Description
Title of Invention: IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS AND
METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to image processing apparatus, method, and a
computer program product, and more particularly, to image processing apparatus,
method, and a computer program product, which can allow a user to reliably perceive
an icon or the like that is not selectable and to allow the icon or the like to displayed in
a more enjoyable manner.
Background Art
[0002] The expansion of a GUI (Graphical User Interface) function has been attempted from
the related art.
[0003] For example, as a GUI that adopts an icon, a GUI that is displayed on a touchscreen
which is collectively constructed by a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel that
displays an icon or the like, and a touch panel that detects a touching by a user's finger.
[0004] In the GUI using the touchscreen, when the icon displayed on the touchscreen is
touched, a function that is allocated to the icon is executed.
[0005] In addition, a technology in which the approach of a finger to a display screen is
detected, and the icon is enlarged and displayed is also suggested (for example, refer to
PTL1 and PTL2).
Citation List
Patent Literature
[0006] PTL 1: JP-A-2006-236143
PTL 2: JP-A-2005-51876
Summary of Invention
Technical Problem
[0007] However, in a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like in the related art, a part
(icon or the like) that is not selectable is generally displayed in a grayed-out state.
[0008] However, the display functions of recent touchscreens have steadily improved, and
therefore a relatively enjoyable display is expected with respect to an icon that is not
selectable.
[0009] In addition, for example, in a portable electronic apparatus that has a small-sized
touchscreen, or the like, sometimes, it is difficult to discriminate whether or not a
displayed icon is a grayed-out icon when seen from a user. In this case, even though
this icon is not selectable, a user may repeat a selection operation plural times.
[0010] Under the circumstance, it is desirable to allow a user to reliably perceive an icon or
the like that is not selectable and to allow the icon or the like to be displayed in an
enjoyable manner.
Solution to Problem
[001 1] In on exemplary embodiment a control unit includes
a control circuit that controls a depth display of a part of a graphical user interface
displayed on a display, the control circuit deepens the depth of display of the part when
an object is detected as approaching the display.
[0012] One aspect of the embodiment is that
the control unit deepens the depth of display by increasing a parallax of the part on
the display.
[0013] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the part is an icon displayed on the display.
[0014] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the icon is a user-selectable icon and the control circuit deepens the depth of display
when the object is detected as being within a predetermined distance from the icon.
[0015] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the control circuit changes the icon from a first state to a second state that is
perceived visually different than the first state.
[0016] According to another aspect of the embodiment is that it includes
a sensor that detects when the object is a predetermined distance from the display.
[0017] Another aspect of the embodiment is that it includes
the display, the display being a 3-dimensional display.
[0018] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the 3-dimensional display presents a left image and a right image.
[0019] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
when the object is detected as approaching the icon, the icon is moved on the display
in a direction other than a depth direction.
[0020] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
when the icon is detected as approaching the icon, the icon is moved on the display
in a direction other than a direction in which the object approaches the icon.
[0021] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
when the control circuit moves the icon toward an inner portion of the display, the
control circuit changes a color of the icon.
[0022] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
when the control circuit moves the icon toward an inner portion of the display, the
control circuit changes a shape of the icon.
[0023] In a method embodiment, the method includes
displaying a graphical user interface on a display;
detecting an object approaching the display; and
controlling with a control circuit a depth display of a part of the graphical user
interface, the controlling includes deepening the depth of display of the part when the
object is detected as approaching the display.
[0024] According to one aspect of the embodiment,
the controlling includes deepening the depth of display by increasing a parallax of
the part on the display.
[0025] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the part is an icon displayed on the display.
[0026] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the icon is a user-selectable icon and the control circuit deepens the depth of display
when the object is detected as being within a predetermined distance from the icon.
[0027] According to a non-transitory computer readable storage medium embodiment, the
medium has instructions stored therein that when executed by a processing circuit
cause the processing circuit to execute a method, the method includes
displaying a graphical user interface on a display;
detecting an object approaching the display; and
controlling with a control circuit a depth display of a part of the graphical user
interface, the controlling includes deepening the depth of display of the part when the
object is detected as approaching the display.
[0028] One aspect of the embodiment is that
the controlling includes deepening the depth of display by increasing a parallax of
the part on the display.
[0029] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the part is an icon displayed on the display.
[0030] Another aspect of the embodiment is that
the icon is a user-selectable icon and the control circuit deepens the depth of display
when the object is detected as being within a predetermined distance from the icon.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0031] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to allow a user
to reliably perceive an icon or the like that is not selectable and to allow the icon or the
like to be displayed in an amusing manner.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0032] [fig. 1]Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating a method of generating a 3D image.
[fig.2]Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a display that displays
the 3D image.
[fig.3]Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example in a case where an image is displayed
with a parallax barrier turned on.
[fig.4]Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example in a case where an image is displayed
with the parallax barrier turned off.
[fig.5]Figs. 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating an appearance configuration example
of an imaging apparatus as an embodiment of an image processing apparatus to which
a technology of the present disclosure is applied.
[fig.6]Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of the
imaging apparatus in Figs. 5A and 5B.
[fig.7]Fig. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of
software executed by a CPU.
[fig.8]Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed on a
touchscreen.
[fig.9]Figs. 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating a transition in a display screen of the
touchscreen in a case where an icon is selected.
[fig. 10] Figs. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the transition in the display screen
of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected.
[fig. 1l]Figs. 11A and 1IB are diagrams illustrating the transition in the display screen
of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected.
[fig. 12] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an icon selection and display
controlling process.
[fig.l3]Figs. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating another example of the transition
in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected
[fig. 14] Figs. 14A and 14B are diagrams illustrating still another example of the
transition in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected.
[fig.l5]Figs. 15A and 15B are diagrams illustrating still another example of the
transition in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected
[fig. 16] Figs. 16A and 16B are diagrams illustrating still another example of the
transition in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected.
[fig.l7]Figs. 17A and 17B are diagrams illustrating still another example of the
transition in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected.
[fig.l8]Figs. 18A and 18B are diagrams illustrating still another example of the
transition in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected
[fig. 19] Figs. 19A and 19B are diagrams illustrating still another example of the
transition in the display screen of the touchscreen in a case where the icon is selected.
[fig.20]Fig. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a personal
computer.
Description of Embodiments
[0033] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with
reference to the attached drawings.
[0034] In an embodiment described below, a 3D image (an image that is displayed in a
three-dimension) is displayed. Therefore, before describing an embodiment of the
present disclosure, an outline of a method of generating the 3D image including a left
eye image and a right eye image for ease of comprehension of an embodiment of the
present disclosure will be provided.
[0035] Fig. 1 shows a diagram illustrating a method of generating the 3D image.
[0036] A first generation method is a method using an imaging apparatus in which two
lenses are provided. That is, in the first generation method, a user maintains the
imaging apparatus in such a manner that the two lenses are disposed in an ap
proximately horizontal direction, and takes a picture one time. Then, in the two lenses,
data of a left eye image is generated by light that transmits through a left side lens and
data of a right eye image is generated by light that transmits through a right side lens.
[0037] In addition, the left eye image data and the right eye image data may be generated
corresponding to an image generated by CG (computer graphics) without using an
imaging apparatus or the like.
[0038] Each of the left eye image and the right eye image generated in this way includes a
corresponding object at a position spaced in correspondence with the distance between
two lenses of the imaging apparatus. Here, the difference (that is, the distance) between
an arranged position in a substantially horizontal direction of the corresponding object
included in each of the left eye image and the right eye image is referred to as the
parallax. The larger the parallax is, the deeper the depth of the object that is displayed
three-dimensionally becomes. That is, the degree of unevenness becomes stronger.
Therefore, parallax having the above-described characteristics may be used as a
parameter that determines the degree of unevenness of object displayed threedimensionally.
[0039] Fig. 2 shows a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a display that displays
the above-described 3D image. The display shown in the same drawing is a 3D display
30 that displays a 3D image with a system called a parallax barrier system, and allows
a user to sense the unevenness of the object displayed three-dimensionally through an
observation of the 3D display 30 with the naked eye.
[0040] As shown in Fig. 2, the 3D display 30 includes a display layer 31 and a parallax
barrier layer 32. In the display layer 31, the left eye image and the right eye image are
displayed alternately for each unit pixel (one column) in the horizontal direction. In the
same drawing, a column of the display layer 3 1 in which the left eye image is
displayed is indicated by "L", and a column in which the right eye image is displayed,
is indicated by "R".
[0041] The parallax barrier layer 32 is formed of a lattice-type barrier having the same
periodic column as that of the image on the display layer 31, and the width of an
opening portion of the barrier is set to have the same width as that of one image
column on the display layer 31. When a user views the image displayed on the display
layer 31 from a position spaced with a predetermined distance through the parallax
barrier layer 32, "L" and "R" images are separately presented to the left and right eyes
of the user and therefore parallax occurs.
[0042] For example, as shown in Fig. 3, when a user 40 views an image displayed on the
display layer 31 from a position spaced with a predetermined distance through the
parallax barrier layer 32, an image composed of columns of a left eye image is
presented to a left eye of the user 40, and an image composed of columns of a right eye
image is presented to a right eye of the user 40. In an example of the same drawing, an
image composed of each column of "LI (represents a first left eye image)", "Ln
(represents an n-th left eye image)", "LN (represents an N-th left eye image)" is
presented to the left eye of the user 40. In addition, an image composed of each column
of "Rl (represents a first right eye image)", "Rn (represents an n-th right eye
image)", "RN (represents an N-th right eye image)" is presented to the right eye of
the user 40.
[0043] In this way, it is possible to allow the user 40 to sense the unevenness of the object
that is displayed three-dimensionally by observing the 3D display 30 with the naked
eye. In addition, the image observed through the parallax barrier layer 32 can represent
a half of the resolution which the display layer 31 originally has in the horizontal
direction. Therefore, the 3D display 30 can display an image with the parallax barrier
turned on as shown in Fig. 3, and can display the image with the parallax barrier turned
off as shown in Fig. 4.
[0044] Fig. 4 shows a diagram illustrating an example where the image is displayed with the
parallax barrier turned off. In the case of the example in Fig. 4, an image displayed in
each column of the display layer 31 is presented to the left eye and the right eye of the
user 40, respectively. Therefore, in a case where the image is displayed with the
parallax barrier turned off, images "LR1", "LR2", which are presented to both the
left and right eyes, are displayed in each column of the display layer 31, and therefore
the image can be displayed with the resolution which the display layer 31 originally
has in the horizontal direction. However, in the case of Fig. 4, since the image having
parallax is not presented to the user, it is difficult to display the image threedimensionally
and only two-dimensional display (2D display) may be performed.
[0045] In this way, the 3D display 30 is configured to display an image three-dimensionally
as shown in Fig. 3, or 2D-display an image as shown in Fig. 4.
[0046] Figs. 5A and 5B show diagrams illustrating an appearance configuration example of
an imaging apparatus 50 as an embodiment of an image processing apparatus to which
a technology of the present disclosure is applied.
[0047] Fig. 5A shows the front face of the imaging apparatus 50 and Fig. 5B shows the rear
face thereof, respectively.
[0048] As shown in Fig. 5A, for example, at the right side of the front face of the imaging
apparatus 50 configured as a digital camera, a lens unit 111 is provided. The lens unit
111 includes an optical system such as a lens that condenses light transmitted from a
subject, a focus lens that adjusts a focus, an aperture, and the others (all not shown).
The lens unit 111 protrudes from a casing of the imaging apparatus 50 when a power
of the imaging apparatus 50 is turned on, and is accommodated in the casing of the
imaging apparatus 50 when the power is turned off. In Fig. 5A, the lens unit 111 is ac
commodated in the casing of the imaging apparatus 50.
[0049] At the upper-right side of the lens unit 111 at the front face of the imaging apparatus
50, an AF (auto focus) auxiliary light transmitting unit 112 is provided. The AF
auxiliary light transmitting unit 112 emits light as AF auxiliary light in an optical axis
direction of an optical system of the lens unit 111 and thereby illuminates a subject. In
this manner, for example, a so-called auto focus function operates, in which even in a
dark place, an image of the subject is captured, and the subject is brought into focus
based on the image.
[0050] At the upper-middle side of the front face of the imaging apparatus 50, a strobe 113
is disposed.
[0051] At the right side of the top face of the imaging apparatus 50 when seen from the front
face side, a power button 114 that is operated when turning on and off the power is
provided, and at the left side thereof when seen from the front face side, a shutter
button (release button) 115 that is operated when recording an image that is captured is
provided.
[0052] As shown in Fig. 5B, at the upper-right side of the rear face of the imaging apparatus
50, a zoom button 116 is provided.
[0053] For example, when a user captures an image of the subject by using the imaging
apparatus 50, when making an instruction of a telephoto (Tele), the user presses a
portion (hereinafter, referred to as a T button) marked by "T" in the zoom button 116.
On the other hand, when making an instruction of a wide angle (Wide), the user
presses a portion (hereinafter, referred to as aW button) marked by "W" in the zoom
button 116. In addition, the user may make an instruction of the telephoto (Tele) or the
wide angle (Wide) in succession by maintaining a pressed state of the T button or W
button.
[0054] At a lower side of the zoom button 116, a mode dial 117 is provided. This mode dial
117 is operated when various modes of the imaging apparatus 50 are selected, or the
like. As an operation mode of the imaging apparatus 50, for example, a photographing
mode at which a subject is photographed, or an image display mode at which a pho
tographed image obtained as a result of the photographing of the subject is displayed
may be exemplified. In addition, as a mode related to various operations at the pho
tographing mode, a mode where the lighting of the strobe 113 is forcibly turned on or
off, a mode where a self-timer is used, a mode where a menu screen is displayed on a
liquid crystal panel 120 described later, or the like may be exemplified.
[0055] At a lower side of the mode dial 117, an operation button 118 is provided. This
operation button 118 is used when the user performs an instruction operation allocated
in advance.
[0056] For example, the user operates the operation button 118 and thereby moves a cursor
on the menu screen, and as a result thereof can select an item present in an arranged
position of the cursor.
[0057] A touchscreen 119 includes the liquid crystal panel 120 and an approach panel 121
disposed on the liquid crystal panel 120, which are integrally formed. The touchscreen
119 displays various images by the liquid crystal panel 120 and receives an operation
of the user by the approach panel 121.
[0058] The liquid crystal panel 120 is configured, for example, as a display having the same
configuration as that of the 3D display 30 described above with reference Figs. 2 to 4,
and is configured to display an image two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally as
necessary.
[0059] The approach panel 121 detects a variance in an electrostatic capacitance through the
same method as a touchscreen of an electrostatic capacitance method and thereby
detects that the user's finger or the like approaches thereto. The approach panel 121
detects a variance in an electrostatic capacitance at a predetermined position on a panel
and outputs a signal indicating how much the user's finger or the like approaches at
that position.
[0060] Fig. 6 shows a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the imaging
apparatus 50 in Figs. 5A and 5B.
[0061] In addition, in Fig. 6, the AF auxiliary light transmitting unit 112 and the strobe 113
in Figs. 5A and 5B are not drawn.
[0062] A CCD (charge coupled device) 131 operates according to a timing signal supplied
from a timing generator (TG) 141. The CCD 131 receives light from a subject, which
is incident through the lens unit 111 and performs a photoelectric conversion, and
supplies an analog image signal as an electric signal, which corresponds to the amount
of light received, to an analog signal processing unit 132.
[0063] The analog signal processing unit 132 performs an analog signal processing such as
an amplification of an analog image signal supplied from the CCD 131, or the like,
according to a control of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 136, and supplies the image
signal, which is obtained as a result of the analog signal processing, to an A/D
(analog/digital) converting unit 133.
[0064] The A/D converting unit 133 A/D-con verts an image signal, which is an analog
signal supplied from the analog signal processing unit 132, according to a control of
the CPU 136, and supplies the image data, which is a digital signal obtained as a result
of the conversion, to a digital signal processing unit 134.
[0065] According to a control of the CPU 136, the digital signal processing unit 134
performs a digital signal processing such as the removal of noise with respect to the
image data supplied from the A/D converting unit 133, and supplies the image data
after the processing to the liquid crystal panel 120. In this manner, on the liquid crystal
panel 120, an image corresponding to data of the supplied image, that is, a pho
tographed image (hereinafter, referred to as a through-the-lens image) while being pho
tographed is displayed. In addition, the digital signal processing unit 134 compresses
and encodes the image data supplied from the A/D converting unit 133 through, for
example, a JPEG (joint photographic experts group) method or the like, and supplies
the compressed and encoded data obtained as a result thereof to a recording device 135
to be recorded therein. In addition, the digital signal processing unit 134 decompresses
and decodes the compressed and encoded data that is recorded in the recording device
135 and supplies the image data obtained as a result thereof to the liquid crystal panel
120. In this manner, on the liquid crystal panel 120, an image that corresponds to data
of the supplied image, that is, a recorded photographed image is displayed.
[0066] In addition, the digital signal processing unit 134 controls a display of a GUI (for
example, a menu screen described later) that is displayed on the liquid crystal panel
120 according to a control of the CPU 136.
[0067] The recording device 135 includes, for example, a disc such as a DVD (Digital
Versatile Disc), a semiconductor memory such as a memory card, and other removable
recording medium, and is provided to be easily detached from the imaging apparatus
50. In the recording device 135, data of the photographed image is recorded.
[0068] The CPU 136 executes a program that is recorded in a program ROM (Read Only
Memory) 139, and controls each unit making up the imaging apparatus 50, and
performs various processes according to a signal supplied from the approach panel 121
or a signal supplied from an operation unit 137.
[0069] The operation unit 137 is operated by a user and supplies a signal corresponding to
the operation to the CPU 136. In addition, the operation unit 137 includes the power
button 114, the shutter button 115, the zoom button 116, the mode dial 117, the
operation button 118, or the like shown in Figs. 5A and 5B.
[0070] An EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM) 138 stores data or the like
that is necessary to be maintained even when the power of the imaging apparatus 50 is
turned off, in addition to various kinds of information set to the imaging apparatus 50,
according to the control of the CPU 136.
[0071] The program ROM 139 stores a program, which is executed by the CPU 136, and
data necessary in order for the CPU 136 to execute a program. A RAM (Random
Access Memory) 140 temporarily stores a program or data, which is necessary in order
for the CPU 136 to perform various processes.
[0072] The timing generator 141 supplies a timing signal to the CCD 131 according to a
control of the CPU 136. An exposure time (shutter speed) in the CCD 131, or the like
is controlled by the timing signal supplied from the timing generator 141 to the CCD
131.
[0073] A motor driver 142 drives an actuator 143 including a motor according to a control
of the CPU 136. When the actuator 143 is driven, the lens unit 111 protrudes from the
casing of the imaging apparatus 50 or is accommodated in the casing of the imaging
apparatus 50. In addition, when the actuator 143 is driven, an adjustment of the
aperture making up the lens unit 111, or a movement of the focus lens making up the
lens unit 111 is performed.
[0074] In the imaging apparatus 50 configured as described above, the CCD 131 receives
light from a subject, which is incident through the lens unit 111, and performs a photo
electric conversion, and outputs an analog image signal obtained as a result of the
conversion. The analog image signal output from the CCD 131 is made into image data
of a digital signal when being passed through the analog signal processing unit 132 and
the A/D converting unit 133, and is supplied to the digital signal processing unit 134.
[0075] The digital signal processing unit 134 supplies image data supplied from the A/D
converting unit 133 to the liquid crystal panel 120, and as a result thereof, on the liquid
crystal panel 120, a through-the-lens image is displayed.
[0076] When a user operates the shutter button 115 (Figs. 5A and 5B), a signal corre
sponding to the operation is supplied from the operation unit 137 to the CPU 136.
When the signal corresponding to the operation of the shutter button 115 is supplied
from the operation unit 137, the CPU 136 controls the digital signal processing unit
134 to compress the image data supplied from the A/D converting unit 133 to the
digital signal processing unit 134, and to record the compressed image data obtained as
a result of the compression in the recording device 135.
[0077] In this manner, so-called photographing is performed.
[0078] In addition, the CPU 136 executes a predetermined program and thereby generates
image data of a 3D image.
[0079] In the case of generating the 3D image, the CPU 136 sets parallax d. In a case where
the parallax d is set to have a large value, a sense of perspective (degree of unevenness
of an object that is displayed three-dimensionally) of an object displayed with an
image having parallax becomes large. For example, in a case where the parallax d is
set to have a large value, at the side of the user who observes a screen, it feels as if the
object protrudes forward greatly from the screen (or as if the screen is drawn in
deeply).
[0080] On the other hand, when the parallax d is set to have a small value, a sense of per
spective (a degree of unevenness of an object that is displayed three-dimensionally) of
an object displayed with an image having parallax becomes small. For example, in a
case where the parallax d is set to have a small value, at the side of the user who
observes a screen, it feels as if the object is present to be substantially flush with the
screen.
[0081] The CPU 136 acquires image data that becomes an origin of the generation of the 3D
image, sets a region to be processed, in which an object to be displayed threedimensionally
is displayed, and sets a reference point P at a predetermined position of
the region to be processed in the horizontal direction. The CPU 136 generates r e
spective data of left and right regions that are spaced from the reference point P with
the same distance determined in correspondence with the parallax d as left eye image
data and right eye image data.
[0082] Images corresponding to the left eye image data and the right eye image data, which
are generated in this manner and have the parallax d, are displayed on the touchscreen
119, and therefore the user is able to observe the 3D image.
[0083] Fig. 7 shows a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of
software of a program or the like that is executed by the CPU 136.
[0084] An approach determining unit 181 determines a degree of approach of the user's
finger or the like with respect to the touchscreen 119, based on an approach detection
signal output from an approach panel 121. For example, when the user's finger or the
like approaches to the touchscreen 119 until a distance from the touchscreen 119
becomes less than a predetermined threshold value, the approach determining unit 181
generates and outputs predetermined data indicating this situation. In addition, when
the user's finger or the like, which approached to the touchscreen 119, goes away from
the touchscreen 119 until a distance from the touchscreen 119 becomes equal to or
larger than a predetermined threshold value, the approach determining unit 181
generates and outputs data indicating this situation. In addition, in the data generated
by the approach determining unit 181, information indicating whether the user's finger
or the like approaches to a portion of the touchscreen 119 (the approach panel 121) or
the like is included.
[0085] A selection possibility determining unit 182 specifies an object which a user is to
select based on, for example, information that is included in data output from the
approach determining unit 181 and indicates whether the user's finger or the like ap
proaches to which portion of the touchscreen 119. For example, an icon or the like that
is displayed on the touchscreen 119 is specified as the object which the user is to
select.
[0086] In addition, the selection possibility determining unit 182 determines whether or not
the specified object is a selectable object. That is, it is determined whether or not the
execution of a function or the like, which is allocated to the object such as the icon, is
permitted. For example, when the photographing is performed in a mode where the
lighting of a strobe 113 is forcibly turned off, it is determined that an icon that
performs a setting for lighting the strobe 113 is an object that is not selectable.
[0087] In a case where it is determined that the specified object is not a selectable object
(not selectable object), the selection possibility determining unit 182 outputs in
formation indicating this situation to a parallax adjusting unit 183.
[0088] In a case where the object specified by the selection possibility determining unit 182
is not selectable object, the parallax adjusting unit 183 sets parallax related to a 3D
display with respect to the object. For example, the degree of approach of the user's
finger or the like is specified based on data output from the approach determining unit
181 and the parallax of the 3D image is set based on this degree of approach. For
example, in a case where it is specified that the user's finger approaches to a distance
less than a first threshold value, parallax dl is set, and in a case where it is specified
that the user's finger approaches to a distance less than a second threshold value
smaller than the first threshold value, parallax d2 larger than the parallax dl is set.
[0089] In addition, the parallax adjusting unit 183 acquires data of an image (for example,
an image of a menu screen described later) that becomes an origin of the generation of
the 3D image, and specifies a region to be processed in which an object to be displayed
three-dimensionally is displayed. At this time, for example, the object that is specified
by the selection possibility determining unit 182 is specified as an object to be
displayed three-dimensionally. The parallax adjusting unit 183 sets a reference point P,
for example, at a central position of an object to be displayed three-dimensionally.
[0090] The information related to the parallax and the reference point P that are set by the
parallax adjusting unit 183 is output to a 3D image generating unit 184.
[0091] The 3D image generating unit 184 generates respective data of left and right regions
that are spaced from the above-described reference point with the same distance de
termined in correspondence with the parallax as left eye image data and right eye
image data. In this manner, data of the 3D image is generated.
[0092] Fig. 8 shows an example of an image displayed on the touchscreen 119. Fig. 8 is
regarded as a menu screen displayed when, for example, a mode in which a menu
screen is displayed is selected by the above-described mode dial 117 in the imaging
apparatus 50.
[0093] In this menu screen, various icons are displayed. For example, at the upper-right side
in the drawing, a garbage can icon 201 is displayed.
[0094] A user approaches to an icon displayed on the touchscreen 119 using a finger and
may select a desired icon. When the icon is selected, a function corresponding to the
icon is executed or a predetermined setting is performed.
[0095] For example, when the user selects the icon 201 in a state where a thumbnail (not
shown) or the like of photographed image data, which is recorded in advance in the
recording device 135, is selected, image data corresponding to the thumbnail is
deleted.
[0096] On the other hand, in a state where the user does not select the thumbnail or the like
of the photographed image data, the icon 201 becomes a not selectable icon.
[0097] With reference to Figs. 9A to 1IB, description will be made with respect to a
transition of a display screen of the touchscreen 119 in a case where the icon 201 is
selected by a user.
[0098] Fig. 9A shows a diagram illustrating an example of an image obtained when the
touchscreen 119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 9A, a user ap
proaches to a portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by
using a finger 221. At this time, it is assumed that the finger 221 does not sufficiently
approach to the touchscreen 119. For example, it is assumed that the distance between
the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is equal to or larger than a threshold value Thl.
[0099] Fig. 9B shows a diagram that is obtained when the user views the touchscreen 119
from a left side direction of Fig. 9A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 9B illustrates a
sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119 (that is, a
planar article not having thickness and depth).
[0100] As shown in Fig. 9B, the icon 201 is not drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen
119. That is, the distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is equal to or
larger than a threshold value Thl, such that an image having parallax is not generated,
and the icon 201 seen from a user appears to be located on the surface of the
touchscreen 119.
[0101] Fig. 10A illustrates another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen 119
is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 10A, a user further approaches to a
portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by using a finger
221. At this time, for example, it is assumed that the distance between the finger 221
and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold value Thl and is equal to or larger
than a threshold value Th2.
[0102] Fig. 10B shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from a
left side direction of Fig. 10A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 10B illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119 (that is, a
planar article not having thickness and depth).
[0103] As shown in Fig. 10B, the icon 201 is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen
119 in the depth direction thereof, and is apart from the finger 221. That is, the
distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold
value Thl, such that an image having parallax is generated, and the icon 201 seen from
a user looks as if it is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen 119.
[0104] In addition, here, a state where an icon moves (appears to move) in a downward
direction from a surface of the touchscreen 119 in the drawing is expressed by "is
drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen 119".
[0105] Fig. 11A illustrates still another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen
119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 11A, a user further approaches
to a portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by using a
finger 221. At this time, for example, it is assumed that the distance between the finger
221 and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold value Th2.
[0106] Fig. 1IB shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from a
left side direction of Fig. 11A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 1IB illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119 (that is, a
planar article not having thickness and depth).
[0107] As shown in Fig. 1IB, the icon 201 is further drawn toward the inside of the
touchscreen 119. That is, the distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119
is less than the threshold value Th2, such that an image having a still larger parallax is
generated, and the icon 201 seen from a user looks as if it is further drawn to the inside
of the touchscreen 119.
[0108] In this manner, the user may clearly come to feel that the icon 201 is an icon that is
not selectable. In addition, in this manner, it is possible to feed back the selection
operation of the icon to the user, such that it is possible to allow the user to clearly
come to feel that the icon 201 cannot be selected.
[0109] In addition, it is possible to present an enjoyable screen with a 3D display, differently
from a case where the icon 201 is only grayed out.
[0110] In addition, when the menu screen is displayed three-dimensionally, a predetermined
effect sound or the like may be output.
[0111] Next, an example of an icon selection and display controlling process performed by
the imaging apparatus 50 will be described with reference to a flowchart of Fig. 12.
This process is performed, for example, when the imaging apparatus 50 receives a
user's operation through the touchscreen 119.
[01 12] In step S21, the CPU 136 controls the digital signal processing unit 134 and displays
the menu screen on the liquid crystal panel 120 (the touchscreen 119).
[0113] In this manner, for example, the menu screen described above with reference to Fig.
8 is displayed.
[01 14] In step S22, the approach determining unit 181 determines whether or not the
approach of the user's finger 221 is detected, and when it is determined that the finger
221 has not yet approached, the process returns to step S21. For example, in the case of
the state shown in Figs. 9A and 9B, it is determined that the user's finger 221 has not
yet approached.
[0115] In a case where it is determined that the approach of the user's finger 221 is detected
in step S22, the process proceeds to step S23. For example, in the case of the state
shown in Figs. 10A and 10B, it is determined that the approach of the user's finger 221
is detected. For example, in a case where the distance between the finger 221 and the
touchscreen 119 is less than a threshold value Thl, it is determined that the approach
of the user's finger 221 is detected.
[0116] In step S23, the selection possibility determining unit 182 specifies an icon which the
user is to select. At this time, for example, the icon which the user is to select is
specified based on information that is included in data output from the approach de
termining unit 181 and that indicates that the user's finger approaches which portion of
the touchscreen 119.
[01 17] In step S24, the selection possibility determining unit 182 determines whether or not
the object specified by the process in step S23 is a selectable object. In step S24, in a
case where it is determined that the object is an object that is not selectable, the process
proceeds to step S25.
[0118] In step S25, the parallax adjusting unit 183 specifies the distance between the
touchscreen 119 and the finger 221. The distance between the touchscreen 119 and the
finger 221 is specified based on, for example, the degree of approach, which is
obtained based on data output from the approach determining unit 181.
[01 19] In step S26, the parallax adjusting unit 183 sets parallax of the 3D image generated
by the 3D image generating unit 184. At this time, for example, parallax corresponding
to the distance specified in step S25 is set. For example, in a case where it is specified
that the user's finger approaches to a distance less than a first threshold value, parallax
dl is set, and in a case where it is specified that the user's finger approaches to a
distance less than a second threshold value smaller than the first threshold value,
parallax d2 larger than parallax dl is set.
[0120] In addition, at this time, for example, the object specified by the selection possibility
determining unit 182 is specified as an object to be displayed three-dimensionally, and
the parallax adjusting unit 183 sets a reference point P, for example, at a central
position of the object to be displayed three-dimensionally.
[0121] In step S27, the 3D image generating unit 184 generates data as left eye image data
and right eye image data based on the parallax set in the process in step S26 and the
reference point. In this manner, the 3D image data is generated. In addition, based on
this 3D image data, the menu screen of the touchscreen 119 is displayed threedimensionally.
[0122] In this manner, an icon selection and display controlling process is performed. In this
way, for example, as described above with reference to Figs. 9A to Fig. 1IB, when the
user's finger 221 approaches to the icon 201, it looks as if the icon 201 is drawn toward
the inside of the touchscreen 119. In addition, when the user's finger 221 further ap
proaches to the icon 201, it looks as if the icon 201 further drawn to the inside of the
touchscreen 119.
[0123] Therefore, it is possible to allow the user to clearly come to feel that the icon 201 is
an icon that is not selectable, by a funny expression using a 3D display.
[0124] In addition, in the above-described example, an example where when the finger ap
proaches, the icon is displayed to look as if it is drawn in the inner side of the
touchscreen, but the icon may be displayed in other ways. For example, the display
may be performed in such a manner that an icon which looks as if it protrudes from the
touchscreen appears to sink when the finger approaches to the icon. The point is that
the display data may be generated such that when the finger approaches to the icon, the
icon looks as if it goes away from the finger.
[0125] However, in the example described above with reference to Figs. 9A to 1IB, an
example in which when the user's finger 221 approaches, the icon 201 moves (appears
to move) in the vertically downward direction of a screen of the touchscreen 119, but
the icon 201 may move in another direction.
[0126] Figs. 13A to 14B show diagrams illustrating another example of a transition of a
display screen of the touchscreen 119 when the icon 201 is selected by the user.
[0127] Fig. 13A shows a diagram illustrating an example of an image obtained when the
touchscreen 119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 13A, the user approaches
to a portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by
using a finger 221. At this time, it is assumed that the finger 221 does not sufficiently
approach to the touchscreen 119. For example, it is assumed that the distance between
the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is equal to or larger than a threshold value Thl.
[0128] Fig. 13B shows a diagram that is obtained when the user views the touchscreen 119
from the downward direction of Fig. 13A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the
distance between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the
user perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 13B i l
lustrates a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and
actually, the icon 201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the
touchscreen 119.
[0129] As shown in Fig. 13B, the icon 201 is not drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen
119. That is, the distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is equal to or
larger than a threshold value Thl, such that an image having parallax is not generated,
and the icon 201 seen from a user appears to be located on the surface of the
touchscreen 119.
[0130] Fig. 14A illustrates another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen 119
is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 14A, a user further approaches to a
portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by using a finger
221. At this time, for example, it is assumed that the distance between the finger 221
and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold value Thl and is equal to or larger
than a threshold value Th2.
[0131] Fig. 14B shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from the
downward direction of Fig. 14A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 14B illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119.
[0132] As shown in Fig. 14B, the icon 201 is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen
119 in the depth direction thereof, and is apart from the finger 221. That is, the
distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold
value Thl, such that an image having parallax is generated, and the icon 201 seen from
a user looks as if it is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen 119.
[0133] In addition, in the case of Fig. 14B, the icon 201 moves toward in a right-lower side
differently from the case of Fig. 10B.
[0134] Fig. 15A illustrates still another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen
119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 15A, a user further approaches
to a portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by using a
finger 221. At this time, for example, it is assumed that the distance between the finger
221 and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold value Th2.
[0135] Fig. 15B shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from the
downward direction of Fig. 15A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 15B illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119.
[0136] As shown in Fig. 15B, the icon 201 is further drawn toward the inside of the
touchscreen 119. That is, the distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119
is less than the threshold value Th2, such that an image having a still larger parallax is
generated, and the icon 201 seen from a user looks as if it is further drawn to the inside
of the touchscreen 119.
[0137] In addition, in the case of Fig. 15B, the icon 201 further moves toward a right-lower
side differently from the case of Fig. 1IB.
[0138] When 3D display is performed as described above with reference to Figs. 13A to
15B, it looks as if the icon 201 escapes from the user's finger 221. In this manner, it is
possible to more reliably allow the user to clearly come to feel that the icon 201 is an
icon that is not selectable.
[0139] In addition, in Figs. 14B and 15B, an example in which when the finger 221 ap
proaches, the icon 201 moves (appears to move) to the right at the lower side in the
drawing, but the icon 201 moves (appears to move) in the left direction at the lower
side. That is, the icon 201 may move in a direction different from a direction (for
example, the vertically downward direction in Figs. 14B and 15B) in which the finger
221 approaches to the touchscreen 119.
[0140] In addition, in a case where the user tries to again select the icon 201 that escapes
from the user, a 3D display in which the icon 201 looks as if it further escapes from the
user may be performed.
[0141] Figs. 16A to 19B show diagrams illustrating still another example of the transition of
the display screen of the touchscreen 119 when the icon 201 is selected by the user.
[0142] Fig. 16A shows a diagram illustrating an example of an image obtained when the
touchscreen 119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 16A, the user ap
proaches to a portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by
using a finger 221. At this time, it is assumed that the finger 221 does not sufficiently
approach to the touchscreen 119. For example, it is assumed that the distance between
the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is equal to or larger than a threshold value Thl.
[0143] Fig. 16B shows a diagram that is obtained when the user views the touchscreen 119
from the downward direction of Fig. 16A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the
distance between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the
user perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119.
[0144] As shown in Fig. 16B, the icon 201 is not drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen
119. That is, the distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is equal to or
larger than a threshold value Thl, such that an image having parallax is not generated,
and the icon 201 seen from a user appears to be located on the surface of the
touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 16B illustrates a sense of perspective which the user
perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon 201 is just an image that is displayed
on the surface of the touchscreen 119.
[0145] Fig. 17A illustrates another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen 119
is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 17A, a user further approaches to a
portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by using a finger
221. At this time, for example, it is assumed that the distance between the finger 221
and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold value Thl and is equal to or larger
than a threshold value Th2.
[0146] Fig. 17B shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from the
downward direction of Fig. 17A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 17B illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119.
[0147] As shown in Fig. 17B, the icon 201 is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen
119 in the depth direction thereof, and is apart from the finger 221. That is, the
distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold
value Thl, such that an image having parallax is generated, and the icon 201 seen from
a user looks as if it is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen 119. In addition, the
icon 201 moves to the right at the lower side in the drawing in the drawing. The con
figuration described until now is the same as that of the case described with reference
to Figs. 13A to 14B.
[0148] Fig. 18A illustrates still another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen
119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 18A, the user's finger 221
moves in a right direction, accompanied with the movement of the icon 201 in the right
direction in Figs. 17A and 17B. That is, the user tries to again select the icon 201 that
escapes from the user. In addition, in the same drawing, the finger is depicted by a
dotted line, and this dotted line indicates the movement of the finger.
[0149] Fig. 18B shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from the
downward direction of Fig. 18A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 18B illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119.
[0150] In Fig. 18B, the user moves the finger 221 in a right direction, such that the finger
221 is located in a vertically upper side of the icon 201 in the drawing.
[0151] Fig. 19A illustrates still another example of an image obtained when the touchscreen
119 is observed with the user's eyes. As shown in Fig. 19A, a user further approaches
to a portion, on which the icon 201 is displayed, of the touchscreen 119 by using a
finger 221. At this time, for example, it is assumed that the distance between the finger
221 and the touchscreen 119 is less than the threshold value Th2.
[0152] Fig. 19B shows a diagram that is obtained when the touchscreen 119 is seen from the
downward direction of Fig. 19A, and that illustrates a virtual sense of the distance
between the icon 201 of the touchscreen 119 and the finger 221, which the user
perceives as a result of observing the touchscreen 119. In addition, Fig. 19B illustrates
a sense of perspective which the user perceives from a 3D image, and actually, the icon
201 is just an image that is displayed on the surface of the touchscreen 119.
[0153] As shown in Fig. 19B, the icon 201 is further drawn toward the inside of the
touchscreen 119. That is, the distance between the finger 221 and the touchscreen 119
is less than the threshold value Th2, such that an image having a still larger parallax is
generated, and the icon 201 seen from a user looks as if it is further drawn to the inside
of the touchscreen 119. In addition, as shown in Fig. 19B, the icon 201 further moves
in the right direction at the lower side in the drawing.
[0154] In addition, in Figs. 17B, 18B, and 19B, an example in which when the finger 221
approaches, the icon 201 moves (appears to move) to the right direction at the lower
side in the drawing, but the icon 201 moves (appears to move) in the left direction at
the lower side. That is, the icon 201 may move in a direction different from a direction
(for example, the vertically downward direction in Figs. 17B, 18B, and 19B in which
the finger 221 approaches to the touchscreen 119.
[0155] As described above with reference to Figs. 16A to 19B, when a 3D display is
performed, it looks as if the icon 201 escapes from the user's finger 221. In addition, in
a case where the user tries to again select the icon 201 that escapes from the user, it
looks as if the icon 201 further escapes from the user. That is, even when the not se
lectable icon 201 is pursued by the finger 221, it looks as if the icon 201 escapes from
the finger 221. In this manner, it is possible to more reliably allow the user to clearly
come to feel that the icon 201 is an icon that is not selectable and it is possible to
present an enjoyable image using a 3D display.
[0156] In addition, as shown in Figs. 14A, 14B, 15A, 15B, 17A, 17B, 18A, 18B, 19A and
19B, when the icon 201 is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen 119, a color of
the icon 201 may be changed. In this manner, it is possible to more reliably allow the
user to clearly come to feel that the icon 201 is an icon that is not selectable.
[0157] In addition, when the icon 201 is drawn toward the inside of the touchscreen 119, a
shape of the icon 201 may be changed. For example, the icon 201 may be displayed
with the shape thereof changed such that the icon 201 looks as if it is twisted. In this
manner, it is possible to present a more engaging image.
[0158] Hereinbefore, an example where the present technology is applied to the imaging
apparatus 50 is described, but the present technology may be applied to other
electronic apparatuses other than the imaging apparatus. The present technology may
be applied an arbitrary apparatus as long as an operation using a touchscreen or the like
is performed.
[0159] In addition, hereinbefore, an example where the icon or the like displayed on the
touchscreen is operated by using a finger or the like is described, but for example, the
present technology may be applied to a case where the icon or the like displayed on the
touchscreen is operated by using a stylus pen or the like.
[0160] In addition, hereinbefore, an example where the 3D display is performed when the
icon in the menu screen displayed on the touchscreen is selected is described, but the
application of the present technology is not limited thereto. The point is that the
present technology may be applied as long as a GUI part is displayed on the
touchscreen or the like, and this GUI part is operated.
[0161] For example, when a thumbnail image or the like that is displayed on the touchscreen
is selected, this may be displayed three-dimensionally. For example, in a case where
the present technology is applied, it is possible to display the thumbnail image with an
arbitrary color as it is, such that a more beautiful image may be displayed, compared to
a case where the thumbnail image or the like is displayed grayed-out in the related art.
[0162] In addition, hereinbefore, an example where the 3D display is performed by the
touchscreen having the 3D display in which the parallax barrier system is adopted is
described, but the present disclosure may be applied even in a case where the 3D
display is performed using a system other than the parallax barrier system. For
example, a touchscreen having a 3D display in which a lenticular system is adopted
may be used.
[0163] In addition, a touchscreen having a 3D display that allows a user to observe it with
wearing special eyeglasses other than the 3D display that allows the user to observe it
with the naked eye may be used.
[0164] In addition, the above-described series of processes may be executed by hardware or
software. In a case where the above-described series of processes is executed by the
software, a program making up the software may be installed, over a network or from a
recording medium, on a computer in which dedicated hardware is assembled, or for
example, a general purpose personal computer 700 shown in Fig. 20, which can
execute various functions by installing various programs.
[0165] In Fig. 20, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 701 performs various processes
according to a program that is stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) 702, or a
program that is loaded into a RAM (Random Access Memory) 703 from a storage unit
708. In the RAM 703, data necessary for executing various processes by the CPU 701
is appropriately stored.
[0166] The CPU 701, the ROM 702, and the RAM 703 are connected to each other through
a bus 704. In addition, an I/O interface 705 is connected to the bus 704.
[0167] To the I/O interface 705, an input unit 706 such as a keyboard and a mouse, a display
such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an output unit 707 such as a speaker, a
storage unit 708 such as a hard disk, and a communication unit 709 such as a modem
and a network interface card including a LAN card or the like are connected. The com
munication unit 709 performed a communication process over a network including the
Internet.
[0168] A drive 710 is connected to the I/O interface 705 as necessary, and a removable
medium 711 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disc, a magneto-optical disc, and a
semiconductor memory is appropriately mounted, and therefore a computer program
read out from these may be installed in the storage unit 708 as necessary.
[0169] In the case of executing the above-described series of processes by software, a
program making up the software may be installed over a network such as the Internet,
or recording medium such as the removable medium 711.
[0170] In addition, separately from a main body of the apparatus shown in Fig. 20, this
recording medium may be composed of not only the removable medium 711 including
a magnetic disk (including a floppy disk (registered trademark)), an optical disc
(including CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), and a DVD (Digital
Versatile Disc)), a magneto-optical disc (including MD (Mini-Disc)(registered trade
mark)), a semiconductor memory, or the like, which is distributed for transmitting a
program to a user and on which the program is recorded, but also the ROM 702, a hard
disk included in the storage unit 708, or the like, which is distributed to a user in a state
of being assembled in advance to the main body of the apparatus and in which the
program is recorded.
[0171] It should be noted that the present disclosure can also take the following config
urations.
(1)
An image processing apparatus, including:
an approach detecting unit that detects whether or not an object, which operates a
GUI part, approaches with respect to a display unit that displays the GUI part;
a part specifying unit that specifies the GUI part that is operated, in a case where the
object approaches;
an operation possibility determining unit that determines whether or not the operation
of the specified GUI part is possible; and
an image data generating unit that generates image data that controls a depth display of
the display unit in order for the GUI part to go away from the object, based on a result
of the determination on the operation possibility of the GUI part.
(2)
The image processing unit according to (1),
wherein the image data generating unit generates image data, which controls the depth
display of the display unit, according to a degree to which the object approaches with
respect to the display unit.
(3)
The image processing apparatus according to (2),
wherein the degree of approach is compared to a threshold value set in advance, and
parallax, which is used for the control of the depth display of the display unit, is set in
correspondence with the comparison result.
(4)
The image processing apparatus according to (1),
wherein the image data generating unit generates the image data such that a color of
the image of the specified GUI part is changed.
(5)
The image processing apparatus according to (1),
wherein the image data generating unit generates the image data such that a shape of
the image of the specified GUI part is changed.
(6)
The image processing apparatus according to (1),
wherein image data which allows the GUI part to be displayed in such a manner that
the GUI part moves in a direction different from a direction from which the object ap
proaches and the GUI part goes away from the object is generated.
(7)
The image processing apparatus according to (1),
wherein the display unit includes a 3D display that adopts a parallax barrier system.
(8)
The image processing apparatus according to (1),
wherein the approach detection unit includes a touchscreen.
(9)
An image processing method, including:
allowing an approach detecting unit to detect whether or not an object, which operates
a GUI part, approaches with respect to a display unit that displays the GUI part;
allowing a part specifying unit to specify the GUI part that is operated, in a case where
the object approaches;
allowing an operation possibility determining unit to determine whether or not the
operation of the specified GUI part is possible; and
allowing an image data generating unit to generate image data that controls a depth
display of the display unit in order for the GUI part to go away from the object, based
on a result of the determination on the operation possibility of the GUI part.
(10)
A program that allows a computer to function as an image processing apparatus,
wherein the image processing apparatus includes,
an approach detecting unit that detects whether or not an object, which operates a GUI
part, approaches with respect to a display unit that displays the GUI part;
a part specifying unit that specifies the GUI part that is operated, in a case where the
object approaches;
an operation possibility determining unit that determines whether or not the operation
of the specified GUI part is possible; and
an image data generating unit that generates image data that controls a depth display of
the display unit in order for the GUI part to go away from the object, based on the
result of the determination on the operation possibility of the GUI part.
In addition, the above-described series of processes in the present specification
includes not only processes performed in time series according to the described
sequence, but also processes performed in parallel or separately even though not nec
essarily performed in time series.
In addition, an embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the abovedescribed
embodiments, and various changes may be made without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure.
Reference Signs List
50: Imaging apparatus
119: Touch screen
120: Liquid crystal panel
121: Approach panel
134: Digital signal processing unit
136: CPU
137: Operation unit
138: EEPROM
139: Program ROM
140: RAM
181: Approach determining unit
182: Selection possibility determining unit
183: Parallax adjusting unit
184: 3D image generating unit
201: Icon
PCT/JP2012/001429
Claims
A control unit comprising:
a control circuit that controls a depth display of a part of a graphical
user interface displayed on a display, said control circuit deepens the
depth of display of the part when an object is detected as approaching
the display.
The control unit of claim 1, wherein
the control unit deepens the depth of display by increasing a parallax of
the part on the display.
The control unit of claim 1, wherein
the part is an icon displayed on the display.
The control unit of claim 3, wherein
the icon is a user- selectable icon and the control circuit deepens the
depth of display when the object is detected as being within a prede
termined distance from the icon.
The control unit of claim 3, wherein
the control circuit changes the icon from a first state to a second state
that is perceived visually different than the first state.
The control unit of claim 1, further comprising:
a sensor that detects when the object is a predetermined distance from
the display.
The control unit of claim 1, further comprising:
the display, said display being a 3-dimensional display.
The control unit of claim, 7, wherein
said 3-dimensional display presents a left image and a right image.
The control unit of claim 3, wherein
when the object is detected as approaching the icon, the icon is moved
on the display in a direction other than a depth direction.
The control unit of claim 3, wherein
when the icon is detected as approaching the icon, the icon is moved on
the display in a direction other than a direction in which the object ap
proaches the icon.
The control unit of claim 3, wherein
when the control circuit moves the icon toward an inner portion of the
display, the control circuit changes a color of the icon.
The control unit of claim 3, wherein
when the control circuit moves the icon toward an inner portion of the
PCT/JP2012/001429
display, the control circuit changes a shape of the icon.
An image control method comprising:
displaying a graphical user interface on a display;
detecting an object approaching the display; and
controlling with a control circuit a depth display of a part of the
graphical user interface, said controlling includes deepening the depth
of display of the part when the object is detected as approaching the
display.
The method of claim 13, wherein
the controlling includes deepening the depth of display by increasing a
parallax of the part on the display.
The method of claim 13, wherein
the part is an icon displayed on the display.
The method of claim 15, wherein
the icon is a user- selectable icon and the control circuit deepens the
depth of display when the object is detected as being within a prede
termined distance from the icon.
A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having in
structions stored therein that when executed by a processing circuit
cause the processing circuit to execute a method, the method
comprising:
displaying a graphical user interface on a display;
detecting an object approaching the display; and
controlling with a control circuit a depth display of a part of the
graphical user interface, said controlling includes deepening the depth
of display of the part when the object is detected as approaching the
display.
The computer program product of claim 17, wherein
the controlling includes deepening the depth of display by increasing a
parallax of the part on the display.
The computer program product of claim 17, wherein
the part is an icon displayed on the display.
The computer program product of claim 19, wherein
the icon is a user- selectable icon and the control circuit deepens the
depth of display when the object is detected as being within a prede
termined distance from the icon.