Input device, input method, and program

Abstract

To prevent switching to a function unintended by a user due to an unstable operation of a touch panel.SOLUTION: An input device is configured to include: an operation information detection part 710 for detecting an operation position being a position of operating a touch panel 11 and pressing force being force of pressing the touch panel 11; a first pressing determination part 720 for detecting touch operation to the touch panel 11 and determining whether or not the touch panel 11 is pressed; a second pressing determination part 730 for determining whether or not a prescribed operation area of the touch panel 11 is pressed while the touch operation to the touch panel 11 is maintained after the first pressing determination part 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is pressed; and a function switching part 740 for making switching to a function set in the prescribed operation area when the second pressing determination part 730 determines that the prescribed operation area of the touch panel 11 is pressed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an input device, an input method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in portable devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets, devices equipped with touch panels have been increasing in order to detect operation instructions for the devices from users. In addition, devices equipped with touch panels have also been widely spread to vehicle-mounted devices such as, for example, car navigation devices and operation panels of vehicles. In this type of device, in order to detect tap operations, release operations, swipe operations, flick operations, etc. that are operated by the user without false detection, a technique for detecting the user's operation according to the level of the pressing force at the contact position of the finger has been disclosed (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] However, in vehicle-mounted devices such as smartphones that cannot be operated while holding the device in hand, when operating the device by stretching the arm, due to vibrations of the vehicle or the like, the operation of the touch panel becomes unstable, and there are times when the user cannot correctly operate the icon that the user tried to operate. Therefore, in such a case, there is a problem that the user has to redo the operation of the desired icon.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an input device, input method, and program that can prevent the function of the device from switching to a function unintended by the user due to unstable operation of the touch panel caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One or more embodiments of the present invention include an operation information detection unit that detects operation information of a touch panel, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel, and a unit that detects a touch operation on the touch panel based on the operation information, and the touch panel With a pressing force greater than the first threshold A first pressure determination unit that determines whether or not the touch panel is being pressed, and after the first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed, Touching a designated operating area alone will transition to a second operating mode in which the function set in the designated operating area is not switched, and in this second operating mode, pressing with a force greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold The proposed input device includes a second pressure determination unit that determines whether or not a touch panel has been pressed, and a function switching unit that, when the second pressure determination unit determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel has been pressed, switches to the function set for that predetermined operating area.

[0007] One or more embodiments of the present invention include an operation information detection unit that detects operation information of a touch panel, namely the position where the touch panel is being operated and the pressing force, namely the force applied to the touch panel, and an operation information detection unit that, based on the operation information, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operation area of ​​the touch panel, and then detects that the touch panel is outside the predetermined operation area. With a pressing force greater than the first threshold A first pressure determination unit that determines whether or not the touch panel is being pressed, and the first pressure determination unit that determines that the touch panel is being pressed As a result, the system transitions to a second operation mode in which touch operation on the predetermined operation area alone does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in this second operation mode, pressing force greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold The proposed input device includes a second pressure determination unit that determines whether or not a touch panel has been pressed, and a function switching unit that, when the second pressure determination unit determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel has been pressed, switches to the function set for that predetermined operating area.

[0008] One or more embodiments of the present invention are an input method for an input device comprising: an operation information detection unit; a first pressure determination unit; a second pressure determination unit; and a function switching unit, wherein the operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of a touch panel, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated and the pressing force, which is the force with which the touch panel is pressed, and the first pressure determination unit detects a touch operation on the touch panel based on the operation information, and the touch panel With a pressing force greater than the first threshold A second step of determining whether or not it is being pressed, and the second pressure determination unit after the first pressure determination unit has determined that the touch panel is being pressed, Touching a designated operating area alone will transition to a second operating mode in which the function set in the designated operating area is not switched, and in this second operating mode, pressing with a force greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold The present invention proposes an input method for an input device comprising: a third step of determining whether or not a button has been pressed; and a fourth step of the function switching unit switching to the function set in the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel when the second press determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel has been pressed.

[0009] One or more embodiments of the present invention are a program for causing a computer to execute an input method for an input device comprising an operation information detection unit, a first pressure determination unit, a second pressure determination unit, and a function switching unit, wherein the operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of a touch panel, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated and the pressing force, which is the force with which the touch panel is pressed, and the first pressure determination unit detects a touch operation on the touch panel based on the operation information, and the touch panel With a pressing force greater than the first threshold A second step of determining whether or not it is being pressed, and the second pressure determination unit after the first pressure determination unit has determined that the touch panel is being pressed, Touching a designated operating area alone will transition to a second operating mode in which the function set in the designated operating area is not switched, and in this second operating mode, pressing with a force greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold The present invention proposes a program for causing a computer to execute an input method for an input device, which comprises a third step of determining whether or not a button has been pressed, and a fourth step of the function switching unit switching to the function set in the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel when the second press determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel has been pressed.

[0010] One or more embodiments of the present invention are an input method for an input device comprising: an operation information detection unit; a first pressure determination unit; a second pressure determination unit; and a function switching unit, wherein the operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of a touch panel, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated and the pressing force, which is the force with which the touch panel is pressed, and the first pressure determination unit, based on the operation information, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel, and then determines that the touch panel is outside the predetermined operating area. With a pressing force greater than the first threshold A second step is to determine whether or not it is being pressed, and the second pressing determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed in the first pressing determination unit. As a result, the system transitions to a second operation mode in which touch operation on the predetermined operation area alone does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in this second operation mode, pressing force greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold The present invention proposes an input method for an input device comprising: a third step of determining whether or not a button has been pressed; and a fourth step of switching to the function set for the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel when the second press determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel has been pressed.

[0011] One or more embodiments of the present invention are a program for causing a computer to execute an input method for an input device comprising an operation information detection unit, a first pressure determination unit, a second pressure determination unit, and a function switching unit, wherein the operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of a touch panel, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated and the pressing force, which is the force with which the touch panel is pressed, and the first pressure determination unit, based on the operation information, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel, and then determines that the touch panel is outside the predetermined operating area. With a pressing force greater than the first threshold A second step is to determine whether or not it is being pressed, and the second pressing determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed in the first pressing determination unit. As a result, the system transitions to a second operation mode in which touch operation on the predetermined operation area alone does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in this second operation mode, pressing force greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold This invention proposes a program for causing a computer to execute an input method for an input device, which comprises a third step of determining whether or not a button has been pressed, and a fourth step of switching to the function set for the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel when the second press determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel has been pressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, there is an effect that it is possible to prevent the function of the device from switching to a function unintended by the user due to unstable operation of the touch panel caused by vibrations or the like during traveling on a rough road.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing the structure of an input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing the configuration of an input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a control unit of an input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing the processing flow of an input device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing the processing flow of an input device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing the processing flow of an input device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing the processing flow of an input device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing the processing flow of an input device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing the processing flow of an input device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0015] <First Embodiment> The input device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. As shown in Figure 1(a), the input device 1 is a device for the user to give operating instructions to equipment such as the vehicle's air conditioner, and is located in the front center of the vehicle interior.

[0016] <Configuration of Input Device 1> As shown in Figure 1(b), the input device 1 comprises at least a display module 10, a first case 20, a bracket 30, and a second case 40.

[0017] As shown in Figure 2, the display module 10 is composed of a touch panel 11 and a display unit 12. The touch panel 11 is configured, for example, as a capacitive touch panel, and detects changes in capacitance that occur when a user touches the touch panel. The detection signal detected by the touch panel 11 is transmitted to the control unit 100, which will be described later, and the control unit 100 detects the operation position where the user is performing a touch operation. The display unit 12 is composed of, for example, an LCD panel or an organic EL panel, and displays icons for operating equipment mounted on the vehicle, as well as the operating status of the equipment, to the user. The display module 10 is positioned and fixed in a recess on the front of the first case 20.

[0018] The bracket 30 is configured to include a strain sensor 35. The bracket 30 is attached to the back of the first case 20 and is further secured to the second case 40. A strain sensor 35 attached to the bracket 30 converts the amount of strain on the bracket 30 that occurs when the user presses on the surface of the display module 10 into an electrical signal and transmits it to the control unit 100. In the input device 1 shown in Figure 1(b), strain sensors 35 are arranged in four locations. However, since it is sufficient to detect the force with which the user presses the display module 10, the device may be configured with strain sensors 35 arranged in only one location.

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 100 receives detection signals from the touch panel 11 and the strain sensor 35 in order to detect the user's operation status. The control unit 100 generates display information, such as information indicating the operating status of the vehicle's air conditioner and operation icons for changing the temperature setting, and outputs it to the display unit 12. The control unit 100 detects the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 and the position where the touch operation is being performed, based on the detection signal received from the touch panel 11. The control unit 100 detects the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 and controls the display information to be displayed on the display unit 12 based on the detection result. Furthermore, the control unit 100 detects the pressing force based on the detection information received from the strain sensor 35. A detailed explanation of the configuration and processing of the control unit 100 will be provided later.

[0020] <Configuration of the control unit 100> The configuration of the control unit 100 will be explained using Figure 3. The control unit 100 includes an operation information detection unit 710, a first press determination unit 720, a second press determination unit 730, and a function switching unit 740. The control unit 100 is specifically composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a SoC (System-on-a-chip), and other components, and includes well-known RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and I / O buses, which are not shown in the diagram. The control unit 100 controls the entire input device 1 according to the control program stored in the ROM.

[0021] The operation information detection unit 710 detects the operation position, which is the position where the user is touching the touch panel 11, and the pressing force as operation information. Specifically, the operation information detection unit 710 detects that a user has touched the touch panel 11 based on the detection signal detected on the touch panel 11, and further detects the position where the user is touching the panel. Furthermore, the operation information detection unit 710 detects the pressing force, which is the force applied to press the touch panel 11, based on the detection signal detected by the strain sensor 35. The operation information detection unit 710 detects the amount of strain on the bracket 30 generated when the touch panel is pressed using the strain sensor 35, and detects the pressing force based on the detection result. The operation information of the touch panel 11 detected by the operation information detection unit 710 is transmitted to the first press determination unit 720, the second press determination unit 730, and the function switching unit 740.

[0022] The first pressure determination unit 720 determines whether a touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been detected and whether the touch panel 11 has been pressed, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710. The first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed if the pressure received from the operation information detection unit 710 is greater than the first threshold. Specifically, the first pressure determination unit 720 determines whether the touch panel 11 was pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold after a touch operation at any operating position on the touch panel 11 is detected. The determination result of the first pressure determination unit 720 is transmitted to the second pressure determination unit 730 and the function switching unit 740. Here, the value of the first threshold is set to a value greater than the pressing force detected by the operation information detection unit 710 when the user performs a tap, swipe, or the like operation on the touch panel 11, for example, 4N or higher.

[0023] After the first press determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed, the second press determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information, whether a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 has been pressed while the touch operation on the touch panel 11 is being maintained. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed if the pressure received from the operation information detection unit 710 is greater than the second threshold. Here, the designated operating area is the area on the display unit 12 where user-operable icons and the like are displayed. The second pressure determination unit 730 acquires information about a predetermined operating area currently displayed on the display unit 12 from a display control unit (not shown). Specifically, information about the area where user-operable icons are displayed is indicated using coordinates on the touch panel 11, and the second press determination unit 730 determines whether a predetermined operation area is being operated based on the coordinates where the user is operating and the coordinates where the icons are displayed, which are received from the operation information detection unit 710. Furthermore, the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that a predetermined operation area has been operated while a touch operation on the touch panel 11 is maintained, and that the pressure received from the operation information detection unit 710 is greater than the second threshold, and determines that the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operation area. The second pressure determination unit 730 transmits to the function switching unit 740 information about the predetermined operating area selected by the user, and information indicating that the predetermined operating area has been selected. Here, the value of the second threshold is set to a value greater than the pressing force detected by the operation information detection unit 710 when the user performs a tap, swipe, or other operation on the touch panel 11, for example, 4N or more. Note that the second threshold and the first threshold may have the same value.

[0024] The function switching unit 740 switches to the function set in the predetermined operating area when the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. Specifically, the function switching unit 740 controls the switching to the function set for the predetermined operating area based on the information of the predetermined operating area selected by the user and the information indicating that the predetermined operating area has been selected, which is transmitted from the second press determination unit 730. More specifically, for example, if the function set in a predetermined operating area is to turn on the vehicle's air conditioner, the function switching unit 740 transmits an instruction to the air conditioner control unit (not shown) to turn on the vehicle's air conditioner. Furthermore, when the function switching unit 740 switches to a function set in a predetermined operating area, it also performs control to change the display information displayed on the display unit 12, depending on the function. Further details of the processing performed by the control unit 100 described above will be explained below.

[0025] <Processing by control unit 100> In the input device 1 according to the first embodiment, when the user switches to a function set in a predetermined operating area, the switching method is changed by the user's operation. In other words, the user will change their touch operation method and switch input methods depending on whether they determine that they can perform touch operations stably or if they determine that touch operations will become unstable due to vehicle vibrations or other factors. Using Figure 4, we will explain the details of the processing of the control unit 100, including the input method switching process.

[0026] The first press determination unit 720 determines whether or not the user has performed a touch operation based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710 (step S100). If the first press determination unit 720 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), it proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, if the first press determination unit 720 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has not performed a touch operation (NO in step S100), it returns the process to step S100 and transitions to the standby state.

[0027] If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), it determines whether the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold (step S110). If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold (YES in step S110), it proceeds to step S130. On the other hand, if the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is not being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold ("NO" in step S110), it proceeds to step S120. In other words, when the vehicle is vibrating or experiencing other vibrations, if a user attempts to directly touch an icon (a designated operating area), there is a possibility that they may accidentally touch an adjacent icon. Therefore, if the operation of the touch panel 11 is likely to become unstable, the user can switch to a method of selecting a predetermined operating area and switching functions (second operating mode) by pressing any position on the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the first threshold (YES in step S110). Details regarding the process when the method for selecting a predetermined operating area is changed are explained below.

[0028] If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is not being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold (NO in step S110), it determines whether or not the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped (step S120). If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped (YES in step S120), it proceeds to step S150. If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 is continuing (NO in step S120), it returns the process to step S110 and continues the process.

[0029] As described above, when the user presses any position on the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the first threshold ("YES" in step S110), the system switches to the second operation mode. The second pressure determination unit 730 then determines whether or not the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 is continuing (step S130). If the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 (YES in step S130), it proceeds to step S140. When in this second operation mode, even if you touch any icon while continuing to use touch controls, the system is configured so that you cannot switch to the function of that icon. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user is not continuing to touch the touch panel 11 ("NO" in step S130), it terminates the processing in the second operation mode. In other words, when the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 is no longer detected, it is determined that the user has canceled the second operation mode, and the processing in the second operation mode is terminated. Furthermore, if, for example, a finger is lifted from the touch panel 11 due to strong vibrations, the processing in the second operation mode will be terminated. Upon completion of processing in the second operation mode, the system returns from the second operation mode to the normal operation mode (first operation mode).

[0030] The second pressure determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, whether a predetermined operation area has been operated and whether the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold (step S140). If the second pressure determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that a predetermined operation area has been operated and the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold (YES in step S140), it proceeds to step S160. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that a predetermined operation area has been operated and the touch panel 11 has not been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold ("NO" in step S140), it returns the process to step S130 and continues the process in the second operation mode. In other words, after the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed, the user's operating position is moved to the position of an operable icon (a predetermined operating area) while the touch operation on the touch panel 11 continues, and the unit determines whether or not the touch panel 11 was pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operating area when it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold.

[0031] If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped ("YES" in step S120), it determines whether the touch operation has been stopped in a predetermined operating area (step S150). If the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch operation has been stopped in a predetermined operating area (YES in step S150), it proceeds to step S160. On the other hand, if the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch operation has been stopped outside the predetermined operating area ("NO" in step S150), it terminates the process. When a user stops touching a designated operating area, it is determined that the user has selected a function set in that operating area. In other words, in this case, when the user determines that they can perform touch operations stably because there is no vibration in the vehicle, they touch the designated operating area, and then stop touching, thereby performing touch operations in the normal operating mode (first operating mode) to select the function set in the designated operating area, and switching to the function of the icon they touched. Furthermore, if the user stops touching the device outside the designated operating area, the system will determine that the operation has been interrupted and terminate the process.

[0032] If the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that a predetermined operating area has been touched and that the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold ("YES" in step S140), the function switching unit 740 controls the system to switch to the function set in the predetermined operating area according to the second operating mode (step S160), and then terminates the process.

[0033] <Effects and Actions> As described above, the input device 1 according to this embodiment includes: an operation information detection unit 710 that detects operation information of the touch panel, namely the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel 11 is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel 11; a first pressing determination unit 720 that detects a touch operation to the touch panel 11 based on the operation information and determines whether or not the touch panel 11 is being pressed; a second pressing determination unit 730 that, after the first pressing determination unit 720 has determined that the touch panel 11 is being pressed, determines, based on the operation information, whether or not a predetermined operation area of ​​the touch panel 11 has been pressed while the touch operation to the touch panel 11 is being maintained; and a function switching unit 740 that, when the second pressing determination unit 730 has determined that a predetermined operation area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed, switches to the function set for that predetermined operation area. The first pressure determination unit 720 detects a touch operation at any position on the touch panel 11 based on the operation information, and after the detection, determines whether or not the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user has given an instruction to switch to a function set in the predetermined operating area when it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. The function switching unit 740 switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode after the first press determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a press force greater than the first threshold, and the second press determination unit 730 controls the switching to the function set in the predetermined operation area when it determines that a predetermined operation area has been pressed with a press force greater than the second threshold. In other words, if it is anticipated that the operation of the touch panel 11 may become unstable due to driving on rough roads or other reasons, the user can switch to the second operation mode by touching any part of the touch panel 11. In other words, by setting the operation to the second mode, the function switching unit 740 cannot switch to the function of the touched icon unless the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. Therefore, even if an icon that does not need to be operated is accidentally touched, the function of that icon cannot be switched. Then, while maintaining touch operation on the touch panel 11 (continuing the second operation mode), if the user determines that they are in a state where they can stably operate the touch operation, the user can move their operating position to a predetermined operating area and switch to the desired function by pressing the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0034] Furthermore, when the first pressure determination unit 720 detects a touch operation and determines that the touch operation was stopped before a pressing force greater than the first threshold is detected, it determines whether the operating position where the touch operation was stopped was within a predetermined operating area. The first pressure determination unit 720 determines that if the operating position where the touch operation was stopped was within a predetermined operating area, the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operating area at the operating position where the touch operation was stopped. In other words, when a user attempts to perform a touch operation and determines that there is no vibration in the vehicle and that the touch panel 11 can be operated stably, the user can switch to the desired function simply by touching and releasing a predetermined operating area where the desired function is set, without switching to the second operation mode, in the normal operation mode, i.e., the first operation mode. In other words, the user can select either a first operation mode or a second operation mode for the touch panel input method, depending on the vibration state of the vehicle when attempting to perform a touch operation. As a result, if the touch panel 11 can be operated stably, the user can switch to a function set in a predetermined operating area simply by touching and releasing the touch panel 11 while remaining in the first operating mode.

[0035] <Second Embodiment> The input device 1A according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 5.

[0036] The configuration of the control unit 100A in the input device 1A in this embodiment is the same as that in Figure 3 of the first embodiment, so it is omitted from the illustration. Note that components that are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same function, and therefore, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted. <Configuration of Input Device 1A> The input device 1A is configured to include a control unit 100A. The control unit 100A is configured to include a first pressure determination unit 720A in place of the control unit 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0037] The first pressure determination unit 720A, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operation area of ​​the touch panel 11, and then determines whether or not the touch panel 11 is being pressed outside the predetermined operation area. The first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than the first threshold. Specifically, the first pressure determination unit 720A determines whether, after detecting a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area, the touch panel 11 was pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold while the touch operation was maintained. The first pressure determination unit 720A acquires information about a predetermined operating area currently displayed on the display unit 12 from a display control unit (not shown). The determination result of the first pressure determination unit 720A is transmitted to the second pressure determination unit 730 and the function switching unit 740. Figure 5 will be used to explain the details of the processing of the control unit 100A, including the input method switching process.

[0038] The first pressure determination unit 720A determines whether or not the user has performed a touch operation based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710 (step S100). The first press determination unit 720A determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), and proceeds to step S200. On the other hand, if the first press determination unit 720A determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has not performed a touch operation (NO in step S100), it returns the process to step S100 and transitions to the standby state.

[0039] The first pressure determination unit 720A determines, based on the operation information, whether the operating position of the touch panel 11 is within a predetermined operating area (step S200). If the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the operating position of the touch panel 11 is within a predetermined operating area (YES in step S200), it proceeds to step S160. In other words, if the operating position touched by the user is within a predetermined operating area, the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operating area and proceeds to step S160. In other words, when a user touches a designated operating area, the system determines that the touch operation is stable because there is no vibration in the vehicle, and it is determined that the user has selected a function set in the designated operating area in normal operation mode (first operation mode). On the other hand, if the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the operating position touched by the user is not within the predetermined operating area ("NO" in step S200), it proceeds to step S110.

[0040] Based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, the first pressure determination unit 720A determines whether the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold (step S110) if it determines that the operation position touched by the user is not within a predetermined operation area (NO in step S200). If the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold (YES in step S110), it proceeds to step S130. On the other hand, if the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is not being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold ("NO" in step S110), it proceeds to step S120. This switches from the first operating mode described in the first embodiment to the second operating mode. In this case, if the vehicle is vibrating or experiencing other issues, and the user attempts to directly touch an icon (a designated operating area), there is a possibility of accidentally touching an adjacent icon. However, by switching to the second operating mode, the function switching unit 740 will not switch to the function of the touched icon unless the touch panel 11 is pressed with a force greater than the second threshold. Therefore, even if an icon that does not need to be operated is accidentally touched, the function of that icon will not be switched. Therefore, if the touch operation of the touch panel 11 is likely to become unstable, the user can change the method of selecting the predetermined operating area to the second operating mode by pressing outside the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the first threshold (YES in step S110). The details of the process when the method for selecting a predetermined operating area is changed to the second operating mode are explained below.

[0041] If the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the touch panel 11 is not being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold (NO in step S110), it determines whether or not the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped (step S120). The first pressure determination unit 720A terminates the process if it determines that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped (YES in step S120). In other words, when the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 is no longer detected, it is determined that the user has interrupted the operation outside the operating area, i.e., in the operating area of ​​the touch panel where there are no icons, and the process is terminated. If the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 is continuing (NO in step S120), it returns the process to step S110 and continues the process.

[0042] The second pressure determination unit 730 determines whether the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold ("YES" in step S110), and then determines whether the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 (step S130). Then, if it is determined that the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 (YES in step S130), the processing in the second operation mode is moved to step S140. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user is not continuing to touch the touch panel 11 ("NO" in step S130), it terminates the processing in the second operation mode. In other words, when the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 is no longer detected, it is determined that the user has interrupted the operation, and the processing in the second operation mode is terminated. Furthermore, if, for example, a finger is lifted from the touch panel 11 due to strong vibrations, the processing in the second operation mode will also be terminated.

[0043] The second pressure determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, whether a predetermined operation area has been operated and whether the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold (step S140). If the second pressure determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that a predetermined operation area has been operated and the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold (YES in step S140), it proceeds to step S160. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730 determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that a predetermined operation area has been operated and the touch panel 11 has not been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold ("NO" in step S140), it returns the process to step S130 and continues the process in the second operation mode. In other words, after the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed, the user's operating position is moved to the position of an operable icon (a predetermined operating area) while the touch operation on the touch panel 11 continues, and the unit determines whether or not the touch panel 11 was pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operating area when it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold.

[0044] If the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that a predetermined operating area has been touched and the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold ("YES" in step S140), and if the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that a predetermined operating area has been touched ("YES" in step S200), the function switching unit 740 controls the switching to the function set for the predetermined operating area (step S160) and terminates the process.

[0045] <Effects and Actions> As described above, the input device 1A according to this embodiment includes a first press determination unit 720A that, based on operation information, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 and then determines whether or not the touch panel 11 is being pressed outside the predetermined operating area. Furthermore, the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than a first threshold, and the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than a second threshold. The first pressure determination unit 720A detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area based on the operation information, and after the detection, determines whether the touch panel 11 is being pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user has given an instruction to switch to a function set in the predetermined operating area when it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. The function switching unit 740 switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode after the first press determination unit 720A determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a press force greater than the first threshold, and the second press determination unit 730 controls the switching to the function set in the predetermined operation area when it determines that a predetermined operation area has been pressed with a press force greater than the second threshold. In other words, if it is anticipated that the operation of the touch panel 11 may become unstable due to driving on rough roads or the like, the user can switch to the second operation mode by touching the touch panel 11 outside the designated operating area and pressing the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the first threshold. After switching to the second operation mode, the function will not switch to the function of the touched icon unless the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. Therefore, even if an icon that does not need to be operated is accidentally touched, the function switching unit 740 will not switch to the function of that icon. In other words, while maintaining touch operation on the touch panel 11 (maintaining the second operation mode), once the user determines that they can stably operate the touch operation, they can move the touch operation position to a predetermined operation area and switch to the desired function by pressing the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0046] Furthermore, when the first pressure determination unit 720A determines that a touch operation has occurred on the touch panel 11, it determines whether the operation location where the touch operation occurred was within a predetermined operation area. The first pressure determination unit 720A determines that if the touched operating position is within a predetermined operating area, the user has selected a function set in that predetermined operating area at that operating position. In other words, when a user attempts to perform a touch operation and determines that there is no vibration in the vehicle and that the touch panel 11 can be operated stably, the user can switch to the desired function by touching a predetermined operating area where the desired function is set, without switching to the second operating mode, while in the normal operating mode (first operating mode). As a result, if the touch panel 11 can be operated stably, the user can switch to a function set in a predetermined operating area simply by touching the touch panel 11.

[0047] <Third Embodiment> The input device 1B according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6.

[0048] <Configuration of Input Device 1B> The configuration of the input device 1B in this embodiment is the same as that shown in Figure 3 of the first embodiment, so it is not shown. Note that components that are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same function, and therefore, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted. The input device 1B is configured to include a control unit 100B instead of the control unit 100 according to the first embodiment. The control unit 100B is configured to include a second pressure determination unit 730B instead of the second pressure determination unit 730 according to the first embodiment.

[0049] After the first press determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed, the second press determination unit 730B determines, based on the operation information, whether a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 has been pressed while the touch operation on the touch panel 11 is being maintained. The second pressure determination unit 730B determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when it detects that the pressing force is greater than the second threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer. The second pressure determination unit 730B transmits the determination result to the function switching unit 740. Further details of the processing performed by the control unit 100B described above will be explained below.

[0050] <Processing by Control Unit 100B> Figure 6 will be used to explain the details of the processing performed by the control unit 100B. The processing of the control unit 100B is the same as the processing of step S140 of the control unit 100 of the input device 1 according to the first embodiment, but replaced with the processing of step S300. The following description of the processing of the control unit 100B will only include the processing related to step S300, which is a change from the processing of the control unit 100. In addition, the processing in step S140 of the control unit 100A of the input device 1A according to the second embodiment can be replaced with the processing in step S300.

[0051] In step S110, the second pressure determination unit 730B switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode and determines whether the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 in the second operation mode state (step S130). If the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 (YES in step S130), it proceeds to step S300 to continue processing in the second operation mode. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that the user is not continuing to touch the touch panel 11 ("NO" in step S130), it terminates the processing in the second operation mode. In other words, when the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 is no longer detected, it is determined that the user has interrupted the operation, and the processing in the second operation mode is terminated. Furthermore, if, for example, a finger is lifted from the touch panel 11 due to strong vibrations, the processing in the second operation mode will be terminated.

[0052] The second pressure determination unit 730B determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, whether a predetermined operation area has been continuously pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold for a predetermined time or longer (step S300). If the second pressure determination unit 730B determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that a predetermined operation area has been continuously pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold for a predetermined time or longer (YES in step S300), it proceeds to step S160 to continue processing in the second operation mode. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730B determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the touch panel 11 has not been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer (NO in step S300), it returns the process to step S130 and continues the process in the second operation mode. In other words, the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operating area if it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer.

[0053] If the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer in a predetermined operating area ("YES" in step S300), the function switching unit 740 controls the switching to the function set in the predetermined operating area (step S160) and terminates the processing in the second operating mode. Furthermore, if the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch operation has been stopped in a predetermined operating area ("YES" in step S150), the user can switch to the desired function by touching the predetermined operating area where the desired function is set, in the first operating mode, without switching to the second operating mode.

[0054] <Effects and Actions> As described above, in the input device 1B according to this embodiment, the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed when the pressing force is greater than a first threshold, and the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when a period of time during which the pressing force is greater than a second threshold is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer. The second pressure determination unit 730B determines that an instruction has been given to switch to the function set in the predetermined operating area when it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed continuously for a predetermined time or longer with a pressure greater than the second threshold. The function switching unit 740 switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode after the first press determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a press force greater than the first threshold, and the second press determination unit 730B controls the switching to the function set in the predetermined operation area when it determines that a predetermined operation area has been pressed continuously for a predetermined time or longer with a press force greater than the second threshold. In other words, if it is anticipated that the operation of the touch panel 11 may become unstable due to driving on rough roads or the like, the user can switch to the second operation mode by touching any position on the touch panel 11 and pressing the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the first threshold. After switching to the second operation mode, the function of the touched icon will not be switched unless the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. Therefore, even if you accidentally touch an icon that does not need to be operated, the function of that icon will not be switched. Then, while maintaining touch operation on the touch panel 11 (maintaining the second operation mode), if the user determines that they are in a state where they can stably operate the touch operation, the user can move their operating position to a predetermined operating area and switch to the desired function by pressing the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the second threshold for a predetermined time or longer. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0055] Furthermore, when the first pressure determination unit 720 detects a touch operation and determines that the touch operation was stopped in a predetermined operating area before a pressing force greater than the first threshold is detected, it determines that there is no vibration in the vehicle and that the touch operation is stable, and that in the normal operation mode (first operation mode), the user has selected a function set in the predetermined operating area by touch operation, and the function switching unit 740 switches to the function set in the predetermined operating area. In other words, users can select the input method for the touch panel based on the vehicle's vibration level when they attempt to perform a touch operation. As a result, if the user determines that they can operate the touch panel 11 stably, they can switch to a function set in a predetermined operating area simply by touching and releasing the touch panel 11.

[0056] When maintaining touch operation, vibrations during driving on rough roads may cause the user to press the touch panel 11 with unintended force. The second pressure determination unit 730B determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed when it is pressed continuously for a predetermined time or longer with a pressure greater than the second threshold, while in the second operation mode. Therefore, it does not determine that the touch panel 11 has been pressed even if an unintended short-duration press occurs on the touch panel. This further prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0057] <Fourth Embodiment> The input device 1C according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 7.

[0058] <Configuration of Input Device 1C> The configuration of the input device 1C in this embodiment is the same as that shown in Figure 3 of the first embodiment, so it is not shown. The input device 1C is configured to include a control unit 100C instead of the control unit 100 according to the first embodiment. The control unit 100C is configured to include a first pressure determination unit 720C and a second pressure determination unit 730B, instead of the first pressure determination unit 720 and the second pressure determination unit 730 according to the first embodiment. Note that components that are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same function, and therefore, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted.

[0059] The first pressure determination unit 720C determines whether a touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been detected and whether the touch panel 11 has been pressed, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710. The first pressure determination unit 720C determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed when it detects that the pressing force is greater than the first threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer. The determination result of the first pressure determination unit 720C is transmitted to the second pressure determination unit 730B and the function switching unit 740. Further details of the processing performed by the control unit 100C described above will be explained below.

[0060] <Processing by Control Unit 100C> Figure 7 will be used to explain the details of the processing performed by the control unit 100C. The processing of the control unit 100C is the same as the processing of step S110 of the control unit 100B of the input device 1B according to the third embodiment, but with the processing of step S400. The following description of the processing of control unit 100C will only include the processing related to step S400, which has changed from the processing of control unit 100B. In addition, the processing in step S110 of the control unit 100A of the input device 1A according to the second embodiment can be replaced with the processing in step S400.

[0061] The first pressure determination unit 720C determines whether or not the user has performed a touch operation based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710 (step S100). If the first press determination unit 720C determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), it proceeds to step S400. On the other hand, if the first press determination unit 720C determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has not performed a touch operation ("NO" in step S100), it returns the process to step S100 and transitions to the standby state.

[0062] If the first pressure determination unit 720C determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), it determines whether or not a period during which the pressing force exceeds the first threshold has been continuously detected for a predetermined time or longer (step S400). If the first pressure determination unit 720C determines that a period during which the pressing force exceeds the first threshold has been continuously detected for a predetermined time or longer (YES in step S400), it switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode and proceeds to step S130 as the second operation mode. On the other hand, if the first pressure determination unit 720C determines that a period during which the pressing force exceeds the first threshold has not been detected for a predetermined duration or longer ("NO" in step S400), it proceeds to step S120.

[0063] Subsequently, the second pressure determination unit 730B determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, whether a predetermined operation area has been continuously pressed for a predetermined time or longer with a pressure greater than the second threshold (step S300). If it determines that the predetermined operation area has been continuously pressed for a predetermined time or longer with a pressure greater than the second threshold ("YES" in step S300), it proceeds to step S160 to continue processing in the second operation mode.

[0064] <Effects and Actions> As described above, the first pressure determination unit 720C of the input device 1C according to this embodiment determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed when a period of time during which the pressing force exceeds a first threshold is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer, and the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when a period of time during which the pressing force exceeds a second threshold is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer. The function switching unit 740 switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode after the first press determination unit 720C determines that the period during which the pressing force exceeds the first threshold is detected for a predetermined time or longer. The second press determination unit 730B controls the function to switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area when a predetermined operation area is touched and the period during which the pressing force exceeds the first threshold is detected for a predetermined time or longer. In other words, if it is anticipated that the operation of the touch panel 11 may become unstable due to driving on rough roads, etc., the user can switch to the second operation mode by touching any position on the touch panel 11 and pressing the touch panel 11 so that the period during which the pressing force exceeds the first threshold is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer. And, as with other embodiments, after switching to the second operation mode, the function of the touched icon will not be switched unless the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. The user can switch to the desired function by maintaining touch operation on the touch panel 11, and when they determine that they are in a state where they can stably operate the touch operation, they move their operating position to a predetermined operating area and press the touch panel 11 so that the period during which the pressing force exceeds a second threshold is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0065] The first pressure determination unit 720C switches to the second operation mode when the touch panel 11 is pressed continuously for a predetermined time or longer with a pressure greater than the first threshold, and the second pressure determination unit 730B switches the function set in a predetermined operation area when the touch panel 11 is pressed continuously for a predetermined time or longer with a pressure greater than the second threshold while in the second operation mode. Therefore, even if an unintended short-duration press of the touch panel occurs, it will not be determined that the touch panel 11 has been pressed. This further prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0066] <Fifth Embodiment> The input device 1D according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8.

[0067] <Configuration of Input Device 1D> The configuration of the input device 1D according to this embodiment is the same as that shown in Figure 3 according to the first embodiment, so it is omitted from the illustration. The input device 1D is configured to include a control unit 100D instead of the control unit 100 according to the first embodiment. The control unit 100D is configured to include a first pressure determination unit 720D instead of the first pressure determination unit 720 according to the first embodiment. Note that components that are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same function, and therefore, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted.

[0068] The first pressure determination unit 720D detects a touch operation on the touch panel 11 based on the operation information and then determines whether the touch operation has been detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the touch panel 11 is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than a second threshold. Specifically, the first pressure determination unit 720D determines that a user is performing a touch operation when it has received the user's operation position information detected by the operation information detection unit 710. Furthermore, the first pressure determination unit 720D may determine, based on the pressure applied, that a user is performing a touch operation. The first pressure determination unit 720D determines, based on user operation information, that the user intends to transition to the second operation mode if continuous touch operation is confirmed for a predetermined period of time or longer. The determination result of the first pressure determination unit 720D is transmitted to the second pressure determination unit 730 and the function switching unit 740. Further details of the processing performed by the control unit 100B described above will be explained below.

[0069] <Processing by Control Unit 100D> Figure 8 will be used to explain the details of the processing performed by the control unit 100D. The processing of the control unit 100D is the same as the processing of step S110 of the control unit 100 of the input device 1 according to the first embodiment, but replaced with the processing of step S500. The following description of the processing of the control unit 100D will only include the processing related to step S500, which is a change from the processing of the control unit 100. In addition, the processing in step S110 of the control unit 100A of the input device 1A according to the second embodiment can be replaced with the processing in step S500.

[0070] The first pressure determination unit 720D determines whether or not the user has performed a touch operation based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710 (step S100). If the first press determination unit 720D determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), it proceeds to step S500. On the other hand, if the first press determination unit 720D determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has not performed a touch operation ("NO" in step S100), it returns the process to step S100 and transitions to the standby state.

[0071] If the first press determination unit 720D determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the user has performed a touch operation (YES in step S100), it determines whether or not a touch operation has been detected continuously for a predetermined period of time or longer (step S500). If the first pressure detection unit 720D determines that a touch operation has occurred continuously for a predetermined time or longer (YES in step S500), it switches from the first operation mode to the second operation mode and proceeds to step S130 for processing in the second operation mode. On the other hand, if the first pressure determination unit 720D determines that there has been no touch operation for a predetermined time or longer ("NO" in step S500), it proceeds to step S120. In this situation, if a user attempts to directly touch an icon (a designated operating area) while the vehicle is vibrating, they may accidentally touch an adjacent icon. Therefore, if the operation of the touch panel 11 is likely to become unstable, the user can change the method of selecting a predetermined operating area to a second operating mode by continuously touching any position on the touch panel 11 for a predetermined time or longer (YES in step S500). After switching to the second operation mode, as in other embodiments, the function of the touched icon will not be switched unless the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. Therefore, even if you accidentally touch an icon that does not need to be operated, its function will not be switched.

[0072] If the first pressure determination unit 720D determines that there has been no touch operation for a predetermined period of time or longer ("NO" in step S500), it determines whether the user has stopped touching the device (step S120). If the first pressure determination unit 720D determines that the user has stopped touching the device (YES in step S120), it proceeds to step S150. If the first pressure determination unit 720D determines that the user's touch operation is continuing (NO in step S120), it returns the process to step S500 and continues the process in the second operation mode.

[0073] <Effects and Actions> As described above, the first press determination unit 720D of the input device 1D according to this embodiment detects a touch operation on the touch panel 11 based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, and if the touch operation is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer, it determines that the user intends to switch to the second operation mode. The second pressure determination unit 730 determines that the user has given an instruction to switch to a function set in the predetermined operating area when it confirms that the operating position has been moved to a predetermined operating area and that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. The function switching unit 740 controls the function to be switched to the function set in the predetermined operating area when the first pressure determination unit 720D detects continuous touch operation on the touch panel 11 for a predetermined time or longer, and the second pressure determination unit 730 determines that a predetermined operating area is being pressed with a pressure greater than the second threshold. In other words, if it is anticipated that the operation of the touch panel 11 may become unstable due to driving on rough roads or other reasons, the user can switch to the second operation mode by continuously touching any position on the touch panel 11 for a predetermined period of time or longer. If the user maintains touch operation on the touch panel 11 (maintaining the second operation mode) and determines that the operation of the touch panel 11 is not unstable, they can move their operating position to a predetermined operating area and switch to the desired function by pressing the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the second threshold. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0074] Furthermore, when the first pressure determination unit 720D determines that the user intends to transition to the second operation mode, it makes the determination based on the duration of the touch operation, rather than the pressure applied. As a result, the user can switch to the second operation mode simply by touching the touch panel 11 continuously for a predetermined period of time or longer, without having to press down on the touch panel.

[0075] <Sixth Embodiment> The input device 1E according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9.

[0076] <Configuration of Input Device 1E> The configuration of the input device 1E according to this embodiment is the same as that shown in Figure 3 of the first embodiment, so it is not shown. The input device 1E is configured to include a control unit 100E instead of the control unit 100 in the first embodiment. The control unit 100E is configured to include a second pressure determination unit 730E instead of the second pressure determination unit 730 according to the first embodiment. Note that components that are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same function, and therefore, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted.

[0077] The second pressure determination unit 730E determines that a predetermined operating area is being pressed when, after the first pressure determination unit 720 has detected that the touch panel 11 is being pressed, the touch operation to the touch panel 11 is maintained and no further touch operation to the touch panel 11 is detected in that predetermined operating area. The determination result of the second pressure determination unit 730E is transmitted to the function switching unit 740. Further details of the processing performed by the control unit 100E described above will be explained below.

[0078] <Processing by the control unit 100E> Figure 9 will be used to explain the details of the processing performed by the control unit 100E. The processing of the control unit 100E is the same as the processing of step S140 of the control unit 100 of the input device 1 according to the first embodiment, but replaced with the processing of step S600. The following description of the processing of the control unit 100E will only include the processing related to step S600, which has changed from the processing of the control unit 100. In addition, the processing in step S140 of the control unit 100A of the input device 1A according to the second embodiment can be replaced with the processing in step S600.

[0079] In step S110, after switching from the first operation mode to the second operation mode, the second pressure determination unit 730E determines whether or not the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 (step S130). If the second pressure determination unit 730E determines that the user is continuing to touch the touch panel 11 (YES in step S130), it proceeds to step S600 to continue processing in the second operation mode. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730E determines that the user is not continuing to touch the touch panel 11 ("NO" in step S130), it terminates the processing in the second operation mode. In other words, when the user's touch operation on the touch panel 11 is no longer detected, it is determined that the user has interrupted the operation, and the processing in the second operation mode is terminated.

[0080] The second pressure determination unit 730E determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, whether or not the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped in a predetermined operation area. (Step S600). The second pressure determination unit 730E determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped in a predetermined operation area (YES in step S600), and proceeds to step S160. On the other hand, if the second pressure determination unit 730E determines, based on the operation information detected by the operation information detection unit 710, that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has not been stopped in a predetermined operation area ("NO" in step S600), it returns the process to step S130 and continues the process in the second operation mode. In other words, in steps S130 and S600, the touch operation on the touch panel 11 continues, the operation position is moved to the position of an operable icon (a predetermined operation area), and then it is determined whether or not the finger has been lifted from the touch panel 11 within that predetermined operation area.

[0081] If the second pressure determination unit 730E determines that the touch operation on the touch panel 11 has been stopped ("YES" in step S600), the function switching unit 740 controls the switching to the function set in the predetermined operating area (step S160), and terminates the processing in the second operating mode.

[0082] <Effects and Actions> As described above, the second pressure determination unit 730E of the input device 1E according to this embodiment determines that the user intends to operate a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel when, after the first pressure determination unit 720 has detected that the touch panel 11 is being pressed, the touch operation to the touch panel 11 is maintained and no further touch operation to the touch panel 11 is detected in a predetermined operating area. When the second pressure detection unit 730E confirms that the touch operation has been stopped in a predetermined operating area, it determines that the user has given an instruction to switch to a function set in the predetermined operating area. The function switching unit 740, when the first pressure determination unit 720 determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold, switches to the second operation mode. As long as the touch operation is continuing, the function of the icon will not change even if a predetermined operation area is touched. The second pressure determination unit 730E, when it confirms that the touch operation has been stopped in the predetermined operation area, performs control to switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area. In other words, if it is anticipated that the operation of the touch panel 11 may become unstable due to driving on rough roads, etc., the user touches any position on the touch panel 11 and presses the touch panel 11 with a pressing force greater than the first threshold. The user can switch to the desired function by maintaining touch operation on the touch panel 11, and once they determine that the operation of the touch panel 11 is not unstable, moving their finger to a designated operating area and lifting their finger from the touch panel 11. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0083] Furthermore, when the system switches to the second operation mode, the second pressure determination unit 730E determines that the touch panel 11 has been pressed when the touch operation is stopped in a predetermined operation area. As a result, users can switch to a function set in a predetermined operating area simply by lifting their finger from the touch panel 11 within that area, without having to press down on the touch panel 11.

[0084] <Other Embodiments> In the third embodiment, the second pressure determination unit 730B of the input device 1B determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when it detects that the pressing force is greater than the second threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer continuously. However, it may also determine that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when it detects that contact has been continuously maintained for a predetermined period of time or longer, and that the pressing force during that predetermined period has become greater than the second threshold. In other words, when in the second operation mode, it is detected that the touch panel has been touched continuously for a predetermined time or longer, and if the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressing force greater than the second threshold during that period of touch operation, it is determined that the touch panel 11 has been pressed. This further prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0085] In the input device 1C according to the fourth embodiment, the second pressure determination unit 730B determines that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when it detects that the pressing force is greater than the second threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer continuously. However, it may also determine that a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel 11 is being pressed when it detects that contact has been continuously maintained for a predetermined period of time or longer, and that the pressing force during that predetermined period has become greater than the second threshold. In other words, when in the second operation mode, it is detected that the touch panel has been touched continuously for a predetermined time or longer, and if the touch panel 11 is pressed with a pressing force greater than the second threshold during that period of touch operation, it is determined that the touch panel 11 has been pressed. This prevents the system from switching to an unintended function due to unstable operation of the touch panel 11 caused by vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0086] Furthermore, the input device may be configured by combining the determination methods of the first pressure determination units 720, 720A, 720C, and 720D (methods for determining whether or not the touch panel 11 has been pressed) and the determination methods of the second pressure determination units 730, 730B, and 730E (methods for determining whether or not the touch panel has been pressed), including the determination method described above. For example, the input device may be configured by replacing the processing of the first pressure determination unit 720 according to the sixth embodiment with the processing of the first pressure determination unit 720D according to the fifth embodiment. Since vehicle vibrations are greater in the vertical direction than in the longitudinal direction, if the touch panel 11 is oriented towards the ceiling of the vehicle, there is a possibility that the touch panel 11 may be pressed too hard in accordance with the vertical vibrations of the vehicle. Furthermore, if the input device is located far from the user, it may be difficult to reach out and press it with a stable pressure. In such cases, determining whether the touch panel 11 has been pressed based on the duration of the touch operation, rather than the pressure applied, can prevent the device from switching to an unintended function due to vibrations during driving on rough roads. By combining optimal detection methods that match the location of the input device inside the vehicle (where the user reaches) and the orientation of the touch panel 11 (direction of pressure), it is possible to prevent the device from switching to a function unintended by the user. Furthermore, by determining the first threshold, the second threshold, and the set value for the predetermined time in accordance with the location of the input device inside the vehicle (where the user reaches) and the orientation of the touch panel 11 (the direction in which it is pressed), it is possible to prevent the device from switching to a function unintended by the user due to vibrations during driving on rough roads.

[0087] While embodiments of this invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments and includes designs and the like that do not depart from the spirit of this invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1~1E; Input device 10; Display Module 11; Touch panel 12;Display section 20; Case 1 30; bracket 35; Strain Sensor 40; Case 2 50; Control unit 100; Control Unit 710; Operation information detection unit 720; First pressure determination unit 730; Second pressure determination unit 740; Function switching section

Claims

1. An operation information detection unit detects operation information of the touch panel, namely the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel. A first pressure determination unit detects a touch operation on the touch panel based on the operation information and determines whether the touch panel is being pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold, In the first pressure determination unit, after it is determined that the touch panel is being pressed, the system transitions to a second operation mode in which, based solely on a touch operation to a predetermined operation area, the system does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area. In this second operation mode, the system determines whether the touch panel was pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold. The second pressure determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed, and a function switching unit switches to the function set in the predetermined operating area. An input device characterized by comprising the following features.

2. An operation information detection unit detects operation information of the touch panel, namely the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel. Based on the operation information, a first pressure determination unit detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel and then determines whether the touch panel is being pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold outside the predetermined operating area. In the first pressure determination unit, when it is determined that the touch panel is being pressed, the system transitions to a second operation mode in which touch operation to the predetermined operation area alone does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in the second operation mode, a second pressure determination unit determines whether the touch was pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold, The second pressure determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed, and a function switching unit switches to the function set in the predetermined operating area. An input device characterized by comprising the following features.

3. The first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than the first threshold. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when the pressing force is greater than the second threshold.

4. The first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than the first threshold. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when a period of time during which the pressing force exceeds the second threshold is detected for a predetermined period of time or longer.

5. The first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than the first threshold. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines whether the touch operation of the touch panel has been continued for a predetermined time, and determines that the touch panel is being pressed when it is detected that the pressure has become greater than a second threshold within that predetermined time.

6. The first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when it detects that the pressing force is greater than the first threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when a period of time during which the pressing force exceeds the second threshold is detected for a predetermined period of time or longer.

7. The first pressure determination unit, based on the operation information, detects a touch operation on the touch panel, and then determines that the touch panel is being pressed when the touch operation is detected continuously for a predetermined time or longer. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when the pressing force is greater than the second threshold.

8. The first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when it detects that the pressing force is greater than the first threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed when the pressing force is greater than the second threshold.

9. The first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed if the pressing force is greater than the first threshold. The input device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second pressure determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed when, after the first pressure determination unit has detected that the touch panel is being pressed, the touch operation to the touch panel is maintained and no further touch operation to the touch panel is detected in the predetermined operating area.

10. An input method for an input device comprising an operation information detection unit, a first pressure determination unit, a second pressure determination unit, and a function switching unit, The operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of the touch panel, which is the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel. The first pressure determination unit detects a touch operation on the touch panel based on the operation information and determines whether the touch panel is being pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold, The second pressure determination unit, after the first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed, transitions to a second operation mode in which, by touch operation to a predetermined operation area alone, it does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in the second operation mode, determines whether the touch was pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold. The function switching unit, when the second press determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed, performs a fourth step of switching to the function set in the predetermined operating area, An input method for an input device equipped with an input device.

11. A program for causing a computer to execute an input method for an input device comprising an operation information detection unit, a first pressure determination unit, a second pressure determination unit, and a function switching unit, The operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of the touch panel, which is the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel. The first pressure determination unit detects a touch operation on the touch panel based on the operation information and determines whether the touch panel is being pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold, The second pressure determination unit, after the first pressure determination unit determines that the touch panel is being pressed, transitions to a second operation mode in which, by touch operation to a predetermined operation area alone, it does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in the second operation mode, determines whether the touch was pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold. The function switching unit, when the second press determination unit determines that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed, performs a fourth step of switching to the function set in the predetermined operating area, A program that causes a computer to execute an input method for an input device equipped with an input device.

12. An input method for an input device comprising an operation information detection unit, a first pressure determination unit, a second pressure determination unit, and a function switching unit, The operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of the touch panel, which is the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel. The first pressure determination unit, based on the operation information, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel, and then performs a second step of determining whether the touch panel is being pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold outside the predetermined operating area. The second pressure determination unit, having determined in the first pressure determination unit that the touch panel is being pressed, transitions to a second operation mode in which, by touch operation to the predetermined operation area alone, it does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in the second operation mode, determines whether the touch was pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold, In the second pressure determination unit, when it is determined that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed, a fourth step is to switch to the function set in the predetermined operating area, An input method for an input device equipped with an input device.

13. A program for causing a computer to execute an input method for an input device comprising an operation information detection unit, a first pressure determination unit, a second pressure determination unit, and a function switching unit, The operation information detection unit performs a first step of detecting operation information of the touch panel, which is the operation position, which is the position where the touch panel is being operated, and the pressing force, which is the force applied to the touch panel. The first pressure determination unit, based on the operation information, detects a touch operation outside a predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel, and then performs a second step of determining whether the touch panel is being pressed with a pressure greater than a first threshold outside the predetermined operating area. The second pressure determination unit, having determined in the first pressure determination unit that the touch panel is being pressed, transitions to a second operation mode in which, by touch operation to the predetermined operation area alone, it does not switch to the function set in the predetermined operation area, and in the second operation mode, determines whether the touch was pressed with a pressure greater than the first threshold or a different second threshold, In the second pressure determination unit, when it is determined that the predetermined operating area of ​​the touch panel is being pressed, a fourth step is to switch to the function set in the predetermined operating area, A program that causes a computer to execute an input method for an input device equipped with an input device.

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