Electronic device, operating mode switching method, and program

Abstract

To improve the operability of an electronic apparatus provided with a key to which a plurality of operation modes are related.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus (a computer 1) includes a key 311 to which a plurality of operation modes are related, and a processor 11 for acquiring an operation value according to an operation method related to each operation mode in each of a plurality of operation modes. The processor 11 invalidates an input of a numerical value while holding any currently running operation mode, ends any operation mode according to further continuous operation of the key 311, and starts any different operation mode among the plurality of operation modes related to the key 311 when it is determined that any operation mode among the plurality of operation modes related to the key is currently running and that the current running of the operation mode is after a numerical value is inputted according to operation of the key 311.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, an operation mode switching method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is known an electronic device having two modes of operating as a function calculator and editing and executing a program in basic (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In this electronic device, each of a plurality of mode designation keys 21 is associated with only one mode. Therefore, no method for improving the operability when using a key associated with a plurality of modes is disclosed.

[0005] Based on the above circumstances, an object according to one aspect of the present invention is Electronic devices with multiple operating modes to provide a technology capable of improving the operability of.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention is Each of the multiple operating modes includes a processor that outputs the result based on the received input operation to a display unit, and when the startup of any of the multiple operating modes is instructed, if the processor determines that any of the operating modes is running and has received the input operation, it sets the display state of the display unit to the display state immediately after the startup of any of the operating modes, and when the startup of any of the operating modes is instructed, if the processor determines that any of the operating modes is running and has not received the input operation immediately after startup, it terminates any of the operating modes and starts any other of the multiple operating modes. an electronic device.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the above aspect, Electronic devices with multiple operating modes the operability of can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a plan view illustrating the external configuration of a computer according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a computer according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates management information for managing function key assignments. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of initial processing performed by a computer. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the arithmetic processing performed by a computer. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of function key processing performed by a computer according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates a first specific example of the operation of a computer according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure illustrates a second specific example of the operation of a computer according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure illustrates a third specific example of the operation of a computer according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the electronic device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, a computer will be given as an example of an electronic device. Furthermore, in the following description, detailed explanations of the functions, configurations, and operations of the computer according to the embodiment that are the same as or similar to those of conventional computers will be omitted.

[0011] Figure 1 is a plan view illustrating the external configuration of a computer according to one embodiment. Figure 1 shows a plan view of the overall external configuration of the computer according to this embodiment, and an enlarged plan view showing an enlarged portion of area A1 in the plan view.

[0012] The computer 1 illustrated in Figure 1 has a key area 3 with multiple keys arranged on the surface of the housing 2, and a display device 4. In addition to keys for inputting numbers and keys for inputting arithmetic symbols, the key area 3 also has an all-clear (AC) key 301 and a clear (C) key 302. Some of the keys arranged in the key area 3 have multiple functions. For example, the all-clear key 301 has the function of clearing (erasing) all input numbers and calculation results, setting the operating mode of the computer 1 to normal calculation mode, and turning on the power. For example, the equals key 303 has the function of displaying the result of the calculation performed based on the input number and arithmetic symbol, and the function of confirming the input number in the special calculation mode described later.

[0013] Furthermore, the key area 3 of the computer 1 illustrated in Figure 1 has four function keys 311 to 314. Each of the first function key 311, the second function key 312, the third function key 313, and the fourth function key 314 is assigned two special calculation modes as calculation modes (operation modes). The special calculation modes are modes that allow the value of an index to be obtained with simple operation by using the numerical values ​​received as input in each mode and performing calculations according to calculation formulas corresponding to various indices (such as BMI and titer) that are pre-associated with each mode. In these special calculation modes, numerical inputs are accepted for each of the one or more variables included in the calculation formula corresponding to the pre-associated index.

[0014] The first function key 311 is assigned a special operation mode for calculating the BMI (Body Mass Index) described on the key top, and a special operation mode for performing calculations related to "dispensing drug inspection" described in the area 321 above the first function key 311 on the housing 2. For example, in the special operation mode for calculating BMI, taking "height" and "weight" as variables, accepting input of numerical values for each variable, and performing calculations according to the arithmetic formula "BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m) ÷ height (m)", the value of BMI is obtained.

[0015] The second function key 312 is assigned a special operation mode for calculating titer according to the first arithmetic formula and a special operation mode for calculating titer according to the second arithmetic formula. "Switch" described in the area 322 above the second function key 312 on the housing 2 means that it is possible to switch between the special operation mode for calculating titer according to the first arithmetic formula and the special operation mode for calculating titer according to the second arithmetic formula.

[0016] The third function key 313 is assigned a special operation mode for calculating body surface area according to the first arithmetic formula and a special operation mode for calculating body surface area according to the second arithmetic formula. "Switch" described in the area 323 above the third function key 313 on the housing 2 means that it is possible to switch between the special operation mode for calculating body surface area according to the first arithmetic formula and the special operation mode for calculating body surface area according to the second arithmetic formula.

[0017] The fourth function key 314 is assigned a special operation mode for performing calculations related to renal function described on the key top and a special operation mode for performing "days calculation" described in the area 324 above the fourth function key 314 on the housing 2.

[0018] In addition, a division result display switching key 315 is arranged in the key area 3 of the computer 1 illustrated in FIG. 1. The division result display switching key 315 has a function of switching the display setting of the result of division (division) between a setting of displaying only the quotient as a real number and a setting of displaying the quotient and the remainder as an integer. "Quotient / Remainder" described in the area 325 above the division result display switching key 315 in the housing 2 means that every time the division result display switching key 315 is pressed, it is possible to switch between the setting of displaying only the quotient as a real number and the setting of displaying the quotient and the remainder as an integer.

[0019] The display device 4 of the computer 1 has a first display area 401 and a second display area 402. The first display area 401 is an area for displaying numerical values, calculation results, etc. input by numerical keys arranged in the key area. The first display area 401 is configured to be capable of, for example, 10-digit 7-segment display. The second display area 402 is an area for displaying guidance when any one of the first function key 311, the second function key 312, the third function key 313, and the fourth function key 314 is pressed. The second display area 402 is, for example, a dot matrix type display area capable of displaying character information for 12 full-width characters.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a computer according to an embodiment.

[0021] [[ID=!1]] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the computer 1 according to the present embodiment includes a processor 11, a memory 12, an input device 13, a display control unit 14, and a display device 4. The processor 11, the memory 12, the input device 13, and the display control unit 14 in the computer 1 are interconnected by a bus 15.

[0022] The processor 11 controls the operation of the entire computer 1 by executing a predetermined program that includes function key processing, which will be described later. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In each of the above-described operating modes, the processor 11 accepts numerical input and uses the accepted numerical input to obtain calculated values ​​according to the arithmetic formula associated with each operating mode. The memory 12 stores the program executed by the processor 11, intermediate calculation results, etc. The memory 12 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). Parts of the processor 11 and memory 12 may be, for example, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0023] The input device 13 is a device that accepts input of numbers and arithmetic symbols, selection (calling) of various special arithmetic modes, etc., and includes, for example, a plurality of keys arranged in the key area 3 as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0024] The display control unit 14 controls the display of the display device 4. The display device 4 is a liquid crystal display panel having a first display area 401 and a second display area 402, as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0025] Note that computer 1 may include other hardware configurations not illustrated in Figure 2. For example, computer 1 may include a power source such as a battery or solar panel to supply operating power to the processor 11, etc. Also, computer 1 may include a communication device for communicating with external devices, for example.

[0026] The memory 12 in the computer 1 of this embodiment stores information about arithmetic expressions corresponding to the special arithmetic modes assigned to each of the first function key 311, second function key 312, third function key 313, and fourth function key 314, as well as information that guides the user through each special arithmetic mode. The information that guides the user through each special arithmetic mode includes, for example, information that notifies the user of a variable that accepts numerical input in order to obtain the exponent value pre-associated with each special arithmetic mode through calculation, or the attribute of such a variable. The memory 12 also stores management information that manages the assignment of special arithmetic modes to each of the first function key 311, second function key 312, third function key 313, and fourth function key 314.

[0027] Figure 3 illustrates management information for managing function key assignments. The management information 20 illustrated in Figure 3 is an example of operation mode identification information stored in memory 12.

[0028] The management information 20 illustrated in Figure 3 associates each function key with a key ID that identifies the function key, two modes assigned to the function key (mode 1 and mode 2), and the mode that was last activated (last activated). In the following explanation, the key ID of the first function key 311 will be FN1, the key ID of the second function key 312 will be FN2, the key ID of the third function key 313 will be FN3, and the key ID of the fourth function key 314 will be FN4.

[0029] In the management information 20 illustrated in Figure 3, "Mode 1" is the mode activated when the function key is pressed once while the computer 1 is initialized (first special calculation mode), and "Mode 2" is the mode activated when the function key is pressed twice in succession while the computer 1 is initialized (second special calculation mode). Furthermore, the previously activated mode in the management information 20 illustrated in Figure 3 indicates the last special calculation mode activated by pressing the function key in question. For example, the first function key 311 is assigned the key ID FN1, and when the first function key 311 is pressed once while the computer 1 is initialized, the computer 1 activates a special calculation mode for performing BMI calculations. Also, when the first function key 311 is pressed twice in succession while the computer 1 is initialized, the computer 1 activates a special calculation mode for performing calculations related to powder drug inspection. Furthermore, if the mode activated last time was the mode corresponding to BMI calculation (Mode 1), information indicating "Mode 1" will be associated as the mode activated last time. Note that the "-" shown in the management information 20 exemplified in Figure 3 indicates that the special calculation mode assigned to the fourth function key 314 has not been activated even once since initialization.

[0030] In this embodiment, when any of the first function key 311, second function key 312, third function key 313, or fourth function key 314 is pressed for the first time, the computer 1 determines the mode to be activated this time by referring to the previously activated mode in the management information 20, as will be described later. Here, in this specification, pressing a function key when the mode assigned to that function key is not in operation is referred to as a "new press." For example, if the first function key 311 is pressed once while the mode for performing BMI calculations (mode 1) and the mode for performing calculations related to powder drug inspection (mode 2) are not activated, then the first function key 311 is considered to have been pressed for the first time. In this case, the computer 1 activates either mode 1 or mode 2 based on the previously activated mode associated with the key ID (FN1) of the first function key 311 in the management information 20. If the special calculation mode assigned to the first function key 311 has not been activated since initialization, or if the last activated mode was Mode 1, then Calculator 1 will activate Mode 1. On the other hand, if the last activated mode was Mode 2, then Calculator 1 will activate Mode 2.

[0031] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of initial processing performed by a computer. In this embodiment, computer 1 performs the initial processing illustrated in Figure 4 when, for example, a predetermined operation for initialization is performed.

[0032] In the initial processing, Computer 1 first initializes the information from the last time the function keys to which two special arithmetic modes are assigned were activated (step S1). In step S1, the processor 11 of Computer 1 changes, for example, the information indicating the last activated mode in the management information 20 stored in memory 12 to a value ("-") indicating that it has not been activated since initialization. After that, Computer 1 initializes other settings (step S2) and ends the initial processing. In step S2, the processor 11 of Computer 1 sets the arithmetic mode to the normal arithmetic mode, which performs arithmetic using numeric keys and arithmetic symbol keys. Also in step S2, the processor 11 of Computer 1 sets, for example, the display setting for the result of division to display only the quotient as a real number. The normal arithmetic mode is a mode that performs arithmetic operations, such as basic arithmetic operations, based on the numeric values ​​and arithmetic symbols received as input while the normal arithmetic mode is activated. Note that even in the normal arithmetic mode, it may be configured to perform arithmetic operations using the numeric values ​​received as input, according to some arithmetic formula that has been pre-associated with the normal arithmetic mode.

[0033] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the calculation process performed by the computer. In this embodiment, when the all-clear key 301 is pressed and the power is turned on, for example, the computer 1 starts the calculation process illustrated in Figure 5.

[0034] In the calculation process, Computer 1 determines whether or not there is a key input (step S10), and repeats the determination in step S10 until a key input is made (step S10; NO). If there is a key input (step S10; YES), Computer 1 determines whether or not the input is from a function key to which one of the two special calculation modes is assigned (step S11). If the input is not from a function key to which one of the two special calculation modes is assigned (step S11; NO), Computer 1 turns off the startup status flag (step S12), performs processing according to the input key (step S13), and returns to the determination in step S10. For example, if the input is from a numeric key or an arithmetic symbol key, Computer 1 displays the input number or calculation result on the display device 4 as the processing in step S13. The startup status flag will be described later.

[0035] On the other hand, if the input is made via a function key (step S11; YES), the computer 1 performs a function key processing to control the special calculation mode to be performed, based on the computer's calculation mode at the time the input is made via a function key, the special calculation mode assigned to the function key, and the management information 20 (step S14). As part of the function key processing in step S14, the computer 1 performs the processing described later, for example, with reference to Figure 6. Once the function key processing is complete, the computer 1 returns to the determination in step S10.

[0036] Computer 1, which is performing calculations, terminates its calculations and turns off its power if, for example, no key input is received for a predetermined period of time, or if the power-off key is pressed.

[0037] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of function key processing performed by a computer according to one embodiment. As described above, when input is received via a function key, computer 1 starts the function key processing illustrated in Figure 6. In Figure 6 and the following description referring to Figure 6, when the term "mode" is used, it refers to the "special calculation mode".

[0038] In function key processing, computer 1 first determines whether the current calculation mode is normal calculation mode or special calculation mode (step S1401).

[0039] If the current calculation mode is normal calculation mode (step S1401; normal calculation mode), computer 1 sets the special calculation mode that was previously activated for the function key that was input (step S1403). In step S1403, computer 1 identifies whether the special calculation mode that was previously activated for the function key that was input was mode 1 or mode 2, based on the management information 20 stored in memory 12, and sets the identified mode. After step S1403, computer 1 sets the state immediately after activation of the mode set in step S1403 (step S1408), turns on the state immediately after activation flag (step S1409), performs the activation process for the mode (step S1410), and terminates the function key processing. Here, the state immediately after activation is the state set as the initial state when executing the special calculation mode assigned to the function key. Specifically, it is possible to input a numerical value for the first variable in the calculation expression, and the numerical value has not yet been input. If the "immediately after startup" flag is set to ON, the special calculation mode is in the "immediately after startup" state. In the special calculation mode startup process of step S1410, the display on the display device 4 is switched to the display of the "immediately after startup" state, which will be described later.

[0040] In response to this, if the current calculation mode is a special calculation mode (step S1401; special calculation mode), the computer 1 then determines whether the current special calculation mode is an input from an assigned function key (step S1402). If the current special calculation mode is not an input from an assigned function key (step S1402; NO), the computer 1 performs the processes in steps S1403 and S1408 to S1410 described above and terminates the function key processing.

[0041] If the current special calculation mode is input via a function key (step S1402; YES), then computer 1 determines whether the "immediately after startup" status flag is on or off (step S1404). As described above, the "immediately after startup" status is the initial state set when executing a special calculation mode assigned to a function key, and if it is the "immediately after startup" status, the "immediately after startup" status flag is on. If the "immediately after startup" status flag is on (step S1404; on), computer 1 sets the mode opposite to the current mode among the two special calculation modes assigned to the function key and changes the previously started mode in the management information 20 (step S1405). For example, if the current special calculation mode is mode 1 of mode 1 and mode 2, and it is the "immediately after startup" status of mode 1, then in step S1405, computer 1 sets mode 2 and changes the previously started mode in the management information 20 to mode 2. After the processing in step S1405, computer 1 sets the state immediately after startup of the mode set in step S1405 (step S1408), then performs the processing in steps S1409 and S1410 described above, and terminates the function key processing.

[0042] On the other hand, if the "immediately after startup" flag is off, the currently running special calculation mode is in a different state from the state immediately after startup (a numerical value is being input to one of the variables, the numerical value of one of the variables has been determined, or the calculated value has been obtained based on the calculation expression). If it is determined in step S1404 that the "immediately after startup" state is off (step S1404; off), the computer 1 then determines whether or not it is currently accepting numerical input to a variable (step S1406). If it is currently accepting numerical input to a variable (step S1406; YES), the computer 1 sets the "immediately after startup" state of the currently running special calculation mode (step S1408), then performs the processes in steps S1409 and S1410 described above, and terminates the function key processing. At this time, the computer 1 returns to the "immediately after startup" state of the special calculation mode at the start of the function key processing and terminates the function key processing.

[0043] If it is determined in step S1406 that it is not currently accepting numerical input for a variable (step S1406; NO), then Computer 1 determines whether or not it is currently displaying the calculation result in the current special calculation mode (step S1407). If it is currently displaying the calculation result (step S1407; YES), Computer 1 sets the state of the currently running mode to the state immediately after startup (step S1408), then performs the processes in steps S1409 and S1410 described above, and terminates the function key processing. At this point, Computer 1 returns to the state immediately after startup in the special calculation mode at the start of the function key processing and terminates the function key processing. On the other hand, if it is not currently displaying the calculation result (step S1407; NO), Computer 1 does nothing after that (NOP: No Operation; step S1411) and terminates the function key processing.

[0044] Thus, in this embodiment, when input is made using a function key and one of the two special calculation modes assigned to the function key is activated, the computer 1 in memory 12 stores the activated special calculation mode as the previously activated special calculation mode in management information 20. Therefore, when input is made using a function key, if the special calculation mode assigned to the function key is not activated (step S1401; normal calculation mode, or step S1402; NO), the previously activated special calculation mode can be activated. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the computer 1 can activate the special calculation mode that is activated by pressing the function key twice in a row as its initial setting, terminate it, and then activate that special calculation mode with a single press of the function key. Thus, in this embodiment, for example, if the frequency of activating the special calculation mode that is activated by pressing the function key twice in a row as its initial setting is high, that special calculation mode can be prioritized and activated with a single press. In other words, in the computer 1 of this embodiment, for example, without having to perform complex operations to change settings using a key other than the function key, the special calculation mode to be activated preferentially can be switched by pressing one of the two special calculation modes assigned to a single function key with a single press.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when input is made using a function key, if the special calculation mode assigned to the function key is activated (step S1402; YES) and is in the state immediately after activation (step S1404; ON), the computer 1 activates the special calculation mode opposite to the one currently activated. Therefore, by pressing the same function key twice in succession, it is possible to activate the special calculation mode opposite to the one activated when the function key is pressed once, out of the two special calculation modes assigned to that function key. In other words, in this embodiment, the computer 1 can switch between the two special calculation modes assigned to a single function key without requiring an input operation that combines the function key that activates the desired special calculation mode with another key. Consequently, in this embodiment, there is no need to provide another key to switch between the two special calculation modes assigned to the function key, and the number of keys to be placed in the key area 3 (see Figure 1) can be kept to a minimum. Furthermore, since it does not require input operations that combine function keys with other keys, the input operation of function keys becomes simpler, improving the operability of the computer 1.

[0046] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating a first specific example of operation in a computer according to one embodiment. In Figure 7, the FN1 key and the FN2 key are the first function key 311 and the second function key 312, respectively. In the following description with reference to Figure 7, the value of the management information 20 indicating the last started mode at the time the power is turned on is assumed to be a value indicating that it has not been started even once since initialization, or a value indicating mode 1.

[0047] Figure 7(a1) schematically shows the display state of the display device 4 when the power to the computer 1 is off. Note that the 10-digit 7-segment display shown by the thin solid line in the first display area 401 is not displayed when the power is off. When the user of the computer 1 turns on the power, the computer 1 starts in normal calculation mode, and the number "0" is displayed in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 7(a2).

[0048] After the power is turned on, when the user presses the first function key 311 (FN1 key), the computer 1 performs function key processing (step S14). At this point, the calculation mode is the normal calculation mode (step S1401; normal calculation mode), so the computer 1 sets mode 1 (BMI calculation) of the two special calculation modes assigned to the first function key 311, sets the state immediately after startup of mode 1 and turns on the state immediately after startup flag, and then starts mode 1 (steps S1403, and S1408~S1410). At this time, the computer 1 changes the value of the special calculation mode that was previously started for the FN1 key in the management information 20 to indicate mode 1 (BMI calculation). The display on the display device 4 will also show the state immediately after startup in the special calculation mode that performs BMI calculation, as exemplified in Figure 7 (a3). "0" is displayed in the first display area 401 of the display device 4. The second display area 402 of the display device 4 displays instructions indicating that a special calculation mode for performing BMI calculation is activated, that the first variable or attribute to be accepted as input is height, and that the unit of height to be entered is cm.

[0049] Next, when the user presses a numeric key to input their height, the calculator 1 performs the corresponding processing (step S13) and displays the inputted number in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 7 (a4).

[0050] Subsequently, when the user presses the second function key 312 (FN2 key) while the special calculation mode for BMI calculation remains activated, the computer 1 performs function key processing. At this point, the calculation mode is the special calculation mode (step S1401; special calculation mode), but the activated special calculation mode is a different mode from the special calculation mode assigned to the second function key 312 (step S1402; NO). Therefore, the computer 1 sets mode 1 (potency calculation by calculation formula 1) from the two special calculation modes assigned to the second function key 312, sets the state immediately after activation of mode 1 and turns on the state immediately after activation flag, and then activates mode 1 (steps S1403, and S1408~S1410). At this time, the computer 1 changes the previously activated mode of the FN2 key in the management information 20 to a value indicating mode 1 (potency calculation by calculation formula 1). Furthermore, the display on the display device 4 will show the state immediately after startup in the special calculation mode that performs potency calculation using calculation formula 1, as illustrated in (a5) of Figure 7. The first display area 401 of the display device 4 will display "0". The second display area 402 of the display device 4 will display guidance indicating that the special calculation mode for performing potency calculation using calculation formula 1 has been started, that the variable or attribute to be accepted as input is the amount of the component, and that the unit of the input amount of the component is mg.

[0051] If the user then presses the second function key 312, the computer 1 performs function key processing again. At this point, the calculation mode is a special calculation mode, and the activated special calculation mode is the mode assigned to the second function key 312 (step S1402; YES). Furthermore, at this point, the immediately-started state flag is on (step S1404; ON). Therefore, the computer 1 sets mode 2 (i.e., valence calculation by calculation formula 2), which is the opposite of the currently activated mode 1, one of the two special calculation modes assigned to the second function key 312, sets the immediately-started state of mode 2 and turns on the immediately-started state flag, and then activates mode 2 (steps S1405, and S1408~S1410). At this time, the computer 1 changes the previously activated mode of the FN2 key in the management information 20 to a value indicating mode 2 (valence calculation by calculation formula 2). Furthermore, the display on the display device 4 will show the state immediately after startup in the special calculation mode that performs titer calculation using calculation formula 2, as illustrated in Figure 7(a6). The first display area 401 of the display device 4 will display "0". The second display area 402 of the display device 4 will display guidance indicating that the special calculation mode for performing titer calculation using calculation formula 2 has been started, that the variable or attribute to be accepted as input is weighing, and that the unit of weighing to be input is g.

[0052] Subsequently, for example, if the special calculation mode for performing titer calculation using calculation formula 2 remains activated, and the user presses the first function key 311, the computer 1 performs function key processing. At this point, the calculation mode is the special calculation mode, but the activated special calculation mode is a different mode from the special calculation mode assigned to the first function key 311. Therefore, the computer 1 activates mode 1 (BMI calculation), one of the two special calculation modes assigned to the first function key 311, based on the previously activated mode of the FN1 key in the management information 20. At this time, the previously activated mode of the FN1 key in the management information 20 remains the value indicating mode 1 (BMI calculation). The display on the display device 4 will also show the state immediately after activation of the special calculation mode for performing BMI calculation, as exemplified in Figure 7(a7). The display on the display device 4 at this time is the same as the display exemplified in (a3).

[0053] When the user presses the second function key 312 while the special calculation mode for performing BMI calculation, as exemplified in Figure 7(a7), is activated, the computer 1 performs function key processing. At this point, the calculation mode is the special calculation mode, but the activated special calculation mode is a different mode from the special calculation mode assigned to the second function key 312. Furthermore, the mode previously activated by the FN2 key in the management information 20 at this point is mode 2 (potency calculation using calculation formula 2), as described above. Therefore, the computer 1 activates mode 2 (potency calculation using calculation formula 2), one of the two special calculation modes assigned to the second function key 312. At this time, the display on the display device 4 will show the state immediately after activation of the special calculation mode that performs potency calculation using calculation formula 2, as exemplified in Figure 7(a8). The display on the display device 4 at this time is the same as the display exemplified in (a6).

[0054] In this way, by pressing a single function key twice in succession to activate the corresponding special calculation mode, and when that special calculation mode is stored in the management information 20 as the previously activated mode, the computer 1 of this embodiment can then activate the special calculation mode corresponding to pressing the function key twice in its initial state by pressing the function key once. Therefore, for example, in the case of a user who frequently performs valence calculations using calculation formula 2 and does not perform valence calculations using calculation formula 1, the user will no longer need to press the second function key 312 twice in succession each time, improving the operability when performing valence calculations using calculation formula 2.

[0055] Figure 8 illustrates a second specific example of the operation of a computer according to one embodiment. The FN3 key in Figure 8 is the third function key 313. In the following description with reference to Figure 8, the value in the management information 20 indicating the last started mode at the time the power is turned on is assumed to be a value indicating that the computer has not been started even once since initialization, or a value indicating mode 1. Also, in the following description with reference to Figure 8, of the two special calculation modes assigned to the third function key 313, calculation formula 1 used for calculating body surface area in mode 1 is assumed to be the DuBois formula, and calculation formula 2 used for calculating body surface area in mode 2 is assumed to be the Fujimoto formula. When a user of computer 1 turns on the power, computer 1 starts in normal calculation mode, and the number "0" is displayed in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 8(b1).

[0056] After the power to computer 1 is turned on, when the user presses the third function key 313 (FN3 key), computer 1 performs function key processing (step S14). At this point, the calculation mode is the normal calculation mode (step S1401; normal calculation mode), so computer 1 sets mode 1 (body surface area calculation by calculation formula 1), one of the two special calculation modes assigned to the third function key 313, sets the state immediately after activation of mode 1 and turns on the state immediately after activation flag, and then activates mode 1 (steps S1403, and S1408~S1410). At this time, computer 1 changes the previously activated mode of the FN3 key in the management information 20 to a value indicating mode 1 (body surface area calculation by calculation formula 1). The display on the display device 4 will also show the state immediately after activation in the special calculation mode that performs body surface area calculation by calculation formula 1, as exemplified in Figure 8 (b2). "0" is displayed in the first display area 401 of the display device 4. The second display area 402 of the display device 4 displays instructions indicating that a special calculation mode for performing body surface area calculation using calculation formula 1 (DuBois formula) is activated, that the first variable or attribute to accept input is height, and that the unit of height to be entered is cm.

[0057] Next, when the user presses a numeric key to input their height, the computer 1 turns off the startup status flag (step S12) and performs processing according to the input (step S13), and displays the input value in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 8 (b3). After inputting the height, when the user presses the equals key 303, the display of the display device 4 switches to a display for inputting a value for the next variable, as illustrated in Figure 8 (b4). The second display area 402 of the display device 4 displays guidance indicating that a special calculation mode for performing body surface area calculation using calculation formula 1 (DuBois formula) has been activated, that the next variable or attribute to be accepted as input is weight, and that the unit of weight to be entered is kg. When the user presses a numeric key to input their weight, the computer 1 performs processing according to the input and displays the input value in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 8 (b5).

[0058] When the user presses the third function key 313, the computer 1 performs function key processing. At this point, the calculation mode is the special calculation mode, and the activated special calculation mode is the special calculation mode assigned to the third function key 313. However, at this point, as described above, the startup state flag is off (step S1404; off), and the computer is accepting numerical input for the variables (step S1406; YES). Therefore, the computer 1 sets the startup state of the currently activated special calculation mode (body surface area calculation by calculation formula 1), turns on the startup state flag, and then returns to the startup state of that mode (steps S1408~S1410). As a result, the display on the display device 4 becomes, for example, the display of the startup state in the special calculation mode that executes body surface area calculation by calculation formula 1, as exemplified in (b6) of Figure 8. The display on the display device 4 at this time is the same as the display exemplified in (b2). In other words, if you activate a special calculation mode and then, after entering a number (with the "immediately after activation" flag turned off), press the function key assigned to the currently active special calculation mode, the mode will return to its "immediately after activation" state.

[0059] After the state of Computer 1 returns to the state immediately after the activation of the special calculation mode for performing body surface area calculation using calculation formula 1, if the user then presses the third function key 313, Computer 1 performs function key processing. At this time, as described above with reference to Figure 7, Computer 1 sets a special calculation mode opposite to the currently activated special calculation mode (i.e., body surface area calculation using calculation formula 2) and activates the special calculation mode (mode 2) for performing body surface area calculation using calculation formula 2 (steps S1405, and S1408~S1410). Therefore, the display on the display device 4 will show the state immediately after activation of the special calculation mode for performing body surface area calculation using calculation formula 2 (Fujimoto formula), as exemplified in (b7) of Figure 8. The second display area 402 of the display device 4 displays guidance indicating that the special calculation mode for performing body surface area calculation using calculation formula 2 (Fujimoto formula) is activated, that the next variable or attribute to be accepted as input is height, and that the unit of height to be entered is cm. At this time, computer 1 also changes the previously activated mode of the FN3 key in management information 20 from mode 1 to mode 2.

[0060] Thus, in the computer 1 of this embodiment, when a function key is operated, if one of the multiple special calculation modes assigned to that function key is active and a numerical value has been entered, the computer can disable the numerical value input and clear the displayed numerical value while maintaining the active special calculation mode. Furthermore, after disabling the numerical value input, if the same function key is operated again, one of the special calculation modes can be terminated and another of the multiple special calculation modes assigned to that function key can be activated. In other words, by simply operating one function key repeatedly, the numerical value being entered in a special calculation mode can be disabled, and then the computer can switch to another special calculation mode assigned to that function key.

[0061] Furthermore, in the computer 1 of this embodiment, if any of the multiple special calculation modes assigned to a single function key is currently active, and the active special calculation mode is in the state immediately after startup, the computer switches to another special calculation mode assigned to that function key. Moreover, if the active special calculation mode is not in the state immediately after startup, the computer can be set to the state immediately after startup in that special calculation mode while maintaining the active special calculation mode. In other words, the operation of a single function key serves both to return to the state immediately after startup in a special calculation mode and to switch to another special calculation mode.

[0062] Therefore, for example, if there is an error or possibility of an error in the numerical value entered into a variable in the currently activated special calculation mode, the input can be redone by pressing a function key assigned to the special calculation mode. Also, for example, if the user wants to switch to a special calculation mode opposite to the currently activated one while in the process of entering a numerical value into a variable, the special calculation mode can be switched by pressing the same function key. Thus, the computer 1 of this embodiment can improve the operability of the computer 1 equipped with keys associated with multiple operating modes.

[0063] Furthermore, when accepting numerical input for a variable, the operation to return to the state immediately after startup is not limited to the function key assigned to the special calculation mode during startup as described above. It may also be the operation of pressing a key that is assigned the function of erasing input in normal calculation mode, such as the clear key 302. In such cases, the user can easily intuitively associate the fact that pressing the clear key 302 erases the numerical value from the first display area 401 of the display device 4 with the fact that the numerical value that was initially confirmed as input to the variable is erased from memory 12 and re-entered, thereby preventing a decrease in operability and convenience.

[0064] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the state immediately after activating the special calculation mode by pressing the function key once or twice in succession is set to a state where the first variable input is accepted in the activated special calculation mode, as shown in Figures 7(a3) and (a5), and Figure 8(b2). However, the state immediately after activation in the computer 1 of this embodiment is not limited to this, and may be a state where a predetermined display different from the initial display is shown, which is set based on the display transition in the activated special calculation mode.

[0065] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a third specific example of the operation of a computer according to one embodiment. The FN3 key in Figure 9 is the third function key 313. In the following description referring to Figure 9, detailed descriptions of operations that are the same as those described with reference to Figure 8 will be omitted. When a user of computer 1 turns on the power, computer 1 starts in normal calculation mode, and the number "0" is displayed in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in (c1) of Figure 9.

[0066] After the power to the computer 1 is turned on, when the user presses the third function key 313 (FN3 key), the computer 1 performs function key processing. At this time, the computer 1 activates mode 1 (body surface area calculation using arithmetic formula 1), one of the two special calculation modes assigned to the third function key 313. In the operation of the computer 1 described with reference to Figure 9, the first display on the display device 4 when mode 1 is activated is, for example, as illustrated in (c2) of Figure 9, a display in the second display area 402 confirming whether or not to activate the special calculation mode that performs body surface area calculation using arithmetic formula 1 (DuBois formula).

[0067] When the display device 4 shows the initial display for Mode 1, pressing a predetermined key (for example, the equals key 303) activates a special calculation mode for performing body surface area calculation using the calculation formula 1. After setting the state immediately after activation of Mode 1 and turning on the state immediately after activation flag, the computer 1 becomes ready to accept input for the first variable. At this time, the display on the display device 4 will be as exemplified in Figure 9 (c3), and this display is the same as the display exemplified in Figure 8 (b2).

[0068] While the display in Figure 9(c3) is active, when the user presses a numeric key to input their height, the computer 1 immediately turns off a flag upon startup and processes the input accordingly, displaying the entered number in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 9(c4). After inputting the height, when the user presses the equals key 303, the display on the display device 4 switches to a display for inputting the next variable (weight), as illustrated in Figure 8(b4). When the user presses a numeric key to input their weight, the computer 1 processes the input accordingly and displays the entered number in the first display area 401 of the display device 4, as illustrated in Figure 9(c5).

[0069] Here, if the user presses, for example, the clear key 302, the computer 1 clears the input for the currently running special calculation mode and returns to the state immediately after the special calculation mode was started, as illustrated in (c6) of Figure 9. The display on the display device 4 at this time is the same as the display illustrated in (c3). Note that this operation of the computer 1 is in accordance with the function of the clear key 302, and the computer 1 performs input-dependent processing (step S13) rather than function key processing (step S14).

[0070] If the clear key 302 is pressed again while the display in Figure 9 (c6) is shown, the computer 1 retains the state immediately after startup of the currently running special calculation mode, as illustrated in Figure 9 (c7). At this time, the special calculation mode assigned to the third function key 313 (FN3 key), which performs body surface area calculation using calculation formula 2 (Fujimoto formula), is not activated. In other words, pressing the clear key 302 does not switch the currently running special calculation mode to another special calculation mode. When the clear key 302 is pressed and the system returns to the state immediately after startup, the state immediately after startup flag changes from off to on.

[0071] Subsequently, for example, if the user presses the third function key 313, the computer 1 exits the special calculation mode that performs the body surface area calculation using formula 1 and starts the special calculation mode that performs the body surface area calculation using formula 2. At this time, the display on the display device 4, as exemplified in Figure 9 (c8), shows a display in the second display area 402 confirming whether or not to perform the body surface area calculation using formula 2 (Fujimoto formula). Note that even if the third function key 313 (FN3 key) is pressed while the display device 4 is in the state where the initial display for mode 1 is shown (Figure 9 (c2)), the second display area 402 will also display as exemplified in Figure 9 (c8). In this state, if the user presses a predetermined key (for example, the equals key 303), the computer 1 starts the body surface area calculation using formula 2 and becomes ready to input the first variable (immediately after startup state).

[0072] Thus, in the computer 1 of this embodiment, a screen may be displayed to confirm whether or not to execute one of the special calculation modes assigned to a function key when that function key is pressed. Furthermore, in the computer 1 of this embodiment, the state immediately after startup to which the computer transitions when a function key is pressed is not limited to a state in which the execution of one of the operation modes assigned to that function key has already been determined and numerical values ​​can be input into the calculation formula corresponding to the determined operation mode, but may also be a state in which it is not yet determined whether or not to execute one of the operation modes assigned to that function key.

[0073] Furthermore, in the computer 1 of this embodiment, as in the first and second specific examples described above, the operation of a single function key in the third specific example also serves as both an operation to return to the state immediately after startup of the currently running special calculation mode and an operation to switch to a different special calculation mode. On the other hand, in the third specific example, the operation of the clear key 302 returns to the state immediately after startup of the currently running special calculation mode, but does not switch to a different special calculation mode. Therefore, no matter how many times the clear key 302 is pressed, it will not unintentionally switch to a different special calculation mode. Also, no matter how many times a function key is pressed, only one of the multiple special calculation modes assigned to that function key will be activated.

[0074] Therefore, if the user does not want to switch to a different special calculation mode, they can operate the clear key 302, and if they want to activate only one of the special calculation modes assigned to a single function key, they can operate the function key. In addition, in the third specific example, calculator 1, as in the first and second specific examples described above, the state immediately after activation of the special calculation mode assigned to the third function key 313 may be set to a state where a display guiding the user to input the first variable (height) is shown (variable not entered).

[0075] In the above embodiment, it was explained that two special calculation modes are assigned to each function key, but three or more special calculation modes may be assigned. In this case, in step S1405, the computer 1 may set a different special calculation mode from the current special calculation mode in a predetermined order from among the three or more special calculation modes assigned to the function key, and change the previously activated special calculation mode in the management information 20.

[0076] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments described above are merely examples provided to facilitate understanding of the invention, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. The electronic device, the operating mode switching method, and the program can be modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0077] For example, the electronic device according to the present invention is not limited to the computer 1 illustrated in Figure 1, but may also be a general-purpose information processing device such as a smartphone or tablet computer that executes a program including the above-described processing. Furthermore, the program that causes the computer 1 or the processor of the above-described general-purpose information processing device to execute the processing to switch the special calculation mode included in the function key processing described above is not limited to a program that executes processing according to the flowchart illustrated in Figure 6, but can be changed as appropriate.

[0078] The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [Note 1] A key associated with multiple operating modes, Each of the aforementioned plurality of operating modes includes a processor that accepts numerical input and uses the accepted numerical input to obtain a calculated value according to an arithmetic expression associated with each operating mode. The aforementioned processor, If, in response to the operation of the aforementioned key, it is determined that one of the multiple operating modes associated with that key is currently active and that the numerical input has been made, the system will maintain the active operating mode and invalidate the input of the numerical value. Depending on whether the aforementioned key is operated again, one of the aforementioned operating modes is terminated, and another of the multiple operating modes associated with the aforementioned key is activated. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 2] In the electronic equipment described in Appendix 1, The aforementioned processor, If it is determined that one of the operating modes associated with the aforementioned key is activated and that a numerical input has already been received, in response to the operation of a specific key different from the aforementioned key, the input of the said numerical value is invalidated. Even if the aforementioned specific key is operated again, the system will not activate any other operating mode, but will maintain the existing operating mode. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 3] In the electronic equipment described in Appendix 1 or 2, The aforementioned processor, From among the multiple operating modes associated with the key, one of the other operating modes is identified in a predetermined order, and the identified other operating mode is activated. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 4] A key associated with multiple operating modes, Each of the aforementioned plurality of operating modes includes a processor that acquires a calculated value according to the calculation method associated with each operating mode, The aforementioned processor, If, in response to operating the aforementioned key, one of the multiple operating modes associated with the key is activated, the state of the activated operating mode is determined. If it is determined that the system is in the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the currently running operating mode is terminated, and another operating mode from the plurality of operating modes associated with the key is started. If it is determined that the state is different from the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the player character is set to the state immediately after startup in that operating mode while maintaining the current operating mode. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 5] In the electronic equipment described in Appendix 4, The system further includes a memory that holds operation mode identification information that identifies one of the multiple operation modes associated with the key, The aforementioned processor, If it is determined that the system is in the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the operating mode identification information is updated to identify any of the other aforementioned operating modes. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 6] In the electronic equipment described in Appendix 4, The system further includes a memory that holds operation mode identification information that identifies one of the multiple operation modes associated with the key, The aforementioned processor, In response to the operation of the key, it is determined whether or not one of the multiple operating modes associated with the key is currently active. If it is determined that none of the operation modes associated with the key are currently active, then the operation mode corresponding to the operation mode identification information stored in the memory, among the operation modes associated with the key, is activated. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 7] In the electronic equipment described in Appendix 6, The aforementioned processor, If it is determined that none of the operation modes associated with the key are currently active, the operation mode identification information is retained. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 8] In any electronic device described in any one of the appendices 4 through 7, The aforementioned processor, In each of the aforementioned operating modes, the calculation method associated with each operating mode accepts a numerical input, and using the accepted numerical input, obtains a calculated value according to the calculation formula associated with each operating mode. The state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes is the state in which no numerical input has been made after starting any of the aforementioned operating modes. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 9] In any electronic device described in any one of the appendices 4 through 8, The aforementioned processor, In each of the aforementioned operating modes, the calculation method associated with each operating mode accepts a numerical input, and using the accepted numerical input, obtains a calculated value according to the calculation formula associated with each operating mode. A state different from the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes includes the states during numerical input, after the input numerical value has been confirmed, or after the calculated value has been obtained. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 10] In any electronic device described in any one of the appendices 4 through 9, The aforementioned processor, From among the multiple operating modes associated with the key, one of the other operating modes is identified in a predetermined order, and the identified other operating mode is activated. An electronic device characterized by the following features. [Note 11] The processor of an electronic device comprising a key associated with multiple operating modes, and a processor that accepts numerical input in each of the multiple operating modes and uses the accepted numerical input to obtain a calculated value according to a calculation formula associated with each operating mode, If, in response to the operation of the aforementioned key, it is determined that one of the multiple operating modes associated with that key is currently active and that the numerical input has been made, the system will maintain the active operating mode and invalidate the input of the numerical value. Depending on whether the aforementioned key is operated again, one of the aforementioned operating modes is terminated, and another of the multiple operating modes associated with the aforementioned key is activated. A method for switching between operating modes, characterized by the following features. [Note 12] The processor of an electronic device comprising a key associated with multiple operating modes, and a processor that accepts numerical input in each of the multiple operating modes and uses the accepted numerical input to obtain a calculated value according to a calculation formula associated with each operating mode, If, in response to the operation of the aforementioned key, it is determined that one of the multiple operating modes associated with that key is currently active and that the numerical input has been made, the system will maintain the active operating mode and invalidate the input of the numerical value. Depending on whether the aforementioned key is operated again, one of the aforementioned operating modes is terminated, and another of the multiple operating modes associated with the aforementioned key is activated. A program characterized by executing a process. [Note 13] The processor of an electronic device comprising a key associated with multiple operating modes, and a processor that acquires a calculated value in each of the multiple operating modes according to the calculation method associated with each operating mode, If, in response to operating the aforementioned key, one of the multiple operating modes associated with the key is activated, the state of the activated operating mode is determined. If it is determined that the system is in the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the currently running operating mode is terminated, and another operating mode from the plurality of operating modes associated with the key is started. If it is determined that the current state is different from the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the player character is set to the state immediately after startup in that operating mode, while maintaining the current operating mode. A method for switching between operating modes, characterized by the following features. [Note 14] The processor of an electronic device comprising a key associated with multiple operating modes, and a processor that acquires a calculated value in each of the multiple operating modes according to the calculation method associated with each operating mode, If, in response to operating the aforementioned key, one of the multiple operating modes associated with the key is activated, the state of the activated operating mode is determined. If it is determined that the system is in the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the currently running operating mode is terminated, and another operating mode from the plurality of operating modes associated with the key is started. If it is determined that the current state is different from the state immediately after startup in any of the aforementioned operating modes, the player character is set to the state immediately after startup in that operating mode, while maintaining the current operating mode. A program characterized by executing a process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1 calculator 2 cabinets 3 Key Areas 301 All Clear Key 302 Clear Key 303 Equal Key 311, 312, 313, 314 Function Keys 315 Division Result Display Toggle Key 4 Display device 401,402 display area 11 processors 12 memory 13 Input device 14 Display Control Unit 15 bus 20 Management information

Claims

1. Each of the multiple operating modes includes a processor that outputs the results based on the received input operation to the display unit. When the processor is instructed to start any of the multiple operating modes, and it determines that any of the operating modes is currently running and has been accepting the input operation, it sets the display state of the display unit to the display state immediately after the start of any of the operating modes. When an instruction is given to activate any of the aforementioned operating modes, and it is determined that any of the aforementioned operating modes is currently activated and is in the state immediately after activation where it is not accepting any input operations, the aforementioned operating mode is terminated and another operating mode from among the multiple operating modes is activated. An electronic device characterized by the following features.

2. In the electronic device described in claim 1, The aforementioned processor, From the aforementioned multiple operating modes, one of the aforementioned other operating modes is identified in a predetermined order, and the identified other operating mode is activated. An electronic device characterized by the following features.

3. In the electronic device according to Claim 1, The instruction to activate any of the aforementioned operating modes is performed by the user through the same operation. An electronic device characterized by the following features.

4. In each of the multiple operating modes, the processor outputs the result based on the received input operation to the display unit. When an instruction is given to activate one of the aforementioned operating modes, and it is determined that one of the aforementioned operating modes is currently activated and has been accepting the input operation, the display state of the display unit is set to the display state immediately after the activation of one of the aforementioned operating modes. When an instruction is given to activate any of the aforementioned operating modes, and it is determined that any of the aforementioned operating modes is currently activated and is in the state immediately after activation where it is not accepting any input operations, the aforementioned operating mode is terminated and another operating mode from among the multiple operating modes is activated. A method for switching between operating modes, characterized by the following features.

5. In each of the multiple operating modes, the processor outputs the result based on the received input operation to the display unit. When an instruction is given to activate one of the aforementioned operating modes, and it is determined that one of the aforementioned operating modes is currently activated and has been accepting the input operation, the display state of the display unit is set to the display state immediately after the activation of one of the aforementioned operating modes. When an instruction is given to activate any of the aforementioned operating modes, and it is determined that any of the aforementioned operating modes is currently activated and is in the state immediately after activation where it is not accepting any input operations, the aforementioned operating mode is terminated and another operating mode from among the multiple operating modes is activated. A program characterized by executing a process.

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