Information processing device and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device that prevents an erroneous touch operation.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes: a function allocation unit that allocates a first function to a first peripheral region in a screen, the first peripheral region being along a first side of the screen, and allocates a second function to a second peripheral region in the screen, the second peripheral region being along a second side of the screen; a touch detection unit that detects a touch operation of a user on the screen; and a function execution unit that executes, when a slide operation from outside one of the peripheral regions into the peripheral region is detected by the touch detection unit, a function allocated to the peripheral region that is a destination of the detected slide operation, based on the touch operation for the peripheral region that is the slide operation destination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing device and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Information processing devices are known that execute functions implemented in a program in response to user operations. For example, Patent Document 1 describes such an information processing device that sets a search area on a map in response to touch operations. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-304324 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] It is possible that a user may perform touch operations on an information processing device without looking at the screen. In this case, the accuracy of the touch operation is low, which may lead to errors and the execution of functions unintended by the user.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide an information processing device and program that are less prone to accidental operation during touch operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a function assignment unit that assigns a first function to a first peripheral region within the screen along a first edge of the screen, and assigns a second function to a second peripheral region within the screen along a second edge of the screen; a touch detection unit that detects a user's touch operation on the screen; and a function execution unit that, when the touch detection unit detects a slide operation from outside the peripheral region to inside the peripheral region, executes the function assigned to the peripheral region that is the destination of the slide operation based on the touch operation to the peripheral region that is the destination of the detected slide operation. The peripheral area is divided into multiple areas, including a first partitioned area and a second partitioned area that is further from the center of the screen than the first partitioned area. When the function execution unit detects a touch operation of a first duration in the second partitioned area, it changes the function setting value more significantly than when a touch operation of a first duration is detected in the first partitioned area. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an information processing device and program are provided that are less prone to accidental operations during touch operation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2C] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2D] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] This figure shows a search range set by a user's touch operation on the screen of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] This figure shows a search range set by a user's touch operation on the screen of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] This figure shows a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for executing functions in response to user touch operations on the screen of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] This figure shows a GUI for executing functions in response to user touch operations on the screen of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4C] This figure shows a GUI for executing functions in response to user touch operations on the screen of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4D] This figure shows a GUI for executing functions in response to user touch operations on the screen of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the processing of a program executed by the CPU (Central Processing Unit) of an information processing device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6C] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7C] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8A]This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8B] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8C] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9A] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9B] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9C] This figure shows an example of an image displayed on the screen of an information processing device when a navigation application is running, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10A] This diagram illustrates an example of processing performed by a camera application in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10B] This diagram illustrates an example of processing performed by a camera application in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10C] This diagram illustrates an example of processing performed by a camera application in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10D] This diagram illustrates an example of processing performed by a camera application in one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes an information processing device and program according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is, for example, an in-vehicle device including a navigation system. However, the information processing device is not limited to an in-vehicle device, and may be other types of devices such as a smartphone, feature phone, tablet terminal, PC (Personal Computer), PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), PND (Portable Navigation Device), or portable game console.

[0011] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 1 includes a control unit 100, a communication interface unit 110, an operation unit 120, a display unit 130, an audio output unit 140, and a vibration unit 150. Note that Figure 1 shows the main components necessary for explaining this embodiment, and some components, such as the housing which is an essential component of the information processing device 1, are omitted from the illustration as appropriate.

[0012] The control unit 100 controls the entire information processing device 1 and is a microcomputer consisting of a CPU 100A, RAM (Random Access Memory) 100B, ROM (Read Only Memory) 100C, input / output ports 100D, and bus lines connecting these ports.

[0013] The CPU 100A reads the program 102 stored in the ROM 100C and controls the information processing device 1 according to the read program 102. The CPU 100A includes a touch detection unit 100a, a function assignment unit 100b, an operator display unit 100c, and a function execution unit 100d as functional blocks.

[0014] A CPU 100A, which is an example of a processor, can be, for example, a single processor or a multi-processor, and includes at least one processor. In the case of a configuration that includes multiple processors, the control unit 100, which includes the CPU 100A, may be packaged as a single device, or it may be composed of multiple physically separated devices within the information processing device 1.

[0015] RAM100B is a memory unit that temporarily stores programs and data, and provides a work area. RAM100B is, for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0016] ROM100C is a non-volatile memory that stores various programs and data, including program 102. ROM100C is, for example, flash memory.

[0017] Program 102 includes Program 104 and multiple applications 106. Program 104 is, for example, an OS (Operating System) or middleware located in the intermediate layer between the OS and applications 106. That is, applications 106 are software at a higher layer than Program 104 and run on top of Program 104.

[0018] The multiple applications 106 include, for example, a navigation app that provides directions to a destination, a camera app that displays an overhead image of the vehicle when parked, a 3D view app that displays a 3D model of the vehicle, an audio app for operating the audio functions installed in the in-vehicle system, including the navigation device, and an air conditioning control app for adjusting the temperature and airflow of the air conditioner installed in the vehicle.

[0019] For example, when a trigger signal is detected, the application 106 running on program 104 is switched. As an example, if the gear is shifted to reverse while the navigation application is running, program 102 switches the application 106 running on program 104 from the navigation application to the camera application.

[0020] In this way, the information processing device 1 is configured to be able to switch between and execute multiple applications 106.

[0021] Program 102, which includes program 104 and application 106, is a program that causes a CPU 100A, an example of a computer, to execute a process that assigns a first function to a first peripheral area on the screen along the first edge of the screen, and a second function to a second peripheral area on the screen along the second edge of the screen, detects user touch operations on the screen, and when a slide operation from outside to inside the peripheral area is detected, executes the function assigned to the peripheral area that is the destination of the detected slide operation based on the touch operation to that peripheral area. The execution of program 102 provides an operating environment in which errors are less likely to occur, for example, when a user performs a touch operation without looking at the screen. Details of program 102 will be described later.

[0022] In this embodiment, each functional block of the CPU 100A is implemented by a software program 102. However, some or all of the functional blocks of the CPU 100A may be implemented by dedicated hardware such as logic circuits.

[0023] The input / output port 100D connects the control unit 100 to other components (specifically, the communication interface unit 110, the operation unit 120, the display unit 130, the audio output unit 140, and the vibration unit 150).

[0024] The communication interface unit 110 is an interface that handles communication processing with other terminal devices. The information processing device 1 is connected to other terminal devices via the communication interface unit 110, enabling mutual communication through public lines or closed network communication lines such as VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).

[0025] The operation unit 120 consists of buttons, switches, and other operating components that allow the user to operate the information processing device 1.

[0026] The display unit 130 includes a touch panel display 132 and a display driver 134 that drives the touch panel display 132. The touch panel display 132 is configured so that the entire screen area is touch operable. The "touch panel display" may also be simply called a "touch panel," or it may be called a "touchscreen" or "touch display."

[0027] The touch panel display 132 is constructed using, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence). The touch panel display 132 employs, for example, a resistive touchscreen, a capacitive touchscreen, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave touchscreen, an infrared optical imaging touchscreen, or an electromagnetic induction touchscreen. The touch panel display 132 incorporates a pressure sensor 136 that senses the pressure applied when touching the screen (in other words, the touch-operable area).

[0028] The audio output unit 140 includes a speaker 142 and a speaker driver 144 that drives the speaker 142. When the speaker 142 is driven by the speaker driver 144, navigation audio stored in, for example, the ROM 100C or an unillustrated storage medium (HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), removable memory card, etc.) is output from the speaker 142.

[0029] The vibration unit 150 includes a vibrator 152 and a vibrator driver 154 that drives the vibrator 152. The vibrator 152 is constructed using, for example, an ERM (Eccentric Rotating Mass), an LRA (Linear Resonant Actuator), or a piezoelectric element. When the vibrator 152 is driven by the vibrator driver 154, the screen of the touch panel display 132 vibrates.

[0030] Figures 2A to 2D show examples of images displayed on screen 138 of the touch panel display 132 when the navigation application is running. The entire area of ​​screen 138 is configured to be touch-operable.

[0031] In addition, each diagram showing an example image display will include, where necessary, a hand icon indicating that the user is touching screen 138. The position of the fingertip in this icon represents the user's touch position TP on screen 138.

[0032] The CPU 100A detects the user's touch position TP on the screen 138 and acquires the detected touch position TP as two-dimensional coordinate information of X and Y. In other words, the CPU 100A executing program 102 operates as a touch detection unit 100a that detects the user's touch operation on the screen 138.

[0033] The left-right direction of screen 138 corresponds to the X direction, and the up-down direction of screen 138 corresponds to the Y direction. With the center of screen 138 as the origin, the direction indicated by the arrow representing X (i.e., to the right of screen 138) is the positive X direction, and the opposite direction (i.e., to the left of screen 138) is the negative X direction. The direction indicated by the arrow representing Y (i.e., upwards of screen 138) is the positive Y direction, and the opposite direction (i.e., downwards of screen 138) is the negative Y direction. The X and Y directions are orthogonal to each other.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2A, when the navigation app is run, a map image is displayed on screen 138, and a mark M indicating the vehicle's current location is displayed in the center of screen 138. While a detailed explanation is omitted here, the navigation app displays the mark M on the map image based on location information acquired from the vehicle's GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver and autonomous navigation system.

[0035] When a user touches screen 138 and slides their finger, the touch position TP moves. The CPU 100A can detect the user's sliding operation on screen 138 by monitoring the moving touch position TP.

[0036] For example, when the user's touch position TP slides in the direction of arrow R (see Figure 2A), the navigation app displays a circle C on the map image, as shown in Figure 2B, with a radius equal to the distance from the base point of the touch position TP (in this case, the display position of mark M) to the current touch position TP. Circle C indicates the search range for the destination, centered on the display position of mark M (in other words, the vehicle's current position). The search range enclosed by circle C is denoted with the symbol SA.

[0037] When the user's finger is lifted from screen 138, the size of circle C is determined. That is, the navigation app determines circle C to be a circle whose radius is the distance from the base point of the touch position TP to the release position (i.e., the position on screen 138 just before the user's finger is lifted from screen 138).

[0038] The navigation app searches for pre-set search targets (restaurants, convenience stores, etc.) within the search area SA indicated by the confirmed circle C, and displays the found search targets on the map image. In the example in Figure 2C, three search targets are found within the search area SA, and marks m1 to m3 representing these three search targets are displayed on the map image.

[0039] When the user touches any one of the marks m1 to m3 (in the example in Figure 2D, mark m1 is touched), the navigation app sets the target indicated by the touched mark as the destination, searches for a route, and provides guidance along the searched route.

[0040] Thus, according to this embodiment, the user can set a destination with simple operations. Since detailed operations are not required when setting a destination, errors are less likely to occur even if the user touches the screen 138 without intently looking at it.

[0041] Furthermore, voice and vibration may be generated to assist the search operation as described above. For example, when Mark M is touched, the CPU 100A may control the vibration unit 150 to vibrate the screen 138 in a predetermined vibration pattern and output voice messages such as "Slide your finger to set the search range" and "Remove your finger to confirm the search range" from the speaker 142.

[0042] There are various possible methods for setting the search range SA. Two examples of how to set the search range SA are explained using Figures 3A and 3B.

[0043] Figures 3A and 3B show the search range SA set by the user's touch operation on screen 138. Figure 3A shows the search range SA of Example 1. Figure 3B shows the search range SA of Example 2. In the examples of Figures 3A and 3B, it is assumed that the user continues to touch screen 138 until the vehicle moves from position P1 to position P2.

[0044] In Example 1, the search area SA is set using the method described with reference to Figures 2A to 2D. That is, in Example 1, the search area SA is set to be the circular area centered on the current position of mark M on the map image, as shown by the hatched area in Figure 3A. In Example 1, the circular search area SA moves as the vehicle moves.

[0045] In Example 2, as shown by the hatched area in Figure 3B, the search area SA is defined as the area within all circles centered on the position of mark M on the map image at each point in time from when the user touches mark M until they slide their finger away from screen 138. In Example 2, the search area SA expands as the vehicle moves.

[0046] In Example 1, the user can easily limit the search range SA to the nearest area from their current location. In contrast, in Example 2, the user can easily visually grasp the point in time when they want to perform a destination search, and can set the search range SA to an area along the driving route from that point to the present.

[0047] CPU 100A can execute various functions of the navigation app in addition to setting the search range SA illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2D in response to a user's touch operation on the screen 138.

[0048] FIGS. 4A to 4D are diagrams showing GUIs for executing functions in response to a user's touch operation on the screen 138.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 4A, a triangular region located to the right of the center of the screen 138 is labeled with the symbol R 1R . Also, the symbol R 2R is attached to the peripheral region within the screen 138 along the right side of the screen 138. As shown in FIG. 4B, a triangular region located to the left of the center of the screen 138 is labeled with the symbol R 1L . Also, the symbol R 2L is attached to the peripheral region within the screen 138 along the left side of the screen 138. As shown in FIG. 4C, a triangular region located above the center of the screen 138 is labeled with the symbol R 1U . Also, the symbol R 2U is attached to the peripheral region within the screen 138 along the upper side of the screen 138. As shown in FIG. 4D, a triangular region located below the center of the screen 138 is labeled with the symbol R 1D . Also, the symbol R 2D is attached to the peripheral region within the screen 138 along the lower side of the screen 138.

[0050] Any one of the peripheral regions R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D is an example of the first peripheral region, and any one of the peripheral regions other than the first peripheral region is an example of the second peripheral region.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4A, when the user's touch position TP slides from the center of the screen 138 in the direction of the arrow R and enters the region R 1R , the operator 20R is overlaid and displayed in the peripheral region R 2R along the right side of the screen 138.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4B, the user's touch position TP slides from the center of screen 138 in the direction of arrow L to region R. 1L Upon entering, the surrounding region R along the left edge of screen 138 2L The 20L control unit is then displayed as an overlay.

[0053] As shown in Figure 4C, the user's touch position TP slides from the center of screen 138 in the direction of arrow U to region R. 1U Upon entering, the peripheral area R along the top edge of screen 138 2U The operator 20U is then displayed as an overlay.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4D, the user's touch position TP slides from the center of screen 138 in the direction of arrow D to region R. 1D Upon entering, the peripheral area R along the bottom edge of screen 138 2D The operator 20D is then displayed as an overlay.

[0055] CPU100A performs functions in response to user touch operations on controls displayed in the peripheral area of ​​screen 138.

[0056] Furthermore, when the user's touch position TP slides to any peripheral area of ​​the screen 138, an audio notification may be output from the speaker 142, or the screen 138 may be vibrated with a vibration pattern to indicate this.

[0057] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the processing of program 102 executed by CPU 100A in one embodiment of the present invention. In the processing shown in Figure 5, an operator is displayed in the peripheral area of ​​screen 138 in response to user touch operation, and a function is executed in response to user touch operation on the displayed operator.

[0058] Figure 5 illustrates an example of the processing that occurs when the navigation application is run. This example will be explained with reference to the image display examples in Figures 6A-6C, 7A-7C, 8A-8C, and 9A-9C.

[0059] For example, when the execution of application 106 begins (excluding the execution of application 106 in the background that is not displayed on screen 138), CPU 100A starts executing the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 5.

[0060] Here, ROM100C is each peripheral region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D In contrast, it maintains correspondence information that associates different functions with each application 106.

[0061] For example, for a navigation app, in the above correspondence information, the surrounding area R 2R The search settings function is associated with the surrounding area R 2L The search cancellation function is associated with the surrounding area R. 2U This is associated with the zoom-in function, and the surrounding area R 2D This is associated with the zoom-out function.

[0062] For example, for an air conditioning control application, the surrounding area R is included in the above correspondence information. 2R This is associated with the function of increasing the set temperature, and the surrounding area R 2L This is associated with the negative function for the set temperature, and the surrounding area R 2U This is associated with the airflow increase function, and the surrounding area R 2D This is associated with the airflow reduction function.

[0063] CPU100A obtains the correspondence information of the application 106 (in this case, the navigation application) that has started execution from ROM100C, and according to the obtained correspondence information, each peripheral area R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D A function (in this case, a search setting function, a search cancellation function, a zoom in function, and a zoom out function, respectively) is assigned to it (step S101).

[0064] First peripheral region (Peripheral region R) 2R , R2L , R 2U , R 2D A function assigned to any one of the peripheral regions is an example of the first function. A function assigned to the second peripheral region (any peripheral region other than the first peripheral region) is an example of the second function. In other words, the CPU 100A executing program 102 operates as a function assignment unit 100b that assigns the first function to the first peripheral region within the screen 138 along the first edge of the screen 138, and assigns the second function to the second peripheral region within the screen 138 along the second edge of the screen 138.

[0065] When CPU 100A detects a user touch operation on mark M (step S102: YES), it determines whether or not a slide operation was performed with respect to mark M (step S103).

[0066] Furthermore, when CPU 100A detects a user touch operation on mark M, it performs the drawing process of a circle C centered on mark M in parallel with the process shown in Figure 5.

[0067] CPU100A is located in area R from mark M. 1R When a sliding operation to the right is detected (step S103: YES and step S104: right), the operator 20R moves to the peripheral region R, as shown in Figure 6A. 2R Display in (step S105). The operator 20R moves to the peripheral area R 2R This is the operator used to execute the function assigned to it (in this case, the search settings function).

[0068] Thus, the CPU 100A determines the direction in which the surrounding area is located by the touch detection unit 100a (in the above example, the surrounding area R 2R When a slide operation (to the right, where the object is located) is detected, it operates as an operator display unit 100c, displaying an operator (operator 20R in the above example) for executing the function assigned to the peripheral area located in the direction of the detected slide operation.

[0069] CPU100A: The user's touch position TP is in area R 1R Beyond the surrounding region R 2R It slides to (see Figure 6B), and the surrounding region R 2R The system determines whether the touch has been released (step S106). Peripheral region R 2R When the touch is released (step S106: YES), the CPU 100A executes the search setting function (step S107).

[0070] When the search settings function is initiated, the search target settings screen is displayed on screen 138, as shown in Figure 6C. The user can set the search target by touching the search target listed on the settings screen.

[0071] Thus, the CPU 100A detects a slide operation from outside the peripheral area to inside the peripheral area using the touch detection unit 100a (in the above example, peripheral area R 2R When a slide operation to the target area is detected, the unit operates as a function execution unit 100d that executes a function assigned to the target area (in the example above, the search setting function) based on a touch operation to the target area of ​​the slide operation (more specifically, in response to a touch operation to an operator displayed in that target area).

[0072] CPU100A is located in area R from mark M. 1L When a sliding operation to the left is detected (step S103: YES and step S104: left), the operator 20L is moved to the peripheral region R, as shown in Figure 7A. 2L Display in (step S108). The operator 20L moves to the peripheral area R 2L This is the operator used to execute the function assigned to it (in this case, the search cancellation function).

[0073] In step S108, the CPU 100A operates as the operator display unit 100c, similar to step S105.

[0074] CPU100A: The user's touch position TP is in area R 1LBeyond the surrounding region R 2L It slides to (see Figure 7B), and the surrounding region R 2L Determine whether the touch has been released (step S109). Peripheral region R 2L When the touch is released (step S109: YES), the CPU 100A executes the search cancellation function (step S110).

[0075] When the search cancellation function is executed, the display on screen 138 returns to the display it was in before the touch operation, as shown in Figure 7C.

[0076] In step S110, the CPU 100A operates as the function execution unit 100d, similar to step S107.

[0077] CPU100A is located in area R from mark M. 1U When a sliding operation is detected (step S103: YES and step S104: Up), the operator 20U is moved to the peripheral region R, as shown in Figure 8A. 2U Display in (step S111). The operator 20U moves to the peripheral area R 2U This is the operator used to execute the function assigned to it (in this case, the zoom-in function).

[0078] In step S111, the CPU 100A operates as the operator display unit 100c, similar to step S105.

[0079] CPU100A: The user's touch position TP is in area R 1U Beyond the surrounding region R 2U It is determined whether or not it has been slid to this point (see Figure 8B) (step S112). Peripheral region R 2U When it is slid to this point (step S112: YES), the CPU 100A performs the zoom-in function (step S113).

[0080] When the zoom-in function is executed, CPU100A processes the peripheral area R 2U The area is divided into multiple partitioned regions. In the example in Figure 8C, the surrounding region R 2Uis divided into three parts in the Y direction. From the one closer to the center of the screen 138, the partition areas are R 21U , R 22U , R 23U and are denoted as such. The operator on the partition area R 21U is denoted as operator 21U, the operator on the partition area R 22U is denoted as operator 22U, and the operator on the partition area R 23U is denoted as operator 23U.

[0081] The CPU 100A enlarges (zooms in) the scale of the map image according to the duration of the touch on the operators 21U to 23U. Specifically, the longer the duration of the touch, the more the CPU 100A enlarges the scale of the map image.

[0082] Also, different magnification ratios (the magnification rate of the map image per unit time while the touch continues, and the magnification ratio exceeds 1) are set for each operator. Among the operators 21U to 23U, the smallest magnification ratio is set for the operator 21U, then a smaller magnification ratio is set for the operator 22U, and the largest magnification ratio is set for the operator 23U.

[0083] For example, when the user touches and holds the operator 23U for n seconds, the scale of the map image is enlarged to n1 times. In contrast, when the user touches and holds the operator 21U for n seconds, the scale of the map image is enlarged to n2 times (n2 < n1).

[0084] In this way, the CPU 100A operating as the function execution unit 100d controls the set value of the function (in the above example, the magnification rate of the map image) according to the duration of the touch operation on the operator. Also, the peripheral area is divided into a plurality of areas including the first partition area (for example, operator 21U) and the second partition area (for example, operator 23U) farther from the center of the screen 138 than the first partition area. When a touch operation with a first duration is detected for the second partition area, the CPU 100A operating as the function execution unit 100d changes the set value of the function more greatly than when a touch operation with the first duration is detected for the first partition area.

[0085] CPU100A is located in area R from mark M. 1D When a sliding operation is detected (step S103: YES and step S104: Down), the operator 20D moves to the peripheral region R, as shown in Figure 9A. 2D Display in (step S114). The operator 20D moves to the peripheral area R 2D This is the operator used to execute the function assigned to it (in this case, the zoom-out function).

[0086] In step S114, the CPU 100A operates as the operator display unit 100c, similar to step S105.

[0087] CPU100A: The user's touch position TP is in area R 1D Beyond the surrounding region R 2D It is determined whether or not it has been slid to this point (see Figure 9B) (step S115). Peripheral region R 2D When it is slid to this point (step S115: YES), the CPU 100A performs the zoom-out function (step S116).

[0088] Even when the zoom-out function is running, CPU100A also controls the peripheral area R 2D Multiple partitioned areas (in order from closest to the center of screen 138, partitioned area R) 21D , R 22D , R 23D The area is divided into sections. 21D The upper control is denoted as control 21D, and the partition area R 22D The upper control is denoted as control 22D, and the partition area R 23D The upper control is denoted as control 23D.

[0089] The CPU 100A reduces the scale of the map image (zooms out) depending on the duration of the touch on the control elements 21D to 23D. Specifically, the longer the touch duration, the more the CPU 100A reduces the scale of the map image.

[0090] Also, different magnification ratios (which are the reduction ratios of the map image per unit time while the touch continues and are magnification ratios less than 1) are set for each operator. Among the operators 21D to 23D, the largest magnification ratio is set for the operator 21D, then a larger magnification ratio is set for the operator 22D, and the smallest magnification ratio is set for the operator 23D. Among the operators 21D to 23D, the magnification ratio set for the operator 21D is the value closest to 1 (for example, 0.8 times), and the magnification ratio set for the operator 23D is the value closest to 0 (for example, 0.5 times).

[0091] For example, when the user continuously touches the operator 23D for n seconds, the scale of the map image is reduced to n3 times. In contrast, when the user continuously touches the operator 21D for n seconds, the scale of the map image is only reduced to n4 times (n3 < n4).

[0092] Thus, also in step S116, the CPU 100A operates as the function execution unit 100d, similar to step S113.

[0093] Incidentally, the upper side (an example of the first side) of the screen 138 along which the peripheral region R 2U is located is the opposite side of the lower side (an example of the second side) of the screen 138 along which the peripheral region R 2D is located. The zoom-in function (an example of the first function) assigned to the peripheral region R 2U and the zoom-out function (an example of the second function) assigned to the peripheral region R 2D are functions that change the common set value to the plus side and the minus side, respectively, and are paired functions.

[0094] By assigning the paired functions to the peripheral regions along the opposite sides of the screen 138, the user can change the set value of the function more intuitively.

[0095] According to this embodiment, the user can cause the information processing apparatus 1 to execute the functions of the application 106 by performing a simple operation of sliding a finger from the center of the screen 138 to near the side and then releasing it. Therefore, even when the user performs a touch operation without looking at the screen 138, it is difficult for an incorrect operation to occur.

[0096] Also, the peripheral area which is the slide operation destination is located near the physical structure of the side of the screen 138. Therefore, even without looking at the screen 138, the user can easily grasp the position of the peripheral area. From this point as well, even when the user performs a touch operation without looking at the screen 138, it is difficult for an incorrect operation to occur.

[0097] Further, if a slide operation based on the display position of the mark M is not performed, the operator is not displayed on the screen 138. Therefore, more display objects such as map images can be displayed on the screen 138.

[0098] Note that when the touch is released at a position that does not belong to any of the peripheral areas R 2R 、R 2L 、R 2U 、R 2D the CPU 100A ends the processing of the flowchart in FIG. 5, and as shown in FIG. 2C, determines the circle C at that time, searches for a search target from within the search range SA, and displays the found search target on the map image. The CPU 100A sets a destination according to a touch operation on the mark indicating the search target, searches for a route, and provides guidance.

[0099] An example of the processing during the execution of an application other than the navigation application will be described. Using FIGS. 10A to 10D, an example of the processing during the execution of the camera application will be described.

[0100] For example, when the gear is switched to reverse, the camera application is executed. FIG. 10A is an example of an overhead image of a vehicle displayed on the screen 138 when the camera application is executed.

[0101] The CPU 100A obtains the correspondence information of the camera application from the ROM 100C, and in accordance with the obtained correspondence information, it allocates functions to each peripheral region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D .

[0102] For example, when a slide operation to the region R 1R is detected, the CPU 100A displays the operator 20R in the peripheral region R 2R in the same manner as in step S105 of FIG. 5 (see FIG. 10B). In this case, the operator 20R is an operator for setting the camera application.

[0103] Various setting items are listed in the operator 20R. When the slide reaches the peripheral region R 2R and the touch is released at a position above any of the setting items in the operator 20R, the CPU 100A executes the setting function of the corresponding item.

[0104] For example, when a slide operation to the region R 1U is detected, the CPU 100A displays the operator 20U in the peripheral region R 2U in the same manner as in step S111 of FIG. 5 (see FIG. 10C). In this case, the operator 20U is an operator for executing the zoom-in function of the bird's-eye view image.

[0105] When the slide operation reaches the peripheral region R<> 2U , the CPU 100A executes the zoom-in function of the bird's-eye view image in the same manner as in step S113 of FIG. 5.

[0106] For example, when a slide operation to the region R 1D is detected, the CPU 100A displays the operator 20D in the peripheral region R 2D in the same manner as in step S114 of FIG. 5 (see FIG. 10D). In this case, the operator 20D is an operator for executing the zoom-out function of the bird's-eye view image.

[0107] When the slide reaches the peripheral region R 2DWhen the slide operation is performed to that point, the CPU 100A executes the zoom-out function for the overhead image, similar to step S116 in Figure 5.

[0108] Furthermore, similar to the examples in Figures 8C and 9C, the surrounding region R 2U and R 2D The image may be divided into multiple areas with different magnification settings. The user can change the zoom-in and zoom-out speed of the overhead image depending on the area of ​​the area they touch.

[0109] This section describes an example of the process when the 3D view application is executed. The 3D view application starts executing in response to an operation on the control unit 120. When the 3D view application starts executing, for example, a 3D model of a vehicle is displayed on screen 138.

[0110] The CPU 100A, similar to step S101 in Figure 5, obtains the correspondence information for the 3D view application from the ROM 100C, and according to the obtained correspondence information, processes each peripheral region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D Assign a function to it. For example, the surrounding region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D Each of these is assigned a function to rotate the vehicle's 3D model clockwise, counterclockwise, upward, and downward.

[0111] Each area R 1R , R 1L , R 1U , R 1D When a slide operation is detected, the CPU 100A displays an operator in the surrounding area located in the direction of the slide operation. When the slide operation reaches the displayed operator, the CPU 100A rotates the 3D model of the vehicle displayed on screen 138. For example, surrounding area R 2R When the control is slid to the displayed control, the 3D model of the vehicle displayed on screen 138 rotates to the right.

[0112] The surrounding region R along the right edge of screen 1382R The function of rotating to the right is assigned to this, and the peripheral region R along the left edge of screen 138 is also assigned to this. 2L The function of left rotation is assigned to this, and the peripheral area R along the top edge of screen 138 is also assigned. 2U The function of upward rotation is assigned to this, and the peripheral area R along the bottom edge of screen 138 is also assigned. 2D The function of downward rotation is assigned to this. Because the direction in which the surrounding area is located within screen 138 coincides with the corresponding rotation direction, the user can intuitively rotate the 3D model.

[0113] This section describes an example of the process when an audio application is executed. The audio application starts executing in response to an operation on the control unit 120. When the audio application starts executing, for example, a controller for the audio application is displayed on screen 138.

[0114] The CPU 100A, similar to step S101 in Figure 5, obtains the audio application's compatibility information from the ROM 100C and, according to the obtained compatibility information, processes each peripheral region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D Assign a function to it. For example, the surrounding region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D Each of these is assigned a channel selection function (up), channel selection function (down), volume up, and volume down functions.

[0115] Each area R 1R , R 1L , R 1U , R 1D When a slide operation is detected, the CPU 100A displays an operator in the surrounding area located in the direction of the slide operation. When the slide operation reaches the displayed operator, the CPU 100A executes the corresponding function.

[0116] For example, the surrounding region R 2RWhen the control is slid to the displayed control, the volume of the sound output from speaker 142 increases. The longer the touch duration on the control, the greater the volume increase. Also, the surrounding area R 2L When the control is slid to the displayed control, the volume of sound output from speaker 142 decreases. The longer the touch on the control, the greater the volume decrease.

[0117] For example, the surrounding region R 2U When the control is slid to the displayed control, the selected channel changes to a channel with a higher frequency. Each time the duration of touching the control exceeds a certain period of time, the selected channel changes to a channel with a higher frequency. Also, the surrounding area R 2D When the control is slid to the displayed indicator, the selected channel changes to a lower frequency channel. Each time the duration of touching the indicator exceeds a certain period of time, the selected channel changes to an even lower frequency channel.

[0118] Surrounding region R 2R The volume boost function assigned to the surrounding area R 2L The volume reduction function assigned to this is a pair of functions: one that changes the common setting value to the positive side and another that changes it to the negative side. Also, the peripheral area R 2U The assigned channel selection function and the surrounding area R 2D The channel down tuning function assigned to this also consists of two opposing functions: one that changes the common setting value to the positive side and another that changes it to the negative side.

[0119] In the audio app as well, by assigning corresponding functions to the surrounding areas along opposite edges of screen 138, users can more intuitively change the settings of the functions.

[0120] This section describes an example of the process when the air conditioning control application is executed. The air conditioning control application starts executing in response to an operation on the control unit 120. When the air conditioning control application starts executing, for example, an air conditioning controller is displayed on screen 138.

[0121] The CPU 100A, similar to step S101 in Figure 5, obtains the corresponding information for the air conditioning control application from the ROM 100C, and according to the obtained corresponding information, processes each peripheral region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D Assign a function to it. For example, the surrounding region R 2R , R 2L , R 2U , R 2D Each of these is assigned a function: an airflow increase function, an airflow decrease function, a set temperature increase function, and a set temperature decrease function.

[0122] Each area R 1R , R 1L , R 1U , R 1D When a slide operation is detected, the CPU 100A displays an operator in the surrounding area located in the direction of the slide operation. When the slide operation reaches the displayed operator, the CPU 100A executes the corresponding function.

[0123] For example, the surrounding region R 2R When the control is slid to the displayed indicator, the set temperature of the air conditioner increases. The longer the touch duration on the indicator, the higher the set temperature will be. Also, the surrounding area R 2L When the control is slid to the displayed indicator, the air conditioner's set temperature will decrease. The longer the touch on the indicator, the more the set temperature will decrease.

[0124] For example, the surrounding region R 2U When the control is slid to the displayed indicator, the airflow of the air conditioner increases. The longer the touch duration on the indicator, the greater the increase in airflow. Also, the surrounding area R 2DWhen the control is slid to the displayed indicator, the airflow of the air conditioner decreases. The longer the control is touched, the greater the decrease in airflow.

[0125] Surrounding region R 2R The assigned set temperature increase function and the surrounding area R 2L The assigned temperature reduction function consists of two functions: one to change the common setting value to the positive side and another to the negative side, and they are paired functions. Furthermore, the surrounding region R 2U The airflow increase function assigned to the surrounding area R 2D The airflow reduction function assigned to this unit also consists of two opposing functions: one that changes the common setting value to the positive side and another that changes it to the negative side.

[0126] In the air conditioning control app, assigning corresponding functions to the surrounding areas along opposite edges of screen 138 allows users to change function settings more intuitively.

[0127] In this way, the CPU 100A, which operates as the function execution unit 100d, assigns different functions to the peripheral area of ​​the screen 138 for each application 106. Therefore, the functions executed by the function execution unit 100d switch according to the application 106 that is currently running.

[0128] The above is a description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. For example, embodiments that appropriately combine embodiments or obvious embodiments explicitly shown in the specification are also included in the embodiments of this application.

[0129] In the above embodiment, a circle C with a radius equal to the distance from the base point of the touch position TP to the current touch position TP is set as the search range SA. However, the shape of the search range SA is not limited to a circle. For example, the search range SA may be set as the range within a polygon (triangle, quadrilateral, etc.) with the base point of the touch position TP as its centroid, or within a polygon with the base point and the current touch position TP as its vertices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 1: Information Processing Device 100: Control Unit 100A: CPU 100B: RAM 100C: ROM 100D: Input / Output Ports 100a: Touch detection unit 100b: Function assignment section 100c: Control display section 100d: Function execution unit 102: Program 104: Program 106: Application 110: Communication Interface Unit 120: Operation section 130: Display section 140: Audio output section 150: Vibration part

Claims

1. A function assignment unit assigns a first function to a first peripheral region within the screen along a first edge of the screen, and assigns a second function to a second peripheral region within the screen along a second edge of the screen. A touch detection unit that detects user touch operations on the screen, The system includes a function execution unit that, when the touch detection unit detects a slide operation from outside the peripheral area into the peripheral area, executes a function assigned to the peripheral area that is the destination of the slide operation based on the touch operation to the peripheral area that is the destination of the slide operation. The peripheral region is divided into a plurality of regions, including a first partitioned region and a second partitioned region that is further from the center of the screen than the first partitioned region. When the function execution unit detects a touch operation of a first duration on the second partitioned area, it changes the setting value of the function to a larger value than when a touch operation of a first duration is detected on the first partitioned area. Information processing device.

2. The system further includes an operator display unit, which, when the touch detection unit detects a slide operation in the direction in which the peripheral region is located, displays an operator for executing the function assigned to the peripheral region in the direction of the detected slide operation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The function execution unit executes the function in response to a touch operation on the operator. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The function execution unit controls the setting value of the function according to the duration of the touch operation on the operator. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The first side is the side opposite the second side, The first function is a function that is the counterpart to the second function. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. You can switch between and run multiple applications. The function assignment unit assigns different functions to the peripheral area for each application. The functions executed by the aforementioned function execution unit are switched according to the application being executed. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. The steps include: assigning a first function to a first peripheral region within the screen along a first edge of the screen, and assigning a second function to a second peripheral region within the screen along a second edge of the screen; The steps include detecting a user's touch operation on the screen, When a slide operation from outside the peripheral area to inside the peripheral area is detected, the steps include: executing a function assigned to the peripheral area that is the destination of the slide operation, based on a touch operation on the peripheral area that is the destination of the slide operation, and causing the computer to execute... The peripheral region is divided into a plurality of regions, including a first partitioned region and a second partitioned region that is further from the center of the screen than the first partitioned region. In the step of executing the function, if a touch operation of the first duration is detected on the second partitioned area, the setting value of the function is changed to be greater than when a touch operation of the first duration is detected on the first partitioned area. program.

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