Screen display control system

Abstract

To provide a screen display control system that naturally and gently suppresses excessive use of screens such as mirrors and displays, without excessively relying on the user's will or self-control, and that naturally brings out the user's autonomy. [Solution] A screen display control system comprising: a dimming unit whose transparency changes depending on the voltage applied; a time setting unit for setting the usage time; a timing unit that measures time based on the time set by the time setting unit; and a control unit that controls the voltage applied to the dimming unit to reduce the transparency of the dimming unit based on the timing result of the timing unit. This screen display control system can be implemented not only as something built into a mirror, but also as an add-on filter device or as a device-embedded type (app).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for controlling the visibility of a display surface. More specifically, it relates to a screen display control system that physically reduces the visibility of a display surface such as a mirror or a display based on a set time.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the widespread use of smartphones and personal computers (PCs), there are concerns about the impact on health caused by long-term viewing of screens. In addition, when people with characteristics such as developmental disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, SNS addiction, and eating disorders start looking at a mirror or a specific screen, they may have difficulty interrupting themselves voluntarily.

[0003] In response to such problems, conventionally, a timer that notifies with an alarm sound when a set time has elapsed, and a technique for limiting the usage time using software (so-called screen time function) have been proposed.

[0004] However, these methods did not encourage a self-disciplined approach in which the user restricts usage voluntarily. When using a timer, the user could ignore the alarm or解除 the restriction with a simple operation, so the effect of suppressing usage was limited for users with difficulty in self-control. Also, when using screen time, it forced the power to be turned off or announced the end with a numerical value, giving the user a strong sense of discomfort and stress. As a result, the user's self-discipline was not nurtured, and there was a problem that it also contributed to causing conflicts, especially between parents and children.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] This invention has been made in view of the problems of the prior art described above, and its purpose is to provide a novel screen display control system that can naturally and gently suppress the excessive use of screens such as mirrors and displays without excessively relying on the user's will or self-control ability, and that can naturally bring out the user's autonomy.

[0007] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that minimizes discomfort to the user, allows them to foresee the end of their usage time, and encourages a smooth discontinuation of use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the screen display control system according to the present invention is A dimming section whose transparency changes depending on the applied voltage, A time setting unit for setting the usage time, A timing unit that performs timing based on the time set by the aforementioned time setting unit, A control unit that controls the voltage applied to the dimming unit to reduce the transparency of the dimming unit based on the timing result of the timing unit, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0009] With this configuration, after a set time has elapsed, the control unit physically reduces the transparency of the dimming section, making it difficult for the user to continue viewing the screen. This effectively prevents excessive screen use without relying on the user's will.

[0010] Furthermore, it is preferable that the control unit gradually or continuously reduces the voltage applied to the dimming unit after the set time has elapsed. This allows the screen to gradually become cloudy rather than suddenly disappear, giving the user time to prepare and mitigating any discomfort or resistance caused by the sudden change.

[0011] Furthermore, the system may be further equipped with a human body detection unit that detects the presence of a user in front of the object being viewed, a face recognition function, and a gaze recognition function. The control unit may then initiate timing by the timing unit only during the period when the human body detection unit detects the presence of a user, only when the face recognition function determines the user to be the person in question, or only when it is detected that the user's gaze is directed towards the screen. This prevents the disadvantage of "time progressing even when the user is not looking," enabling fairer and more practical operation.

[0012] Furthermore, the system may also include a communication unit that receives remote control signals from an external administrator terminal, and the control unit may be configured to set the time setting unit or control the transparency of the dimming unit based on the remote control signals received by the communication unit. This allows parents or guardians to manage and control the child's usage from a distance.

[0013] The present invention can be realized as a display device incorporating the above-described screen display control system, or as a filter device that can be retrofitted to an existing display surface. It can also be considered as a screen display control method installed on a device.

[0014] Furthermore, the problem can also be solved by a screen display control system implemented in an information terminal having a camera unit and a screen unit. The screen display control system is A screen unit configured to change the display state in response to instructions from the display control unit, A time setting unit for setting the usage time, A timing unit that performs timing based on the time set by the aforementioned time setting unit, The system includes a display control unit that changes the display state on the screen based on the timing result of the timing unit.

[0015] Furthermore, it is advantageous to gently let the user know that the usage time is nearing its end by using a visual approach with images selected by the user, such as "cloudy," "snow," "rain," "fog," or "ripples," to indicate the end time, or by using audio notifications. By displaying visual effects on the screen in stages, or by using sound effects, it is possible to gently discourage the user's intention to look at the screen and prevent excessive use. This effect can be achieved by using animation technology or random snow falling effects to encourage visually natural changes, or by reducing the screen's visibility through audio notifications. It is also conceivable that the appearance of favorite characters or illustrations over time can reduce user discomfort, provide visual enjoyment, and gently prevent excessive screen use.

[0016] Furthermore, it is conceivable to use eye-tracking technology to configure the system so that the user can look at themselves as if in a mirror, based on the images obtained from the camera.

[0017] Thus, the present invention relates to a screen display control system that manages the amount of time a user spends using a screen (such as a mirror, PC display, smartphone, television, game console, e-reader, VR / AR headset, or digital signage). Conventional methods for limiting usage time often involved alarm sounds or forced power cuts, but these frequently caused discomfort or resistance from the user. The present invention uses a technology that gradually controls transparency using voltage and visual effects (for example, users can freely select visual changes such as natural phenomena like "snow," "cloudy," "rain," "fog," or "ripples," or their favorite characters) to gently prevent excessive use by naturally reducing the screen's visibility. This promotes user autonomy and supports effective time management for both children and adults. In particular, it is expected to reduce conflicts between parents and children, and within families. Furthermore, the present invention provides a gaze correction system using a camera for the user to use as a mirror. The mirror function can be realized using gaze correction technology even without the user facing the camera. This allows users to naturally look at themselves, like in a conventional mirror, and utilize the mirror function without having to adjust their viewpoint. This invention also functions as a tool to foster user autonomy by supporting the ability of users to autonomously manage their time and control screen usage. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, by physically reducing visibility, excessive use of screens and the like can be effectively prevented even by users who have difficulty self-control. Furthermore, by gradually reducing visibility, users can continue to visually perceive the passage of time, allowing them to prepare to stop using the screen and alleviating discomfort for the user. By avoiding sudden forced shutdowns, it is expected that this will reduce conflict and stress between parents and children and suppress secondary problems. Furthermore, because users can set their own time, it also supports the development of autonomous time management skills. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] Perspective view and cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a mirror to which a screen display control system according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 2] Perspective view showing a state where a retrofit filter to which a screen display control system according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied is attached to an object for which display control is desired. [Figure 3] Functional block diagram of the system of the present embodiment. [Figure 4] Circuit diagram showing an example of a control circuit in the present embodiment. [Figure 5] Flowchart showing a method for implementing the screen display control system according to the present invention. [Figure 6] Diagram of an example of an additional function · message display function [Figure 7] Explanatory diagram showing an example of message display which is an additional function. [Figure 8] Diagram of an example of another embodiment [Figure 9] Functional block diagram of another embodiment [Figure 10] An example of a flowchart of a method implemented in another embodiment. [Figure 11] Diagram of an example where the video changes over time [Figure 12] Diagram of an example of a gaze correction function

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0021] Figure 1 shows an example of applying the present invention to a mirror, and Figure 2 shows an example of applying the present invention to a portable mirror and a PC display. In both forms, the core is the screen display control system shown in Figure 3. At the heart of the screen display control system is a dimming unit whose transparency changes only while a voltage is applied, and in particular, a dimming unit whose transparency increases only while a voltage is applied, which is placed in front of the mirror, PC display, etc., as shown in Figure 1, and is protected by a highly transparent material such as an acrylic plate.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3, the screen display control system mainly comprises a control unit, a memory unit, an operation unit, a timing unit, a power supply unit, a power supply control unit, and a dimming unit.

[0023] The dimming element is a component provided on the surface of a mirror or display, whose transparency changes depending on the applied voltage. In this embodiment, a dimming film that has the function of controlling transparency by voltage is used. For example, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PLDC) film is used. A polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film is a film in which liquid crystal molecules are evenly dispersed in a polymer substrate. As a result, when no voltage is applied, the liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner and become opaque (cloudy), but when voltage is applied, the liquid crystal molecules align and the film becomes transparent. This technology can also be applied to other materials that have the property of changing transparency by voltage (for example, electrochromic materials or electrically transparent materials), and has the flexibility to be adapted to various materials as material technology advances in the future.

[0024] The control panel is the interface that allows the user to set usage time and start / stop the system. For example, as shown in Figure 3, it consists of a start button, a stop button, and time setting buttons (e.g., 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes). In addition to this configuration, the control panel can also be implemented with various other configurations, such as a method for directly inputting numbers, time setting using a slider, or preset time buttons (e.g., 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes). This allows the user to operate the system intuitively and improves the flexibility of settings.

[0025] The control unit can be a microcontroller (microcontroller) that centrally controls the entire system, and can utilize ESP32, Arduino UNO, Seeeduino, etc. The control unit has an internal memory unit and is configured to accept input from the operation unit, especially the time setting button, and to store and save the set time in the memory unit.

[0026] The control unit further includes a timing unit. When, for example, the start button on the operation unit is pressed, the timing unit starts measuring time based on the set time stored in the memory unit. It is also possible that the timing unit is configured to temporarily suspend time measurement and temporarily hide the screen when the stop button on the operation unit is pressed.

[0027] The power control unit is a component that switches the power supply to the dimming unit on and off based on command signals from the control unit. For example, it can be composed of relays or MOSFETs (field-effect transistors).

[0028] The power supply unit is the component that supplies power to the entire system. Various types of power sources can be used, such as dry cell batteries, mobile batteries, and AC adapters. The circuit diagram shown in Figure 4 illustrates an example where four AA batteries (6V) are used as the power source, and a boost module (DC-DC converter) is used to generate the voltage (12V) required to drive the dimming film.

[0029] Next, we will explain the operation of this system with reference to Figure 5.

[0030] 1. First, the user sets the usage time (e.g., 5 minutes) via the setting buttons on the control panel. The set usage time is stored in the memory unit within the control panel.

[0031] 2. When the user issues a start command from the control unit, the control unit sends an instruction to the power control unit to apply a predetermined voltage to the dimming unit. As a result, the dimming unit changes from an opaque state to a transparent state, making it possible to see mirrors, PC displays, etc. At the same time, the control unit drives the internal timing unit and starts measuring the set time (5 minutes).

[0032] 3. When the timing unit confirms the elapsed time of the set period, the control unit sends an instruction to the power supply control unit to reduce the voltage applied to the dimming unit. This can be done, for example, by using PWM (pulse width modulation) control to gradually or continuously reduce the effective value of the voltage.

[0033] 4. As the voltage decreases, the dimming section gradually becomes opaque (cloudy), and eventually becomes completely opaque when the voltage reaches zero. This makes it impossible for the user to continue viewing the mirror or PC display, causing them to naturally discontinue use.

[0034] [Additional features] The present invention can be made more convenient and effective by adding various functions to the basic configuration described above. The additional functions shown below can be selectively incorporated depending on the purpose and operation of the system.

[0035] Message display function (Figures 6 and 7). A message display section can be incorporated into a part of the dimming unit. This could utilize a small LCD display, an LED display, or a mechanism that partially applies voltage to a film to make characters appear. This allows for the display of messages such as "3 minutes remaining" or end-of-use messages like "You are beautiful," "Thank you for your hard work," or "Let's take a break." Other possible messages are shown in Figure 7. This reduces the impression of being forcibly restricted and encourages users to proactively discontinue use. Alternatively, audio notifications could be used instead of message displays.

[0036] Remote control function, re-transparency prevention function. By equipping the control unit with a communication function (such as Wi-Fi) and providing a communication unit within the control unit, the screen display control system according to the present invention can also be configured to be controllable by external instructions. This allows, for example, a parent to access the system from an external terminal (administrator terminal) such as a smartphone via a dedicated app and set timer times, etc. Furthermore, if the screen display control system is configured to enable transparency multiple times a day, it is conceivable that the number of times transparency can be limited can be controlled externally via an administrator terminal.

[0037] Human body detection function and face recognition function. It is also conceivable to provide a human body detection unit in the screen display control system according to the present invention. An infrared time sensor or a camera could be used as the human body detection unit. This would allow the system to be configured so that the time count is performed only when the presence of a human body is detected or when the face recognition function determines that the person is the same individual. This would prevent the inconvenience of the timer continuing to run even when the user is not actually looking at a mirror, PC, etc. Furthermore, it is also conceivable to provide a gaze recognition function in the screen display control system according to the present invention. This would allow the system to detect whether the user's gaze is directed towards the screen. In this case, it is also possible to configure the system so that the time count is performed only when it is detected that the user's gaze is directed towards the screen.

[0038] Furthermore, if facial recognition functionality is included, it becomes possible to configure the system so that the multiple transparency effects described above can only be performed if the face of a pre-registered parent of the child is recognized. In the initial stages of training children in time management, parents can register their faces and use the system, allowing them to set time limits and usage restrictions. This allows children to safely begin time management and develop autonomous time management habits while learning under parental supervision. As they grow older, children can have their own faces recognized and set daily or individual usage time limits, learning self-control. In this way, it starts with parental involvement and ultimately enables children to set their own time and practice self-control. As a result, this function is expected to help users develop autonomous time management skills and learn self-control.

[0039] [Another embodiment] Another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Another embodiment of the present invention, for example, is an information terminal having a camera unit, a screen unit (display unit, display unit), and an operation unit, such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or PC, and has the following features.

[0040] Figure 8 is an external view of an example of the screen display control system according to the present invention implemented in a smartphone, which is an information terminal. Figure 9 is a diagram of its internal structure. The smartphone has the hardware configuration (CPU, ROM, RAM, recording medium, communication device, input / output device, etc.) and functions of a typical smartphone, and is equipped with a camera. In particular, it has a facial recognition function.

[0041] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the screen display control system according to this embodiment mainly comprises a camera unit, a control unit, a storage unit, a timing unit, an operation unit, a face recognition unit, a display unit, and a screen unit.

[0042] In other words, the screen display control system in this embodiment is configured to function when using a camera, particularly a selfie camera called an in-camera, to enable the use of a smartphone or the like as a mirror.

[0043] The camera unit is a so-called in-camera, which captures the user's own image and displays it on the screen in real time, allowing the information terminal to be used as a mirror.

[0044] The screen is a component provided on the surface of the terminal, and its display state changes according to instructions from the display control unit included in the control unit described later.

[0045] The control section is the interface that allows the user to set the usage time for the mirror function and start and stop the system's operation. For example, it can be configured as a touchscreen, or as shown in Figure 8, as a button section.

[0046] The control unit is the part that provides overall control for the entire system and consists of a CPU and a program that runs on the CPU. Alongside the control unit, the system is also equipped with a memory unit that receives input from the operation unit and is configured to store and save set times within the memory unit.

[0047] The control unit further includes a timing unit. The timing unit starts measuring time based on a set time stored in the memory unit, for example, when the start button on the operation unit is pressed or when the mirror function is activated.

[0048] The display control unit is a component that controls the display state on the screen based on command signals from the control unit.

[0049] The facial recognition unit is configured to work in conjunction with the camera to recognize who is operating the device (for example, whether it is a child, a parent, or an administrator).

[0050] Next, the operation of the system according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 10.

[0051] 1. First, the user launches the app and sets the usage time (e.g., 5 minutes) via the settings button on the control panel or the slider bar on the screen. The set usage time is stored in the memory.

[0052] 2. When the user presses the start button (which also serves as the power button) on the control panel or taps a corner of the slider bar, the control unit sends an instruction to the display control unit to keep the screen on. At the same time, the mirror function (app) built into the device, which automatically adjusts the user's viewpoint (described later), is activated. As a result, the screen displays the user's state as captured by the camera in real time, like a mirror. Simultaneously, the control unit drives the internal timing unit and begins measuring the set time (5 minutes).

[0053] 3. When the timing unit confirms the elapsed time of the set period, the control unit displays an image of falling snow on the screen. The amount of snow displayed in the image is initially small, and increases as time passes (Figure 11). The control unit instructs the end of the mirror function and sends an instruction to the display control unit to turn off the screen. Note that the image can be replaced with "cloudy," "rain," "fog," "ripples," "characters," etc.

[0054] 4. This will turn off the screen, making it impossible for the user to use the mirror function, and will naturally cause them to discontinue use.

[0055] [Additional features] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned functions can be added at a lower cost. As a result, convenience and effectiveness can be further enhanced. Some of these functions are listed below.

[0056] (1) Message display function. A message display section can be provided on a part of the screen, and it is possible to configure it to display messages such as "3 minutes remaining" or messages at the end such as "You are beautiful," "Thank you for your hard work," or "Let's take a break" based on instructions from the control unit (Figure 7). Due to the characteristics of electronic devices such as smartphones, it is possible to display a variety of messages, and a variety of presentations are possible for the message display method. This function allows users to stop using the device in a positive manner, and the impression of being forced can be mitigated.

[0057] (2) Remote control function, multiple activation prevention function. By utilizing the functions inherent in information terminals and smartphones, remote control and function restrictions can be implemented in a more diverse and easier manner.

[0058] (3) Face recognition function. Various functions can be realized by working in conjunction with the face recognition function of information terminals and smartphones. For example, a time limit for the mirror function can be configured to only activate when a specific person uses the mirror function. It is also possible to add a function that determines who is using the mirror function and automatically selects the activation time according to the person. With the face recognition function, even in shared living spaces such as those of families, multiple users can individually manage the usage time and settings of the same mirror.

[0059] (4) Eye-line correction function. Even if the user is not looking at the camera lens, the system performs eye-line correction processing, and the image displayed is as if the user is looking at themselves in a mirror. This technology is a specialized version of conventional eye-line correction technology for use as a mirror, and uses an eye-line correction algorithm to correct the deviation of the gaze based on the image captured by the camera, providing a natural image as a mirror (Figure 12). To implement this function, a face recognition algorithm is used to identify the user's face and calculate the deviation of the gaze. Next, the corrected viewpoint is used to adjust the displayed image so that it looks natural like a mirror.

Claims

1. A screen display control system, A dimming section whose transparency changes depending on the applied voltage, A time setting unit for setting the usage time, A timing unit that performs timing based on the time set by the aforementioned time setting unit, A control unit that controls the voltage applied to the dimming unit to reduce the transparency of the dimming unit based on the timing result of the timing unit, It has, The system further includes a human body detection function, a face recognition function, or a gaze recognition function that detects the presence of a user in front of a visual target, and the control unit is characterized in that it causes the timing unit to perform timing only during the period when the human body detection function detects the presence of a user, only when the face recognition function determines that the user is the person in question, or only when it is detected that the user's gaze is directed towards the screen. Screen display control system.

2. The screen display control system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit reduces the voltage applied to the dimming unit in a stepwise or continuous manner after the set time has elapsed.

3. The screen display control system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a communication unit for receiving remote control signals from an external administrator terminal, wherein the control unit is capable of setting the usage time by the time setting unit or controlling the transparency of the dimming unit based on the remote control signals received by the communication unit.

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