Input Devices

Abstract

This input apparatus is shaped like a ring and is attached to a prescribed body portion of a user. The input apparatus comprises: a detection unit that detects a user input state with respect to the input apparatus in a circular ring about the prescribed portion; a conversion unit that converts a signal indicating the user input state detected by the detection unit into an operation signal associated with the user input state; and a communication device that outputs the operation signal to an external device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an input device. [Background technology]

[0002] Users who experience a virtual space using XR glasses or a head-mounted display (HMD) attached to their heads may use a ring-shaped input device attached to their fingers to operate virtual objects displayed in the virtual space.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a ring-shaped input device that can be used as a wireless mouse. The input device is equipped with a gyro sensor that reads three-dimensional positions. When using this input device to scroll a virtual object displayed in a virtual space, the user must constantly move their hand in the air while scrolling. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-168060 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, conventional input devices have the problem that users are easily fatigued because they require them to move their hands in the air.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a ring-shaped input device that can reduce the degree of fatigue of a user when operating a virtual object displayed in a virtual space, compared to conventional techniques. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An input device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is a ring-shaped input device that is worn on a predetermined body part of a user, and includes a detection unit that detects a user input state for the input device in a ring centered on the predetermined body part, a conversion unit that converts a signal indicating the user input state detected by the detection unit into an operation signal corresponding to the user input state, and a communication unit that transmits the operation signal to an external device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a ring-shaped input device that can reduce the degree of fatigue of a user when operating content displayed in a virtual space compared to conventional techniques. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of how to use the input device 1. [Figure 2A] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the input device 1. [Figure 2B] 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the input device 1. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1A. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an input device 1A. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1A. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1B. [Figure 9A] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1C. [Figure 9B] 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1C. [Figure 9C] 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1C. [Figure 10A] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the input device 1D. [Figure 10B] 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1D. [Figure 10C]1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1D. [Figure 11A] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1E. [Figure 11B] 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1E. [Figure 11C] 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of an input device 1E. [Figure 12A] Schematic diagram of the structure of input device 1F. [Figure 12B] Schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1F. [Figure 13] Block diagram of input device 1F. [Figure 14] 10 shows an example of a pulse signal as a digital signal output from an A / D converter 40A to a processing device 10. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1F. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] 1: First embodiment 1-1: Configuration of the first embodiment The configuration of an input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0011] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a method of using an input device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. A user of the input device 1 wears the ring-shaped input device 1 on their index finger F. Furthermore, the user rotates the input device 1 around the index finger F with their thumb. The input device 1 outputs an operation signal corresponding to a user input state according to the rotation to an external device. The user may wear the input device 1 on a finger other than the index finger F. The user may also rotate the input device 1 with a finger other than their thumb. Furthermore, when the user wears the input device 1 on the index finger F of their right hand, the user may rotate the input device 1 with another finger on their right hand, or with any finger on their left hand. Similarly, when the user wears the input device 1 on the index finger F of their left hand, the user may rotate the input device 1 with another finger on their left hand, or with any finger on their right hand. Alternatively, the user may rotate the input device 1 by rubbing the input device 1 attached to the index finger F against a flat surface or by using an implement other than a finger. Here, the index finger F is an example of a "predetermined part."

[0012] In the following, a case where the input device 1 is worn on the index finger F of the right hand will be described, but this is merely an example. The input device 1 may be worn on any finger of the right or left hand.

[0013] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the input device 1. In the following description, an L axis and an R axis are assumed. The L axis and the R axis are common to all drawings exemplified in the following description. As exemplified in FIG. 2A, the longitudinal direction of the index finger F is defined as the L axis. The direction toward the tip of the index finger F is defined as the +L direction, and the direction toward the end of the index finger F is defined as the -L direction. The radial direction of the index finger F is defined as the R axis. The direction away from the central axis of the index finger F is defined as the +R direction, and the direction toward the central axis of the index finger F is defined as the -R direction.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 2A, the input device 1 includes a rotating body 20 and a detection device 30.

[0015] The rotating body 20 is a ring-shaped rotating body that rotates around the user's index finger F. The user's index finger F slides against the inner peripheral surface of the rotating body 20. The rotating body 20 may be made of metal or resin. The user rotates the rotating body 20 around the index finger F with a finger other than the index finger F.

[0016] The detection device 30 is fixed to the rotating body 20. The detection device 30 detects a user input state in a circle centered on the index finger F of the user.

[0017] Specifically, the detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 relative to the index finger F of the user as the user input state in the above-mentioned circle.

[0018] That is, when the rotating body 20 is rotated by a finger other than the user's index finger F, the detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 on a circular orbit centered on the user's index finger F. Alternatively, for example, when the user rotates the rotating body 20 by rubbing the input device 1 worn on the user's index finger F against a flat surface or by using an implement other than a finger, the detection device 30 similarly detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 itself on a circular orbit centered on the user's index finger F. By extension, the detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the input device 1 itself on a circular orbit centered on the user's index finger F.

[0019] As an example, the rotor 20 has a notch 21 formed on its inner circumferential surface, i.e., on the surface of the rotor 20 facing the -R direction. The detector 30 is fitted into the notch 21. The detector 30 is an example of a "detector."

[0020] The detection device 30 also includes, for example, a light-emitting unit 31 and a light-receiving unit 32 on its inner circumferential surface. The light-emitting unit 31 is realized, for example, by an LED. The light emitted by the light-emitting unit 31 is reflected by the surface of the index finger F. The light-receiving unit 32 receives the light reflected by the surface of the index finger F. The light-receiving unit 32 also reads the uneven pattern on the surface of the index finger F based on the received reflected light. Furthermore, the light-receiving unit 32 continues to capture how the read pattern moves, thereby detecting the rotational state of the rotating body 20 relative to the index finger F.

[0021] 2B is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the input device 1 worn on the index finger F. As shown in Fig. 2B, only the rotating body 20 is visible in the appearance. That is, when the input device 1 is in use, the rotating body 20 that rotates around the index finger F can be seen from outside the input device 1, but the detection device 30 cannot be seen from outside.

[0022] 3 is a block diagram of the input device 1. The input device 1 includes a processing device 10, a rotating body 20, a detection device 30, an A / D (analog / digital) converter 40, a communication device 50, and a power supply device 60.

[0023] The processing device 10 controls the entire input device 1. The processing device 10 may be realized using, for example, a processor, or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0024] As described above, the rotating body 20 is a ring-shaped rotating body that rotates around the index finger F of the user.

[0025] As described above, the detection device 30 is fixed to the rotating body 20. The detection device 30 detects a user input state to the input device 1 in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, i.e., a rotation state of the rotating body 20 centered on the user's index finger F.

[0026] The A / D converter 40 converts the analog signal indicating the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, specifically the rotational state of the rotating body 20, detected by the detection device 30, into a digital signal corresponding to the rotational state.

[0027] The communication device 50 is a device used by the processing device 10 to wirelessly output an operation signal to an external device. The communication device 50 is an interface such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), USB (Universal Serial Bus), or Bluetooth. Note that USB and Bluetooth are registered trademarks.

[0028] The power supply device 60 supplies power to the processing device 10, the detection device 30, the A / D converter 40, and the communication device 50. The power supply device 60 is charged externally via a wired or wireless connection.

[0029] The processing device 10 includes an encoder 101 and an output unit 102 as functional blocks.

[0030] The encoder 101 converts the digital signal obtained from the A / D converter 40, which indicates the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, specifically the rotation state of the rotor 20, into an operation signal in a format suitable for communication with an external device. The encoder 101, or the combination of the A / D converter 40 and the encoder 101, is an example of a "conversion unit."

[0031] The output unit 102 outputs the operation signal converted by the encoder 101 to an external device via the communication device 50.

[0032] Based on the operation signal input from the input device 1, the external device reads information about the rotation state of the rotating body 20 as a user input state for the input device 1 in a circle centered on the user's index finger F. Specifically, for example, the external device reads information about one or more of the amount of rotation of the rotating body 20, the start point of rotation, the end point of rotation, and the rotation speed as the user input state.

[0033] In the block diagram of FIG. 3, the processing device 10, the detection device 30, the A / D converter 40, the communication device 50, and the power supply device 60 are preferably arranged inside the rotating body 20 or on the inner circumferential surface thereof.

[0034] 1-2: Operation of the first embodiment 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1. The operation of the input device 1 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0035] In step S1, the detection device 30 detects the user input state, specifically the rotation state of the rotating body 20, in a circle centered on the index finger F of the user.

[0036] In step S2, the A / D converter 40 converts the analog signal that indicates the user input state, specifically the rotation state of the rotating body 20, detected by the detection device 30 in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, into a digital signal.

[0037] In step S3, the encoder 101 converts the digital signal indicating the rotation state of the rotating body 20, acquired from the A / D converter 40, into an operation signal in a format suitable for communication with an external device.

[0038] In step S4, the output unit 102 outputs the operation signal converted by the encoder 101 to the external device via the communication device 50.

[0039] 1-3: Effects of the First Embodiment As described above, the input device 1 is a ring-shaped input device worn on a user's finger. The input device 1 includes a detection device 30, an encoder 101, and a communication device 50. The detection device 30 detects a user input state to the input device 1 in a ring centered on the user's finger. The encoder 101 converts a signal indicating the user input state detected by the detection device 30 into an operation signal corresponding to the user input state. The communication device 50 outputs the operation signal to an external device.

[0040] The input device 1 has the above configuration, so when a user operates content displayed in a virtual space, it is possible to reduce the degree of fatigue of the user compared to conventional techniques. Furthermore, the input device 1 can easily operate content displayed in a virtual space by simply detecting the user input state to the input device 1 in a circle centered on the user's finger.

[0041] The input device 1 further includes a ring-shaped rotating body 20. The ring-shaped rotating body 20 rotates around the user's finger. The detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 as the above-mentioned user input state. The output unit 102 outputs an operation signal indicating the rotation state detected by the detection device 30 to an external device.

[0042] Since the input device 1 has the above configuration, a user can easily operate content displayed in a virtual space by simply wearing the rotator 20 serving as the input device 1 on a finger and rotating the rotator 20 around the finger. Furthermore, if the virtual content is long and the user needs to scroll with long strokes, for example, there is no need to limit the amount of rotation of the rotator 20, so the input device 1 can accommodate long strokes.

[0043] In the input device 1, the inner circumferential surface of the rotating body 20 slides against the user's finger. The detecting device 30 is fixed to the rotating body 20. The detecting device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 relative to the user's finger.

[0044] Since the input device 1 has the above configuration, it is not necessary to expose the detection device 30 on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating body 20. Therefore, when the input device 1 is worn on a finger, the user does not need to visually recognize the detection device 30 from outside the input device 1. As a result, the design of the input device 1 can be simplified.

[0045] 2: Second embodiment 2-1: Configuration of the second embodiment The configuration of an input device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0046] 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1A according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, among the components of the input device 1A, components having the same functions as those of the input device 1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted. In the following, differences between the input device 1A and the input device 1 will be mainly described.

[0047] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the input device 1A. As shown in Fig. 5, the input device 1A has a touch panel 25 instead of the rotating body 20 provided in the input device 1. The touch panel 25 detects contact with an object other than the index finger F of the user.

[0048] Furthermore, the input device 1A includes a detection device 30A instead of the detection device 30 included in the input device 1. The detection device 30A detects a user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, that is, a contact state of a point on the touch panel 25 where an object other than the user's index finger F has come into contact. Here, the "contact state of a point where an object has come into contact" refers to, for example, a movement state of the point where the object has come into contact.

[0049] The input device 1A has the above configuration, and is therefore capable of detecting the contact state of another object as the user input state on a circle centered on the index finger F of the user.

[0050] The external appearance of the input device 1A is the same as that of the input device 1 shown in FIG. 2B, except that the rotating body 20 is replaced with a touch panel 25, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0051] 6 is a block diagram of input device 1A. Input device 1A differs from input device 1 in that it includes a touch panel 25 instead of rotating body 20, a detection device 30A instead of detection device 30, and an A / D converter 40A instead of A / D converter 40.

[0052] As described above, the touch panel 25 detects contact of an object other than the index finger F of the user with the touch panel 25.

[0053] As described above, the detection device 30A detects the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, that is, the contact state of a portion of the touch panel 25 that is in contact with an object other than the user's index finger F.

[0054] The A / D converter 40A converts into a digital signal an analog signal indicating the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, detected by the detection device 30A, specifically, the contact state of a point on the touch panel 25 where an object other than the user's index finger F has come into contact.

[0055] Based on the operation signal input from the input device 1A, the external device reads, as the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, information on the movement state of the point touched by an object other than the user's index finger F. Specifically, for example, the external device reads, as the user input state, information on one or more of the movement amount, the movement start time, the movement end time, and the movement speed of the point touched by the object other than the user's index finger F.

[0056] 2-2: Operation of the second embodiment 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1 A. Hereinafter, the operation of the input device 1 A will be described with reference to FIG.

[0057] In step S11, the detection device 30A detects the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, specifically, the contact state of a portion of the touch panel 25 that is in contact with an object other than the user's index finger F.

[0058] In step S12, the A / D converter 40 converts the analog signal detected by the detection device 30, which indicates the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, specifically the contact state of the point where an object other than the user's index finger F has come into contact, into a digital signal.

[0059] In step S13, the encoder 101 converts the digital signal obtained from the A / D converter 40, which indicates the input state centered on the user's index finger F, specifically the contact state of the point where an object other than the user's index finger F has come into contact, into an operation signal in a format suitable for communication with an external device.

[0060] In step S14, the output unit 102 outputs the operation signal converted by the encoder 101 to the external device via the communication device 50.

[0061] 2-3: Effects of the second embodiment The input device 1A further includes a ring-shaped touch panel 25 centered around the user's finger F. The detection device 30 detects the contact state of a contact point of another object on the touch panel 25 as the above-mentioned user input state.

[0062] Since input device 1A has the above configuration, the user can easily operate content displayed in the virtual space by simply touching touch panel 25. Furthermore, if the virtual content is long and the user needs to scroll it with long strokes, for example, there is no need to set a limit on the amount of movement of other fingers on touch panel 25, so input device 1A can accommodate long strokes.

[0063] 3: Third embodiment 3-1: Configuration of the third embodiment Hereinafter, the configuration of an input device according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

[0064] 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1B according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, among the components of the input device 1B, components having the same functions as those of the input device 1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted. In the following, differences between the input device 1B and the input devices 1 to 1A will be mainly described.

[0065] 8, the input device 1B includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70 in addition to the components included in the input device 1. The inner circumferential surface of the fixed body 70 comes into contact with the index finger F of the user.

[0066] The rotating body 20 is disposed outside the fixed body 70 and is slidable relative to the fixed body 70 .

[0067] As an example, the rotating body 20 has an annular recess 22 on its outer circumferential surface. The fixed body 70 has an annular protrusion 71 on its inner circumferential surface. The recess 22 of the rotating body 20 and the protrusion 71 of the fixed body 70 are fitted together, so that the rotating body 20 rotates relative to the fixed body 70 about the L axis but does not move in the L axis direction relative to the fixed body 70.

[0068] As another example, the fixed body 70 has a notch 72 formed on its outer circumferential surface, i.e., on the surface of the fixed body 70 in the +R direction. The detection device 30 is fitted into the notch 72. The detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 relative to the fixed body 70.

[0069] 8, the length of the rotor 20 in the L-axis direction and the length of the fixed body 70 in the L-axis direction are the same, but this is merely an example. The length of the rotor 20 in the L-axis direction and the length of the fixed body 70 in the L-axis direction do not have to be the same.

[0070] The appearance of input device 1B is similar to the outline of the appearance of input device 1 shown in Fig. 2B, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted. The block diagram of input device 1B is similar to the block diagram of input device 1 shown in Fig. 3, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the operation of input device 1B is similar to the operation of input device 1 described with reference to Fig. 4, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0071] 3-2: Effects of the third embodiment As explained above, the input device 1B further includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70 whose inner circumferential surface contacts the user's finger. The rotating body 20 is installed outside the inner circumferential surface of the fixed body 70. The rotating body 20 is slidable relative to the fixed body 70. The detection device 30 detects the rotational state of the rotating body 20 relative to the fixed body 70.

[0072] Since the input device 1B has the above-described configuration, the user's finger does not come into direct contact with the rotating body 20. As a result, even if the rotating body 20 is rotated around the user's finger, frictional heat is not generated in the user's finger due to the rotation of the rotating body 20.

[0073] 4: Fourth embodiment 4-1: Configuration of the fourth embodiment The configuration of the input device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C.

[0074] 9A is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1C according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. To simplify the following explanation, the components of the input device 1C that have the same functions as those of the input devices 1 to 1B are designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted. The following explanation will mainly focus on the differences between the input device 1C and the input devices 1 to 1B.

[0075] 9A, like input device 1B, input device 1C includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70 in addition to the components included in input device 1. The inner circumferential surface of fixed body 70 comes into contact with the user's index finger F. Furthermore, rotating body 20 is installed outside fixed body 70 and is slidable relative to fixed body 70.

[0076] As an example, the fixed body 70 has an annular first protrusion 73 at its end on the +L direction side. The fixed body 70 also has an annular second protrusion 74 at its end on the -L direction side. The rotating body 20 is slidably fitted between the first protrusion 73 and the second protrusion 74. As a result, the rotating body 20 rotates relative to the fixed body 70 about the L axis, but does not move in the L axis direction relative to the fixed body 70.

[0077] 9A, in this embodiment, the detection device 30 is disposed at a position radially away from the rotor 20 and is fixed to the fixed body 70. The detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotor 20 on the inner circumferential surface of the detection device 30. As an example, the detection device 30 is fixed to the first protrusion 73 by a fastener 81 and to the second protrusion 74 by a fastener 82.

[0078] 9B and 9C are schematic diagrams of the appearance of input device 1C worn on index finger F. More specifically, FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1C viewed from the +R direction. Also, FIG. 9C is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1C viewed from the +L direction. As shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, detection device 30 is located radially outward from fixed body 70 and rotating body 20, i.e., in the +R direction, and is therefore visually recognized as part of the appearance of input device 1C.

[0079] The block diagram of input device 1C is similar to the block diagram of input device 1 shown in Fig. 3, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the operation of input device 1C is similar to the operation of input device 1 explained with reference to Fig. 4, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] 4-2: Effects of the fourth embodiment According to the above description, in the input device 1C, the detection device 30 is disposed at a position farther away from the rotating body 20 in the radial direction of the rotating body 20, and is fixed to the fixed body 70. The detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 on the inner circumferential surface of the detection device 30.

[0081] Because the input device 1C has the above configuration, the detection device 30 and the rotating body 20 do not come into direct contact with each other, and the lifespan of the detection device 30 is increased compared to when the detection device 30 and the rotating body 20 come into direct contact with each other. Furthermore, because the detection device 30 is located radially away from the fixed body 70, there is no need to provide a cutout portion in the fixed body 70 for the purpose of accommodating the detection device 30 inside the fixed body 70, and the strength of the fixed body 70 is increased compared to when the detection device 30 is accommodated inside the fixed body 70.

[0082] 5: Fifth embodiment 5-1: Configuration of the fifth embodiment Hereinafter, the configuration of the input device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10C.

[0083] 10A is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1D according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. To simplify the following explanation, the components of the input device 1D that have the same functions as those of the components of the input devices 1 to 1C are designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted. The following explanation will mainly focus on the differences between the input device 1D and the input devices 1 to 1C.

[0084] 10A, like input device 1B, input device 1D includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70 in addition to the components included in input device 1. The inner circumferential surface of fixed body 70 comes into contact with the index finger F of the user.

[0085] The rotating body 20 is housed inside the fixed body 70. A window 75 through which the rotating body 20 is exposed is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the fixed body 70, radially spaced from the inner peripheral surface. The user rotates the rotating body 20 relative to the index finger F by touching the rotating body 20 with a finger other than the index finger F, for example, the thumb, through the window 75.

[0086] 10B and 10C are schematic diagrams of the appearance of input device 1D worn on index finger F. More specifically, FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1D viewed from the +R direction. Also, FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1D viewed from the +L direction. As shown in FIG. 10B, the rotating body 20 can be seen through a window 75 provided in fixed body 70 as an external view of input device 1D.

[0087] The block diagram of input device 1D is similar to the block diagram of input device 1 shown in Fig. 3, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the operation of input device 1D is similar to the operation of input device 1 explained with reference to Fig. 4, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] 5-2: Effects of the fifth embodiment According to the above description, in the input device 1D, the rotating body 20 is housed inside the fixed body 70. The fixed body 70 has an outer peripheral surface provided with a window 75 through which the rotating body 20 is exposed.

[0089] Because the input device 1D has the above configuration, the user can rotate the rotating body 20 simply by moving his or her finger within the window portion 75. Furthermore, because the rotating body 20 is housed inside the fixed body 70 except for the window portion 75, it is possible to protect the rotating body 20 compared to when the entire fixed body 70 is exposed.

[0090] 6: Sixth embodiment 6-1: Configuration of the sixth embodiment Hereinafter, the configuration of an input device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 11A to 11C.

[0091] 11A is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1E according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. To simplify the following explanation, the components of the input device 1E that have the same functions as those of the components of the input devices 1 to 1D are designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted. The following explanation will mainly focus on the differences between the input device 1E and the input devices 1 to 1D.

[0092] 11A, like input device 1D, input device 1E includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70 in addition to the components included in input device 1. The inner circumferential surface of fixed body 70 comes into contact with the index finger F of the user.

[0093] Furthermore, in the input device 1E, similarly to the input device 1D, the rotating body 20 is housed inside the fixed body 70. A window 75 through which the rotating body 20 is exposed is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the fixed body 70. The user rotates the rotating body 20 relative to the index finger F by touching the rotating body 20 with a finger other than the index finger F, for example, the thumb, through the window 75.

[0094] 11A , in the input device 1E, the detection device 30 is disposed at a position radially away from the rotating body 20, and is fixed to the fixed body 70. Specifically, the detection device 30 is fixed to the fixed body 70 so as to cover a part of the window portion 75. The detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 at the inner circumferential surface of the detection device 30.

[0095] 11B and 11C are schematic diagrams of the appearance of input device 1E worn on index finger F. More specifically, FIG. 11B is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1E as viewed from the +R direction. Also, FIG. 11C is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1E as viewed from the +L direction. As shown in FIG. 11B in particular, detection device 30 is located radially outward from rotating body 20, i.e., in the +R direction, and is installed so as to cover part of window portion 75, and therefore is visually recognized as part of the appearance of input device 1E.

[0096] The block diagram of the input device 1E is similar to the block diagram of the input device 1 shown in Fig. 3, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the operation of the input device 1E is similar to the operation of the input device 1 explained with reference to Fig. 4, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0097] 6-2: Effects of the Sixth Embodiment According to the above description, in the input device 1E, the detection device 30 is disposed at a position farther away from the rotating body 20 in the radial direction of the rotating body 20, and is fixed to the fixed body 70. Furthermore, the detection device 30 detects the rotation state of the rotating body 20 on the inner circumferential surface of the detection device 30.

[0098] Because the input device 1E has the above configuration, the detection device 30 and the rotating body 20 do not come into direct contact with each other, and the life of the detection device 30 is extended compared to when the detection device 30 and the rotating body 20 come into direct contact with each other. Furthermore, because the rotating body 20 is housed inside the fixed body 70 except for the window portion 75, it is possible to protect the rotating body 20 compared to when the entire fixed body 70 is exposed.

[0099] 7: Seventh embodiment 7-1: Configuration of the Seventh Embodiment The configuration of the input device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 12A to 14. FIG.

[0100] 12A is a schematic diagram of the structure of an input device 1F according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. To simplify the following explanation, the components of the input device 1F that have the same functions as those of the components of the input devices 1 to 1E are designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted. The following explanation will mainly focus on the differences between the input device 1F and the input devices 1 to 1E.

[0101] 12A, input device 1F differs from input devices 1 to 1E in that it includes a plurality of buttons 80 instead of rotating body 20. More specifically, input device 1F includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70 whose inner circumferential surface comes into contact with a user's index finger F. The plurality of buttons 80 are provided on the outer circumferential surface of fixed body 70.

[0102] Furthermore, input device 1F differs from input devices 1 to 1E in that it includes a detection device 30B instead of detection device 30. Detection device 30B detects the contact state of an object other than index finger F with each of the plurality of buttons 80.

[0103] Fig. 12B is a schematic diagram of the appearance of input device 1F worn on index finger F. As shown in Fig. 12B, multiple buttons 80-1 to 80-4 are provided on the outer circumferential surface of fixed body 70 and are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction of fixed body 70. Note that, in Fig. 12B, four buttons 80-1 to 80-4 are arranged on the outer circumferential surface of fixed body 70, but this is merely an example. The number of buttons 80 arranged on the outer circumferential surface of fixed body 70 may be any number as long as it is plural.

[0104] As one example, the user moves a finger other than the index finger F while contacting the outer circumferential surface of the fixed body 70. As a result, as one example, the fingers other than the index finger F contact the buttons 80-1, 80-2, 80-3, and 80-4 in this order. As another example, the fingers other than the index finger F contact the buttons 80-4, 80-3, 80-2, and 80-1 in this order. The detection device 30B detects the contact state with these buttons 80 over time. It should be noted that the user may also move an object other than a finger while contacting the outer circumferential surface of the fixed body 70.

[0105] 13 is a block diagram of input device 1F. As described above, input device 1F differs from input device 1 in that it includes a plurality of buttons 80-1 to 80-4 instead of rotating body 20 and a detection device 30B instead of detection device 30.

[0106] Furthermore, unlike the input device 1, the input device 1F includes an A / D converter 40B instead of the A / D converter 40. The A / D converter 40B converts an analog signal, which indicates the contact state of an object other than the index finger F with each of the plurality of buttons 80 and which is detected by the detection device 30B, into a digital signal.

[0107] Based on the operation signal input from the input device 1F, the external device reads, as the user input state in a circle centered on the user's index finger F, information on the movement state of the point touched by an object other than the user's index finger F. Specifically, for example, the external device reads, as the user input state, information on one or more of the movement amount, the movement start time, the movement end time, and the movement speed of the point touched by the object other than the user's index finger F.

[0108] FIG. 14 shows an example of a pulse signal as a digital signal output from the A / D converter 40B to the processing device 10. A in FIG. 14 shows a pulse signal at time t=T1. B in FIG. 14 shows a pulse signal at time t=T2. C in FIG. 14 shows a pulse signal at time t=T3. D in FIG. 14 shows a pulse signal at time t=T4. Note that, at T1 <T2<T3<T4である。

[0109] As shown in A of FIG. 14, at time t=T1, the digital signal output from A / D converter 40B is a pulse signal with L=1 between x=X11 and x=X12. As shown in B of FIG. 14, at time t=T2, the digital signal output from A / D converter 40B is a pulse signal with L=1 between x=X21 and x=X22. As shown in C of FIG. 14, at time t=T3, the digital signal output from A / D converter 40B is a pulse signal with L=1 between x=X31 and x=X32. As shown in D of FIG. 14, at time t=T4, the digital signal output from A / D converter 40B is a pulse signal with L=1 between x=X41 and x=X42. The coordinates of x=X11 to x12 correspond to button 80-1. The coordinates of x=X21 to x22 correspond to button 80-2. The coordinates of x=X31 to X32 correspond to the button 80-3, and the coordinates of x=X41 to X42 correspond to the button 80-4.

[0110] 14, a square wave with an amplitude of L=1 moves in the positive direction of the x-axis. This indicates that the user's finger touches button 80-1, button 80-2, button 80-3, and button 80-4 in this order.

[0111] 7-2: Operation of the Seventh Embodiment 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the input device 1F. Hereinafter, the operation of the input device 1F will be described with reference to FIG.

[0112] In step S21, the detection device 30B detects the contact state of an object other than the index finger F with each of the plurality of buttons 80.

[0113] In step S22, the A / D converter 40B converts the analog signals, which are detected by the detection device 30B and indicate the contact state of each of the plurality of buttons 80, into digital signals.

[0114] In step S23, the encoder 101 converts the digital signal, which is acquired from the A / D converter 40B and indicates the contact state of each of the plurality of buttons 80, into an operation signal in a format suitable for communication with an external device.

[0115] In step S24, the output unit 102 outputs the operation signal converted by the encoder 101 to the external device via the communication device 50.

[0116] 7-3: Effects of the Seventh Embodiment According to the above description, the input device 1F is a ring-shaped input device that is worn on a user's finger when used. The input device 1F includes a ring-shaped fixed body 70, a plurality of buttons 80, a detection device 30B, and an output unit 102. The ring-shaped fixed body 70 is a fixed body whose inner circumferential surface contacts the user's finger. The plurality of buttons 80 are provided on the outer circumferential surface of the fixed body 70 and are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The detection device 30B detects the contact state of each of the plurality of buttons 80. The output unit 102 outputs an operation signal based on the detection result of the detection device 30B to an external device.

[0117] The input device 1F has the above-described configuration, and therefore, when operating content displayed in a virtual space, it is possible to reduce the degree of fatigue of the user compared to the prior art. In particular, the user can easily operate content displayed in a virtual space by simply sliding their finger along the outer circumferential surface of the fixed body 70.

[0118] 8: Variation The present disclosure is not limited to the above-exemplified embodiments.

[0119] 8.1: Variation 1 For example, the input devices 1 to 1F may be configured without the encoder 101. In this case, the output unit 102 outputs the digital signals acquired from the A / D converters 40 to 40B as operation signals to the external device. The external device uses its own encoder to decode the operation signals acquired from the input devices 1 to 1F.

[0120] 8.2: Variation 2 Alternatively, the input devices 1 to 1F may be attached to a predetermined part of the user's body other than the user's fingers. For example, the input devices 1 to 1F may be attached to any one of the user's neck, wrist, and ankle.

[0121] 9:Other (1) In the above-described embodiment, an external device is exemplified. However, the storage device included in the external device may be a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk (e.g., a compact disk, a digital versatile disk, a Blu-ray® disk), a smart card, a flash memory device (e.g., a card, a stick, a key drive), a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-ROM), a register, a removable disk, a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic strip, a database, a server, or any other suitable storage medium. Furthermore, the program executed by the external device may be transmitted from a network via a telecommunications line. Furthermore, the program may be transmitted from a communications network NET via a telecommunications line.

[0122] (2) In the above-described embodiments, the described information, signals, etc. may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc. that may be referred to throughout the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, optical fields or photons, or any combination thereof.

[0123] (3) In the above-described embodiment, input and output information may be stored in a specific location (for example, a memory) or may be managed using a management table. Input and output information may be overwritten, updated, or added to. Output information may be deleted. Input information may be transmitted to another device.

[0124] (4) In the above-described embodiment, the determination may be made by a value (0 or 1) represented using one bit, by a Boolean value (true or false), or by a comparison of numerical values ​​(e.g., comparison with a predetermined value).

[0125] (5) The order of the process procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc. illustrated in the above-described embodiments may be rearranged unless inconsistent. For example, the methods described in this disclosure present elements of various steps using an example order, and are not limited to the particular order presented.

[0126] (6) Each function illustrated in Figures 1 to 15 is realized by any combination of at least one of hardware and software. Furthermore, the method for realizing each functional block is not particularly limited. That is, each functional block may be realized by using one device that is physically or logically coupled, or may be realized by using two or more devices that are physically or logically separated and connected directly or indirectly (for example, by wire, wirelessly, etc.). A functional block may also be realized by combining software with the one device or the multiple devices.

[0127] (7) The programs exemplified in the above-described embodiments should be broadly construed to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, functions, etc., regardless of whether they are called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or by other names.

[0128] Software, instructions, information, etc. may also be transmitted or received over a transmission medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using wired technologies (such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)), and / or wireless technologies (such as infrared, microwave), then these wired and / or wireless technologies are included within the definition of transmission media.

[0129] (8) In each of the foregoing embodiments, the terms "system" and "network" are used interchangeably.

[0130] (9) The information, parameters, etc. described in this disclosure may be expressed using absolute values, relative values ​​from a predetermined value, or corresponding other information.

[0131] (10) In the above-described embodiments, the external device may be a mobile station (MS). Those skilled in the art may also refer to a mobile station as a subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, handset, user agent, mobile client, client, or some other suitable terminology. In this disclosure, terms such as "mobile station," "user terminal," "user equipment (UE)," and "terminal" may be used interchangeably.

[0132] (11) In the above-described embodiments, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variations thereof refer to any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements, and may include the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are "connected" or "coupled" to each other. The coupling or connection between elements may be a physical coupling or connection, a logical coupling or connection, or a combination thereof. For example, "connected" may be read as "access." As used in this disclosure, two elements may be considered to be "connected" or "coupled" to each other using at least one of one or more wires, cables, and printed electrical connections, as well as electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency range, microwave range, and optical (both visible and invisible) range, as some non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples.

[0133] (12) In the above embodiments, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless otherwise specified. In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least on."

[0134] (13) As used in this disclosure, the terms "determining" and "determining" may encompass a wide variety of actions. "Determining" and "determining" may include, for example, judging, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up, searching, inquiring (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, and the like. "Determining" and "determining" may also include receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), input, output, accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), and the like. Furthermore, "judgment" and "decision" can include regarding resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, comparing, etc. as having been "judged" or "decided." In other words, "judgment" and "decision" can include regarding some action as having been "judged" or "decided." Furthermore, "judgment (decision)" can be interpreted as "assuming," "expecting," "considering," etc.

[0135] (14) In the above embodiments, when "include," "including," and variations thereof are used, these terms are intended to be inclusive, similar to the term "comprising." Furthermore, the term "or" as used in this disclosure is not intended to be an exclusive or.

[0136] (15) In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, this disclosure may include that the nouns following these articles are plural.

[0137] (16) In this disclosure, the term "A and B are different" may mean "A and B are different from each other." The term may also mean "A and B are each different from C." Terms such as "separate" and "combined" may also be interpreted in the same way as "different."

[0138] (17) Each aspect / embodiment described in this disclosure may be used alone, in combination, or switched depending on the implementation. Notification of predetermined information (e.g., notification that "X is true") is not limited to explicit notification, but may be implicit (e.g., not notifying the predetermined information).

[0139] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail above, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present disclosure can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description of the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative and does not have any limiting meaning on the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1 to 1F...input device, 10...processing device, 20...rotating body, 21...cutout portion, 22...recess, 25...touch panel, 30, 30A, 30B...detecting device, 31...light emitting portion, 32...light receiving portion, 40, 40A, 40B...A / D converter, 50...communication device, 60...power supply device, 70...fixed body, 71...convex portion, 72...cutout portion, 73...first convex portion, 74...second convex portion, 75...window portion, 80, 80-1 to 80-4...buttons, 81, 82...fasteners, 101...encoder, 102...output portion

Claims

1. A ring-shaped input device that is worn on a predetermined body part of a user, a detection unit that detects a user input state to the input device in a circle centered on the predetermined body part; a conversion unit that converts a signal indicating a user input state detected by the detection unit into an operation signal corresponding to the user input state; a communication device that outputs the operation signal to an external device; a ring-shaped rotating body that rotates around the predetermined body part; a ring-shaped fixture having an inner circumferential surface that contacts the predetermined body part; Equipped with the rotating body is disposed outside an inner circumferential surface of the fixed body and is housed inside the fixed body, the rotating body is slidable relative to the fixed body, the fixed body has an outer peripheral surface provided with a window portion through which the rotating body is exposed, The detection unit is an input device that detects a rotational state of the rotating body relative to the fixed body as the user input state.

2. A ring-shaped input device to be worn on a predetermined body part of a user, a detection unit that detects a user input state to the input device in a circle centered on the predetermined body part; a conversion unit that converts a signal indicating a user input state detected by the detection unit into an operation signal corresponding to the user input state; a communication device that outputs the operation signal to an external device; a ring-shaped rotating body that rotates around the predetermined body part; a ring-shaped fixture having an inner circumferential surface that contacts the predetermined body part; Equipped with the rotating body is disposed outside the inner circumferential surface of the fixed body, The movable body is slidable relative to the fixed body, the detection unit is disposed at a position radially apart from the rotating body and is fixed to the fixed body; The detection unit is an input device that detects, as the user input state, a rotational state of the rotating body relative to the fixed body on an inner circumferential surface of the detection unit.

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