Electronic apparatus, method for controlling electronic apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

This electronic apparatus includes: an imaging unit that images a subject; a display unit; and a control unit that controls the imaging unit and the display unit. The display unit is provided on the same side as the imaging unit in the electronic apparatus and displays a first region, in which the subject is irradiated with illumination light, and a second region, which does not overlap the first region. The control unit: sets the brightness of the display unit; sets the lightness of the second region on the basis of the brightness of the display unit; acquires a first image of the subject by using the imaging unit; and acquires read information by analyzing the first image.

Description

Electronic device, control method for electronic device, and storage medium

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device, a control method for an electronic device, and a storage medium.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There are electronic devices that capture an image including a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark) using a camera and read the coded character string by analyzing the image.

[0003] Patent No. 6270854

[0004] The technology described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of providing a comfortable visual experience to the user and improving the success rate of barcode reading.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device, a control method for an electronic device, and a storage medium that can provide a user with a comfortable visual experience and improve the success rate of barcode reading.

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present disclosure provides an electronic device, a control method for an electronic device, and a storage medium.

[0007] An electronic device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject, a display unit, and a control unit that controls the imaging unit and the display unit. The display unit is provided on the same side of the electronic device as the imaging unit and displays a first area that irradiates the subject with illumination light and a second area that does not overlap the first area. The control unit sets the luminance of the display unit, sets the lightness of the second area based on the luminance of the display unit, captures a first image of the subject using the imaging unit, and acquires read information by analyzing the first image.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for controlling an electronic device, the method including: a display unit of the electronic device that displays a first area where illumination light is irradiated onto a subject; and a second area that does not overlap with the first area. The method includes a step of setting a luminance of the display unit, a step of setting a brightness of the second area based on the luminance of the display unit, a step of capturing a first image of the subject using a capturing unit of the electronic device, and a step of capturing read information by analyzing the first image.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a storage medium that is non-transitory and computer-readable and stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, realizes the control method described above.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, the electronic device, the control method for the electronic device, and the storage medium can provide a user with a comfortable visual experience and improve the success rate of barcode reading.

[0011] Schematic diagram showing the screen of the display unit of the electronic device of embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing the acquisition of read information by the electronic device of embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing the screen of the display unit of the electronic device of embodiment 1. Flowchart of an example of a control method for the electronic device of embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing the screen of the display unit of the electronic device of embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing the screen of the display unit of the electronic device of embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing the screen of the display unit of the electronic device of embodiment 1. Flowchart of another example of a control method for the electronic device of embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing an example of a first area of ​​embodiment 1. Schematic diagram showing an example of a first area of ​​embodiment 1. Flowchart of an example of step S400 of embodiment 2. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Schematic diagram showing an example of the first region of embodiment 6. Flowchart of an example of the control method of electronic equipment of embodiment 7. Schematic diagram showing an example of the third region of embodiment 7. Flowchart of another example of the control method of electronic equipment of embodiment 7. Schematic diagram showing an example of the third region of embodiment 7.

[0012] <Technical Concept> The electronic device, the control method for the electronic device, and the storage medium disclosed herein can provide a user with a comfortable visual experience and improve the success rate of barcode reading. The control method can be executed by the electronic device. Before describing specific embodiments of the electronic device, the control method for the electronic device, and the storage medium disclosed herein, the technical concept described in the present disclosure will first be explained using an example.

[0013] The electronic device includes a camera and a display unit provided on the same side, and also includes a control unit that controls the camera and the display unit. The camera unit can capture an image of a subject including a barcode, QR code, etc., and generate an image. The control unit can analyze the image of the subject and obtain information read from the barcode, etc.

[0014] In this example, when acquiring read information from a subject, the control unit sets the luminance of the display unit. For example, when the environment surrounding the electronic device is dark, the luminance of the display unit is set relatively high to acquire a clear image. Then, the control unit sets the brightness of a portion of the area displayed on the display unit based on the luminance of the display unit. For example, the control unit sets the brightness of a background area other than the area on the display unit that provides illumination light so that the brightness of the background area decreases as the luminance of the display unit increases. That is, when the luminance of the display unit is set relatively high, the brightness of the background area is set relatively low. This setting allows some areas to provide relatively bright illumination light by increasing the luminance, while the brightness of the background area can be reduced by decreasing the luminance, thereby providing the user with a comfortable visual experience. Therefore, even when the luminance of the display unit increases in a dark place, the user does not feel dazzled by the display unit and can easily operate the electronic device to read barcodes, etc., thereby shortening the time until reading.

[0015] Each of the embodiments described below represents an example of the present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, configurations, steps, and step orders shown in each of the following embodiments are examples and do not limit the present disclosure. Among the components in the following embodiment 1, components that are not described in the independent claims that represent the highest concept are described as optional components.

[0016] In each of the embodiments described below, certain elements may be modified, and other elements may be appropriately combined with any configuration, and the combined configurations will provide the respective effects. In the embodiments, the respective combinations of the respective modified configurations will provide the respective effects of the respective modified configurations.

[0017] In the following detailed description, terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as expressing or implying relative importance or ranking of technical features. Features qualified as "first" and "second" expressly or imply the inclusion of one or more of that feature.

[0018] First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of an electronic device, a control method for an electronic device, and a storage medium according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the drawings.

[0019] FIG. 1 is an example of a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0020] 1 , the electronic device 10 includes at least an image capture unit 11, a display unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a control unit 14. The electronic device 10 may be a laptop computer including a notebook computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like. The electronic device 10 may also include at least one of an illuminance sensor 15, an input unit 16, and a communication unit 17, depending on its intended use. Hereinafter, the technology of the present disclosure will be described using an example in which the electronic device 10 is a notebook computer; however, the technology of the present disclosure is equally applicable to other types of electronic devices 10.

[0021] The electronic device 10 of the present disclosure can acquire read information corresponding to the barcode or character string by using the imaging unit 11 to acquire an image of a subject including a barcode or character string and analyzing the image.

[0022] <Photographing Unit 11> The photographing unit 11 is provided on the same side of the electronic device 10 as the display unit 12, for example, on the side facing the user during normal use of the electronic device 10. The photographing unit 11 is, for example, a camera, and can capture an image of a subject to generate an image. The image generated by the photographing unit 11 may be displayed on the display unit 12, stored in the storage unit 13, or analyzed by the control unit 14. Note that the electronic device 10 may further include another photographing unit provided on a different side from the display unit 12.

[0023] <Display Unit 12> The display unit 12 is a device for providing visual information to the user and can display various images and a graphical user interface (GUI). The display unit 12 may be, for example, a display using self-luminous elements such as organic EL, or a display using an LCD or CRT.

[0024] The luminance of the display unit 12 refers to the intensity of the light emitted by the display unit 12. The luminance is expressed in cd / m ２ , nits, candelas, etc., or may be indicated in multiple stages (e.g., six stages from 0 to 5, 11 stages from 0 to 10, 101 stages from 0 to 100, or three stages of "high", "medium", and "low") ranging from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness of the display unit 12. The control unit 14 can increase the brightness of the display unit 12, for example, by causing the display unit 12 to increase its output current.

[0025] When acquiring read information, the display unit 12 displays a first area in which illumination light is irradiated onto the subject and a second area that does not overlap the first area. The display unit 12 may also display a preview screen (also called a through image) of the image capture unit 11 in an area separate from the first and second areas. The preview screen is a screen on which the content being captured by the image capture unit 11 can be confirmed in real time. The display unit 12 may also display a GUI of an application for acquiring read information (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as a "read application"), a GUI of an application unrelated to acquiring read information, a GUI of the operating system (OS) of the electronic device 10, etc. In one embodiment, the preview screen of the image capture unit 11 is incorporated into the GUI of the application for acquiring read information and displayed in a third area of ​​the display unit 12 together with the GUI.

[0026] <Storage Unit 13> The storage unit 13 is a recording medium that records various information and control programs, and may be a memory that functions as a work area for the control unit 14. The storage unit 13 is realized, for example, by a flash memory, a RAM, an SSD (Solid State Device), a hard disk, or other storage device, or by an appropriate combination of these.

[0027] The storage unit 13 may store criteria, parameters, thresholds, comparison tables, or relational expressions related to the setting of the luminance or the brightness of the second area of ​​the display unit 12. The storage unit 13 may store images acquired by the photographing unit 11, analysis results for the images, read information acquired from the images, and user input acquired by the input unit 16 or the communication unit 17. Note that the images acquired by the photographing unit 11 can be displayed on the preview screen of the display unit 12 even if they are not stored in the storage unit 13.

[0028] The storage unit 13 may store a computer program for causing the control unit 14 to execute the control method of the present disclosure. The storage unit 13 may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium in which the computer program is stored.

[0029] <Control Unit 14> The control unit 14 is a controller that controls the entire electronic device 10. The control unit 14 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or MPU that realizes predetermined functions by executing programs stored in the storage unit 13. The control unit 14 realizes various controls in the electronic device 10 by calling and executing control programs based on control methods. The control unit 14 is not limited to a device that realizes predetermined functions through the cooperation of hardware and software, but may also be a hardware circuit designed specifically to realize predetermined functions. In other words, the control unit 14 can be realized by various processors such as a CPU, MPU, GPU, FPGA, DSP, or ASIC.

[0030] The control unit 14 can execute the control method for the electronic device of the present disclosure and can execute the function of obtaining read information from the subject.

[0031] <Illuminance Sensor 15> The illuminance sensor 15 is a sensor for detecting the illuminance around the electronic device 10. The illuminance refers to the degree of brightness of an area where an object is illuminated by a light source, and may be measured in lux (lx). In one example, the illuminance sensor 15 is provided on the same side of the electronic device 10 as the image capturing unit 11 and the display unit 12.

[0032] <Input Unit 16> The input unit 16 is a device for receiving user input from a user. The input unit 16 may include, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a touch pad, a switch, a button, a microphone, a camera, etc. The input unit 16 converts the content of commands and operations received from the user into electrical signals and transmits them to the control unit 14. Via the input unit 16, user input including a command to activate the reading function and information about the object to be read (i.e., the subject of the imaging unit 11) can be received from the user. The information about the subject is, for example, information specifying at least one of the type, size, and reading position of the subject.

[0033] <Communication Unit 17> The communication unit 17 can connect to the Internet and can communicate with any server or information terminal by sending and receiving Internet packets over the Internet. The communication unit 17 can communicate via a LAN, a WLAN, or a WWAN. For example, the communication unit 17 may communicate and send and receive data according to standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), IEEE 802.2, IEEE 802.3, 3G, and LTE. In addition to the Internet, the communication unit 17 may also communicate via an intranet, an extranet, ISDN, a VAN, a CATV communication network, a virtual private network, a telephone line network, a mobile communication network, a satellite communication network, infrared, or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit may be configured, for example, with a circuit capable of communicating according to the above-mentioned standards.

[0034] The control unit 14 can cooperate with a server and / or other electronic devices via the communication unit 17. In one example, the read information acquired from the subject is a character string representing a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). After acquiring the read information, the control unit 14 can access the URL via the communication unit 17. In another example, the read information is an identification number that can identify the user. The control unit 14 can identify the user by using the identification number to check the server's database via the communication unit 17.

[0035] <Subject 20> The subject 20 may be an object including a one-dimensional code, an object including a two-dimensional code, or an identification card. The one-dimensional code may be, for example, a barcode. The two-dimensional code may be, for example, a QR code, a DataMatrix code, a MaxiCode code, or a PDF417 code. The identification card may be, for example, a driver's license, a My Number card, an ID card, a health insurance card, a student ID card, a passport, a residence card, or a membership card. An object including a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code is basically a medium on which a code or the like is printed or affixed. The medium may be paper, plastic, metal, cloth, nonwoven fabric, an adhesive sticker, or the like.

[0036] The read information that can be acquired from the subject 20 includes a character string coded into a one-dimensional code, a character string coded into a two-dimensional code, or a character string written on an identification card. The character string can represent various information, such as a URL, an identification number, an authentication number, a membership number, a business code, a product code, or a message.

[0037] <Example of Usage of Electronic Device 10> Fig. 2A is a schematic diagram showing acquisition of read information by electronic device 10 of embodiment 1, and Fig. 2B is a schematic diagram showing the screen of display unit 12 of electronic device 10 of embodiment 1. In this example, electronic device 10 is a notebook computer, and subject 20 is a card on which a QR code is printed. In electronic device 10, a camera, which is an example of imaging unit 11, and a display, which is an example of display unit 12, are provided on the same side. A user holds subject 20 and brings it close to imaging unit 11, causing imaging unit 11 to capture at least the QR code portion.

[0038] The display unit 12 displays a first region R1 used as an illumination region and a second region R2 serving as a background region. The first region R1 is provided on the display unit 12 on the side of the image capture unit 11. In one example, the first region R1 is located near the image capture unit 11 and is painted white. Light emitted from the first region R1 is reflected by the subject 20 and enters the image capture unit 11. Thus, the display unit 12 provides an auxiliary light source to the subject 20 via the first region R1. In this example, the second region R2 is the displayable region of the display unit 12 (i.e., the entire screen SS1 shown in FIG. 2B ) excluding the first region R1.

[0039] 3A is a schematic diagram of another example of electronic device 10, and FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram showing another example of the screen of display unit 12. In this example, a first region R1, a second region R2, a third region R3, and a fourth region R4 are displayed on screen SS2 of display unit 12. In third region R3, a GUI of a reading application for acquiring read information from subject 20 and a preview screen of image capture unit 11 are displayed. In fourth region R4, a GUI of the OS or other applications are displayed. In this example, second region R2 may be the displayable area of ​​display unit 12 excluding first region R1, or may be the displayable area excluding first region R1 and at least one of second region R2, third region R3, and fourth region R4.

[0040] <Control Method of Electronic Device 10> The above-described control unit 14 can execute a control method of the electronic device 10. Fig. 4 is a flowchart of an example of the control method of the electronic device according to the first embodiment.

[0041] The control unit 14 sets the luminance of the display unit 12 (step S100). In one embodiment, the control unit 14 sets the luminance of the display unit 12 so that the luminance of the display unit 12 increases as the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 15 decreases. For example, when the electronic device 10 is in a dark place and the illuminance of the surrounding environment is low, the control unit 14 sets the luminance of the display unit 12 relatively high to provide brighter illumination light, compared to when the electronic device 10 is in a bright place and the illuminance of the surrounding environment is high. In one example, the memory unit 13 stores a comparison table or a relational expression that represents the relationship between illuminance and luminance. The control unit 14 can set the luminance of the display unit 12 based on the comparison table or the relational expression.

[0042] Next, the control unit 14 sets the lightness of the second region R2 based on the set brightness of the display unit 12 (step S200). The lightness of the second region R2 is one of the three attributes (hue, lightness, and saturation) of the color of the second region R2 and refers to the degree of lightness when the color is classified by brightness. The higher the lightness, the brighter the color and closer to white, and the lower the lightness, the darker the color and closer to black. The control unit 14 can increase the lightness of the display unit 12, for example, by displaying an image including colors approaching white in the second region R2. Similarly, the control unit 14 can decrease the lightness of the display unit 12 by displaying an image including colors close to gray or black in the second region R2.

[0043] The second region R2 may be filled with the same color, or may include multiple colors with the same brightness but different hues or saturations. The second region R2 may also include sub-regions containing colors with brightnesses different from the brightness set in step S200.

[0044] When setting the brightness, the control unit 14 may set it to any value within the settable range, may select from predetermined values, or may select from predetermined levels (for example, three levels: "high," "medium," and "low").

[0045] When the brightness of the display unit 12 is set high, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 increases. The brightness of the entire display unit 12 may cause the user to feel dazzled. The brightness of the entire display unit 12 refers to the subjective visual sensation experienced by the user when light from the display unit 12 enters the user's eyes. For example, when the brightness of the display unit 12 becomes relatively high, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 increases. When the brightness of the image displayed on the screen of the display unit 12 increases, or when the proportion of bright areas increases, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 also increases.

[0046] In step S200, the control unit 14 sets the brightness of the second region R2 so that the brightness of the second region R2 decreases as the brightness of the display unit 12 increases. For example, when the electronic device 10 is in a dark place, the control unit 14 sets the brightness of the display unit 12 relatively high and the brightness of the second region R2 relatively low. By setting the brightness in this manner, it is possible to improve situations where the user feels dazzled.

[0047] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing the screen SS3 of the display unit 12 of the electronic device 10 according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 5A, the control unit 14 sets the luminance of the display unit 12 to "high" in step S100, and then sets the brightness of the second region R2 to "low" in accordance with the "high" luminance in step S200. Compared to the example of FIG. 3B ("medium" luminance, "medium" brightness), the brightness of the second region R2 in the example of FIG. 5A decreases as the luminance of the display unit 12 increases. In this way, even if the luminance is relatively high, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 can be suppressed, providing the user with a comfortable visual experience.

[0048] Similarly, when the electronic device 10 is in a bright location, the control unit 14 sets the luminance of the display unit 12 to a relatively low level and the brightness of the second region R2 to a relatively high level. FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram illustrating a screen SS4 of the display unit 12 of the electronic device 10 according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 5B , the control unit 14 sets the luminance of the display unit 12 to "low" in step S100, and then sets the brightness of the second region R2 to "high" in accordance with the "low" luminance in step S200. Compared to the example of FIG. 3B ("medium" luminance, "medium" brightness), the brightness of the second region R2 increases in the example of FIG. 5B as the luminance of the display unit 12 decreases. In this way, in a bright environment, power consumption can be reduced by using a relatively low luminance while maintaining visual brightness, providing the user with a comfortable visual experience.

[0049] Furthermore, the control unit 14 can set the brightness of the second region R2 based on the luminance of the display unit 12 so as not to cause the user to feel uncomfortable with the brightness of the entire display unit 12. For example, the brightness of the second region R2 may be set so that the brightness of the entire display unit 12 does not change much even if the luminance changes.

[0050] In one embodiment, the storage unit 13 stores a comparison table or a relational expression that represents the relationship between the luminance of the display unit 12 and the brightness of the second region R2. The control unit 14 can set the brightness of the second region R2 based on the comparison table or the relational expression and the luminance set in step S100.

[0051] In one embodiment, the control unit 14 sets the brightness of the second region R2 based on the luminance of the display unit 12 so that the change in brightness of the entire display unit 12 is within a predetermined range. For example, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 is calculated using a predetermined mathematical formula relating the luminance of the display unit 12 and the brightness of the second region R2. In this case, a brightness setting value or setting range corresponding to the luminance set in step S100 can be calculated so that the brightness is maintained within the predetermined range.

[0052] Note that, in order to affect the brightness of the entire display unit 12 by setting the brightness of the second region R2, the control unit 14 may set the size of the second region R2 to be larger than the size of the first region R1. As shown in Fig. 3A, the entire displayable area of ​​the display unit 12 excluding the first region R1 may be set as the second region R2. As shown in Figs. 3B, 5A, and 5B, the entire displayable area of ​​the display unit 12 excluding the first region R1, the third region R3, and the fourth region R4 may be set as the second region R2.

[0053] 5C , the second region R2 may be defined as the area remaining after excluding the first region R1 and the fourth region R4 from the display area of ​​the display unit 12. In the example of FIG. 5C , the control unit 14 sets the brightness of the second region R2, which completely covers the third region R3, based on the luminance of the display unit 12. In the screen SS5 shown in FIG. 5C , the brightness of the third region R3 and the screen SS5 change along with the background portion (i.e., the portion obtained by subtracting the third region R3 from the second region R2). Note that, to maintain the visibility of the preview screen, the amount of change in brightness for the third region R3 may be smaller than the amount of change in brightness for the background portion.

[0054] As described above, control unit 14 sets the luminance of display unit 12 and the value of second region R2 (steps S100 and S200). Next, control unit 14 acquires a first image of subject 20 using image capture unit 11 at the set luminance and value (step S300). The first image is an image for analysis and can be stored in memory unit 13 for later analysis.

[0055] The control unit 14 analyzes the acquired first image to acquire read information (step S400). For example, the control unit 14 determines whether the first image contains a one-dimensional code, a two-dimensional code, or a character string written in a specific format. The control unit 14 then uses an identification program corresponding to the detected code type to acquire the character string encoded in the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code as read information. Alternatively, the control unit 14 uses a program such as optical character recognition (OCR) to recognize the character string written in a specific format and acquires the recognized character string as read information. Note that the user may input the type of barcode in advance, so that the read information can be quickly acquired using an identification program corresponding to the input type.

[0056] In one embodiment, the control unit 14 can also set the first region R1 to obtain read information from the subject 20. Figure 6 is a flowchart of another example of the control method for the electronic device of the first embodiment.

[0057] For example, the user can specify the type of subject 20 (driver's license, health insurance card, passport, etc.) via the input unit 16 and the GUI of the reading application. The control unit 14 acquires a user input specifying the type of subject 20 via the input unit 16 (step S510), and sets at least one of the shape and size of the first region R1 based on the type of subject 20 (step S520). Steps S510 and S520 are executed before step S300.

[0058] In this embodiment, the storage unit 13 stores a comparison table between the type of subject 20 and the format of the subject 20. By checking this comparison table, the control unit 14 can obtain at least one of the shape and size of the subject 20. Then, the control unit 14 sets the shape and size of the first region R1 in accordance with the obtained shape or size of the subject 20.

[0059] In one example, the first region R1 is set to have the same shape as the subject 20 or a shape that can surround the periphery of the subject 20. In one example, the first region R1 is set to have the same size as the subject 20, a size larger than the subject 20, or a size smaller than the subject 20. As shown in screens SS6 to SS8 in FIGS. 7A to 7C, the first region R1 can be set to have various shapes, sizes, or positions on the screen. For example, the first region R1 may be set to a rectangle adjacent to the image capture unit 11 ( FIG. 7A ), an oval located a certain distance from the image capture unit 11 ( FIG. 7B ), or a rectangle located near the image capture unit 11 with cut or rounded corners ( FIG. 7C ).

[0060] Furthermore, the position and size of a one-dimensional code, two-dimensional code, or character string (hereinafter referred to as a one-dimensional code, etc.) to be read from the subject 20 can be acquired by user input or by checking a lookup table based on the user input. In this case, the control unit 14 can set the position and size of the first region R1 so as to provide illumination light to the position of the one-dimensional code, etc.

[0061] Furthermore, the control unit 14 may set the color of the first region R1 based on the illuminance around the electronic device 10, the color temperature or white balance of the preview screen of the image capturing unit 11, or the current time. For example, if it is night, the control unit 14 may set the color of the first region R1 to a warm color.

[0062] In addition, in order to obtain read information from the subject 20 without dazzling the user, the control unit 14 can set the brightness of the display unit 12 and the lightness of the second region R2, as well as, for example, at least one of the size, shape, position and color of the first region R1 to the fourth region R4.

[0063] This completes the process of acquiring read information from subject 20. In this way, by providing illumination light to subject 20 through first region R1 while controlling the brightness of second region R2 (background region), the user does not feel uncomfortable with the brightness of the entire display unit 12, and a comfortable visual experience can be provided. Even if the brightness of display unit 12 increases in a dark place, the user will not feel dazzled by display unit 12, and can easily perform an operation to have electronic device 10 read a one-dimensional code or the like, thereby shortening the time until reading.

[0064] The present disclosure also provides a computer program and a storage medium for controlling the electronic device 10 .

[0065] In one embodiment, a computer program is provided that is used to cause the electronic device 10 to execute the control method for the electronic device 10 described above.

[0066] In one embodiment, the above-described computer program is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, and when the computer program is read and executed by the control unit 14 of the electronic device 10, the above-described control method is realized.

[0067] According to the configuration of the electronic device 10, the control method for the electronic device 10, the computer program, and the recording medium, it is possible to provide the user with a comfortable visual experience by providing illumination light to the subject 20 while controlling the brightness of the second region R2 (background region).

[0068] <Embodiment 2> <Changing brightness when analysis fails> In embodiment 2, when analysis of the first image fails, the control unit 14 changes the brightness of the display unit 12 and the lightness of the second region R2, and then acquires and analyzes the first image again.

[0069] Fig. 8 is a flowchart of an example of step S400 in embodiment 2. In embodiment 2, the control unit 14 executes steps S100 to S300 shown in Fig. 4, and further executes step S400 including steps S410 to S460 shown in Fig. 8.

[0070] In step S400, the control unit 14 analyzes the first image acquired in step S300 (step S410). Next, the control unit 14 determines whether the analysis was successful (step S420). If read information can be acquired by analyzing the first image, that is, if read information of a character string is acquired from a one-dimensional code or the like, the control unit 14 determines that the analysis was successful. On the other hand, if read information cannot be acquired by analyzing the first image, the control unit 14 determines that the analysis was unsuccessful.

[0071] If the analysis is successful, the control unit 14 stores or outputs the read information (step S430). For example, the control unit 14 may store the read information in the storage unit 13, output the read information to the display unit 12 for display, or output the read information to the communication unit 17 for transmission to a server or another information terminal.

[0072] If the analysis is not successful, the control unit 14 changes the luminance of the display unit 12 (step S440) and changes the brightness of the second region R2 based on the changed luminance (step S450). For example, the control unit 14 may increase the luminance of the display unit 12 and decrease the brightness of the second region R2, or may decrease the luminance of the display unit 12 and increase the brightness of the second region R2.

[0073] The control unit 14 causes the photographing unit 11 to reacquire the first image of the subject 20 at the changed luminance and brightness (step S460). Then, the control unit 14 returns to step S410 and attempts to acquire read information by analyzing the first image acquired at the changed luminance and brightness.

[0074] As described above, in the second embodiment, the lighting environment for the subject 20 is changed by changing the luminance, thereby promoting successful analysis. Furthermore, the control unit 14 also changes the brightness in accordance with the change in luminance so that the user does not feel uncomfortable with the overall brightness of the display unit 12 due to the change in luminance.

[0075] In one embodiment, the control unit 14 changes the brightness stepwise within a range from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness of the display unit 12. For example, as shown in Fig. 9, the control unit 14 changes the brightness stepwise within a range from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness of the display unit 12.

[0076] Figure 9 is a flowchart of another example of step S400 in embodiment 2. The contents of steps S410 to S430 and step S460 in Figure 9 are similar to those of steps S410 to S430 and step S460 in Figure 8, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Steps S441 to S444 in Figure 9 correspond to step S440 in Figure 8, and steps S451 and S452 in Figure 9 correspond to step S450 in Figure 8.

[0077] 9 , when changing the luminance of the display unit 12, the control unit 14 determines (step S441) whether the current luminance value (i.e., the luminance currently set on the display unit 12) is the minimum luminance of the display unit 12. If the current luminance value is the minimum luminance, the control unit 14 increases the luminance of the display unit 12 (step S442) and decreases the lightness of the second region R2 based on the increased luminance (step S451).

[0078] If the current brightness value is not the minimum brightness, the control unit 14 further determines whether the brightness is the maximum brightness of the display unit 12 (step S443). If the current brightness value is the maximum brightness, the control unit 14 reduces the brightness of the display unit 12 to the minimum brightness (step S444), and increases the lightness of the second region R2 based on the reduced brightness (step S452).

[0079] If the current brightness value is neither the minimum brightness nor the maximum brightness ("NO" in step S443), the control unit 14 executes steps S442 and S451 to increase the brightness of the display unit 12 in a stepwise manner.

[0080] In one embodiment, in step S440, the control unit 14 changes the brightness of the display unit 12 so that it gradually decreases within a range from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness. In this case, when the current brightness value is neither the minimum brightness nor the maximum brightness, the control unit 14 gradually decreases the brightness of the display unit 12 and increases the lightness of the second region R2 based on the decreased brightness. Furthermore, when the control unit 14 determines that the current brightness value is the minimum brightness, it increases the brightness of the display unit 12 to the maximum brightness.

[0081] In one embodiment, the control unit 14 randomly changes the brightness within a range from the lowest brightness to the highest brightness of the display unit 12. For example, the control unit 14 cycles through all selectable values ​​or steps from the range from the lowest brightness to the highest brightness. In one cycle, each time step S440 of FIG. 8 is executed, the control unit 14 randomly selects a brightness value or step from the range from the lowest brightness to the highest brightness without overlapping. When all selectable values ​​or steps are exhausted, the next cycle begins, and all values ​​or steps become selectable again.

[0082] In one embodiment, the control unit 14 changes the brightness of the display unit 12 according to a predetermined change pattern within a range from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness. That is, in one cycle, each time step S440 of FIG. 8 is executed, the control unit 14 selects a brightness value or level according to the change pattern. The change pattern can be set based on the current time, season, location, weather, etc., and can be stored in the memory unit 13.

[0083] According to this control, if read information cannot be obtained from the first image, the brightness of the display unit 12 is changed stepwise or randomly to provide a different lighting environment for the subject 20. Therefore, even if analysis of the first image fails, acquisition and analysis of the first image can be retried under a different lighting environment, improving the success rate of the analysis.

[0084] Third Embodiment Analysis Using Multiple First Images In the third embodiment, the control unit 14 can acquire multiple first images with different settings, and then analyze the multiple first images to acquire read information.

[0085] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for an electronic device according to embodiment 3. Embodiment 3 differs from embodiment 1 in that a plurality of first images are acquired and analyzed, and that analysis is performed using a plurality of first images. Control unit 14 repeatedly executes steps S100 to S300 in one cycle until a predetermined number of first images are acquired, the predetermined number being two or more.

[0086] In one embodiment, each of the predetermined number of first images is captured at a different brightness and luminance. To achieve this, the control unit 14 sets the brightness of the display unit 12 so that it changes gradually or randomly within one cycle, and then sets the luminance of the second region R2 in accordance with the set brightness (step S200). Here, as in the second embodiment, the control unit 14 can change the brightness of the display unit 12 gradually or randomly within a range from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness.

[0087] When the control unit 14 determines that the number of first images acquired with different settings has reached a predetermined number ("YES" in step S600), it analyzes the predetermined number of first images and acquires read information from one-dimensional codes or the like contained in the first images.

[0088] With this type of control, even if some of the first images do not contain one-dimensional codes or are unclear, other first images can be used to compensate, thereby improving the success rate of analysis.

[0089] <Fourth Embodiment> <Brightness Setting Using Preview Screen> In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 14 acquires a second image before acquiring a first image for analysis, and sets the brightness of the display unit 12 and the lightness of the second region R2 based on the second image. Appropriate settings can improve the success rate of the analysis.

[0090] Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for an electronic device according to embodiment 4. The contents of steps S300 and S400 in Fig. 11 are the same as those of steps S300 and S400 in Fig. 4 according to embodiment 1, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0091] In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 14 acquires a second image that can be displayed on the preview screen by the image capturing unit 11 (step S710). In one example, the second image is an image (through image) to be displayed on the preview screen of the third region R3. In another example, the second image is an image that assists in setting the luminance of the display unit 12 and the brightness of the second region R2, and is not displayed on the display unit 12.

[0092] The control unit 14 calculates the brightness of the acquired second image and determines whether the brightness of the second image is lower than the first brightness threshold (step S720). If the brightness of the second image is lower than the first brightness threshold, the one-dimensional code or the like contained in the image may be too dark, potentially resulting in a failed analysis. Therefore, in this case, the control unit 14 increases the brightness of the display unit 12 (step S100a) and decreases the brightness of the second region R2 based on the increased brightness (step S200a). Next, the control unit 14 acquires a first image at the increased brightness (step S300). Compared to the second image, the first image is captured in a relatively bright environment, so it has a relatively high brightness and is therefore more suitable for analysis.

[0093] If the brightness of the second image is equal to or greater than the first brightness threshold, the control unit 14 further determines whether the brightness of the second image is equal to or greater than the second brightness threshold (step S730), and the second brightness threshold is higher than the first brightness threshold. If the brightness of the second image is equal to or greater than the second brightness threshold, the one-dimensional code or the like contained in the image may be too bright, potentially resulting in a failed analysis. Therefore, in this case, the control unit 14 reduces the brightness of the display unit 12 (step S100b), increases the brightness of the second region R2 based on the reduced brightness (step S200b), and acquires the first image (step S300). Compared to the second image, the first image is captured in a relatively dark environment and therefore has a relatively low brightness, making it more suitable for analysis.

[0094] Furthermore, if the brightness of the second image is equal to or greater than the first brightness threshold but lower than the second brightness threshold, it is considered that the one-dimensional code or the like contained in the image is not too dark or too bright and is easy to analyze. Therefore, in this case, the control unit 14 maintains the brightness of the display unit 12 at the current value (step S100c), and also maintains the brightness of the second region R2 at the current value (step S200c), and then acquires the first image (step S300).

[0095] By setting the brightness of the display unit 12 and the brightness of the second region R2 in this way, the first image for analysis has appropriate brightness, which improves the success rate of analyzing one-dimensional codes and the like included in the first image.

[0096] Fifth Embodiment <Countermeasures against Whiteout (Halation)> In the fifth embodiment, the control unit 14 can reduce the possibility of acquiring a whiteout image and improve the success rate of analyzing read information.

[0097] Fig. 12 is a flowchart of an example of a control method for an electronic device according to embodiment 5. The contents of steps S300 and S400 in Fig. 12 are the same as those of steps S300 and S400 in Fig. 4 according to embodiment 1, and the contents of steps S100b, S100c, S200b, and S200c in Fig. 12 are the same as those of steps S100b, S100c, S200b, and S200c in Fig. 11 according to embodiment 4, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0098] Before acquiring the first image for analysis, the control unit 14 acquires a second image of the subject 20 to determine whether or not overexposure may occur (step S810). The second image can be displayed on the preview screen after acquisition, but does not have to be displayed on the display unit 12.

[0099] The control unit 14 determines whether the second image contains blown-out highlights (step S820). Blown-out highlights refer to the loss of gradation in bright areas of an image due to excessive lighting or reflection, resulting in a whiteout. The control unit 14 can detect blown-out highlights by analyzing the histogram or RGB values ​​of the pixels of the second image. In one example, if the histogram of the pixels of the second image contains a small amount of extremely bright areas, the control unit 14 determines that the second image contains blown-out highlights. In another example, if the proportion of pixels in the second image whose RGB values ​​are all 255 exceeds a predetermined proportion, the control unit 14 determines that the second image contains blown-out highlights. Note that other blown-out highlight detection techniques are also applicable to the present disclosure.

[0100] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing blown-out highlights in the fifth embodiment. The second image displayed in the third region R3 on the screen SS9 in Figure 13 is entirely white, with the outlines and gradations of some objects lost. The two-dimensional code included in this second image also has blown-out highlights, making some of the content of the two-dimensional code invisible. Even if such a two-dimensional code is analyzed, it may not be possible to obtain the correct reading information, resulting in a failed analysis.

[0101] If the second image contains blown-out highlights, it is possible that excessive illumination or reflection is being applied to the subject 20. Therefore, the control unit 14 performs steps S100b and S200b to reduce the brightness of the display unit 12 before acquiring the first image for analysis. On the other hand, if the second image does not contain blown-out highlights, the control unit 14 may perform steps S100c and S200c to acquire the first image for analysis using the current setting values.

[0102] The control unit 14 can also determine whether or not there is blown-out highlights in the first image. If it determines that there is blown-out highlights in the first image, the control unit 14 reduces the brightness of the display unit 12 and increases the brightness of the second region, and then acquires and analyzes the first image again.

[0103] If blown-out highlights are detected, the brightness of the display unit 12 is reduced before acquiring the first image for analysis, thereby reducing the possibility of blown-out highlights occurring in the first image and improving the success rate of the analysis.

[0104] Sixth Embodiment Example of Changes to First Region R1 As described above, the first region R1 can be filled with at least one color, such as white. That is, the control unit 14 may display one or more colors in the first region R1. In the sixth embodiment, in order to improve the situation in which the user feels dazzled or to reduce overexposure, the control unit 14 can set various patterns for the brightness of the first region R1.

[0105] In one example, the user can specify a pattern for the first region R1. The control unit 14 acquires user input including the pattern specification and displays the specified pattern in the first region R1. In another example, the control unit 14 automatically selects a color or pattern for the first region R1 based on the current time, season, location, weather, or the like, and displays the selected color or pattern in the first region R1.

[0106] 14A to 14F are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of the first region R1 according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 14A to 14E, the first region R1 may include multiple sub-regions with different brightness levels.

[0107] In the pattern shown in FIG. 14A , the first region R1 includes a first sub-region R1a and a second sub-region R1b, each having different brightness levels. The first sub-region R1a is located in the center of the first region R1. The second region R1b is located surrounding the first sub-region R1a. The brightness of the first sub-region R1a is lower than that of the second sub-region R1b. That is, the center of the first region R1 has a relatively low brightness area. Using this pattern, less illumination light is provided to the center of the subject 20 than to the periphery of the subject 20. In such a lighting environment, the likelihood of overexposure in the first or second image is reduced, improving the success rate of analyzing the first image. Furthermore, displaying the first sub-region R1a, which has a relatively low brightness, can alleviate situations where the user experiences glare.

[0108] In the pattern shown in Fig. 14B, the first region R1 includes a relatively bright first sub-region R1a and a relatively dark second region R1b surrounding the first sub-region R1a. The pattern in Fig. 14B differs from the pattern in Fig. 14A in that the second region R1b has a higher brightness and is larger in size.

[0109] 14C, the first region R1 includes a first sub-region R1a located at the center of the first region R1, a second region R1b surrounding the first sub-region R1a, and a third region R1c surrounding the second sub-region R1b. The brightness of the first sub-region R1a is lower than that of the second sub-region R1b, which is lower than that of the third sub-region R1c.

[0110] Note that the patterns in Figures 14A to 14C are formed by overlapping multiple rectangles that become darker from the outside to the inside, but the first region R1 may also include sub-regions of other shapes, and the positions of the multiple sub-regions may not be aligned but may be offset from each other.

[0111] In the pattern shown in FIG. 14D , the first region R1 includes a relatively bright first sub-region R1a and a relatively dark second region R1b. The relatively dark second region R1b is provided along part of the edge of the first region R1, rather than in the center of the first region R1. In the example shown in FIG. 14 , the second region R1b is provided adjacent to the lower edge of the first region R1. When a user holds the subject 20 and has the image captured by the image capture unit 11, the edge portion of the first region R1 is more likely to be seen by the user than the central portion. Therefore, by providing the relatively dark second region R1b in at least part of the edge of the first region R1, it is possible to alleviate situations where the user feels dazzled.

[0112] In the pattern shown in Fig. 14E, the first region R1 includes a relatively bright first sub-region R1a and a relatively dark second region R1b provided on the edge of the first region R1. The pattern in Fig. 14E differs from the pattern in Fig. 14D in that there are multiple second regions R1b and that the second regions R1b are provided adjacent to the left and right edges of the first region R1.

[0113] In the pattern shown in Figure 14F, the first region R1 includes a gradient in which the brightness decreases from the edge to the center. The gradient in brightness may be a linear gradient, a radial gradient, or a gradient with other variations. The area of ​​the gradient with the lowest brightness may be located in the center, the edge, or another location of the first region R1.

[0114] The control unit 14 can select an appropriate pattern from various patterns based on the user's designation, the current time, and the surrounding environment, and display it in the first region R1. These patterns can provide the user with a comfortable visual experience in various environments by reducing blown-out highlights, improving the success rate of analysis, and improving dazzling conditions.

[0115] Seventh Embodiment Control of Third Region R3 When the preview screen of the image capturing unit 11 is displayed in the third region R3 of the display unit 12, the user may feel dazzled by the brightness of the third region R3 depending on the brightness of the display unit 12 or the surrounding environment of the electronic device 10. In the seventh embodiment, the control unit 14 controls the third region R3 to improve the situation in which the user feels dazzled.

[0116] In one embodiment, the control unit 14 reduces the third region R3 to improve the dazzling situation. Figure 15 is a flowchart of an example of a control method for an electronic device according to embodiment 7. The contents of steps S100 to S400 in Figure 15 are the same as steps S100 to S400 in Figure 4 according to embodiment 1, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0117] In the control method for an electronic device, the control unit 14 can change the size of the third region R3 based on the luminance of the display unit 12. In one example, the control unit 14 sets the size of the third region R3 so that the size of the third region R3 decreases as the luminance of the display unit 12 increases (step S910). When the second region R2 is set as the displayable area of ​​the display unit 12 excluding the third region R3, the size of the second region R2 changes in accordance with the change in the size of the third region R3.

[0118] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the third region R3 in the seventh embodiment. In the screen SS10 of FIG. 16, the size of the third region R3 before change is indicated by a dashed rectangle. Note that the second region R2 and the third region R3 do not overlap in the example shown in FIG. 16. If the brightness of the display unit 12 is high, the user is likely to feel dazzled by the display unit 12. Here, the control unit 14 increases the brightness of the display unit 12 and decreases the brightness of the second region R2, thereby reducing the size of the third region R3. Because the brightness of the second region R2 is decreased, the third region R3 is reduced, and the second region R2 in the background portion is increased, the glare felt by the user is alleviated.

[0119] In one example, the control unit 14 reduces the bright areas in the third region R3 to improve the dazzling situation. Figure 17 is a flowchart of another example of the control method for the electronic device according to embodiment 7. The contents of steps S100 to S400 in Figure 17 are the same as steps S100 to S400 in Figure 4 according to embodiment 1, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0120] In this method for controlling an electronic device, the control unit 14 acquires a second image that can be displayed on a preview screen (step S920) and determines whether the second image contains a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code (step S930). That is, the control unit 14 determines whether a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code has been detected in the second image. If a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code has been detected in the second image, the control unit 14 enlarges the detected code portion and displays it in the third region R3 (step S940). Generally, one-dimensional or two-dimensional codes contain many black areas, resulting in low brightness throughout the code. Even if the brightness of the display unit 12 is increased, enlarging the code portion will result in a large proportion of low-brightness areas in the third region R3, making the entire third region R3 appear relatively dark.

[0121] 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the third region R3 in the seventh embodiment. The QR code is displayed in an enlarged manner in the third region R3 of the screen SS11 in FIG. 18. Therefore, even if the brightness of the display unit 12 is increased, the entire third region R3 appears relatively dark, reducing the glare felt by the user. Furthermore, the enlarged one-dimensional or two-dimensional code makes it easier for the user to recognize the state of the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

[0122] On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no one-dimensional or two-dimensional code in the second image, the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code cannot be analyzed to obtain read information. In this case, the control unit 14 displays a notice on the display unit 12 indicating that a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code has not been detected (step S950). This notice prompts the user to change the position or angle of the subject 20 so that the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code can be captured.

[0123] By controlling the size or display content of the third region R3 in this way, the brightness perceived by the user in the third region R3 can be reduced.

[0124] The present disclosure also provides a computer program and a storage medium for a control method for the electronic device 10 corresponding to the second to seventh embodiments.

[0125] The configurations of the above-described first to seventh embodiments can be combined. For example, it is possible to combine the configuration of any one of the second to fourth embodiments with at least one of the configurations of the first, fifth to seventh embodiments.

[0126] (Other Embodiments) (Additional Notes) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0127] (Technology 1) An electronic device including: a photographing unit that photographs a subject; a display unit that is provided on the same side of the electronic device as the photographing unit and that displays a first area that irradiates illumination light onto the subject and a second area that does not overlap with the first area; and a control unit that controls the photographing unit and the display unit, wherein the control unit sets the luminance of the display unit, sets the brightness of the second area based on the luminance of the display unit, obtains a first image of the subject using the photographing unit, and obtains a readout report by analyzing the first image.

[0128] Such an electronic device can provide illumination light to the subject 20 via the first region R1, while not causing the user to feel uncomfortable with the brightness of the entire display unit 12, and can provide a comfortable visual experience.

[0129] (Technology 2) The electronic device described in Technology 1, wherein the subject is an object including a one-dimensional code, an object including a two-dimensional code, or an identification card, and the read information includes a character string coded in the one-dimensional code, a character string coded in the two-dimensional code, or a character string written on the identification card.

[0130] Such electronic devices can analyze a variety of one-dimensional codes, two-dimensional codes, or character strings.

[0131] (Technology 3) The electronic device according to Technology 1 or 2, wherein the control unit sets the brightness of the second area so that the brightness of the second area decreases as the brightness of the display unit increases.

[0132] According to such an electronic device, even if the brightness becomes relatively high, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 can be suppressed, and a comfortable visual experience can be provided to the user.

[0133] (Technology 4) The electronic device described in Technology 3, wherein the control unit sets the brightness of the second region based on the luminance of the display unit so as not to cause discomfort to the user with respect to the brightness of the entire display unit.

[0134] Such an electronic device can provide a comfortable visual experience to the user without causing discomfort to the user due to the brightness of the entire display unit.

[0135] (Technology 5) The electronic device described in Technology 4, wherein the control unit sets the brightness of the second area based on the luminance of the display unit so that the change in brightness of the entire display unit is within a predetermined range.

[0136] Such an electronic device can suppress changes in brightness of the entire display unit, providing the user with a comfortable visual experience.

[0137] (Technology 6) When the control unit cannot obtain the read information by analyzing the first image, the control unit further changes the brightness of the display unit in a stepwise or random manner within a range from the lowest brightness to the highest brightness, changes the brightness of the second area based on the changed brightness, obtains a first image of the subject at the changed brightness and brightness using the photographing unit, and obtains the read information by analyzing the first image obtained at the changed brightness and brightness, an electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5.

[0138] With such an electronic device, even if analysis of the first image fails, a different lighting environment can be provided and the acquisition and analysis of the first image can be retried under a different lighting environment, thereby improving the success rate of the analysis.

[0139] (Technology 7) The electronic device described in Technology 6, wherein the control unit, when the read information cannot be obtained by analyzing the first image and the brightness is at the maximum brightness, lowers the brightness of the display unit and increases the brightness of the second area, and when the read information cannot be obtained by analyzing the first image and the brightness of the display unit is not at the maximum brightness, increases the brightness of the display unit and decreases the brightness of the second area.

[0140] According to such an electronic device, the brightness of the display unit 12 can be changed efficiently within the range from the minimum brightness to the maximum brightness without overlapping the set values.

[0141] (Technology 8) An electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5, wherein the control unit sets different brightnesses and brightnesses of the second area based on the brightnesses, acquires multiple first images of the subject using the photographing unit at different settings, and acquires the read information by analyzing the multiple first images.

[0142] According to such an electronic device, analysis can be performed using a plurality of first images, thereby improving the success rate of the analysis.

[0143] (Technology 9) When setting the brightness of the display unit, the control unit acquires a second image that can be displayed on a preview screen using the imaging unit, and if the brightness of the second image is lower than a first brightness threshold, sets the brightness of the display unit to be increased, and if the brightness of the second image is equal to or higher than a second brightness threshold, sets the brightness of the display unit to be decreased, and the second brightness threshold is higher than the first brightness threshold, an electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5.

[0144] According to such an electronic device, the first image for analysis has appropriate brightness, which can improve the success rate of analyzing a one-dimensional code or the like included in the first image.

[0145] (Technology 10) An electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 9, wherein the control unit further acquires a second image that can be displayed on a preview screen using the photographing unit, and if it determines that the second image has blown-out highlights, reduces the brightness of the display unit and increases the lightness of the second area.

[0146] Such an electronic device can reduce the possibility of whiteout occurring in the first image, thereby improving the success rate of the analysis.

[0147] (Technology 11) The electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 10, wherein the electronic device further includes an illuminance sensor that is provided on the same side of the electronic device as the imaging unit and that detects the illuminance around the electronic device, and the control unit further sets the luminance of the display unit so that the luminance of the display unit increases as the detected illuminance decreases.

[0148] Such an electronic device allows the brightness to be set to suit the lighting environment around the electronic device, thereby improving the success rate of analysis.

[0149] (Technique 12) The electronic device according to any one of Techniques 1 to 11, wherein the first region includes a plurality of sub-regions with different brightness levels.

[0150] (Technology 13) An electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 12, wherein the first region includes a first sub-region in the center of the first region and a second sub-region surrounding the first sub-region, and the brightness of the first sub-region is lower than the brightness of the second sub-region.

[0151] (Technology 14) The electronic device according to any one of Techniques 1 to 11, wherein the first region includes a gradation in which the brightness decreases from the edge toward the center.

[0152] Such a first region can improve situations where the user feels dazzled or where overexposure occurs.

[0153] (Technology 15) An electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 14, wherein the electronic device further includes an input unit that acquires user input specifying the type of subject, and the control unit further acquires the user input using the input unit and sets at least one of the shape and size of the first area based on the type of subject.

[0154] According to such an electronic device, it is possible to set a first region suited to the type of subject, thereby improving the success rate of analysis.

[0155] (Technology 16) An electronic device described in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the display unit further displays a third area for displaying a preview screen, and the second area is an area obtained by excluding the first area from the displayable area of ​​the display unit, or an area obtained by excluding the first area and the third area from the displayable area of ​​the display unit.

[0156] According to such an electronic device, by controlling the brightness of the second region R2, even if the luminance is relatively high, the brightness of the entire display unit 12 can be reduced, thereby providing the user with a comfortable visual experience.

[0157] (Technology 17) An electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 16, wherein the display unit further displays a third area for displaying a preview screen, and the control unit further sets the size of the third area so that the size of the third area decreases as the brightness of the display unit increases.

[0158] According to such an electronic device, even if the brightness of the display unit increases, the third region becomes smaller and the second region of the background becomes larger, so that the glare felt by the user is reduced.

[0159] (Technology 18) An electronic device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 17, wherein the display unit further displays a third area for displaying a preview screen, and the control unit further acquires a second image that can be displayed on the preview screen using the photographing unit, and if it determines that the second image contains a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, enlarges a portion of the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code and displays it in the third area.

[0160] According to such an electronic device, even if the brightness of the display unit is high, the entire third area appears relatively dark, and the glare felt by the user is reduced.

[0161] (Technology 19) A control method for an electronic device, wherein a display unit of the electronic device displays a first area for irradiating a subject with illumination light and a second area that does not overlap the first area, the control method including the steps of: setting the luminance of the display unit; setting the brightness of the second area based on the luminance of the display unit; acquiring a first image of the subject using a photographing unit of the electronic device; and acquiring read information by analyzing the first image.

[0162] (Technology 20) A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium realizing the control method of claim 19 when the computer program is executed by a processor.

[0163] Such a control method and storage medium can provide illumination light to the subject 20 through the first region R1, while providing a comfortable visual experience to the user without causing discomfort to the user with respect to the brightness of the entire display unit 12.

[0164] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present disclosure, and the scope of protection of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The present disclosure includes the contents described above in the drawings and the specific embodiments described above, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various disclosed embodiments or examples can be combined without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Modifications that do not depart from the functional and structural principles of the present disclosure are within the scope of the claims.

[0165] 10 Electronic device 11 Photography unit 12 Display unit 13 Memory unit 14 Control unit 15 Illuminance sensor 16 Input unit 17 Communication unit 20 Subject R1 First region R1a First sub-region R1b Second sub-region R1c Third sub-region R2 Second region R3 Third region R4 Fourth region R5 Code region SS1 to SS11 Screen

Claims

1. It is an electronic device, The photography department, which photographs the subjects, The electronic device includes a display unit provided on the same side as the imaging unit, which displays a first region for illuminating the subject with illumination light and a second region that does not overlap with the first region. A control unit that controls the imaging unit and the display unit, Includes, The control unit, Set the brightness of the display unit, Based on the brightness of the display unit, the brightness of the second region is set. The imaging unit acquires a first image of the subject, By analyzing the first image, the reading information is obtained. electronic equipment.

2. The subject is an object containing a one-dimensional code, an object containing a two-dimensional code, or an identification document. The read information includes a string encoded in the one-dimensional code, a string encoded in the two-dimensional code, or a string written on the identification document. The electronic device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit sets the brightness of the second region such that the brightness of the second region decreases as the brightness of the display unit increases. The electronic device according to claim 1.

4. The control unit sets the brightness of the second region based on the brightness of the display unit so as not to cause any discomfort to the user with respect to the overall brightness of the display unit. The electronic device according to claim 3.

5. The control unit sets the brightness of the second region based on the brightness of the display unit so that the change in the overall brightness of the display unit falls within a predetermined range. The electronic device according to claim 4.

6. If the control unit cannot obtain the reading information by analyzing the first image, The brightness of the display unit is changed stepwise or randomly within the range from the lowest brightness to the highest brightness. Based on the changed brightness, the brightness of the second region is changed. With the changed brightness and lightness, the imaging unit acquires a first image of the subject. The reading information is obtained by analyzing the first image acquired with the modified brightness and lightness. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The control unit, If the reading information cannot be obtained by analyzing the first image, and the brightness is at the maximum brightness, the brightness of the display unit is reduced and the brightness of the second area is increased. If the reading information cannot be obtained by analyzing the first image, and the brightness of the display unit is not the maximum brightness, the brightness of the display unit is increased and the brightness of the second area is decreased. The electronic device according to claim 6.

8. The control unit, Set different brightness levels and the brightness of the second region based on the brightness level. Multiple first images of the subject are acquired by the shooting unit with different settings. By analyzing the plurality of first images, the reading information is obtained. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. When the control unit sets the brightness of the display unit, The aforementioned imaging unit acquires a second image that can be displayed on the preview screen, If the brightness of the second image is lower than the first brightness threshold, the brightness of the display unit is increased. If the brightness of the second image is greater than or equal to the second brightness threshold, the brightness of the display unit is reduced, and if the second brightness threshold is higher than the first brightness threshold, The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. The control unit further, The aforementioned imaging unit acquires a second image that can be displayed on the preview screen, If it is determined that there is overexposure in the second image, the brightness of the display unit is reduced and the brightness of the second area is increased. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. The aforementioned electronic device is An illuminance sensor is provided on the same side as the imaging unit in the aforementioned electronic device for detecting the illuminance around the electronic device. It further includes, The control unit further sets the brightness of the display unit so that the brightness of the display unit increases as the detected illuminance decreases. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. The first region includes a plurality of sub-regions with different brightness levels. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

13. The first region includes a first sub-region located in the center of the first region and a second sub-region surrounding the first sub-region, wherein the brightness of the first sub-region is lower than the brightness of the second sub-region. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. The first region includes a gradient in which the brightness decreases from the edge towards the center. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

15. The aforementioned electronic device is Input unit that acquires user input specifying the type of subject It further includes, The control unit further, The input unit acquires the user input, Based on the type of subject, at least one of the shape and size of the first region is set. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

16. The display unit further displays a third area for displaying a preview screen, The second region is the region obtained by subtracting the first region from the displayable region of the display unit, or the region obtained by subtracting the first region and the third region from the displayable region of the display unit. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

17. The display unit further displays a third area for displaying a preview screen, The control unit further sets the size of the third region such that the size of the third region decreases as the brightness of the display unit increases. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

18. The display unit further displays a third area for displaying a preview screen, The control unit further, The aforementioned imaging unit acquires a second image that can be displayed on the preview screen, If it is determined that the second image contains a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, the portion containing the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code is enlarged and displayed in the third region. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

19. A method for controlling electronic equipment, The display unit of the electronic device displays a first region onto which illumination light is shone onto the subject, and a second region that does not overlap with the first region. The control method described above is The steps include setting the brightness of the display unit, The steps include setting the brightness of the second region based on the brightness of the display unit, The steps include acquiring a first image of the subject using the imaging unit of the electronic device, The first step involves analyzing the aforementioned first image to obtain reading information, including, Control method.

20. A non-temporary, computer-readable storage medium on which computer programs are stored, When the computer program is executed by the processor, the control method described in claim 19 is realized. A non-temporary, computer-readable storage medium.