Information processing systems and programs

Abstract

To allow a user to easily perform reference or operation of an enlarged image displayed following selection of a file image in comparison to a case where display of the enlarged image is maintained only when a pointer image showing an operation spot of the user is on the file image.SOLUTION: A CPU of a server device maintains display of an enlarged image 360 when a pointer image 200 moves to the enlarged image 360 and the pointer image 200 is on the enlarged image 360. In other words, the CPU of the server device maintains display of the enlarged image 360 even when the pointer image 200 moves to the enlarged image 360 from a file icon 310a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a process in which when a smiley icon is clicked, an enlarged image in which the smiley is enlarged is displayed in a thumbnail display area, and when a face icon is clicked, an enlarged image in which a non-smiley face is enlarged is displayed in the thumbnail display area. Patent Document 2 discloses a process in which when a thumbnail of a document image is displayed as a file icon, an area contained therein is automatically extracted from the document image, and an attribute icon corresponding thereto is displayed. Patent Document 3 discloses a process in which based on operation information on a recognized thumbnail image, display conditions for enlarging and displaying an image on a screen are determined, and the image is enlarged and displayed according to the determined display conditions.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When a file image corresponding to a file is selected, if an enlarged image having a display size larger than that of this file image is displayed on a display unit, user convenience is improved, such as making it easier for the user to refer to the content of the file. One possible approach to easily switch the display and hiding of such magnified images is to display the magnified image when a pointer image indicating the user's location is over the file image, and to hide the magnified image when the pointer image moves away from the file image. However, in this configuration, the user cannot move the pointer image over the magnified image to view its contents, nor can they perform operations on the magnified image or the file by selecting a menu image placed on the magnified image. The objective of the present invention is to make it easier for the user to refer to or manipulate the enlarged image displayed when selecting a file image, compared to a case where the display of the enlarged image is maintained only when a pointer image indicating the user's operation location is placed on the file image. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The invention described in claim 1 is an information processing system equipped with a processor, wherein when a file image, which is an image corresponding to a file and displayed on a display unit, is selected, an enlarged image corresponding to the file image and having a larger display size than the file image is displayed on the display unit, and the display of the enlarged image is maintained as long as a pointer image indicating a user operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image, wherein when the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit, and when the enlarged image is displayed, the pointer image on the file image moves onto the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 2 is the information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor maintains the display of the enlarged image even when the pointer image is present on the file image. The invention described in claim 3 is an information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor enables the file image and the enlarged image to be displayed without any gap between them. The invention described in claim 4 is an information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor ensures that the display of the enlarged image is maintained even when the pointer image is located in a gap between the file image and the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 5 is an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the processor is in a mode in which an enlarged image is displayed when the user performs a specific operation on the file image, and the user performs the specific operation, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit. The invention described in claim 6 is an information processing system equipped with a processor, wherein when a file image, which is an image corresponding to a file and displayed on a display unit, is selected, an enlarged image corresponding to the file image and having a larger display size than the file image is displayed on the display unit, the display of the enlarged image is maintained as long as a pointer image indicating a user operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image, a reception display for receiving user operations on the displayed enlarged image is displayed on the display unit, and the display of the enlarged image is maintained even when the pointer image is located on the reception display which is located outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 7 is an information processing system according to claim 6, wherein the processor prevents the reception display from being displayed when the pointer image is on the file image, and displays the reception display when the pointer image is on the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 8 is an information processing system equipped with a processor, wherein when a file image, which is an image corresponding to a file and displayed on a display unit, is selected, the processor causes an enlarged image, which is an image corresponding to the file image and has a larger display size than the file image, to be displayed on the display unit, and the display of the enlarged image is maintained as long as a pointer image indicating a user operation location on the display unit is over the enlarged image. And , When a user performs a move operation, which involves moving the pointer image to a location outside the enlarged image, and the pointer image moves to that location, the enlarged image will be hidden. The aforementioned enlarged image With the aforementioned pointer image positioned above , user Before performing the aforementioned movement operation When a predetermined operation is performed, from the enlarged image The This is an information processing system that ensures the display of the enlarged image is maintained even if the pointer image is removed. The invention described in claim 9 is an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the processor maintains the display of the magnified image even when the pointer image moves off the displayed magnified image, provided that the time the pointer image is off the magnified image is less than a predetermined threshold. The invention described in claim 10 is an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the processor maintains the display of the magnified image even when the pointer image moves off the displayed magnified image, provided that the distance between the edge of the magnified image and the pointer image is less than a predetermined threshold. The invention described in claim 11 is an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the processor maintains the display of the enlarged image when the pointer image is placed on either the displayed enlarged image or the file image, and hides the enlarged image when the pointer image moves to a hidden area other than the display area of ​​the enlarged image or the file image, and hides the enlarged image faster when the pointer image moves from the file image to the hidden area than when the pointer image moves from the enlarged image to the hidden area. The invention described in claim 12 is an information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor causes the enlarged image to become invisible when the pointer image, which is placed on the enlarged image, moves onto the file image. The invention described in claim 13 is an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the processor causes the enlarged image to be displayed on the display unit when the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, and when the enlarged image is displayed, the display of the enlarged image is maintained until the pointer image on the file image moves onto the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 14 is an information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured such that when the user is performing a predetermined specific operation, the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit, and even if the specific operation is no longer performed, the display of the enlarged image is maintained if the pointer image is placed on the displayed enlarged image. The invention described in claim 15 is an information processing system according to claim 14, wherein the processor causes the magnified image to be hidden when the pointer image is located anywhere other than on the displayed magnified image when the specific operation is no longer performed. The invention described in claim 16 is a program for a computer to implement the following functions: an enlarged image display function which, when a file image which is an image corresponding to a file and displayed on the display unit is selected, displays an enlarged image on the display unit which is an image corresponding to the file image and has a larger display size than the file image; a display maintenance function which maintains the display of the enlarged image while a pointer image indicating a user operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image; and a movement function which moves the pointer image. The enlarged image display function is a program which, when the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit; and the movement function is a program which, when the enlarged image is displayed, the pointer image on the file image moves onto the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 17 is a program for a computer to implement the following functions: when a file image, which is an image corresponding to a file and displayed on the display unit, is selected, an enlarged image corresponding to the file image and having a larger display size than the file image is displayed on the display unit; a function to maintain the display of the enlarged image while a pointer image indicating a user operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image; a function to display a reception display on the display unit for receiving user operations on the displayed enlarged image; and a function to maintain the display of the enlarged image even when the pointer image is located on the reception display which is located outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image. The invention described in claim 18 provides a function that, when a file image, which is an image corresponding to a file and displayed on the display unit, is selected, displays an enlarged image corresponding to the file image, which has a larger display size than the file image, on the display unit, and maintains the display of the enlarged image while a pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is over the enlarged image. In addition, if the user performs a move operation, which is an operation to move the pointer image to a location outside the enlarged image, and the pointer image moves to that location, the enlarged image will be hidden. Function and the aforementioned enlarged image With the aforementioned pointer image positioned above , user Before performing the aforementioned movement operationWhen a predetermined operation is performed, from the enlarged image The This program provides a function that allows the display of the enlarged image to be maintained even if the pointer image is removed, and enables the computer to implement this function. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the invention of claim 1, compared to the case where the display of the enlarged image is maintained only when a pointer image indicating the user's operation location is placed on the file image, it is possible to make it easier for the user to refer to or manipulate the enlarged image that is displayed in conjunction with the selection of a file image. Furthermore, this improves user experience compared to a scenario where the pointer image on the file image does not move onto the enlarged image. According to the invention of claim 2, even when the pointer image moves from the enlarged image to the file image, the display of the enlarged image can be maintained. According to the invention of claim 3, it is possible to prevent the magnified image from being hidden due to the positioning of the pointer image in the gap between the file image and the magnified image. According to the invention of claim 4, even if a pointer image is located in the gap between the file image and the enlarged image, the state in which the enlarged image is displayed can be maintained. According to the invention of claim 5, when a user performs a specific operation on a file image, the enlarged image can be displayed in a mode in which an enlarged image is displayed. According to the invention of claim 6, This system makes it easier for users to refer to or manipulate the enlarged image displayed when selecting a file image, compared to a system where the enlarged image display is maintained only when a pointer image indicating the user's operation is placed on the file image. Furthermore, it allows the enlarged image display to be maintained even when the pointer image is placed on a reception display located outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image. Claim 7 According to this invention, the reception display is not shown when the pointer image is on the file image, and the reception image is shown when the pointer image is on the enlarged image. Claim 8 According to the invention, When a pointer image indicating the user's input is placed over the file image, compared to a system where the display of the enlarged image is maintained only when the pointer image is overlaid on the file image, it becomes easier for the user to refer to or manipulate the enlarged image that appears when selecting a file image. It is possible to ensure that the display of the enlarged image is maintained even when the pointer image moves away from the enlarged image. Claim 9 According to this invention, even if the pointer image moves off the magnified image, the display of the magnified image can be maintained. Claim 10According to the invention, even if the pointer image comes off the enlarged image, the display of the enlarged image can be maintained. Claim 11 According to the invention, the enlarged image can be made non-displayed more quickly when the pointer image moves from the file image to a non-display area than when it moves from the enlarged image to a non-display area. Claim 12 According to the invention, when the pointer image on the enlarged image moves onto the file image, the enlarged image can be made non-displayed. Claim 13 According to the invention, the display of the enlarged image can be maintained until the pointer image on the file image moves onto the enlarged image. Claim 14 According to the invention, even if a specific operation by the user stops, the display of the enlarged image can be maintained. Claim 15 According to the invention, when a specific operation stops and the pointer image is located at a position other than on the enlarged image, the enlarged image can be made non-displayed. Claim 16 According to the invention, only when the pointer image indicating the user's operation location is on the file image, compared with the case where the display of the enlarged image is maintained, the user can more easily refer to or operate the enlarged image displayed in association with the selection of the file image. Furthermore, this improves user experience compared to a scenario where the pointer image on the file image does not move onto the enlarged image. According to the invention of claim 17, compared to the case where the display of the enlarged image is maintained only when a pointer image indicating the user's operation location is placed on the file image, it is possible to make it easier for the user to refer to or operate the enlarged image that is displayed in conjunction with the selection of a file image, and the display of the enlarged image can be maintained even when the pointer image is placed on a reception display located outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image. According to the invention of claim 18, compared to the case where the display of the enlarged image is maintained only when a pointer image indicating the user's operation location is placed on the file image, it is possible to make it easier for the user to refer to or operate the enlarged image that is displayed when a file image is selected, and the display of the enlarged image is maintained even when the pointer image is moved off the enlarged image.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a server device. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 4] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing examples of displays in the display unit. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the state of the display area when a file icon is selected by the user. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the state of the display area after the pointer image, which was on the file icon, has moved onto the enlarged image. [Figure 7] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 8] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 9] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 10] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 11] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 12] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 13] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of how a pointer image moves. [Figure 15] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 16] This diagram shows other display examples for the display unit. [Figure 17] This is a diagram illustrating the deletion of an enlarged image. [Figure 18] This is a flowchart illustrating the sequence of events.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the information processing system 1 to which this embodiment is applied. The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment is configured such that a server device 10 for managing files and terminal devices 20 (20a, 20b, ...) used by users to view files are connected via a communication line 80. The communication line 80 is, for example, an internet connection and is used for information communication between the server device 10 and the terminal device 20. In this embodiment, the information processing system 1 allows the terminal device 20 to view and edit files uploaded to the server device 10.

[0009] In this embodiment, "file" refers to an electronic file stored in the server device 10 or the like. This file may contain images in addition to text, or it may consist only of images without any text. Furthermore, the file may contain not only document data and image data, but also information used when converting document data to images, as well as attribute information such as the file's modification date and time, paper size, number of pages, and keywords within the file.

[0010] The server device 10 is a device for managing files uploaded from the terminal device 20. Files managed by the server device 10 can be shared by multiple users and edited by one or more users. The server device 10 is implemented, for example, by a computer device. The server device 10 may be configured by a single computer, or it may be implemented by distributed processing using multiple computers.

[0011] Terminal device 20 is a device used to view and edit files managed by server device 10. The terminal device 20 has a display unit that displays images corresponding to files. The terminal device 20 is equipped with a computer. Examples of the form of the terminal device 20 include desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, smartphones, and game consoles.

[0012] The hardware configuration of server device 10 will be described below. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 10 according to this embodiment. The server device 10 includes an arithmetic processing unit 11 that performs digital arithmetic processing according to a program that enables file management, a secondary storage unit 12 where files and the like are recorded, and a communication unit 13 that sends and receives information via a communication line 80 (see Figure 1). The secondary storage unit 12 is implemented using existing information storage devices such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), semiconductor memory, or magnetic tape.

[0013] The arithmetic processing unit 11 is equipped with a CPU 11a, which is an example of a processor. This CPU 11a controls the entire server device 10. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 11 includes RAM 11b, which is used as working memory for the CPU 11a, and ROM 11c, which stores programs executed by the CPU 11a. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 11 includes a non-volatile memory 11d that is rewritable and can retain data even if the power supply is interrupted, and an interface unit 11e that controls various parts such as the communication unit 13 connected to the arithmetic processing unit 11.

[0014] The non-volatile memory 11d is composed of, for example, SRAM or flash memory backed up by a battery, and stores file information and correspondence information that associates files with each other. In addition, the secondary storage unit 12 stores files and other data, as well as programs executed by the arithmetic processing unit 11. In this embodiment, the arithmetic processing unit 11 reads the program stored in the secondary storage unit 12, thereby executing each process of the server device 10. The arithmetic processing unit 11, the secondary storage unit 12, and the communication unit 13 are connected via a bus or signal lines.

[0015] The server device 10 performs processes such as acquiring new files, extracting files, mapping files together, and reflecting file updates in response to requests from the terminal device 20. Furthermore, the server device 10 provides various types of information to the terminal device 20, such as files, search results, and update information, in response to requests from the terminal device 20. In this embodiment, the secondary storage unit 12 stores files and the like. The communication unit 13 receives requests from the terminal device 20 and transmits the requested files and the like.

[0016] The program executed by the CPU 11a on the server device 10 can be provided to the server device 10 while stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape, magnetic disk, etc.), an optical recording medium (optical disk, etc.), a magneto-optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by the CPU 11a may be provided to the server device 10 using communication means such as the internet.

[0017] Next, the hardware configuration of the terminal device 20 will be described. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device 20. Each terminal device 20 according to this embodiment includes an arithmetic processing unit 21 that performs image display processing according to a program, a secondary storage unit 22 that records files and the like, and a communication unit 23 that sends and receives information via a communication line 80 (see Figure 1).

[0018] Furthermore, each terminal device 20 has an input unit 24 that receives input operations from the user and a display unit 25 that displays images, text information, etc. to the user. This display unit 25 is made up of, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display panel. The secondary storage unit 22 is implemented using existing information storage devices such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), semiconductor memory, or magnetic tape.

[0019] The arithmetic processing unit 21 includes a CPU 21a, which is an example of a processor. This CPU 21a controls the entire terminal device 20. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 21 includes RAM 21b, which is used as working memory for the CPU 21a, and ROM 21c, which stores programs executed by the CPU 21a. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 21 includes a rewritable non-volatile memory 21d that can retain data even if the power supply is interrupted, and an interface unit 21e that controls various parts such as the communication unit 23 connected to the arithmetic processing unit 21.

[0020] The non-volatile memory 21d consists of, for example, SRAM or flash memory backed up by a battery, and stores files, update information, etc. In addition, the secondary storage unit 22 stores files and other data, as well as programs executed by the arithmetic processing unit 21. The arithmetic processing unit 21 reads the programs stored in this secondary storage unit 22, thereby executing each process of the terminal device 20. The arithmetic processing unit 21, the secondary storage unit 22, and the communication unit 23 are connected via buses and signal lines.

[0021] The input unit 24 is a pointing device or the like that the user operates when inputting information. For example, if the input unit 24 is a mouse, the user can specify the position on the display screen shown on the display unit 25, specify the image displayed on the display unit 25, or move the specified image by moving or clicking the pointer image. Furthermore, if the input unit 24 is a touch panel, the user can perform operations such as touching the touch panel with their finger or moving the finger that is touching the touch panel. This allows the user to specify a position on the display screen shown on the display unit 25, specify an image displayed on the display unit 25, or move the specified image.

[0022] In addition, the terminal device 20 may be equipped with a touch panel, in which case the input unit 24 and the display unit 25 will be provided as a single unit. Furthermore, the input unit 24 may be a keyboard that performs input operations using keys, in addition to the pointing device and the like described above.

[0023] The program executed by the CPU 21a in the terminal device 20 can be provided to the terminal device 20 while stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape, magnetic disk, etc.), an optical recording medium (optical disk, etc.), a magneto-optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by the CPU 21a may be provided to the terminal device 20 using communication means such as the Internet.

[0024] In this specification, "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, including general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and specialized processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.). Furthermore, the operation of the processor may not be performed solely by a single processor, but may also be performed collaboratively by multiple processors located in physically separate locations. Additionally, the order of the processor operations is not limited to the order described in this embodiment and may be changed.

[0025] The display on the display unit 25 provided on the terminal device 20 will be explained with reference to (A) and (B) in Figure 4 (a diagram showing an example of the display on the display unit 25). In this embodiment, a CPU 11a (see Figure 2), which is an example of a processor, provided in the server device 10, generates information used to control the display on the display unit 25 provided in the terminal device 20. The terminal device 20 then performs display control according to this information. As a result, the display unit 25 of the terminal device 20 displays various screens, which will be described below. Furthermore, the information used to control the display on the display unit 25 of the terminal device 20 may be generated by the terminal device 20, not the server device 10. Also, some of the information used for this control may be generated by the server device 10, and other parts may be generated by the terminal device 20.

[0026] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4(A), the workspace 400 on the so-called file handling software is displayed on the display unit 25 provided on the terminal device 20. This file handling software is designed to manage digitized files and has features that facilitate the unified management of both paper and electronic files. The display unit 25 also displays a pointer image 200 indicating the user's operation location on the display unit 25. The pointer image 200 moves in response to the user's operation of a mouse or other device. In other words, the pointer image 200 moves in response to the user's operation on the input unit 24 (see Figure 3).

[0027] The pointer image 200 is also called a cursor. In this embodiment, the pointer image 200 is arrow-shaped, but its shape is not limited as long as it moves in response to user operation. The user moves the pointer image 200 to their desired position on the display unit 25 and selects an element displayed on the display unit 25.

[0028] The display unit 25 also displays an icon 310. This icon 310 is displayed on the workspace 400. In this embodiment, a file icon 310a corresponding to a file is displayed as an icon. In this embodiment, only one file icon 310a is displayed, but if there are multiple files, multiple file icons 310a will be displayed.

[0029] This file icon 310a, an example of a file image, is an image that corresponds to and represents a file. File icons 310a can display images, symbols, text information, etc. If the corresponding file is an image file, for example, a reduced version of the image represented by this image data will be displayed as the file icon 310a. Furthermore, if the file corresponding to file icon 310a is a multi-page document, for example, a reduced image of a representative page, such as the first page, will be displayed as file icon 310a. Additionally, file icon 310a functions as an icon for opening the corresponding file.

[0030] Furthermore, the workspace 400 displays a tray icon 310b corresponding to the tray in which the files are stored. In this embodiment, when the user selects a tray, they select this tray icon 310b. In addition, although not shown in the diagram, workspace 400 may also display folder icons corresponding to folders and mailbox icons corresponding to mailboxes. The folder icon corresponds to the folder containing the files, and the user selects this folder icon when selecting a folder.

[0031] The mailbox icon is an icon provided for each user operating the terminal device 20. In this embodiment, files provided by a third party to the user operating the terminal device 20 are stored in the information storage area corresponding to this mailbox icon. When a user wants to access files stored in this information storage area, they select this mailbox icon.

[0032] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4(A), a toggle button 26 used for switching display modes is displayed on the display unit 25. In this embodiment, the user operates the toggle button 26. Specifically, the user operates the toggle button 26 to turn it on or off. In this embodiment, when the toggle button 26 is turned ON (see Figure 4(B)) (hereinafter referred to as the "ON state"), if the user moves the pointer image 200 onto the file icon 310a, an enlarged image will be displayed, as will be described later.

[0033] In this embodiment, when the feature is turned on, the display mode is set to a mode in which an enlarged image is displayed. When the feature is turned on, the enlarged image is displayed when the user performs a specific operation on the file icon 310a (see Figure 4(A)). One example of a specific operation is moving the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a and selecting the file icon 310a.

[0034] In this embodiment, when the device is turned on, if the user moves the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a and selects the file icon 310a, an enlarged image will be displayed. In this embodiment, selecting the file icon 310a does not require a mouse click; simply moving the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a selects the file icon 310a and displays an enlarged image.

[0035] When the device is turned on, an enlarged image is displayed on the display unit 25 when the user performs a specific operation in this manner. On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the toggle button 26 is in the off state (see Figure 4(B)) (hereinafter referred to as the "off state"), even if the user moves the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a and selects the file icon 310a, the enlarged image will not be displayed.

[0036] Figure 5 shows the state of the display unit 25 when the file icon 310a is selected by the user. In other words, Figure 5 shows the state of the display unit 25 when the user moves the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a in the above-described ON state. A CPU 11a (see Figure 2), which is an example of a processor provided in the server device 10, causes an enlarged image 360 ​​to be displayed on the display unit 25, as shown in Figure 5, when the pointer image 200 moves over the file icon 310a. Enlarged image 360 ​​is an image that corresponds to file icon 310a, but is larger in display size than file icon 310a.

[0037] Here, the movement of the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a can be interpreted as the user selecting the file icon 310a. In this embodiment, when a file icon 310a is selected by the user, an enlarged image 360 ​​corresponding to this file icon 310a is displayed on the display unit 25, as shown in Figure 5.

[0038] In this embodiment, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained as long as the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a remains on the file icon 310a. In this embodiment, the shape of the file icon 310a and the shape of the enlarged image 360 ​​are similar. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the enlarged image 360 ​​is an image that is simply an enlarged version of the file icon 310a. Furthermore, the display format is not limited to this example; the enlarged image 360 ​​may display content different from that displayed in the file icon 310a. Also, the shape of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the shape of the file icon 310a may not be similar.

[0039] In this embodiment, "enlarged image 360" refers to an image with a display size larger than the file icon 310a. The display content and shape of the enlarged image 360 ​​do not affect the determination of whether or not the enlarged image 360 ​​corresponds to the enlarged image 360 ​​that corresponds to the file icon 310a. Even if the displayed content differs between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360, and even if their shapes differ from each other, if the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360 ​​is larger than the display area of ​​the file icon 310a, then the enlarged image 360 ​​corresponds to the enlarged image 360 ​​that corresponds to the file icon 310a. Here, "large display size" is synonymous with "large display area."

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed around the file icon 310a from which the enlarged image 360 ​​was displayed. The enlarged image 360 ​​is also displayed in a location adjacent to the file icon 310a. Furthermore, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed on the side where the larger of the two margins on either side of the file icon 310a is located.

[0041] Furthermore, the display position of the enlarged image 360 ​​is not limited to the left or right of the file icon 310a, but may also be either above or below the file icon 310a. Furthermore, if the enlarged image 360 ​​is to be displayed either above or below the file icon 310a, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed on the side where the larger of the two margins exists above or below is located, as described above.

[0042] Figure 6 shows the state of the display unit 25 after the pointer image 200, which was on the file icon 310a, has moved onto the enlarged image 360. In this embodiment, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even when the pointer image 200 moves to the enlarged image 360 ​​and the pointer image 200 is placed on the enlarged image 360. That is, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even when the pointer image 200 moves away from the file icon 310a to the enlarged image 360.

[0043] The CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained while the pointer image 200, which has moved from the file icon 310a to the enlarged image 360, is over the enlarged image 360.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even when the pointer image 200 on the enlarged image 360 ​​returns to the file icon 310a, as shown in Figure 7 (a diagram showing another display example of the display unit 25). Furthermore, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even if the pointer image 200, which has returned to the file icon 310a, remains positioned on the file icon 310a. The CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained while the pointer image 200, which has returned to the file icon 310a, remains on the file icon 310a.

[0045] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may configure the system so that when the pointer image 200, which is placed on the enlarged image 360, moves onto the file icon 310a, the enlarged image 360 ​​is hidden. In other words, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may be configured to erase the enlarged image 360 ​​when the pointer image 200, which is placed on the enlarged image 360, leaves the enlarged image 360.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the pointer image 200 moves to a location in the workspace 400 (see Figure 5) other than the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360 ​​and the file icon 310a, the enlarged image 360 ​​will be hidden. In other words, in this embodiment, when the pointer image 200 moves away from the enlarged image 360 ​​or the file icon 310a in the workspace 400, the enlarged image 360 ​​becomes invisible. Hereafter, in this specification, the area of ​​the workspace 400 other than the display areas of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the file icon 310a will be referred to as the "hidden area 95".

[0047] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that when displaying the enlarged image 360, the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed without any gap between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360. As a result, in this embodiment, even when the pointer image 200 moves between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360, the pointer image 200 does not move to the hidden area 95, and the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained.

[0048] In this embodiment, the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed with the outer edge 41 of the file icon 310a and the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360 ​​in contact. As a result, as described above, no gap is created between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360. The display format in the display unit 25 is not limited to this. As shown in Figure 8 (a diagram showing other display examples of the display unit 25), the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed in a state where a part of the file icon 310a and a part of the enlarged image 360 ​​overlap. In this case as well, there is no gap between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360, and by moving the pointer image 200 so that it passes through the area where the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360 ​​overlap, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that a reception display 78 for receiving user input regarding the displayed enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed on the display unit 25, as shown in Figure 5. In the display example shown in Figure 5, the reception display 78 is displayed within the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360. Furthermore, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even when the pointer image 200 is placed on the reception display 78. More specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even when the pointer image 200, which has moved from the file icon 310a to the enlarged image 360, is displayed on the reception display 78.

[0050] The reception display 78 shows multiple selection options for the user to choose from and to receive instructions from the user. In other words, the reception display 78 shows multiple menu buttons. In this embodiment, the following selection items are displayed: for example, an option to accept instructions to change the displayed page, an option to accept instructions to edit a file, an option to accept instructions to display sticky note images or stamp images, and an option to accept instructions to send a file to another user.

[0051] Furthermore, the reception display 78 may be configured so that it is not displayed when the pointer image 200 is on the file icon 310a, but is displayed when the pointer image 200 is on the enlarged image 360. In other words, the reception display 78 may be set so that it is not displayed when the pointer image 200 is on the file icon 310a, and is displayed when the pointer image 200 moves onto the enlarged image 360.

[0052] Alternatively, the reception display 78 may be made semi-transparent by increasing its transparency, so that the portion of the enlarged image 360 ​​that overlaps with the reception display 78 is visible through it. Furthermore, the display mode of the reception display 78 may be different depending on whether the pointer image 200 is located on the reception display 78 or not. Specifically, for example, if the pointer image 200 is not located on the reception display 78, the transparency is increased to make it semi-transparent. On the other hand, if the pointer image 200 is located on the reception display 78, the transparency is reduced compared to when the pointer image 200 is not located on the reception display 78, so that the reception display 78 is more clearly visible.

[0053] Figure 9 shows another example of the display on the display unit 25. The reception display 78 is not limited to being displayed within the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360; as shown in Figure 9, it may also be displayed outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360. Furthermore, if the pointer image 200 is placed on the reception display 78 which is displayed outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​may be maintained.

[0054] If the pointer image 200 is placed on the reception display 78, which is located outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360, then the pointer image 200 will be outside the view of the enlarged image 360. Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 9, the reception display 78 is located in the non-display area 95. If the pointer image 200 is placed on the reception display 78, the pointer image 200 will be located in the non-display area 95. In this embodiment, even if the pointer image 200 moves off the top of the enlarged image 360, or if the pointer image 200 is located in the hidden area 95, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained if the pointer image 200 is located in the reception display 78. This allows the user to perform operations on the reception display 78 while referring to the enlarged image 360.

[0055] In the display example shown in Figure 9, the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the outer edge 43 of the reception display 78 are in contact, and the reception display 78 is displayed in such a state that there is no gap between the enlarged image 360 ​​and the reception display 78. In this case, when the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the reception display 78, the pointer image 200 does not pass through the gap, and the situation in which the enlarged image 360 ​​is not displayed does not occur. Furthermore, the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the outer edge 43 of the reception display 78 are not limited to being in contact; the reception display 78 may be displayed in a state where a part of the enlarged image 360 ​​and a part of the reception display 78 overlap. In this case as well, the occurrence of gaps can be suppressed.

[0056] Figure 10 shows another example of the display unit 25. In this example, an image 79 for receiving confirmation from the user to maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed on the enlarged image 360. In this example, when a user clicks on the reception image 79, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even if the pointer image 200 moves off of the enlarged image 360. More specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that when a user clicks on the reception image 79, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even if the pointer image 200 moves to a hidden area 95.

[0057] In this example, if the user performs a predetermined operation while the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​will be maintained thereafter. Specifically, in this embodiment, as described above, this predetermined operation includes, for example, clicking the reception image 79, and when the reception image 79 is clicked, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained. In this example, a second click on the reception image 79 will deactivate the mode that maintains the display of the enlarged image 360.

[0058] Furthermore, these predetermined operations include not only clicking the reception image 79, but also, for example, double-clicking on the enlarged image 360. In cases where double-clicking activates a mode that maintains the 360-degree enlarged image display, the user must, for example, double-click again to exit this mode. This will exit the mode that maintains the 360-degree enlarged image display.

[0059] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may, as shown in Figure 11 (a diagram showing other display examples of the display unit 25), maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​even if the pointer image 200 moves off the displayed enlarged image 360, provided that the time the pointer image 200 is off the enlarged image 360 ​​is less than a predetermined threshold. In other words, even if the pointer image 200 that was on the enlarged image 360 ​​moves to a hidden area 95, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 will maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​without erasing it until the time specified by the predetermined threshold has elapsed.

[0060] Then, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that if the pointer image 200 returns to the enlarged image 360 ​​or the file icon 310a before the specified time has elapsed, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained. On the other hand, if the CPU 11a of the server device 10 has elapsed a time period determined by this threshold and the pointer image 200 is not in the display area of ​​the file icon 310a or the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360, it will erase the enlarged image 360.

[0061] In other words, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 erases the enlarged image 360 ​​if, after a certain amount of time has elapsed as determined by this threshold, the pointer image 200 is located at the hidden area 95. In addition, if, after a certain amount of time has elapsed as determined by the threshold mentioned above, the pointer image 200 is not on the enlarged image 360 ​​but on the file icon 310a, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be erased.

[0062] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may maintain the display of the magnified image 360 ​​even if the pointer image 200 moves off the displayed magnified image 360, as shown in Figure 12 (a diagram showing another display example of the display unit 25), if the distance L1 between the outer edge 42 of the magnified image 360 ​​and the pointer image 200 is smaller than a predetermined threshold.

[0063] In other words, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​even if the pointer image 200 that was on the enlarged image 360 ​​moves to a hidden area 95, as long as the distance L1 between the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the pointer image 200 is smaller than a predetermined threshold. In this case, if the pointer image 200 is located around the enlarged image 360 ​​and within a specific area surrounding the enlarged image 360, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​will be maintained.

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13 (a diagram showing another display example of the display unit 25), even if the distance L1 between the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the pointer image 200 located in the hidden area 95 is greater than the predetermined threshold mentioned above, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​may be maintained if the distance L2 between the outer edge 41 of the file icon 310a and this pointer image 200 is smaller than the predetermined threshold. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 13, even if the pointer image 200 located at the hidden area 95 is far from the enlarged image 360, it is possible that this pointer image 200 may be located near the file icon 310a.

[0065] In this case, if the distance L2 between the outer edge 41 of the file icon 310a and the pointer image 200 is smaller than a predetermined threshold, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​may be maintained. In the process described with reference to Figures 12 and 13, if at least one of the distance L1 between the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360 ​​and the pointer image 200, and the distance L2 between the outer edge 41 of the file icon 310a and the pointer image 200 is smaller than a predetermined threshold, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​will be maintained. Here, "the distance between the outer edge and the pointer image 200" refers to the distance between the part of the outer edge closest to the pointer image 200 and the pointer image 200 itself.

[0066] In addition, if the CPU 11a of the server device 10 is to display the enlarged image 360, it may move the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a onto the enlarged image 360, as shown by reference numeral 5A in Figure 5. In this embodiment, as described above, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that when the pointer image 200 is placed on the file icon 310a and the file icon 310a is selected using this pointer image 200, the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed on the display unit 25.

[0067] In this case, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may move the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a onto the enlarged image 360. In other words, in this case, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may move the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a onto the enlarged image 360, and set the display position of the pointer image 200 to be on the enlarged image 360. This allows the user to manipulate the pointer image 200 on the enlarged image 360 ​​without having to move the pointer image 200 to the enlarged image 360.

[0068] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​until the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a moves onto the enlarged image 360, if the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed. In other words, in this case, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even if the pointer image 200 moves to the hidden area 95, as shown by reference numeral 14A in Figure 14 (a diagram showing an example of pointer image movement), until the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a moves onto the enlarged image 360.

[0069] In other words, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that even when the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a moves to the enlarged image 360 ​​through the hidden area 95 due to user operation, the enlarged image 360 ​​is not erased, and the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained. As a result, even if the pointer image 200, which is moved by user operation, passes through the hidden area 95 and moves towards the enlarged image 360, the enlarged image 360 ​​is not erased, and the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained. Furthermore, after the pointer image 200 moves onto the enlarged image 360, as described above, the pointer image 200 will be positioned on the enlarged image 360, and therefore the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​will continue to be maintained.

[0070] Furthermore, when the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a moves to the enlarged image 360 ​​via the hidden area 95, if this movement is the second or subsequent movement from the file icon 310a to the enlarged image 360, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be erased without maintaining its display. If the pointer image 200 on the file icon 310a moves towards the hidden area 95 and passes through this hidden area 95, it is possible that this movement is not to direct the pointer image 200 towards the enlarged image 360, but rather to erase the enlarged image 360.

[0071] It is conceivable that a user might deliberately move the pointer image 200 to the hidden area 95 in order to erase the enlarged image 360, and if the pointer image 200 moves through the hidden area 95, this movement may be for the purpose of erasing the enlarged image 360. Therefore, when the pointer image 200 moves through the hidden area 95, if the number of times this movement occurs is a specific number, such as the second time, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be deleted without maintaining its display, as described above.

[0072] The above example illustrates a case where, while the system is enabled, the user selects a file icon 310a, which is an example of a specific operation, and the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed. By the way, the conditions for displaying the enlarged 360 image are not limited to these; the enlarged 360 image may also be displayed when other conditions are met. For example, even when the device is turned off, if the user performs a predetermined operation, and this user performs a specific operation (hereinafter referred to as the "first specific operation"), the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed on the display unit 25.

[0073] Specifically, for example, when the system is turned off, if the user presses a Ctrl key or Alt key on the keyboard and moves the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a to select the file icon 310a, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed. In other words, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed when the user performs a specific first operation, such as selecting a file icon 310a, while holding down a key such as the Ctrl or Alt key on the keyboard.

[0074] Alternatively, the toggle button 26 may be hidden, and the system may simply be configured so that when the pointer image 200 moves over the file icon 310a and the file icon 310a is selected, the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed.

[0075] Alternatively, the system may be configured so that the toggle button 26 is not displayed, and when the user presses a Ctrl key or Alt key on the keyboard, and moves the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a to select the file icon 310a, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed. In other words, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed on the display unit 25 when the user moves the pointer image 200 over the file icon 310a while pressing a specific key, which is an example of a predetermined specific operation (hereinafter referred to as the "second specific operation").

[0076] Furthermore, even if the user ceases to perform this second specific operation, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​may be maintained if the pointer image 200 is overlaid on the displayed enlarged image 360. More specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​if the pointer image 200 is overlaid on the enlarged image 360 ​​when the user stops pressing a specific key.

[0077] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may maintain the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​if the pointer image 200 is located on either the file icon 310a or the enlarged image 360 ​​when the user stops performing this second specific operation. On the other hand, when this second specific operation is no longer performed, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 will hide the enlarged image 360 ​​if the pointer image 200 is located in the hidden area 95.

[0078] Figure 15 shows another example of the display on the display unit 25. In this example, the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360 ​​are displayed with a gap GP positioned between them. The above describes the case where the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed with the outer edge 41 of the file icon 310a touching the outer edge 42 of the enlarged image 360. However, the enlarged image 360 ​​may also be displayed at a distance from the file icon 310a, as shown in Figure 15. In this case, a gap GP will be created between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360, as shown in Figure 15.

[0079] In this case, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 ensures that the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained even when the pointer image 200 is located in the gap GP between the file icon 310a and the enlarged image 360. This prevents the enlarged image 360 ​​from becoming invisible when the pointer image 200 moves from the file icon 310a to the enlarged image 360, and also prevents the enlarged image 360 ​​from becoming invisible when the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the file icon 310a.

[0080] Furthermore, the reception display 78 (see Figure 9) described above may also be displayed in a manner that creates a gap GP between it and the enlarged image 360. Furthermore, in this case, if the pointer image 200 is in the gap GP between the enlarged image 360 ​​and the reception display 78, the display of the reception display 78 may be maintained. As a result, in this case, the display of the reception display 78 is maintained whether the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the reception display 78, or moves from the reception display 78 to the enlarged image 360.

[0081] Next, we will explain how to delete the 360-degree enlarged image. In this embodiment, the enlarged image 360 ​​is erased, for example, when the pointer image 200 moves to the hidden area 95, as described above. In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may also be configured to hide the enlarged image 360 ​​if the user performs a predetermined operation, even if the pointer image 200 is placed on the displayed enlarged image 360 ​​or on the file icon 310a.

[0082] Specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may, for example, hide the enlarged image 360 ​​when a specific location on the displayed enlarged image 360 ​​is selected using the pointer image 200. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 16 (a diagram showing another display example of the display unit 25), an image 72 for receiving a request from the user to erase the enlarged image 360 ​​may be displayed at a specific location on the enlarged image 360, and the enlarged image 360 ​​may be hidden when this image 72 is selected by the user. More specifically, when the area of ​​image 72 is selected using the pointer image 200, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be hidden.

[0083] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may, for example, hide the enlarged image 360 ​​when a specific user operation is performed on a device that accepts operations from the user to move the pointer image 200. Specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may hide the enlarged image 360 ​​when, for example, a specific operation is performed by the user on a mouse, which is an example of a device that receives operations from the user to move the pointer image 200. More specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may hide the enlarged image 360 ​​if, for example, the user selects the option to delete the enlarged image 360, which is displayed as one of several options when the user right-clicks.

[0084] In addition, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may hide the enlarged image 360 ​​if the user performs a specific operation on a device other than the receiving device mentioned above. Specifically, other devices include, for example, a keyboard, and the enlarged image 360 ​​may be hidden when a specific key on the keyboard is pressed by the user. More specifically, for example, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be hidden when the user presses the escape key on the keyboard.

[0085] Additionally, the timing at which the enlarged image 360 ​​becomes invisible may be varied depending on the position of the pointer image 200. Specifically, the CPU 11a of the server device 10 may, for example, configure the system so that the enlarged image 360 ​​is hidden faster when the pointer image 200 moves from the file icon 310a to the hidden area 95, as shown in reference numeral 17B, than when the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the hidden area 95, as shown in reference numeral 17A of Figure 17 (a diagram illustrating the erasure of an enlarged image).

[0086] Here, "the enlarged image 360 ​​disappears faster when the pointer image 200 moves from the file icon 310a to the hidden area 95 than when the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the hidden area 95" means that the elapsed time from when the pointer image 200 moves from the file icon 310a to the hidden area 95 until the enlarged image 360 ​​disappears is shorter than the elapsed time from when the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the hidden area 95 until the enlarged image 360 ​​disappears.

[0087] In this embodiment, as described above, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​is maintained when the pointer image 200 is placed over either the displayed enlarged image 360 ​​or the file icon 310a. On the other hand, in this embodiment, if the pointer image 200 moves to a hidden area 95, which is an area other than the display area of ​​the enlarged image 360 ​​and the file image, the enlarged image 360 ​​will be hidden. In this hiding process, the enlarged image 360 ​​may be hidden faster when the pointer image 200 moves from the file icon 310a to the hidden area 95 than when the pointer image 200 moves from the enlarged image 360 ​​to the hidden area 95.

[0088] For example, a user might want to move the pointer image 200 to a different file icon 310a, rather than the file icon 310a on which the pointer image 200 is located, and then display the enlarged image 360 ​​corresponding to that other file icon 310a. In this case, if the previously displayed enlarged image 360 ​​is cleared more quickly, other file icons 310a behind this enlarged image 360 ​​will be displayed sooner, for example.

[0089] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the sequence of processes described above. This flowchart shows an example of the process when the enlarged 360-degree image is displayed when the display mode is turned on or when a specific key is pressed. In this embodiment, it is first determined whether or not the user has selected a file icon 310a (step S101).

[0090] Then, if it is determined in step S101 that file icon 310a has been selected, it is determined whether or not the display mode is turned on (step S102). On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S101 that the file icon 310a has been selected, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, a decision is made to hide the enlarged image 360.

[0091] If it is determined in step S102 that the display mode is ON, the display process for the enlarged image 360 ​​is performed (step S103). On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S102 that the display mode is ON, i.e., if the display mode is OFF, it is determined whether or not a specific key such as the Ctrl key is being pressed (step S105). Then, if it is determined in step S105 that a specific key is being pressed, the process proceeds to step S103. In this case, the enlarged image 360 ​​is displayed.

[0092] On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S105 that a specific key is being pressed, the process proceeds to step S104. In this case, a decision is made to hide the enlarged image 360. After the processing in step S103, it is determined whether the pointer image 200 is in the hidden area 95 (step S106). Then, in step S106, if it is determined that the pointer image 200 is in the hidden area 95, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, a decision is made to hide the enlarged image 360, and as a result, the enlarged image 360 ​​is hidden. On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S106 that the pointer image 200 is in the hidden area 95, the process returns to step S103. In this case, the display of the enlarged image 360 ​​continues. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0093] 1…Information processing system, 25…Display unit, 11a…CPU, 78…Reception display, 95…Hidden area, 200…Pointer image, 310a…File icon, 360…Enlarged image, GP…Gap

Claims

1. It is an information processing system equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, When a file image, which is an image displayed on the display unit corresponding to a file, is selected, an enlarged image corresponding to that file image, but with a larger display size than the file image, is displayed on the display unit. As long as the pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image, the display of the enlarged image is maintained. It is an information processing system, The aforementioned processor, When the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit. When the enlarged image is displayed, the pointer image on the file image is moved onto the enlarged image. Information processing system.

2. The aforementioned processor, The display of the enlarged image is maintained even when the pointer image is present on the aforementioned file image. The information processing system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned processor, The file image and the enlarged image are displayed without any gap between them. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The aforementioned processor, Even when the pointer image is located in the gap between the aforementioned file image and the enlarged image, the display of the enlarged image is maintained. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The aforementioned processor, When the user performs a specific operation on the file image, and the system is in a mode where the enlarged image is displayed when the user performs that specific operation, the enlarged image will be displayed on the display unit. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. It is an information processing system equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, When a file image, which is an image displayed on the display unit corresponding to a file, is selected, an enlarged image corresponding to that file image, but with a larger display size than the file image, is displayed on the display unit. As long as the pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image, the display of the enlarged image is maintained. A display for receiving user input regarding the enlarged image is shown on the display unit. An information processing system that maintains the display of the enlarged image even when the pointer image is placed on the reception display located outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image.

7. The aforementioned processor, The reception display is not shown when the pointer image is on the file image, and the reception display is shown when the pointer image is on the enlarged image. The information processing system according to claim 6.

8. It is an information processing system equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, When a file image, which is an image displayed on the display unit corresponding to a file, is selected, an enlarged image corresponding to that file image, but with a larger display size than the file image, is displayed on the display unit. As long as the pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is on the magnified image, the display of the magnified image is maintained. When the user performs a move operation, which is an operation to move the pointer image to a location outside the magnified image, and the pointer image moves to that location, the magnified image is hidden. If the pointer image is positioned on the enlarged image, and the user performs a predetermined operation before performing the movement operation, the display of the enlarged image will be maintained even if the pointer image moves off the enlarged image. Information processing system.

9. The aforementioned processor, Even if the pointer image moves out of the displayed magnified image, if the time the pointer image is out of the magnified image is less than a predetermined threshold, the display of the magnified image will be maintained. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The aforementioned processor, Even if the pointer image moves off the displayed magnified image, if the distance between the edge of the magnified image and the pointer image is smaller than a predetermined threshold, the display of the magnified image will be maintained. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. The aforementioned processor, When the pointer image is placed on either the displayed enlarged image or the file image, the display of the enlarged image is maintained. When the pointer image moves to a hidden area other than the display area of ​​the enlarged image or the file image, the enlarged image is hidden. The enlarged image will disappear faster when the pointer image moves from the file image to the hidden area than when the pointer image moves from the enlarged image to the hidden area. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The aforementioned processor, When the pointer image, which is placed on the enlarged image, moves onto the file image, the enlarged image is made invisible. The information processing system according to claim 1.

13. The aforementioned processor, When the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit. When the enlarged image is displayed, the display of the enlarged image is maintained until the pointer image on the file image moves onto the enlarged image. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The aforementioned processor, When the user is performing a predetermined specific operation, and the pointer image is placed over the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit. Even if the aforementioned specific operation ceases to be performed, if the pointer image is placed on the displayed enlarged image, the display of the enlarged image will be maintained. The information processing system according to claim 1.

15. The aforementioned processor, When the aforementioned specific operation ceases to be performed, if the pointer image is located anywhere other than on the displayed enlarged image, the enlarged image will be hidden. The information processing system according to claim 14.

16. A magnified image display function that, when a file image, which is an image displayed on the display unit corresponding to a file, is selected, displays a magnified image on the display unit that corresponds to the file image but has a larger display size than the file image. A display maintenance function that maintains the display of the enlarged image while a pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is located on the enlarged image, A movement function that causes the aforementioned pointer image to move, This is a program to make a computer realize this. The aforementioned enlarged image display function is configured such that when the pointer image is placed on the file image and the file image is selected using the pointer image, the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit. The aforementioned movement function causes the pointer image on the file image to move onto the enlarged image when the enlarged image is displayed. program.

17. A function that, when a file image, which is an image displayed on the display unit corresponding to a file, is selected, displays an enlarged image of the corresponding file image, but with a larger display size than the file image, on the display unit. A function to maintain the display of the enlarged image while the pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is on the enlarged image, A function to display a user input screen on the display unit for receiving user input regarding the enlarged image that has been displayed, A function to maintain the display of the enlarged image even when the pointer image is located on the reception display which is outside the display area of ​​the enlarged image, A program to make a computer realize this.

18. A function that, when a file image, which is an image displayed on the display unit corresponding to a file, is selected, displays an enlarged image of the corresponding file image, but with a larger display size than the file image, on the display unit. The function includes maintaining the display of the magnified image while the pointer image indicating the user's operation location on the display unit is on the magnified image, and hiding the magnified image when the user performs a move operation to move the pointer image to a location outside the magnified image. When the pointer image is positioned on the enlarged image, if the user performs a predetermined operation before performing the movement operation, the display of the enlarged image will be maintained even if the pointer image moves off the enlarged image. A program to make a computer realize this.

Images