JP2000059481A - Switch input device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize functions such as jig job dialing with a simpler structure by detecting a 1st operating direction which corresponds to an operation of a 2nd switch after the operation of a 1st switch or a 2nd operating direction which corresponds to the operation of the 1st switch after the operation of the 2nd switch. SOLUTION: Although switches 8, 9 are placed closely to each other, the switches 8, 9 are depressed separately by a thumb. For example, when the switch 8 is depressed for a short time, the switch 8 gives a command for the display for a preceding screen. When the switch 8 is depressed for a time longer than this time interval, the preceding image displayed becomes a scroll at a prescribed speed. It is possible to depress the switch 9 after the thumb depressed the switch 8, and conversely it is possible to depress the switch 8 after the thumb depressed the switch 9. The direction of scrolling is commanded, depending on the direction of a 'scrubbing' operation, and the speed of scrolling is commanded by the speed of the 'scrubbing' operation.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an input device using a switch, and more particularly to a portable information device which can be used while being held by one hand, for example, a PDA, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a PHS, a portable information terminal device. The present invention relates to a switch input device suitable for use in, for example, a portable information device using the same.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIG. 15 shows a conventional example of a portable telephone which is a kind of portable information equipment. In the figure, 10
0 is a housing of a mobile phone, 1 is an antenna, 10 is 1-1.
A keyboard switch including a key of 0, an LCD display 11 for displaying a telephone number input for a call, a telephone directory or the like as a database as two-dimensional information such as characters and symbols, and an LCD display 11 A push button switch for displaying a previous screen (or previously displayed data) on
Are push button switches for displaying the next screen (or data to be displayed next) on the LCD display 11;
1 is a receiver, and 102 is a transmitter.

[0003] This type of portable telephone has a so-called telephone directory function as a database. That is, characters and numerals can be input by a specific combination of the keyboard switch 10 of the mobile phone, and a plurality of data such as names and telephone numbers can be stored in the built-in nonvolatile memory. When this telephone directory is used, the keyboard switch 10 instructs the telephone to display a telephone number list in the telephone directory.

[0004] However, the small-screen display 11 of the portable telephone cannot display a list of telephone numbers at one time. Therefore, in order to display a list of telephone numbers on the small-screen display device 11, a switch input device is used.
Switches 8 and 9 are used. For example, when the user presses the switch 8, the data on the telephone number list (or the data displayed last time) located above the name and telephone number currently displayed on the screen is displayed on the screen of the display 11. Is done. When the switch 9 is pressed, data on the telephone number list (or data to be displayed next time) located below the name and telephone number currently displayed on the screen is displayed. After a desired telephone number is displayed on the screen of the display 11 by operating the switches 8 and 9, when a predetermined key of the keyboard switch is operated, a call is automatically performed and a call is made.

On the other hand, in order to search a telephone number list or the like more quickly, as shown in FIG.
There is also a mobile phone equipped with the 03. In FIG.
The same reference numerals are given to the portions corresponding to and the description of such portions will be omitted.

A jog dial mechanism (not shown) can simultaneously input two types of commands by one operation depending on the rotation direction of the dial and the rotation speed of the dial. Therefore, when the jog dial 103 is used instead of the switches 8 and 9 described above, not only the scrolling (screen moving) direction of the display screen (or display data) but also the scroll speed (screen moving speed) of the display screen can be specified. . For example, when the target name / telephone number is far from the current display position, the user quickly rotates the jog dial 103 to quickly reach the vicinity of the target name / telephone number, and then slowly rotates the jog dial. By doing so, it is possible to stop at the desired name and telephone number. In other words, it is possible to quickly select an object from among many options.

[0007]

However, since the jog dial system has a rotating dial mechanism, the structure is more complicated than that using a switch and the price is high. In the jog dial mechanism, since a part of the operation dial projects outside the housing, it is difficult to adopt a waterproof structure. In addition, since the jog dial mechanism occupies a relatively large space as compared with a switch, it is difficult to reduce the size of the device, especially in a portable device that requires one-handed operation and requires a small size.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a switch input device capable of realizing a function like a jog dial with a simpler structure.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a portable information device such as a portable telephone device provided with a switch input device which has solved the above-mentioned problems.

[0010]

In order to achieve the above object, a switch input device according to the present invention comprises at least a first and a second device which are disposed close to each other within a range which can be simultaneously operated by one finger.
And when the two switches are respectively operated, the first operation direction or the first operation direction corresponding to the second switch operation after the first switch operation in accordance with the operation order of the two switches. An operation direction detecting circuit for detecting a second operation direction corresponding to the first switch operation after the second switch operation, and an operation mutual operation of the two switches when each of the two switches is operated. An operation interval detection circuit for detecting a time interval between the two.

With this configuration, in addition to the conventional input function using a switch, it is possible to specify forward and backward directions and to input a moving speed. This is effective, for example, for specifying the direction of screen movement (scroll) of the screen of the display device and the speed of screen movement. That is, the function of the jog dial can be realized by the switch.

Further, the portable information device of the present invention has a memory for holding a plurality of data to be displayed visually, a display for displaying the data two-dimensionally, and a display within a range which can be simultaneously operated by one finger. At least first and second
And when the two switches are respectively operated, the first operation direction or the first operation direction corresponding to the second switch operation after the first switch operation in accordance with the operation order of the two switches. An operation direction detecting circuit for detecting a second operation direction corresponding to the first switch operation after the second switch operation, and an operation mutual operation of the two switches when each of the two switches is operated. An operation interval detection circuit for detecting a time interval between the first and second operation directions, and a moving direction of the screen of the display corresponding to the detected first or second operation direction; And a control unit for setting a moving speed of the screen.

[0013] With this configuration, it is possible to obtain a portable information device capable of performing variable-speed scrolling of the display screen with two switches.

The first and second switches preferably include the first and second switches on a side surface of a device housing that can be held by one hand. This makes it possible to instruct scrolling with the finger of the one hand while holding the portable information device with one hand.

Preferably, the first and second switches are thin push button switches formed in a sheet shape and have a waterproof structure.

A portable telephone device according to the present invention has a memory for storing a plurality of data, at least two switches disposed adjacent to each other on one surface of a portable housing, and visually displays the data. A display unit, and a control unit that controls a display mode of the data according to a combination of outputs of the two switches, wherein the control unit is configured to operate when only one of the two switches is operated. Is interpreted as a command of the first display mode, and when one of the two switches is operated and the other switch is subsequently operated within a predetermined period of time, When the above two switches are operated simultaneously, the third
In the display mode.

Preferably, the two switches are provided in a region where a user should grip the housing, and are close to each other so that the two switches can be operated by one finger.

[0018]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of a mobile phone as a mobile information device to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 1A is a front view, and FIG. 1B is a right side view. In both figures, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a case of a portable telephone which can be held by one hand, 101 denotes a receiver, 102 denotes a transmitter,
1 is an antenna, 10 is a keyboard switch including 1 to 10 keys and special characters, and 11 is a larger switch for displaying an inputted telephone number or a telephone directory in a database as two-dimensional information such as characters and symbols. It is an LCD display made into a screen.

On the right side of the housing 100 on the right side of the display 11, switches 8 and 9 belonging to a push button type are provided close to each other. Both switches are integrally formed by a thin structure in which conductive film sheets, film sheets and the like are laminated. The surfaces of these switches are covered with a film sheet cover 104 which also serves as protection and waterproofing. The switches 8 and 9 are preferably arranged so that when the user holds the mobile phone with one hand, the switches fall within the holding range. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, by disposing it on the right side of the casing 100 near the display 11,
00 and the following operations (individual, rubbing, and simultaneous) of the switches 8 and 9 with one finger (for example, the thumb) can be performed. Note that the positions of the switches 8 and 9 are
May be on the left side or front side.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation modes of the switches 8 and 9. FIG. For example, when the mobile phone is held in the right hand, since the switches 8 and 9 are arranged close to each other, the switches 8 and 9 are respectively separated by the thumb as shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b). Can be pressed. For example, when the switch 8 is pressed for a short time, a command to display the previous screen (previous data) is issued. If switch 8 is pressed for a longer time,
It is a command to display the previous screen (return direction) at a constant speed. When the switch 9 is pressed for a short time, the next screen display command is issued. If the switch 9 is pressed for a longer time, the next screen at a constant speed (in the forward direction)
This is a scroll display command.

After pressing the switch 8 with the thumb (FIG. 2A), the switch 9 is pressed (FIG. 2B).
It is possible. This corresponds to the first operation direction or the forward direction of the switch operation direction. Conversely, after the switch 9 is pressed with the thumb (FIG. 2B), the switch 8 can be pressed (FIG. 2A).
This corresponds to the second operation direction or the reverse direction of the switch operation direction. The switches 8 and 9 may be arranged side by side in the left-right direction. After pressing any one of the switches 8 and 9, subsequently pressing the other switch,
Hereinafter, this operation is referred to as a “rubbing” operation. As described later, it is possible to instruct the direction of scrolling according to the direction of the rubbing operation. In addition, it is possible to instruct the speed of the scroll by the speed of the rubbing operation.

The switches 8 and 9 can be simultaneously pressed by the thumb as shown in FIG. For example, this operation can be used as a scroll stop command.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the portable telephone. In the figure, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In FIG. 1, 1 is an antenna, 2 is a transmitting and receiving unit that establishes a communication channel with a base station and enables conversation with the other party, 3 is a receiver (speaker), 4 is a transmitter (microphone), and 5 is a telephone. This is a control unit for controlling the communication operation of. 7 is a screen display control switch unit formed in a sheet shape, and 8 and 9 are two push switches provided in the switch unit 7. The outputs of switches 8 and 9 are SW8 and SW, respectively.
9 is provided to an interface 55 described later. 10
Is a keyboard switch including numeric keys from 1 to 10, special symbols, etc., and 11 is an LCD (liquid crystal display) display for displaying the inputted telephone number, guidance on operation method, telephone directory and the like. The display 11 is not limited to the LCD type.

The controller 5 controls the CPU 51 for controlling the telephone according to the control program, the RAM 52 used for data processing of the CPU 51, the ROM 53 storing the control program, data, etc., the telephone directory data, the data of the answering machine, and the like. It comprises an E2PROM (or flash memory) 54 to be held, a display control unit 54 for controlling the display of the LCD display 11, and an interface 55 for transmitting the operation of switches and the like to the CPU 51. The operation of the control unit 5 as a telephone is the same as that of a normal mobile telephone device, and the description is omitted.

FIG. 5 schematically shows a configuration of a portion of the interface 55 for decoding the outputs of the switches 8 and 9.

As described above, the switches 8 and 9 may be operated in several modes to control the display of data and the display of images. For example, the operation of a switch alone,
The operations include simultaneous operation of two switches, rubbing operation, short-time pressing operation, long-time pressing operation, and the like. Various display control commands can be made to correspond to these.

The interface 55 generates various operation flags and the like according to the operation modes of the switches 8 and 9. That is, a SW on flag for notifying the CPU that one of the switches 8 and 9 has been operated, the switches 8 and 9
, A SW8 on detection flag indicating that the switch 8 has been operated but the switch 9 has not been operated (independent operation of the switch 8), and a rubbing operation of the display screen downward. A forward variable speed scroll flag indicating that scrolling (screen movement) should be performed at a display speed corresponding to the speed, and a switch 9 indicating that switch 9 has been operated but switch 8 has not been operated (switch 9 has been operated alone). A detection flag, a reverse variable speed scroll flag indicating that the display screen should be scrolled at a display speed corresponding to the speed of the rubbing operation, and a scrolling operation at a predetermined speed in the upward direction of the display screen. A fixed forward scrolling flag indicating that scrolling should be performed at a predetermined speed downward in the display screen. Grayed, scroll speed parameters that specify the scrolling speed in the forward-backward direction of the variable scrolling, and the like. These flags and the like are stored in a state register 509 composed of an SR flip-flop group and the like.
Is held. The contents of the status register can be freely read by the CPU 51 via the bus 56. The above-described SW ON flag causes the CPU 51 to perform an interrupt process in order to perform a switch input process.

The configuration of the decoder part of FIG. 5 will be described. In the figure, the output SW8 of the switch 8 is at "L" level when the switch 8 is pressed, and at "H" level when it is not pressed. The same applies to the output SW9 of the switch 9. 501 is switches 8 and 9
A NOR gate that detects that one or both of them have been operated. Reference numeral 502 denotes a NAND gate that detects that the switches 8 and 9 are simultaneously operated, as shown in FIGS. The simultaneous on detection signal of the output of this gate is supplied to the status register 509, and the scroll stop flag is set. As shown in FIG. 7, reference numeral 503 denotes an AND gate for detecting that only the switch 8 is operated and the switch 9 is not operated, the first input of which is an inverted input. A reference numeral 504 denotes a signal A for detecting that only the switch 9 has been operated and the switch 8 has not been operated, in which the second input is an inverted input.
ND gate. As described later, for example, the switch 8
The single short-time operation is a command for displaying the previous screen, and the long-time operation is a command for scrolling at a constant speed in the reverse direction. The short-time operation of the switch 9 alone is a next screen display instruction, and the long-time operation is an instruction of a constant speed scroll in the forward direction.

Reference numerals 505 and 506 denote timers which are constituted by monostable multivibrators or the like and continue to output for a predetermined time T1 after the trigger input. 507 and 5
A timer 08 is constituted by a monostable multivibrator or the like and continuously outputs for a predetermined time T2 after the trigger input. 509 and 510 are clock input terminals C
This is a latch that holds the level of the signal supplied to the D input terminal when the signal to K rises. 511 and 5
12 is D when the signal to the CK input terminal falls.
This is a latch that holds the level of the signal supplied to the input terminal.

513 indicates that two pulses are generated when the switch 9 is operated following the switch 8 or when the switch 8 is operated following the switch 9, that is, when the rubbing operation is performed. This is the OR gate that occurs. 514 counts the two pulse intervals corresponding to the speed of the rubbing operation by the number of system clocks between them, and uses the count value as a scroll speed parameter or low speed / medium speed / high speed corresponding to the count value. Is a counter for setting the speed parameter of the control.

The timer 507 and the latch 511 configured as described above detect that the switch 8 has been pressed for a predetermined time or more.

That is, as shown in FIG. 8A, when the switch 8 is continuously pressed for a predetermined time T2 or more (for a long time), as shown in FIG. 8B, the output of the timer 507 is changed to the elapsed time T2. And the output of the gate 503 is latched 5
11, and a reverse fixed scroll signal is output to its output terminal. Similarly, timer 508 and latch 5
12 detects that the switch 9 has been pressed for a predetermined time T2 or more. When the switch 8 is continuously pressed for a predetermined time T2 or more, the output of the timer 508 falls halfway,
The output of the gate 504 is latched by the latch 512, and a forward fixed scroll signal is output to its output terminal.

The timer 505 and the latch 509 operate in a forward (or first operation direction) rubbing operation, that is,
After the switch 8 is pressed, it is detected that the switch 9 is continuously pressed. As shown in FIG. 9, the output of the timer 505 is turned on by the generation of the output SW1 indicating the operation of the switch 8, and the H level is output for a predetermined time T. If the switch 9 is operated during this time and the output SW9 is generated, the latch 509 takes in the output of the timer 505 and generates a forward variable scroll detection signal at the Q output terminal. As shown in FIG. 10, if the output SW
If 9 does not occur, the Q output of latch 509 does not occur. The Q output of the latch 509 is supplied to the status register 509, and the forward variable scroll flag is set. At this time, the interval t between the outputs SW8 and SW9 is measured by the above-described OR gate 513 and counter 514, and a value corresponding to the pulse interval t is held in the state register. When the rubbing operation is early, the count value is small, and when the rubbing operation is late, the count value is large.

For example, when the distance between the switch 8 and the switch 9 is 10 mm, the speed at which the switch is rubbed with a finger is 100 mm.
If it is mm / sec (3 cm / 0.3 sec), the pulse interval t of the output SW8, SW9 of the switches 8 and 9 is 0.1 sec (100 millisecond). The range of rubbing speed is 30m
When m / sec to 300 mm / sec, the pulse interval t is
It changes in the range of 333 ms to 33 ms.

As will be described later, the CPU 51 sets the scroll direction of the screen of the display unit downward in accordance with the setting of the forward direction variable scroll flag. Further, the scroll speed of the screen of the display is set to correspond to the above-mentioned count value. If the count value is small, the scroll speed is set to be high, and if the count value is relatively large, the scroll speed is set to be high. The scroll speed can be set to change continuously or stepwise (for example, high speed, medium speed, low speed).

The timer 506 and the latch 510 detect the reverse rubbing operation, that is, that the switch 8 is continuously pressed after the switch 9 is pressed. The output of the timer 506 is turned on by the generation of the output SW9 indicating the operation of the switch 9, and the H level is output for a predetermined time T.
During this time, when the switch 8 is operated and the output SW8 is generated, the latch 510 takes in the output of the timer 506 and generates the reverse variable scroll detection signal at the Q output terminal. This output is supplied to the status register 509, and the reverse variable scroll flag is set. At this time, the OR gate 51
3 and the counter 514 measure the interval between the outputs SW9 and SW8, and the value corresponding to the pulse interval is held in the status register. As described above, when the rubbing operation is fast, the count value is small, and when the rubbing operation is slow, the count value is large. The CPU 51 sets the scroll direction of the screen to the upper direction by the reverse variable scroll flag.
Further, the scroll speed of the screen is set according to the count value. For example, when the count value is small, the scroll speed is set high, and when the count value is large, the scroll speed is set fast. Although the above-mentioned reset of the latch and the registers is not shown, it is appropriately reset by a command from the CPU 51 after the flag processing.

The timers 505 and 506 and the latches 509 and 510 correspond to an operation direction detecting circuit. Gate 51
3. The counter 614 corresponds to an operation interval detection circuit.

Next, the output processing of the switches 8 and 9 by the CPU 51 will be described with reference to FIG.

When the user operates one of the switches 8 and 9 or both the switches 8 and 9, the switch 8
And 9 are set in the status register 509 to indicate that the buttons 9 and 9 have been operated. When this flag is set while the CPU 51 is executing the main control program, the switch 8
An interrupt is generated on condition that the screen operation according to the steps 9 and 9 is permitted, for example, the current state is the telephone directory display mode shown in FIGS. The CPU 51
The interrupt processing shown in FIG. 6 is executed.

First, the CPU 51 sets the status register 509
To determine whether the forward variable scroll flag is set (S12). If it is set (S12; Yes), the CPU 51
Then, data to be displayed, control parameters for the scroll direction and the scroll speed, and the like are sent, and the screen is scroll-displayed in the downward direction (first operation direction) at the speed specified by the speed of the “rubbing”. For example, the CPU 51 reads a group of data following the currently displayed data and the like from the telephone number list (FIG. 12) held in the memory 54, reads the speed of rubbing from the status register 509, and reads the corresponding scroll speed. Are obtained by calculation or from a reference table and are displayed on the display control unit 5.
Give to 4. As a result, a scroll display for scrolling down the telephone directory list corresponding to the rubbing operation as shown in FIG. 14 is performed (S14). The scrolling is stopped by changing a control parameter of the display control unit 54 in response to a scroll stop command described later or input of another operation command. After this processing, the latch and the flag are released to enable input of a command by the next switch operation, and the process returns to the main control program (S40).

If the forward variable speed scroll flag is off (S12; No), it is determined whether the SW8 on detection flag is set (S16). If it has been set (S16; Yes), then it is determined whether or not the reverse fixed scroll flag has been set (S18). If it is set (S18; Yes), the CPU 51 sends the corresponding data and control parameters for the scroll direction and the scroll speed, etc., and moves the screen upward (the screen returns) at a preset constant speed. As described above, scrolling is performed in the reverse fixed speed direction (S20). After this processing, the latch and the flag are released to enable input of a command by the next switch operation, and the process returns to the main control program (S40).

In step 18, if the reverse fixed speed scroll flag is not set (S18; No),
The CPU 51 gives the data one data before or the data of the previous screen to the display control unit 54, and performs a process of displaying the data of the previous time (or the previous screen) (S22). As described above, the operation of the switch 8 causes the screen to be scrolled upward at a constant speed (S20).
Whether to display the previous data (S22) depends on the length of time the switch 8 is pressed. After this processing, the latch and the flag are released to enable input of a command by the next switch operation, and the process returns to the main control program (S40).

If the SW8 on detection flag is not set (S16; No), it is determined whether or not the reverse variable scroll flag is set (S24). If set (S24; Yes), the CPU 51 sends data to be displayed, control parameters for the scroll direction and the scroll speed, and the like to the display control unit 54, and the screen is designated by the speed of "rubbing". The scroll display is performed in the upward direction (the second operation direction) at the speed (S26). After this processing, the latch and flag are released to enable input of a command by the next switch operation, and the process returns to the main control program (S
40).

If the reverse variable scroll flag is not set (S24; No), it is determined whether the SW9 on detection flag is set (S28). When the SW9 on detection flag is set (S28; Yes), it is determined whether the forward fixed speed scroll flag is set (S30). If set (S3
0; Yes), the CPU 51 sends the corresponding data, control parameters for the scroll direction and the scroll speed, and the like, and scrolls the screen of the display unit downward (to advance the screen) at a preset constant speed. The direction fixed speed scroll is performed (S32). After this processing, the latch and the flag are released to enable input of a command by the next switch operation, and the process returns to the main control program (S40).

If the forward fixed scroll flag is not set in step 30 (S30; No), C
As shown in FIG. 13, the PU 51 transmits data of one data to be displayed next or data of the next screen to the display control unit 5.
4 to display the next data (S3
2). After this processing, the latch and the flag are released to enable input of a command by the next switch operation, and the process returns to the main control program (S40).

On the other hand, when the SW9 on detection flag is not set (S28; No), the CPU 51 determines whether the scroll stop flag is set (S3).
6). If it is set (S36; Yes), C
The PU 51 instructs the display control unit 54 to stop scrolling, and stops scrolling (S38). When the scroll stop flag is not set (S36; No), since there is no valid command by operating the switches 8 and 9, the latch and the flag are released, and the command can be input by the next switch operation. Return to control program (S
40).

Thus, by the two switches,
Pressing one of the switches for a short time displays the previous / next screen (previous / next data) on the display screen. By doing so, it is possible to perform a scroll stop operation by simultaneously pressing forward and backward variable speed scroll and two switches.

Next, the scroll speed preset will be described. As the fixed scroll speed described above, for example, any of high speed, medium speed, and low speed can be selected on the speed setting menu screen, and the fixed scroll speed selected by the user can be stored. As described above, the variable scroll speed can be set to a continuous scroll speed according to the speed of the rubbing operation by using the reciprocal of the count value. High speed /
The CPU may select either the medium speed or the low speed.

Further, since there is an individual difference in the switch operation, it is desirable that the setting of the switch operation can be made in accordance with the personality of the user. For example, in the simultaneous operation of two switches, the on-timing shift,
The CPU samples switching determination elements such as an ON holding time and a pressing time of one operation of one switch, and tunes the switch operation determination according to the user's habit. For example, the set times T1 and T2 of the timer are set to more appropriate determination reference values in accordance with the speed of the switch operation by the mobile phone user.

Such sampling is performed by selecting a menu of a sampling mode prepared in advance and executing a sample value acquisition program of the mode.
It becomes possible. Also, monitor the switch operation and undo
This can be realized as a learning function of collecting a sample value of a switch operation as data when no (cancellation) processing is performed, and reflecting the result to a determination threshold.

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the same function as the jog dial can be realized by the switch. Since it is constituted by switches, the structure is simple and inexpensive. In addition, since there are no rotating parts, a waterproof structure can be easily obtained.

The two switches 8 and 9 for controlling the screen display are preferably provided in the holding area of the portable information device so that one-hand operation is possible.
It is not limited to this.

As the switches 8 and 9, those having a laminated structure of a film using a conductive film or the like can be used. In this case, the waterproof structure of the portable device can be realized more easily. Switches 8 and 9 can be configured as part of a keyboard switch.

The switches 8 and 9 can be arranged not only vertically but also horizontally. In addition, two switches are arranged in the up-down direction and the left-right direction, for example,
The four switches may be arranged in a cross shape to input a horizontal rubbing operation in addition to a vertical rubbing operation. In this case, in addition to the variable speed scroll in the vertical direction of the screen, it is possible to instruct the variable speed scroll in the horizontal direction of the screen.

In the above example, the jog dial of the portable information device is replaced with a switch, but it is used for AV (audio / video) devices such as a VTR, a video disk player, a CD-ROM player, and a DVD player. The switch input device of the present invention can be used instead of the jog dial. In particular, when used for such remote controllers, they are more compact and cheaper.

[0057]

As described above, in the switch input device of the present invention, the same function as the jog dial can be realized by the two switches.
preferable.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a mobile phone as a mobile information device. FIG. 1 (a) is a front view, and FIG. 1 (b)
Is a side view.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are explanatory diagrams illustrating operations of switches 8 and 9, respectively.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of simultaneous operation of switches 8 and 9;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a portable information device (mobile phone).

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an interface;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a switch output process of a CPU;

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation performed by a single operation of switches 8 and 9;

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an operation of fixed speed scroll by continuing to press any one of the switches 8 and 9;

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation by a rubbing operation using switches 8 and 9;

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a case where the rubbing operation by the switches 8 and 9 is not recognized as being effective;

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of simultaneous operation of switches 8 and 9;

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a telephone directory of a mobile phone as a database.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a display example of next data (next screen) of the LCD display.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of scroll display on an LCD display; FIG.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a conventional mobile phone.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of another conventional mobile phone.

[Explanation of symbols]

 2 Transmission / Reception Unit 5 Control Unit 8 Push Button Switch 9 Push Button Switch 10 Keyboard Switch 11 LCD Display 55 Interface 100 Housing 104 Waterproof Cover

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Claims (7)

[Claims] At least a first switch and a second switch which are arranged close to each other within a range that can be simultaneously operated by one finger; and when the two switches are respectively operated, the second switch is operated.
According to the operation order of the two switches, the first operation direction corresponding to the second switch operation after the first switch operation or the first switch operation corresponding to the second switch operation after the second switch operation. An operation direction detection circuit for detecting a second operation direction; and
An operation interval detection circuit for detecting a time interval between operations of the one switch. 2. A memory for holding a plurality of data to be visually displayed; a display for displaying the data on a two-dimensional screen; At least first and second switches; and when the two switches are operated,
According to the operation order of the two switches, the first operation direction corresponding to the second switch operation after the first switch operation or the first switch operation corresponding to the second switch operation after the second switch operation. An operation direction detection circuit for detecting a second operation direction; and
An operation interval detection circuit for detecting a time interval between each operation of the two switches; a moving direction of the screen of the display corresponding to the detected first or second operation direction; A portable information device comprising: a control unit configured to set a moving speed of the screen in accordance with an interval. 3. The portable information device according to claim 2, wherein said first and second switches are provided on a side surface of a device housing that can be held by one hand. 4. The portable information device according to claim 2, wherein said first and second switches are thin push button switches formed in a sheet shape and have a waterproof structure. 5. A memory for storing a plurality of data, at least two switches arranged adjacent to each other on one surface of a portable housing, and a display for visually displaying the data on a screen. A control unit that controls a display mode of the data in accordance with a combination of outputs of the two switches, wherein the control unit performs a first operation when only one of the two switches is operated. The command is interpreted as a command of the display mode, and when one of the two switches is operated and the other switch is subsequently operated within a predetermined time, the command is interpreted as the command of the second display mode. , When the two switches are operated at the same time, it is interpreted as a command of the third display mode. 6. The command of the first display mode is a next or previous screen display command, the command of the second display mode is a variable speed scroll command, and the third display mode is a scroll stop command. Item 6. The mobile phone device according to Item 5. 7. The two switches are provided in an area where a user can grip the housing, and are close to each other so that the two switches can be operated by one finger. The mobile phone device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein