A according to Modification 1 differs from the character input device 10 according to Configuration Example 1 in that it includes character strings in which the conversion candidates are displayed with the symbol "*" attached. Other configurations of the character input device 10A are the same as those of the character input device 10, and therefore, a description of similar parts will be omitted.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 5, the operation detection unit 30 detects the input of the character string "sai" and outputs the character string "sai" to the candidate control unit 41. The candidate control unit 41 searches the database 50, and the candidate control unit 41 outputs the conversion candidates to the display control unit 45. The display control unit 45 outputs the conversion candidates to the candidate display unit 22. At this time, the candidate display unit 22 displays, for example, "* years old," "years old," "again," "last," "last," "difference," "recent," etc.

[0068] The conversion candidates displayed in the candidate display unit 22 include "*sai." This symbol "*" is a guess symbol. The user can obtain the effects of the present invention by selecting a character string with this guess symbol "*."

[0069] The estimated symbol may be configured to indicate the position for inputting the second character type, thereby allowing the user to easily recognize the position where the second character type should be input.

[0070] A more specific configuration will be explained. The user selects the character string "* years old". This causes the display control unit 45 to switch from the first operation screen to the second operation screen. The estimation unit 42 estimates the position of the cursor 201 for inputting the second character type. In the case of "* years old", the estimation unit 42 estimates the position of the cursor 201 based on the position of the "*" relative to "years old". The estimation unit 42 estimates that the position of the cursor 201 is immediately before the first character type, and outputs this result to the position setting unit 44. The position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 to immediately before the first character type "years old".

[0071] In this way, candidate character strings with an attached "*" or the like (such as "* years old") are presumed to be of the first character type. When a character string without an attached "*", such as "years old", is selected, the switching between the first operation screen and the second operation screen described above and the movement of the cursor 201 are not performed, and the user performs normal character input.

[0072] Note that the above configuration shows a configuration using the estimation symbol "*". However, the method for the user to determine the first character type and a normal character string, in other words, the method for determining which of the first character type and a normal character string the user should select, is not limited to a character string with an attached estimation symbol "*", and may also be a configuration in which the first character type can be discriminated by a different background color, or by boldface, underlining, or the like.

[0073] By adopting a configuration that enables selection of a character string with the above-mentioned attached estimation symbol "*", the user can switch to the second operation screen (numeric input mode) when inputting the second character type, and can omit the procedure for changing the input mode. Further, after inputting a desired character string, the procedure for intentionally returning the input mode from the second operation screen to the first operation screen can be omitted. Furthermore, the estimation symbol "*" can easily discriminate whether a character string requires the second character type or is a normal character string.

[0074] In addition, when the user inputs the second character type and after the input of the first character type and the second character type is completed, the procedure for manually moving the cursor 201 can be omitted, so that subsequent input can be performed smoothly. That is, the user can easily perform character input, and the operability of the user is improved.

[0075] <5. Modification Example 2> Next, the character input device according to Modification Example 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is an image diagram for performing character input of the character input device 10B of Configuration Example 2.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 6, the character input device 10B according to the second modification is different from the character input device 10A according to the first modification in that the first operation screen of the character input device 10A is in the kana input mode, while the first operation screen of the second modification is in the alphabet input mode. Other configurations of the character input device 10B are the same as those of the character input device 10A, and descriptions of the same parts are omitted.

[0077] Hereinafter, an example in which the first operation screen is in the alphabet input mode will be described. However, the type of language input as a character string is not limited to the alphabet input mode, and may be other types of languages. The type of language may be, for example, Chinese, which is a method of allowing the user to input the pronunciation notation of the word (desired character string) to be input as a character string, or German, which is a method of inputting the spelling of the word to be input as a character string.

[0078] The user uses the keypad display unit 21 to input the character string "ye" into the character display unit 23. Note that the first operation screen of the keypad display unit 21 is in the alphabet input mode. The candidate control unit 41 searches for conversion candidates and outputs the conversion candidates to the candidate display unit 22. At this time, for example, "*years", "yes", "year", and "years old" are displayed on the candidate display unit 22.

[0079] The user selects the character string "*years". The operation detection unit 30 determines that the input of the first character type "years" on the candidate display unit 22 by the user is confirmed.

[0080] The operation detection unit 30 outputs the selected first character type "years" to the estimation unit 42. The estimation unit 42 estimates that the first character type "years" is a "classifier (English letter)". Note that the "classifier (English letter)" in the present invention is assumed to be the same as the classifier in Japanese, and forms a desired character string by combining numbers with the character string input in alphabet.

[0081] The estimation unit 42 outputs to the screen switching unit 43 the result of estimating that the first character type "years" is a "classifier (English character)". The screen switching unit 43 estimates that the second operation screen of the second character type corresponding to the first character type "years" is in the numeric input mode. Therefore, the screen switching unit 43 switches from the first operation screen (English input mode) to the second operation screen (numeric input mode).

[0082] Furthermore, the estimation unit 42 estimates the position of the cursor 201 for inputting the second character type. The estimation unit 42 estimates that the position of the cursor 201 is immediately before the first character type, and outputs the result to the position setting unit 44. The position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type "years".

[0083] The screen switching unit 43 outputs to the display control unit 45 to switch the second operation screen to the numeric input mode. Furthermore, the position setting unit 44 outputs to the display control unit 45 to move the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type "years".

[0084] As shown in FIG. 6, the display control unit 45 changes the second operation screen to the numeric input mode and moves the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type "years".

[0085] The user inputs the second character type "5" using the second operation screen (numeric input mode) displayed on the keypad display unit 21. At this time, the cursor 201 is positioned immediately after the second character type "5".

[0086] Next, the user confirms the input of the second character type "5" using an enter key or the like. The operation detection unit 30 detects the input of the second character type "5" by the user. The operation detection unit 30 outputs to the estimation unit 42 that the second character type "5" has been input.

[0087] The estimation unit 42 determines that the input of the desired fixed character string "5years" has been finalized. The estimation unit 42 outputs to the screen switching unit 43 to switch from the second operation screen (numeric input mode) to the first operation screen (alphabetic input mode). Further, the estimation unit 42 outputs to the position setting unit 44 to move the cursor 201 immediately after the fixed character string "5years".

[0088] As a result, the screen switching unit 43 switches from the second operation screen to the first operation screen via the display control unit 45. In other words, the screen switching unit 43 returns to the first operation screen (alphabetic input mode) when the first character type is input. Also, the position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately after the fixed character string "5years" for which the input has been finalized via the display control unit 45.

[0089] Even with this configuration, it is possible for the user to switch to the second operation screen even when using the alphabetic input mode. Therefore, when the user performs character input, the procedure for switching the input mode can be omitted, and character input can be easily performed. Further, the user does not need to move the cursor for input of the second character type. Thus, the operability of the user is improved.

[0090] <6. Modification Example 3> Next, the character input device according to Modification Example 3 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is an image diagram of performing character input of the character input device 10C of Modification Example 3. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the character input device 10C of Modification Example 3.

[0091] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the character input device 10C according to Modification Example 3 is described using the example where the first operation screen of the character input device 10A according to Modification Example 1 is in the kana input mode, whereas Modification Example 3 differs in that symbol input is used and in that it determines whether it is necessary to move the cursor 201. Other configurations of the character input device 10C are the same as those of the character input device 10A, and descriptions of the same parts are omitted.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 7, the user inputs the symbol “$” into the character display unit 23 using the first operation screen (symbol input mode) of the keypad display unit 21. The candidate control unit 41 searches for conversion candidates, and the display control unit 45 outputs the conversion candidates to the candidate display unit 22. At this time, for example, “$*”, “$”, “dollar”, and “DOLLAR” are displayed on the candidate display unit 22.

[0093] The user selects the character string “$*”. The operation detection unit 30 detects that the character string “$*” on the candidate display unit 22 has been selected, and the input of the first character type “$” is confirmed.

[0094] The operation detection unit 30 outputs the selected first character type “$” to the estimation unit 42. The estimation unit 42 estimates that the first character type “$” is the “currency (symbol)” of the “unit symbol”. This “currency (symbol)” is a character that precedes the number representing the amount of money.

[0095] The estimation unit 42 outputs the result of estimating that the first character type “$” is the “currency (symbol)” to the screen switching unit 43. The screen switching unit 43 estimates the second operation screen corresponding to the first character type “$”. The screen switching unit 43 estimates that the second operation screen is the numeric input mode, and switches from the first operation screen to the second operation screen.

[0096] On the other hand, the estimation unit 42 estimates the position of the cursor 201 for inputting the second character type. The estimation unit 42 estimates that the position of the cursor 201 is immediately after the first character type, and outputs the result to the position setting unit 44. The position setting unit 44 does not move the cursor 201 displayed immediately after the first character type “$”.

[0097] Next, the user confirms the input of the second character type “100”. The operation detection unit 30 detects the input of the second character type “100”. The operation detection unit 30 outputs to the estimation unit 42 that the second character type “100” has been input.

[0098] The estimation unit 42 determines that the input of the desired fixed character string "$100" has been confirmed. The estimation unit 42 outputs to the screen switching unit 43 to switch to the first operation screen (symbol input mode). As a result, the screen switching unit 43 switches the second operation screen to the first operation screen. On the other hand, the cursor 201 does not move.

[0099] Next, with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the processing flow of the character input device 10C will be described. For example, in order to input characters, the user starts a notepad application and inputs characters. The first operation screen (symbol input mode) is displayed on the keypad display unit 21 (S201).

[0100] The character display unit 23 receives the user's key input (S202). At this time, the operation detection unit 30 detects the input of the symbol "$".

[0101] The operation detection unit 30 outputs the detected input of the symbol "$" to the candidate display unit 22. The candidate control unit 41 searches the database 50 for conversion candidates corresponding to the symbol "$". The candidate control unit 41 outputs the prediction candidates corresponding to the symbol "$" to the display control unit 45. The display control unit 45 displays the conversion candidates on the candidate display unit 22 (S203).

[0102] The operation detection unit 30 determines the candidate by selecting the character string "$*" displayed on the candidate display unit 22 (S204). The operation detection unit 30 outputs the selected first character type "$" to the estimation unit 42.

[0103] The estimation unit 42 estimates whether the input of the second character type is required for the character string (S205). When the estimation unit 42 estimates that the input of the second character type is required (S205: Yes), it outputs to the screen switching unit 43 to switch to the second operation screen. The screen switching unit 43 switches from the first operation screen (symbol input mode) to the second operation screen (number input mode) via the display control unit 45 (S207).

[0104] Next, when performing the input of the second character type, the estimation unit 42 estimates whether the movement of the cursor position is required (S207).

[0105] When the estimation unit 42 estimates that the movement of the cursor position is not necessary (S207: No), the operation detection unit 30 detects that the second character type "100" has been confirmed on the second operation screen in the keypad display unit 21 (S209).

[0106] When the second character type "100" is input, the screen switching unit 43 switches from the second operation screen to the first operation screen (S209). For example, the screen switching unit 43 returns the input mode from the numeric input mode to the symbol input mode.

[0107] On the other hand, when the estimation unit 42 estimates that the movement of the cursor position is necessary (S207: Yes), it outputs to move the cursor 201 to the position setting unit 44. The position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 via the display control unit 45 (S210). For example, the position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately before the first character type.

[0108] The operation detection unit 30 detects the input of the second character type in the input mode displayed on the keypad display unit 21. Further, the operation detection unit 30 detects that the input of the second character type has been confirmed (S211).

[0109] The estimation unit 42 determines that the second character type has been input, and the screen switching unit 43 switches the input mode (S212). For example, the screen switching unit 43 switches the input mode from the numeric input mode to the symbol input mode.

[0110] Also, the estimation unit 42 determines that the second character type has been input, and the position setting unit 44 moves the cursor 201 immediately after the confirmed character string (S213).

[0111] When the estimation unit 42 estimates that the input of the second character type is unnecessary (S205: No), it does not perform the switching of the operation screen and the movement of the cursor 201, but continues the character input (S221).

[0112] In the above flow, it was explained that step S205 for determining whether an input of the second character type is required and step S207 for determining whether cursor movement is required are executed such that step S207 is executed after step S205. However, a configuration may also be adopted in which step S205 is executed after step S207. Furthermore, steps S205 and S207 may be executed simultaneously.

[0113] Similarly, for step S212 for switching the input mode and step S213 for moving the position of cursor 201, it was explained that step S213 is executed after step S212. However, a configuration may also be adopted in which step 212 is executed after step S213.

[0114] By providing this configuration, even when the user uses the symbol input mode, it becomes possible to switch the operation screen (input mode). In addition, since it is possible to automatically determine whether or not to move the cursor according to the character string to be input (in this case, symbol input), the convenience for the user is further improved.

[0115] <7. Modification Example 4> Next, a character input device according to Modification Example 4 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 9 is an image diagram for performing character input of the character input device 10D of Modification Example 4.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 9, the character input device 10D according to Modification Example 4 is different from the character input device 10C according to Modification Example 3 in that it includes a selection confirmation unit 21D. Other configurations of the character input device 10D are the same as those of the character input device 10C, and descriptions of the same parts will be omitted.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 9, the keypad display unit 21 includes a selection confirmation unit 21D. The user uses the keypad display unit 21 to input the symbol "$" to the character display unit 23. The candidate control unit 41 searches for conversion candidates, and the display control unit 45 outputs the conversion candidates to the candidate display unit 22. At this time, for example, "$*", "$", "dollar", and "DOLLAR" are displayed on the candidate display unit 22.

[0118] The user selects the character string "$*". The operation detection unit 30 detects that the user has selected the character string "$*" in the candidate display unit 22, and the input of the first character type "$" is determined.

[0119] The estimation unit 42 estimates that the first character type "$" is "(symbol) currency". The estimation unit 42 estimates that a second character type is required for the first character type. Also, the estimation unit 42 estimates that the second operation screen for inputting the second character type is in the numeric input mode.

[0120] At this time, the estimation unit 42 determines that there are a half-width input second operation screen and a full-width input second operation screen in the second operation screen (numeric input mode). The display control unit 45 displays the selection confirmation unit 21D for estimating whether to input half-width numbers or full-width numbers. For example, the selection confirmation unit 21D displays the words "Switch to numeric input mode. Please select half-width or full-width." and the selection buttons for "Half-width" and "Full-width".

[0121] When the user selects "Half-width" in the selection confirmation unit 21D, the operation detection unit 30 outputs to the estimation unit 42 that the half-width numeric input mode has been selected. The estimation unit 42 outputs to the screen switching unit 43 to switch to the second operation screen for half-width input. The screen switching unit 43 switches the keypad display unit 21 to the second operation screen (numeric input mode and half-width input mode) via the display control unit 45.

[0122] Also, when the user selects "Full-width" in the selection confirmation unit 21D, the operation detection unit 30 outputs to the estimation unit 42 that the full-width numeric input mode has been selected. The estimation unit 42 outputs to the screen switching unit 43 to switch to the second operation screen for full-width input. The screen switching unit 43 switches the keypad display unit 21 to the second operation screen (numeric input mode and full-width input mode) via the display control unit 45.

[0123] By having this configuration, even when the user uses the symbol input mode, it becomes possible to switch between the first operation screen and the second operation screen. Furthermore, it becomes possible to select whether it is the half-width input mode or the full-width input mode of the second operation screen, and the operability of the user is further improved.

[0124] In addition, in the above-described configuration, the screen switching unit 43 may determine whether it is the half-width input mode or the full-width input mode of the second character type by judging the input tendency of the user. More specifically, the character input device 10D may include an input history database (not shown) for storing the above-described input tendency of the user.

[0125] For example, when the user inputs the second character type, the screen switching unit 43 searches and compares the input history database for the frequency of using the half-width input mode and the frequency of using the full-width input mode. At this time, when the screen switching unit 43 estimates that the user has a high frequency of inputting in the half-width input mode, it may be configured to switch to the half-width input mode without displaying the selection confirmation unit 21D.

[0126] Also, in the above-described Configuration Example 1 and Modification Examples 1 to 4, an estimation database (not shown) for registering by associating the attribute of the character string with the input mode of the second character type and for setting the cursor position for inputting the second character type may be provided. By having this configuration, the estimation unit 42 can customize the input mode of the second character type for a plurality of attributes. That is, the convenience of the user is improved.

[0127] Also, in the above-described Configuration Example 1 and Modification Examples 1 to 4, when it is not necessary to confirm the second character type when using the "half-width" input mode, a configuration may be adopted in which the confirmation operation of the second character type is not performed.

[0128] Note that the database 50 may be provided in a server on the network, and the character input device 10 may be configured to obtain conversion candidates for the character string input by communication with the server.

[0129] Note that the present invention is not limited to the above examples as they are, and in the implementation stage, the components can be modified and embodied without departing from the gist thereof. Also, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the above examples. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the above examples. Furthermore, components from different examples may be appropriately combined.

[0130] Furthermore, the correspondence between the configuration according to the present invention and the above-described configuration can be described as follows in the appended note. <Appended Note> The character input device (10) includes a screen switching unit (43) and an estimation unit (42). The screen switching unit (43) switches the screen to display a first operation screen on the display (20) when receiving an input operation of characters of a first character type, and to display a second operation screen on the display (20) when receiving an input operation of characters of a second character type. The estimation unit (42) estimates whether an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before or after the determined input character string of the first character type when the input character string of the first character type for which the first operation screen is displayed on the display and the input operation is received is determined. When the estimation unit (42) estimates that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before or after the determined character string, the screen switching unit (43) displays the second operation screen on the display (20).

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0131] 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D... Character input device 20... Display 21... Keypad display unit 21D... Selection confirmation unit 22... Candidate display unit 23... Character display unit 30... Operation detection unit 40... Control unit 41... Candidate control unit 42... Estimation unit 43... Screen switching unit 44... Position setting unit 45... Display control unit 50… Database 201… Cursor

Claims

1. A screen switching unit that switches the screen to display a first operation screen on a display when receiving an input operation of characters of a first character type, and to display a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of characters of a second character type; An estimation unit that estimates whether an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before or immediately after the determined string when the input string of the first character type received by displaying the first operation screen on the display is determined; and is provided with, When the estimation unit estimates that an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before or immediately after the determined string, the screen switching unit displays the second operation screen on the display, Furthermore, when the estimation unit estimates that an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before the determined string of the first character type, a position setting unit that sets the character input position immediately before the determined string of the first character type, a character input device.

2. The character input device according to claim 1, wherein the second character type is a number.

3. The estimation unit of the character input device according to claim 2 estimates that an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before the determined string if the determined string of the first character type is a classifier.

4. A screen switching unit that switches the screen to display a first operation screen on a display when receiving an input operation of characters of a first character type, and to display a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of characters of a second character type; An estimation unit that estimates whether an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before or immediately after the determined string when the input string of the first character type received by displaying the first operation screen on the display is determined; and is provided with, When the estimation unit estimates that an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before or immediately after the determined string, the screen switching unit displays the second operation screen on the display, The second character type is a number, The estimation unit of the character input device estimates that an input operation of characters of the second character type is to be performed immediately before the determined string if the determined string of the first character type is a classifier.

5. The position setting unit sets the character input position immediately after the determined character string of the first character type when the character string of the second character type input immediately before the determined character string of the first character type is determined. The character input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. When the screen switching unit is estimated by the estimation unit that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before or after the determined character string of the first character type, and after displaying the second operation screen on the display, when the character string of the second character type is determined, the first operation screen is displayed on the display. The character input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. If the determined character string of the first character type is a unit symbol of quantity, the estimation unit estimates that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately after this determined character string. The character input device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A computer of a character input device that displays a first operation screen on a display when receiving an input operation of a character of a first character type, and displays a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of a character of a second character type, When the screen displayed on the display is the first operation screen, when the input character string of the first character type that has received the input operation is determined, an estimation step of estimating whether an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before this determined character string; When it is estimated in the estimation step that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string, a screen switching step of switching the screen of the display from the first operation screen to the second operation screen; When it is estimated in the estimation step that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string of the first character type, a position setting step of setting the character input position immediately before the determined character string of the first character type. A character input method for executing.

9. A computer of a character input device that displays a first operation screen on a display when receiving an input operation of a character of a first character type, and displays a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of a character of a second character type, When the screen displayed on the display is the first operation screen, when the input character string of the first character type that has received the input operation is determined, an estimation step of estimating whether an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before this determined character string; When it is estimated in the estimation step that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string, a screen switching step of switching the screen of the display from the first operation screen to the second operation screen is executed. The second character type is a number. The estimation step is a step of estimating that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string when the determined character string of the first character type is an auxiliary word. This is a character input method.

10. In a computer of a character input device that displays a first operation screen on a display when receiving an input operation of a character of a first character type and displays a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of a character of a second character type, When the screen displayed on the display is the first operation screen, when the input character string of the first character type for which the input operation has been received is determined, an estimation step of estimating whether an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string. When it is estimated in the estimation step that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string, a screen switching step of switching the screen of the display from the first operation screen to the second operation screen. A character input program that, when it is estimated in the estimation step that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string of the first character type, executes a position setting step of setting the character input position immediately before the determined character string of the first character type.

11. In a computer of a character input device that displays a first operation screen on a display when receiving an input operation of a character of a first character type and displays a second operation screen on the display when receiving an input operation of a character of a second character type, When the screen displayed on the display is the first operation screen, when the input character string of the first character type for which the input operation has been received is determined, an estimation step of estimating whether an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string. When it is estimated in the estimation step that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before the determined character string, a screen switching step of switching the screen of the display from the first operation screen to the second operation screen is executed. The second character type is a number. The prediction step is a character input program that, when the determined character string of the first character type is a classifier, predicts that an input operation of a character of the second character type is performed immediately before this determined character string.

Images