Electronic device, operation support method and program

Abstract

To provide an electronic apparatus capable of executing processing identical to an operation of a key without making a user operate the key.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus includes a plurality of kinds of operation cards NCn each incorporating an NFC tag that stores each of a plurality of kinds of keys (hardware keys) for designating various kinds of functions of a key input unit 14 or a plurality of kinds of keys (software keys) for designating various kinds of functions displayed on a display unit 17, and a common operation code. An illustration indicating the function of the key to which the operation card NCn corresponds is described on the operation card NCn. When a user holds up any operation card NCn over an electronic dictionary 10, a control unit executes processing identical to that of when the key corresponding to the operation card NCn is depressed according to processing content data stored in association with the operation code received from the operation card NCn by a short-range radio communication unit 18 in an operation code / processing content correspondence table.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, an operation support This invention relates to a method and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Small electronic devices such as electronic dictionaries, smartphones, and game consoles are widely used.

[0003] Because the housings of such electronic devices are small, the keys used to operate the devices are inevitably small, and the characters indicating the key functions written on the key tops are also necessarily small in size. The same is true for the soft keys displayed on the display of the electronic devices.

[0004] For this reason, small electronic devices can be inconvenient for users such as elderly people who have difficulty reading small characters.

[0005] Furthermore, such electronic devices are becoming increasingly multifunctional, and for example, there are many keys other than the QWERTY keys that can be used to perform various functions. This not only makes it difficult to see the characters that indicate the key functions, but also makes it difficult to find the key you want or to press the wrong key.

[0006] As a method of using input means other than keys, a game device has been considered that processes information related to a game based on data acquired from an IC tag by a short-range wireless communication unit (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-251816 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 was ultimately insufficient to solve the problem of the key characters being difficult to see.

[0009] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and provides an electronic device and an operation system that can execute the same process as a key operation without the user operating the key. support The present invention aims to provide a method and a program. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Electronic device according to the present invention One aspect of a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation; an acquisition control unit for causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; and an execution control unit for executing the preset process to be executed by operating the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key. The identification medium is a contactless IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the contactless IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the contactless IC tag, the first key is assigned with a plurality of processes that are different from one another, and when the identification code is received multiple times within a predetermined period by the short-range wireless communication unit, the execution control unit executes the plurality of processes that are to be executed in order each time the first key is operated in order each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. It is characterized by:

[0011] Operation support method according to the present invention One aspect of , for executing a preset process in response to a user operation. No. 1 An operation support method executed by an electronic device having a key, the method comprising: acquiring an identification code corresponding to an identification medium from the identification medium by an acquisition unit; an acquisition control step of acquiring the information acquired by the acquisition unit; The identification code is No. 1 If the identification code corresponds to the key, No. 1 Execute the preset process that is executed by operating the key an execution control step, wherein the identification medium is a contactless IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the contactless IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the contactless IC tag, the first key is assigned with a plurality of processes different from one another, and when the identification code is received a plurality of times by the short-range wireless communication unit within a predetermined period, the execution control step executes the plurality of processes that are to be executed in order each time the first key is operated in order each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. It is characterized by:

[0012] The program according to the present invention One aspect is , for executing a preset process in response to a user operation. No. 1 The computer of the electronic device equipped with the key reads the identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium. acquisition control means for causing an acquisition unit to acquire the information acquired by the acquisition unit; The identification code is No. 1 If the identification code corresponds to the key, No. 1 It functions as an execution control means for executing the preset process that is executed by operating a key. the identification medium is a contactless IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the contactless IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the contactless IC tag, the first key is assigned with a plurality of processes that are different from one another, and when the identification code is received a plurality of times within a predetermined period by the short-range wireless communication unit, the execution control means executes the plurality of processes that are to be executed in order each time the first key is operated in order each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. It is characterized by: [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to execute the same process as that performed by operating the key without the user operating the key. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of an electronic dictionary 10 according to an embodiment of the electronic device, the operating method, and the program of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic circuit of the electronic dictionary 10. As shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the operation code / processing content correspondence table storage area 22e of the electronic dictionary 10. As shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing operation response processing according to the control program of the electronic dictionary 10. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of operation according to the operation response process when the operation card [Japanese Dictionary 1] NC1 is held over the electronic dictionary 10. In FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an operation example (part 1) according to the operation response process when an operation card [character size] NC2 is held over electronic dictionary 10. In FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an operation example (part 2) according to the operation response process when an operation card [character size] NC2 is held over electronic dictionary 10. In FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of an electronic dictionary 10 according to an embodiment of the electronic device, the operating method, and the program of the present invention.

[0017] The electronic device may be configured not only as an electronic dictionary 10 described below, but also as a tablet-type PDA (personal digital assistant), PC (personal computer), mobile phone, e-book, portable game console, etc. equipped with dictionary functions.

[0018] Electronic dictionary 10 is configured with a foldable case in which main body case 11 and lid case 12 can be opened and closed via hinge section 13. When the foldable case is opened, the surface of main body case 11 is provided with key input section 14 (hardware keys) including [Home] key 14a, function designation keys 14b, character input keys 14c, [Enter] key 14d, [Back] key 14e, [Audio] key 14f, [Character size] key 14g, [History] key 14h, page forward keys 14i1 and 14i2, [Shift] key 14j, etc., audio output section (including a speaker) 15, audio input section (including a microphone) 16, etc.

[0019] A touch panel display unit 17 is provided on the surface of the cover case 12. The touch panel display unit 17 has a structure in which a touch position detection device that detects the position touched by the user with a pen or finger and a display device are integrated together. B It consists of a color LCD display screen with a backlight and a transparent touch panel overlaid on top of it.

[0020] A touch key area (software keys) 17T on which touch keys (such as [Home], [Training Gym], [Voice], [Back], and [Function Menu]) are fixedly printed (or displayed) may be provided at the right end of the touch panel display unit 17. These touch keys are used to press some of the keys in the key input unit 14 and to specify some of the functions of the electronic dictionary 10 by touch operation. For example, the [Home] touch key 17Ta, the [Back] touch key 17Te, and the [Voice] touch key 17Tf in the touch key area 17T each have the function of specifying the same function as the [Home] key 14a, the [Back] key 14e, and the [Voice] key 14f provided in the key input unit 14.

[0021] The [Home] key 14a of the key input unit 14 is a key for displaying the home screen GH (see FIG. 5(A)) on the display unit 17. The home screen GH displays a plurality of icons that are registered according to the initial settings of the electronic dictionary 10 or user operations. Each icon is a figure or symbol for activating a function corresponding to the notation of the icon. For example, it includes an application icon that directly activates a function (application) that uses dictionary content or study content, and a group icon that displays a list screen of icons for multiple functions belonging to one category.

[0022] The function specification keys 14b of the key input unit 14 are keys for directly specifying the category of dictionary content (such as [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2], [Encyclopedia / Encyclopedia], [Classical / Chinese-Japanese], [English-Japanese 1 / English-Japanese 2], etc.), [Content List], or one of the tool categories [Study Notebook] displayed on each key. For example, the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1 among the function specification keys 14b is a key for switching between "Japanese Dictionary 1" and "Japanese Dictionary 2" in turn each time the key is operated.

[0023] Furthermore, when a key of the key input unit 14 is operated after the [Shift] key 14j is operated, the key functions as the key indicated in a box on the key top, rather than the key function indicated without a box. For example, when the [Enter] key 14d is operated after the [Shift] key 14j is operated, it functions as the [Register] key instead of the [Enter] key, and when the page forward key 14i1 or 14i2 is operated after the [Shift] key 14j is operated, it functions as a heading forward key to the previous or next heading, rather than a page forward key to the previous or next page.

[0024] In addition, near the center of the hinge section 13 of the main body case 11, which is located, for example, on the deeper side than the key input section 14, there is provided a built-in short-range wireless communication section 18 (acquisition section) such as NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) that can communicate with a contactless IC tag held up to the electronic dictionary 10 when the electronic dictionary 10 is turned on (when at least the main body case 11 and the lid case 12 are unfolded and the power is on).

[0025] This electronic dictionary 10 has the function of using multiple types of operation cards NCn (n=1, 2, ...) that have built-in non-contact IC tags (e.g., NFC tags) to perform the same processing as when the hardware keys of the key input unit 14 or the touch keys of the touch key area 17T are operated.

[0026] For example, the operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 shown in Figure 1 is an operation card that corresponds to the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1 of the function designation keys 14b, and each time the operation card NC1 is held over the electronic dictionary 10, the Japanese dictionary 1 initial screen G1 for inputting the headword to be searched for in "Japanese dictionary 1" and the Japanese dictionary 2 initial screen (not shown) for inputting the headword to be searched for in "Japanese dictionary 2" are displayed in sequence, just as when the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1 is operated.

[0027] Also, for example, when the [Shift] key 14j is operated and the operation card NCn (not shown) corresponding to the page forward key 14i1 is held over the electronic dictionary 10, the heading forward process to the previous heading is executed in the same manner as when the [Shift] key 14j is operated and the page forward key 14i1 is operated.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic circuit of the electronic dictionary 10. As shown in FIG.

[0029] The electronic circuit of the electronic dictionary 10 includes a control unit (CPU: central processing unit) 21 (a storage control unit, an acquisition control unit, and an execution control unit) which is a computer. The control unit 21 controls the operation of each part of the circuit in accordance with a control program stored in advance in a storage unit 22 such as a flash ROM. The number of processors such as a CPU may be one or two or more.

[0030] At least one of the control program and the dictionary data described later may be read by the recording medium reading unit 24 from an external recording medium 23 such as a memory card and stored in the memory unit 22, or may be downloaded from a web server (here, a program server) 30 on the communication network N via the communication unit 25 and stored in the memory unit 22.

[0031] The control unit 21 is connected to a memory unit 22, a recording medium reading unit 24, and a communication unit 25 via a data and control bus, as well as to a key input unit 14, an audio output unit 15, an audio input unit 16, a touch panel display unit 17, and a short-range wireless communication unit 18 (acquisition unit).

[0032] The storage unit 22 stores a system program that controls the overall operation of the electronic dictionary 10, a communication program for connecting to an external electronic device via the communication unit 25, and control programs including a dictionary control program 22a.

[0033] The memory unit 22 also has memory areas for storing data for executing various functions by the electronic dictionary 10, such as a dictionary data memory area 22b, a search history data memory area 22c, a vocabulary list data memory area 22d, an operation code / processing content correspondence table memory area 22e, and a work data memory area 22f.

[0034] The dictionary control program 22a is a dictionary search program for searching and displaying a user-desired entry word and its corresponding translation, meaning, example, explanation, etc., based on various dictionary contents (Japanese dictionary 1 / Japanese dictionary 2 / encyclopedia / encyclopedia / old Japanese dictionary / Chinese-Japanese dictionary / English-Japanese dictionary 1 / English-Japanese dictionary 2 / ...) stored as dictionary data (22b) in the dictionary data storage area 22b, and for storing the entry words searched according to the dictionary search program as a search history in the search history data storage area 22c, and displaying a list of the stored entry words (search history list) in response to the operation of the [History] key 14h. the dictionary search program includes a search history generation program for displaying the searched entry words in the dictionary search program, a vocabulary book generation program for storing the entry words searched for in the vocabulary book data storage area 22d in response to the operation of the [Register] key ([Shift] key 14j+[Enter] key 14d) and displaying a list of the stored entry words (vocabulary book list) in response to the operation of the [Vocabulary Book] key (not shown), and an operation response program for executing processing in response to key operations of various keys including the hardware keys provided on the key input unit 14 and the software keys displayed on the display unit 17 or near-field wireless communication with various operation cards NCn.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the operation code / processing content correspondence table storage area 22e of the electronic dictionary 10. As shown in FIG.

[0036] The operation code / processing content correspondence table memory area 22e stores data of operation codes (identification codes) corresponding to the various keys (hardware keys) provided on the key input unit 14 and the various keys (software keys) displayed on the display unit 17, in association with data of processing content to be executed by the control unit (CPU) 21 in accordance with the operation code (storage control unit).

[0037] For example, when [Language 1] is designated by operating the [Language 1 / Language 2] key 14b1, the control unit 21 stores the operation code "201" in the operation code / processing content correspondence table storage area 22e. In accordance with this, the dictionary content of "Japanese Dictionary 1" stored in the dictionary data storage area 22b is read and started, and the Japanese Dictionary 1 initial screen G1 is displayed on the display unit 17 as shown in FIG.

[0038] Furthermore, when the [Character Size] key 14g is operated, the control unit 21 displays a character size change menu M (see FIG. 6) for changing the character size of the display data displayed on the display unit 17 in accordance with the operation code "051" in the operation code / processing content correspondence table storage area 22e, or enlarges the character size of the display data displayed on the display unit 17 in multiple stages (for example, large / medium / small) each time the [Character Size] key 14g is repeatedly operated (see FIG. 5). Here, whether to display the character size change menu M or to immediately enlarge the character size without displaying the character size change menu M may be set arbitrarily by the user.

[0039] The operation code shown in FIG. 3 is an example, and any identification code corresponding to the type of key will do, and the content of the operation code, such as the combination of letters and numbers or the number of digits, is of course not limited.

[0040] Furthermore, when the hardware key and the software key have the same notation, the operation code and the processing content data may be the same.

[0041] In the working data memory area 22f, various data such as data input in response to user operations and data acquired or generated by the control unit 21 are temporarily stored (held) as needed in accordance with the control of the operation of each part of the circuit in accordance with the control program by the control unit 21.

[0042] The electronic dictionary 10 is provided with operation cards NCn (n=1, 2, ...) that correspond to keys for specifying content such as the dictionary described with reference to Fig. 3 and keys for specifying functions such as changing the character size. The operation cards NCn can be mounted in the electronic dictionary 10 using a card case or the like.

[0043] The operation cards NCn (n = 1, 2, ...) have built-in non-contact IC tags (e.g., NFC tags), and each NFC tag of the operation cards NCn (n = 1, 2, ...) stores an operation code that is the same as the operation code (identification code) of the key that the operation card NCn corresponds to.

[0044] Furthermore, operation cards NCn (n=1, 2, ...) have illustrations printed on their surfaces (either one side or both sides) that represent the contents or functions of the keys that the operation cards NCn correspond to. For example, as shown in Figure 1, an illustration of "Japanese Dictionary 1" is printed on the surface of the operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 that corresponds to the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1. Also, as shown in Figure 5, which will be described later, an illustration of a magnifying glass is printed on the surface of the operation card [Character Size] NC2 that corresponds to the [Character Size] key 14g.

[0045] Similarly, for example, although not shown, the operation card [Voice] NCn corresponding to the [Voice] key 14f has an illustration of a speaker, and the operation card [Voice] NCn corresponding to the [Voice Book] key has an illustration of a vocabulary card.

[0046] The operation card NCn may have a shape that represents the content or function of the key that the operation card NCn corresponds to. For example, as shown in Fig. 5 described later, the operation card [Character size] NC2 corresponding to the [Character size] key 14g has a shape that represents a magnifying glass.

[0047] In the electronic dictionary 10 configured in this manner, the control unit 21 controls the operation of each part of the circuit in accordance with the instructions of the control program stored in the memory unit 22, and the software and hardware work together to realize various functions corresponding to the keys and operation cards NCn as described in the operation explanation below.

[0048] Next, the operation of the electronic dictionary 10 of the embodiment will be described.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing operation response processing according to the control program of the electronic dictionary 10.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 1, when the electronic dictionary 10 is unfolded and powered on, and a key provided on the key input unit 14 for specifying a user-selected function is pressed, the control unit 21 extracts an operation code corresponding to the key code input from the key input unit 14 in response to the pressed key from the operation code / processing content correspondence table storage area 22e (see FIG. 3) (step S1 (Yes) → S2).

[0051] The control unit 21 executes the process in accordance with the data of the process content associated with the operation code extracted from the operation code / process content correspondence table (22e) (step S3).

[0052] That is, for example, when the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1 is pressed, the control unit 21 reads out and starts the dictionary content "Japanese Dictionary 1" stored in the dictionary data storage area 22b, and displays the Japanese Dictionary 1 initial screen G1 on the display unit 17 (steps S1 to S3).

[0053] In addition, when an operation card NCn, which has an illustration representing a function of the user's choice, is held over the electronic dictionary 10, the control unit 21 (execution control unit) extracts the operation code (identification code) contained in the received data received from the NFC tag of the operation card NCn by the near-field wireless communication unit 18 (acquisition unit) (step S4 (Yes) → S5).

[0054] The control unit 21 determines whether or not the operation key associated with the operation code extracted from the received data exists in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e: storage unit) (step S6), and if it determines that the operation key exists (step S6 (Yes)), it executes processing in accordance with the data of the processing content associated with the operation key and stored in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e) (step S3).

[0055] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of operation according to the operation response process when the operation card [Japanese Dictionary 1] NC1 is held over the electronic dictionary 10. In FIG.

[0056] 5(A), when the home screen GH is displayed on the display unit 17, and an operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 bearing an illustration of "Japanese Dictionary 1" is held over the electronic dictionary 10 as shown in FIG. 5(B), the control unit 21 reads and activates the dictionary content "Japanese Dictionary 1" stored in the dictionary data storage area 22b, similar to when the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1 is pressed, and displays the Japanese Dictionary 1 initial screen G1 on the display unit 17 (steps S4, S5, S6 → S3). At this time, the control unit 21 displays message information (here, "The IC tag of 'Japanese Dictionary 1' has been held over it") M1 on the display unit 17, indicating that a process for activating the dictionary content "Japanese Dictionary 1" has been executed based on communication between the operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 and the near-field wireless communication unit 18.

[0057] Furthermore, for example, if an operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 bearing an illustration of "Japanese Dictionary 1" is repeatedly held over the electronic dictionary 10 within a predetermined period during which the home screen GH is displayed on the display unit 17, the control unit 21 alternately reads out and activates the dictionary contents "Japanese Dictionary 1" and "Japanese Dictionary 2" stored in the dictionary data storage area 22b in accordance with the number of times the operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 is held over the electronic dictionary 10, similar to the case where the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1 is repeatedly pressed, and alternately displays the Japanese Dictionary 1 initial screen G1 and the Japanese Dictionary 2 initial screen (not shown) on the display unit 17 (steps S4, S5, S6 → S3). It goes without saying that the same processing is performed for operation cards corresponding to other similar keys (such as the [Japanese-English / English-English] key) in addition to the [Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14b1.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, although not shown, when the [Shift] key 14j is operated and an operation card [Page forward] NCn with an illustration of "page forward" is held over the electronic dictionary 10 while the explanatory information of the headword searched for is displayed on the display unit 17, the control unit 21 does not perform page forwarding processing to the previous page as in the case where the [Shift] key 14j and the page forward key 14i1 are pressed, but instead shifts the explanatory information of the headword displayed on the display unit 17 to the explanatory information of the previous headword and displays it (steps S4, S5, S6 → S3). Note that the same processing as above is of course also applied to operation cards corresponding to other similar keys (such as the [Enter] key 14d) other than the page forward key 14i1 that can be combined with the [Shift] key 14j.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an operation example (part 1) according to the operation response process when an operation card [character size] NC2 is held over electronic dictionary 10. In FIG.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6, when the explanatory information display screen G2, which searches for the headword "polite" based on the dictionary content "Japanese Dictionary 1," is displayed on the display unit 17, and a magnifying glass-shaped operation card [character size] NC2 with an illustration of a magnifying glass on it is held over the electronic dictionary 10, the control unit 21 extracts the operation code "051" received from the operation card [character size] NC2 via the short-range wireless communication unit 18 (step S4 (Yes) → S5).

[0061] The control unit 21 determines whether or not an operation key associated with the operation code "051" exists in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e) (step S6), and if it determines that the operation key exists (step S6 (Yes)), it enlarges the character size of the explanatory information on the explanatory information display screen G2 displayed on the display unit 17 in accordance with the data of the processing content associated with the operation key and stored in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e) (step S3), just as in the case where the [Character Size] key 14g is pressed. At this time, the control unit 21 displays message information (here, "The IC tag of 'Character Size' has been held up") M2 on the display unit 17, indicating that processing to enlarge the character size has been executed based on communication between the operation card [Character Size] NC2 and the near-field wireless communication unit 18.

[0062] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an operation example (part 2) according to the operation response process when an operation card [character size] NC2 is held over electronic dictionary 10. In FIG.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7, with the explanatory information display screen G2, which searches for the headword "a" based on the dictionary content "Japanese Dictionary 1," displayed on the display unit 17, the magnifying glass operation card [character size] NC2 is held over the electronic dictionary 10.

[0064] The control unit 21 displays the character size change menu M along the bottom edge of the explanatory information display screen G2 displayed on the display unit 17 in accordance with the processing content data in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e) associated with the operation code “051” received from the operation card [character size] NC2 (steps S4, S5, S6 → S3).

[0065] When the user touches a character of a desired size among the characters of various sizes, large and small, displayed in the character size change menu M and touches the [Change character size] key, the control unit 21 changes the character size of the explanatory information displayed on the explanatory information display screen G2 to the character size of the character touched in the character size change menu M and displays it.

[0066] As for the processing executed in response to the operation code common to the [Character Size] key 14g or the operation card [Character Size] NC2, whether to display the character size change menu M (see Figure 7) or to immediately enlarge the character size without displaying the character size change menu M (see Figure 6) can be set by the user as described above, but it is also possible to set it so that when the operation card [Character Size] NC2 shaped like a magnifying glass is used, the character size is immediately enlarged, and when the normal rectangular operation card [Character Size] NC2 (not shown) is used, the character size change menu M is displayed.

[0067] Although not shown in the figure, when the operation card [Japanese 1] NC1 or operation card [character size] NC2 described above is held over the electronic dictionary 10, just as when the operation card [History] NCn is held over the electronic dictionary 10, the control unit 21 causes the display unit 17 to display a list of search history stored in the search history data memory area 22c in accordance with the operation code "321" in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e), just as when the [History] key 14h is pressed.

[0068] Similarly, when the operation card [Wordbook] NCn is held up, the control unit 21 displays a list of wordbooks stored in the wordbook data memory area 22d on the display unit 17 in accordance with the operation code "264" in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e), just as when the [Wordbook] key (not shown) is pressed.

[0069] (Summary of the embodiment) According to the electronic dictionary 10 of the embodiment, the electronic dictionary 10 is provided with a plurality of types of operation cards NCn (n=1, 2, ...) each having an NFC tag (identification medium) that stores a common operation code (identification code) for each of a plurality of types of keys (hardware keys) provided on the key input unit 14 for specifying various functions or a plurality of types of keys (software keys) displayed on the display unit 17 for specifying various functions. An illustration representing the function of the key corresponding to the operation card NCn is printed on the surface of the operation card NCn. When the operation card NCn, on which an illustration representing a user's desired function is printed, is held over the electronic dictionary 10, the control unit 21 (storage control unit, acquisition control unit, execution control unit) executes the same process (preset processing for the key) as when the key corresponding to the operation card NCn is pressed, in accordance with the data of the processing content stored in the operation code / processing content correspondence table (22e: storage unit) in association with the operation code received from the operation card NCn by the near-field wireless communication unit 18 (acquisition unit).

[0070] Therefore, the same process as key operation can be executed without the user having to operate the keys. For example, even if a user has difficulty seeing or understanding the key markings, the user can perform the desired operation without having to operate the keys.

[0071] Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the electronic dictionary 10, an illustration representing the content and function of the key corresponding to the operation card NCn is printed or otherwise displayed on the surface of the operation card NCn, so that the user can easily recognize the processing that can be performed by the electronic dictionary 10 using the operation card NCn based on the illustration on the operation card NCn, and can easily cause the desired processing to be performed.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the electronic dictionary 10, the operation card NCn has a shape that represents the content and function of the key that the operation card NCn corresponds to, so that the user can intuitively recognize the processing that can be performed by the electronic dictionary 10 using the operation card NCn based on the shape of the operation card NCn, and can easily cause the desired processing to be performed.

[0073] In addition, the electronic dictionary 10 in the above embodiment is configured to execute the same processing as when an operation key corresponding to an operation code is operated, based on the operation code received from the non-contact IC tag built into the operation card NCn via the short-range wireless communication unit 18. However, this is not limited to this, and the electronic dictionary 10 may be configured to execute the same processing as when an operation key corresponding to the operation code is operated by printing a QR code (registered trademark) (identification medium) having an operation code on the operation card NCn and reading the QR code via an imaging unit provided in the electronic dictionary 10, as in the above embodiment.

[0074] It goes without saying that the electronic device of the present invention is not limited to the electronic dictionary 10 described as an embodiment, but can also be applied to other electronic devices that have key input functions using hardware keys or software keys similar to those of the electronic dictionary 10 and short-range wireless communication functions.

[0075] The processing methods of the electronic dictionary 10 described in the above embodiments, i.e., the operation response processing methods shown in the flowchart of Fig. 4, can all be stored and distributed as programs that can be executed by a computer on a medium of an external storage device such as a memory card (ROM card, RAM card, etc.), a magnetic disk (floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), or a semiconductor memory. The control unit (CPU) of the electronic device then loads the program stored on the medium of the external storage device into a storage device, and, by having its operation controlled by the loaded program, realizes various functions corresponding to the keys and operation cards NCn described in the above embodiments, and can execute similar processing using the above-mentioned methods.

[0076] In addition, the program data for realizing each method can be transmitted over a communication network (N) in the form of program code, and the program data can be imported into an electronic device from a computer device (program server) connected to this communication network (N) and stored in a memory device, thereby realizing various functions corresponding to the above-mentioned keys and operation cards NCn.

[0077] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments, and various modifications can be made in the implementation stage without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments may be implemented in appropriate combinations, in which case the combined effects can be obtained. Furthermore, the embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by combining selected elements from the disclosed elements. For example, if the problem can be solved and the desired effect can be obtained even if some elements are deleted from all elements shown in the embodiments, the configuration from which these elements are deleted can be extracted as an invention.

[0078] The inventions described in the original claims of this application are set forth below.

[0079] [Appendix 1] A key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation; a storage control unit that stores an identification code corresponding to the key in a storage unit; an acquisition control unit that causes an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control unit that executes the preset process that is to be executed in response to the operation of the key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the key; Electronic equipment equipped with

[0080] [Appendix 2] the identification medium is a contactless IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire the identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag; 1. The electronic device described in Appendix 1.

[0081] [Appendix 3] the storage control unit stores a plurality of processes that are previously set in association with one key in the storage unit; When the identification code is received multiple times within a predetermined period by the short-range wireless communication unit, the execution control unit executes the plurality of processes that are executed in sequence each time the one key is operated in sequence each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. 1. An electronic device as described in Appendix 2.

[0082] [Appendix 4] when the identification code is received by the short-range wireless communication unit while a predetermined key is being operated, the execution control unit executes, among the plurality of processes, another process that is not the process that is executed by operating the one key while the predetermined key is not being operated. 1. An electronic device as described in Appendix 3.

[0083] [Appendix 5] A display unit is provided, when the execution control unit executes the preset process in response to receiving the identification code by the short-range wireless communication unit, it causes the display unit to display information that the preset process has been executed based on communication with the non-contact IC tag. 10. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the electronic device is a

[0084] [Appendix 6] the predetermined processing is processing for displaying a search screen of a dictionary stored in the storage unit on the display unit; 10. The electronic device described in Appendix 5.

[0085] [Appendix 7] A card corresponding to the key can be installed, The non-contact IC tag is embedded in the card. 10. The electronic device according to any one of Supplementary Note 2 to Supplementary Note 6.

[0086] [Appendix 8] The card has an illustration representing a preset process corresponding to the key. 8. The electronic device according to claim 7.

[0087] [Appendix 9] The card has a shape that represents a preset process corresponding to the key. 10. The electronic device according to claim 7 or 8.

[0088] [Appendix 10] The key is a hardware key. 10. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

[0089] [Appendix 11] 1. A method for operating an electronic device having a key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation, comprising: storing an identification code corresponding to the key in a storage unit; causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an operation method for executing the preset process that is executed by operating the key when the acquired identification code is an identification code that corresponds to the key;

[0090] [Appendix 12] A computer of an electronic device having keys for executing preset processes in response to user operations, a storage means for storing an identification code corresponding to the key in a storage unit; an acquisition means for acquiring an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; A program for functioning as an execution control means for executing the preset process to be executed by operating the key when the acquired identification code is the identification code corresponding to the key. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 10...Electronic dictionary (electronic device) 14...Key input section (hardware key) 14b1...[Japanese 1 / Japanese 2] key 14g...[Text Size] key 17...Touch panel display 17T...Touch key area (software key) 18...Near field communication section (acquisition section) 21...Control unit (CPU) (storage control unit, acquisition control unit, execution control unit) 22...Storage section 22a...Dictionary control program 22e...Operation code / processing content correspondence table storage area NC1...Operation card [Japanese 1] (with built-in contactless IC tag) NC2...Operation card [Character size] (Built-in contactless IC tag) G1...Japanese Dictionary 1 initial screen G2...Explanatory information display screen M...Text size change menu

Claims

1. a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation; an acquisition control unit that causes an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control unit that executes the preset process that is to be executed in response to operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; Equipped with the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, a plurality of mutually different processes are assigned to the first key; When the identification code is received multiple times by the short-range wireless communication unit within a predetermined period, the execution control unit executes the plurality of processes that are to be executed in sequence each time the first key is operated in sequence each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. electronic equipment.

2. A first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation; an acquisition control unit that causes an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control unit that executes the preset process that is to be executed in response to operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; Equipped with the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, a plurality of mutually different processes are assigned to the first key; When the identification code is received by the short-range wireless communication unit while a predetermined second key is being operated, the execution control unit executes, among the plurality of processes, a process other than a process that is executed by operation of the first key while the predetermined second key is not being operated. electronic equipment.

3. A display unit, a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation; an acquisition control unit that causes an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control unit that executes the preset process that is to be executed in response to operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; Equipped with the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, when the execution control unit executes the preset process in response to receiving the identification code by the short-range wireless communication unit, causes the display unit to display information that the preset process has been executed based on communication with the non-contact IC tag; the predetermined processing is processing for displaying a search screen of a dictionary stored in a predetermined storage unit on the display unit; electronic equipment.

4. A card corresponding to the first key can be installed, The non-contact IC tag is embedded in the card.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1.

5. The card has an illustration representing a preset process corresponding to the first key.

5. The electronic device according to claim 4.

6. The card has a shape that represents a preset process corresponding to the first key.

6. The electronic device according to claim 4 or claim 5.

7. An operation assistance method executed by an electronic device having a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation, comprising: an acquisition control step of causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control step of executing the preset process that is to be executed in response to the operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; Including, the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, a plurality of mutually different processes are assigned to the first key; In the execution control step, when the identification code is received multiple times by the short-range wireless communication unit within a predetermined period, the plurality of processes that are to be executed in sequence each time the first key is operated are executed in sequence each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. Operation support method.

8. An operation assistance method executed by an electronic device having a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation, comprising: an acquisition control step of causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control step of executing the preset process that is to be executed in response to the operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; Including, the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, a plurality of mutually different processes are assigned to the first key; When the identification code is received by the short-range wireless communication unit while a predetermined second key is being operated, the execution control step executes, among the plurality of processes, a process other than a process that is executed by operation of the first key while the predetermined second key is not being operated. Operation support method.

9. An operation assistance method executed by an electronic device having a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation and a display unit, an acquisition control step of causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control step of executing the preset process that is to be executed in response to the operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; Including, the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, the execution control step, when the predetermined process is executed in response to the reception of the identification code by the short-range wireless communication unit, causes the display unit to display information that the predetermined process has been executed based on communication with the non-contact IC tag; the predetermined processing is processing for displaying a search screen of a dictionary stored in a predetermined storage unit on the display unit; Operation support method.

10. A computer of an electronic device having a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation, acquisition control means for causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control means for executing the preset process to be executed in response to the operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; It functions as the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, a plurality of mutually different processes are assigned to the first key; When the identification code is received multiple times by the short-range wireless communication unit within a predetermined period, the execution control means executes the plurality of processes that are to be executed in sequence each time the first key is operated in sequence each time the identification code is received or in accordance with the number of times the identification code is received. program.

11. A computer of an electronic device having a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation, acquisition control means for causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control means for executing the preset process to be executed in response to the operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; It functions as the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, a plurality of mutually different processes are assigned to the first key; when the identification code is received by the short-range wireless communication unit while a predetermined second key is being operated, the execution control means executes, among the plurality of processes, a process other than a process that is executed by operation of the first key while the predetermined second key is not being operated. program.

12. A computer of an electronic device having a first key for executing a preset process in response to a user operation and a display unit, acquisition control means for causing an acquisition unit to acquire an identification code corresponding to the identification medium from the identification medium; an execution control means for executing the preset process to be executed in response to the operation of the first key when the identification code acquired by the acquisition unit is the identification code corresponding to the first key; It functions as the identification medium is a non-contact IC tag, the acquisition unit is a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the non-contact IC tag to acquire an identification code corresponding to the non-contact IC tag, when the predetermined process is executed in response to the reception of the identification code by the short-range wireless communication unit, the execution control means causes the display unit to display information that the predetermined process has been executed based on communication with the non-contact IC tag; the predetermined processing is processing for displaying a search screen of a dictionary stored in a predetermined storage unit on the display unit; program.

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