I Rescript]tin
Title of invention
INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCLSSINti
5 METHOD, AND PROGRAM
Technical Field
100G1J
The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, aii
10 information processing method, and a program,
Background Art
[0002]
Various information proteasing apparatuses are today in widespread use.
15 The information processing apparatuses are gaining various sophisticated functions.
When information processing apparatuses are equipped with a large number of
functions, various approaches arc possible for starting a particular iimction of them,
For example. Patent Literature I discloses a navigation device that provides a
hierarchical menu screen. When a particular Junction is started in the navigation
20 device, a user makes allowance for a category to which a desired function belongs in
the hierarchical menu and then selects a plurality of categories or items. Patent
Literature 2 discloses an information processing terminal that provides a borne screen
displaying a plurality of icons each of which has a function of a shortcut to a
particular function,
25
Citation 11st
Patent Literature
[0003]
Patent Literature 1: JP 201! -174744A
30 PatenL Literature 2: JP2011-053790A
SP34&208WOU0
2/35
•Summary of Invention
Technical Problem
[0004]
5 In view of the usability of information processing; apparatuses for users, the
operability is important. H would be, however, complicated to start a particular
function with an increase in the number of functions implemented in information
processing apparatuses. The present disclosure shows a novel and improved
information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program that
10 can enhance the operability for users.
Solution to Problem
IOO0.S]
According to the present disclosure, there is provided an information
15 processing apparatus including a detection unit configured to detect a position of a
first point that has been designated, and a control uuil configured to display an icon
at a position designated by indicating a direction from the first point.
|0006j
According to the present disclosure... there is provided an information
20 processing method including detecting a position of a fust point that has been
designated, and displaying an icon at a position designated by indicating a direction
from the first point.
[0007]
According to ihe present disclosure, there is provided a program for causing
25 a computer to function as an information processing apparatus, the information
processing apparatus including a detection unit configured to delect a position of a
first point that has been designated, ami a control unit configured to display an icon
at a position designated by indicating a direction from the first point.
30 Advantageous Effects oTTnvenJion
100081
ft!'345208 WOOO
3/35
According to the present disclosure, it becomes possible to enhance the
operabilily lor users.
Brief Description of Drawings
5 [0009|
[FIG 1] FIG 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of a
display screen displayed by a terminal apparatus according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[FIG. 2] FIG 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of icons displayed
10 on a home screen by the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment
[FIG 3] FIG 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example olieons displayed
on a navigation screen by (he term in a! apparatus according to the present
embodiment
[PKi. 4j FIG. 4 is a block diagram Illustrating a functional configuration example of
15 the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment
[FIG. 5] FIG 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a first example of an external
appearance of the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment,
[FTG 6] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a second example of the
externa! appearance of the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment,
£0 [FIG, 7] FIG 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating ;jn example of arrangement of
icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment,
[V1G. 8] FIG 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating examples of display forms of
icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment.
[FIG. 9] FIG, 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating olher examples of the display
2fi forms of icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present
embodiment,
I FIG. 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a ring representation example
of icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment.
[FIG. 111 FIG 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating examples of display forms of
30 icons displayed at a peripheral part of a display screen by the terminal apparatus
according to the present embodiment,
sp;-Mr,?,o8WOoo
4/35
[FIG 12j FIG 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation of adding an
icon to a group of icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present
embodiment
[FIG J 31 FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation of removing an
5 icon from a group of icons displayed by (he terminal apparatus according to tlic
present embodiment.
[FIG 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation
in detection of an operalion of designating an icon on a home screen displayed by Ihe
terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment.
10 [FIG 15] FTG 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an opera lion
in detection ol"an operation of designating an icon on a navigation screen displayed
by the terminal apparatus according to J he presenl embodiment
[FIG. \6\ FIG 16 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation
in an operation of designating another icon after the detection of the operation of
15 designating Ihe icon on the navigation screen displayed by the terminal apparatus
according to the present embodiment.
[FIG 17] FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation
of deleting information displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present
embodiment in accordance with designation of an icon,
20 | FIG Ittj FIG IS is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a second ring
displayed when an icon is designated from a group of icons in a llrst ling displayed
by the tormina] apparatus according to the present embodiment.
[FIG 39] FIG 19 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the terminal
apparatus according to the present embodiment.
25 [FIG 20] FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of
Ihe terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment.
[FIG. 23] FIG 23 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of threedimensional
images displayed by a terminal apparatus according to a modified
example of the present embodiment.
rto
Description of Embodiments
SP34520BWO0U
5735
rooio]
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described in detail with reference [o me appended drawings. Note thai, in this
description and Ihe drawings, structural elements that have substantially the same
& function and structure arc denoted with the same reference signs, and repeated
explanation is omitled,
[O0il|
Note that, in this desertion and the drawings, structural elerneuls lhat have
substantially the same function and structure are sometimes distinguishable' denoted
10 with different numbers vis hyphens after die saint? reference sign. For example,
structural elements thai have substantially the same function and structure are
distinguished like an icon i-I and an icon 1-2 as necessary. However, when there is
no need in particular to distinguish structural elements that have substantially the
same function and structure, the same reference sign alone is attached, lor example,
15 when there is no need lo distinguish the icon 1-1 from the icon \-% they arc referred
to as icon L
[0012]
Note 1hal: in this description and the drawings, structural elements that have
substantially the same function and structure are sometimes distinguished from each
20 olher using different alphabets after the same reference sign. l-'or example,
structural elements that have substantially the same function and structure are
distinguished tike a terminal apparatus 10A and a terminal apparatus 1013 as
necessary. However, when there is no need in particular to distinguish slruclural
elements thai have substantially the same function and structure, the same reference
2fi sign alone is attached, I'br example, when there is no need to distinguish the
terminal apparatus 10A from Ihe terminal apparatus iOB, they are referred to as
terminal apparatus 10.
[0013]
r!"ht? description will be made in the following order.
30 1. Overview
2. Functional Configuration lixampic
SP345208WO00
6/35
3. Display oflcons
4. Editing Group of Icons to Be Displayed
5. Selection oflcon
6. Operation Kxamplc
5 7. Hardware Configuration Fxample
K. Modified F.xamplc
[00141
<1, Oveiview>
An ovci"vicw of a display control function of a terminal apparatus 10
10 according lo an embodiment of the present disclosure will he described with
reference to KKiS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram sebemalically
illuslvaling an example of a display screen displayed by the terminal apparatus
according lo an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is an explanatory
diagram illustrating .an example of icons displayed on a home screen by Ihe terminal
1ft apparatus according to the present embodiment FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram
illustrating an example of icons displayed on a navigation screen by the terminal
apparatus according to Ihe present embodiment.
|0015]
FIG 1 illustrates icons \ thai arc displayed when a user uses his/her finger F,
20 which is an operating object, to designate a given point PI on a display screen 20
displayed by Ihe terminal apparatus JO. The icons 1 arc an example of display
objects associated with predetermined functions, and have a shortcut funciion to
execute the predetermined function. The icons I are arranged at p>si Lions that allow
one ofthe icons I to be identified when a direction is designated from the designated
25 point PI. As an example ofthe arrangement, the designated point PI is surrounded.
The icons I may be, for example, arranged on a circle that surrounds the designated
point PI, 1TG. 1 illustrates an example in which the icons I are arranged on a circle
CI substantially centered at the designated point PL As an example of ihe
arrangement of the icons I, a Iriangle, a polygon including a quadrangle, and an
,10 ellipse are included in addition to a circle. It is needless to say, examples ofthe
arrangement also include circles, polygons, and ellipses apart of which is missing.
S 1^4520 8 WOOD
7/35
10016J
In this way, the icons [ Eire aiTanged sueh that any one of the icons 1 is
identified when a direction from the designated point PI is indicated. A usee
designates a given point PI on the display screen 20 and designates any one of the
5 directions from the poinl PI, so that the user can execute a desired function. In
view of the opcrability for users, it is desired lo execute a desired function in as small
a movement as possible. Thus, a method disclosed in the present disclosure is more
preferable in terms of the opcrability than approaches that use a screen ou which the
icous 1 arc arranged at predefined positions and that prompt users lo select a desired
10 ilem from a hierarchical menu step by step because the method disclosed in the
present disclosure requires smaller movements from users.
[0017]
As illustrated in i-'lO. 2, for example, the given point PI may also be
designated on a honie screen 20A. In addition, the given point PI may also be
15 designated on an application execution screen or a navigalion screen 20R as
illustrated in i i G 3, for example. A group of icons 1 on a circle CI -A displayed on
[he home screen 20A and a group of icons I on a circle Cl-B displayed on Ihe
navigation screen 2013 niay be made of a combination of icons I that arc of different
types,
SO |
NexL. a functional configuration example of the terminal apparatus 10
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with
reference lo 1-KiS. 4 to 6. FIG. 4 is a bU>ek diagram illustrating a junctional
25 configuration example of J he terminal apparatus according to the prcsenl
embodiment. KKi. 5 is an explanatory diagram illuslraling a first example of an
external appeaiance of Ehe Eermina] apparatus according to the present embodiment,
RCi. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a second example of Ihe externa!
appearance of the terminal apparalus according to the present embodiment,
30 [0019|
l'IG. 4 shows thai the ieiminiil apparatus 10 primarily includes a display unit
spad52uawouo
K/35
105, an operation deletion unit H 0, a control unit 115, a communication unit 121), a
storage unit 125, and a position information acquiring unit 130.
[0020J
(Display Unit 105)
5 The display unit 105 is an example of an ouLpuE device, and may also be a
display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) device and an organic
electroluminescence display (OELD) device, Alternatively, the display unit 105
may also be a projector lhat projects an image. The display unit 105 can control an
image to be displayed under the control ofThe control unit 115,
10 [0021J
(Operation Detection Unit 110)
The operation detection unk IK) has a function of detecting an input
operation of a user. Hie operation detection unit 110 may include an input unit such
as a touch sensor, a mouse, a keyboard, a button.. a microphone, a switch, and a lever
lli with which a user inputs information, and an input control circuit that generates an
input signal on the basis of the input from ihe user, Alternatively, the operation
detection unit 110 may receive an input signal generated by a separate operation unit,
and then detect the operation.
[0022J
20 (Control Unit 115)
The control unit 115 has a function ol controlling the whole operalion ol the
terminal apparatus ](), The control unit 115 may have, for example, a display
control function of controlling Ibe operation of the display unit 105, Alternatively,
the control unit 115 may be able to function as a navigation unit that provides a
25 navigation function by using current posihon information supplied from Ibe position
information acquiring unit 130 and map data stored in the storage unit 125. The
control unit 315 can also fund ion as a comniunicalion conlrol unit thai conirols
transmission ol" information to and reception of information from an external
apparatus by controlling the communication unit 120. The details about the control
^0 of the control unit ! 15 will be discussed below.
[0023]
SP3452G8WO00
9/35
(Communication Unit !20)
The communication uni! 120 is a communication device used for a
connection to a network, and includes, for example, a communication card for a
wired or wireless local area network (LAN), Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a
ft wireless USB (W1IRB), a rooter for optica! cornmunica!ion; a rooter ibr an
asymmetric digital subscribe]: line (ADSL), or a modem for various communication,
A network IhaJ connects to the communication unit 120 includes a network lhat
establishes a wired or wireless connection suclias the Internet, a home LAN, infrared
comm unices ion, visible light communication, and broadcast or satellite
JO communication.
[0024]
(Storage Unit 125)
The storage unit 325 is a device for data storage, and can include a storage
medium, a recording device that records data on a storage medium, a read-out device
15 that reads out data from a storage medium, and a deletion device that deletes data
recorded on a recording medium. For example, nonvolatile memory such as Hash
memory, maguetoresi stive random access memory (MRAM): ferroelectric random
access memory (FeRAM), phase change random access memory (PRAM) and
electronically erasable and programmable read only memory (FKPROM), and a
20 magnetic recording medium such as a hard disk diive (liDD) may be used as a
storage medium.
[0025]
(Position Information Acquiring Unit 130)
The position information acquiring uni! 130 has a function of acquiring
25 current posilion information. For example, the position information acquiring unit
130 may include a global positioning system (GPS) antenna and a GPS processing
unit lhaL calculates position inlbrmatloJi irom a GPS reception signal. Alternatively,
the position information acquiring unit 130 may have an autonomous positioning
function with various sensors. The position information acquiring uni! 130 may
30 also estimate distances between base stations and the terminal apparatus 10 from the
reception stienglh of Wi-Fi radio waves received Irom the base stations, and then
HF345208WO0O
10/35
calculate current position information from the estimated distance and position
information on each base station, The position information acquiring unit 130 may
use various indoor positioning techniques to acquire position in form all on.
Examples of the indoor positioning techniques include Ibe Indoor Messaging System
5 (1MHS) also eailed indoor GPS, visibJo light communication, infrared
communication, a radio frequency iileniiiieaiion (RFID) tag, a Quick Response (QR)
code, and Bluetooth (registered trademark). The position information acquiring
unit 130 may use cliarging information and regard the location of an actual shop that
charges a user as Hie current position of the user at the time of charging. The
10 position information acquiring unit 130 may also use check-in information and
regard the location of a building in which a user checks as the current position of the
user at the time of the check-in,
[0020]
The terminal apparatus 10 may be a mobile phone I0A as illustrated in FICL
15 5. or may also be a personal navigation device (PND) 10B as illustrated in. TIG 6.
The PND 10R has a navigation function as the main function, and may he able to
adhere to a vehicle via a cradle 14 and a sucker 16. for example. Lack of the
mobile phone 10A and the PND 10B has a touch sensor: which is here (he operation
detection unit 110, superimposed on a display unit 105. An operating object (such
20 as a finger F of a user) moves on the screen, allowing a desired operation to be input.
This is, however, an example for implementing the tcclinical ideas of (lie present
disclosure. Needless to say, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.
[00271
The example of the function of the terminal apparatus 30 according to the
%Vi present embodiment has been shown so far. 'i"\\<^ structural elements that have been
described above may be formed of general-purpose members and circuits, or of
hardware specialized for the function of each structural clement. A control program
having a processing procedure for a processing device such as a central processing
unit (CPU) to implement the function of each structural dement may he lead out
30 from a storage medium such as read only memory (ROM) and random access
memory (RAM) scoring the control program, and then I he program may be
11/35
interpreted and executed in order lo perform the function of each structural element,
Thus, a configuration used can be modified as appropriate according lo Ihe
technological level at the time of Ihe implementation of Ihe present embodiment.
1002K|
5 It is possible to make a computer program for implementing each function
of Ihe terminal apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment as mentioned
above, and then implement the computer program in a personal computer. There
can also be provided a computer-readable recording medium having Ihe computer
program stored therein, Examples of the recording medium include magnetic disks,
10 oplical discs, magneto-oplica1 disks, and Hash memory. The computer program
may also he distributed via a network, for example, using no recording medium.
[0029]
<3. Display of!cons>
Next, the display of icons when the terminal apparatus 10 according to the
15 present embodiment detects an input of a given point PI will be described with
reference to FIGS. 7 to II. TIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example
of arrangement of icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according lo Hie present
embodiment, FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating examples of display
forms of icons displayed by the terminal appai^ilus according lo the present
20 embodiment, FIG 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating other examples of the
display forms of icons displayed by Ihe terminal apparatus according lo Ihe present
embodiment. FIG 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a ring representation
example of icons displayed by the terminal apparatus according to the present
embodiment, FIG 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating examples of display
25 forms of icons displayed at a peripheral pari of a display screen by the terminal
upparalus according lo ihe present embodiment.
[0030]
The description will be made on a process Tor displaying icons I that tlie
control unit 115 displays when the operation detection unit 130 of the terminal
30 apparatus 10 delects an input of a given point PI. As described wilh relerence to
TIG. 1, the control unit ! \5 causes the display unit 105 to display the icons 1 on the
SP3452OaWO00
12/35
eirclc CI substantially centered at the detected given point PI, For example, as
illustrated in FKL 7, the group of icons T that arc displayed here include a fust icon 1-
I for executing a function nf displaying notice informal ion acquired via a network, a
second icon 1-2 for displaying a home screen, a (bird icon 1-3 for executing a
5 function of acquiring and displaying information suck as posted messages via a
network, a fourth icon 1-4 for executing a [unction of displaying notice inlomiation
stored in the terminal apparatus 10, and a fifth icon 1-5 for executing a function oT
acquiring and displaying information such as posted messages via the network.
Once a finger I; is lifted off the display screen 20, the display of the group of icons I
10 is called off.
[003 l j
The group of icons 3 are arranged on the circle CI, for example, and a
direction is indicated from the designated point PI, so that any one of the icons I is
identified. When the indication of a direction identifies any one of the icons I, the
15 contra J unit 115 can temporarily execute (he function of the identified icon L The
control unit 115 can, for example, temporarily display information displayed by the
identified icon L Regarding the temporarily displayed information, a user, for
example, may decide the execution of the function of the icon I by lifting his/her
finger 1' off the icon J. In other words, when a user selects any one of the icons 1.
20 Ihe function of the icon 1 is temporarily executed. When the user then keeps his/her
finger V in contact with the display screen 20 and lifts his/her linger F off ihe icon 1,
the selection oV the executed function is not decided. Thus, the user keeps his/her
linger 1' in contact with the display screen 20 and selects the icons I one hy one, so
thai the user can temporarily execute the function of each icon L
25 [0O32J
When ihe function executed by ibe icon 3 acquires information via a
network, the selection of the icon J docs not execute the function of Ihe icon I until
ihe in forma lion lo be displayed has been acquired. Thus, an increase in waiting
time of a user lowers the operability Accordingly, the control unit 115 can
30 alternately display icons I for information lhal is acquired via a network and then
displayed, and icons I for informal ion to be displayed that has been already stored in
13/35
the terminal apparatus 10, When a user traces the circle CI, the fuuejions of the
selected icons I Eire executed one by one. The alternate arrangement as described
above allows for a decrease in a waiting time of a user.
100331
5 As illustrated m ilG. 8. the conlrol unit 1! 5 may use different display forms
for displaying an icon I for information to be displayed when the icon I is selected
thai has been already stored in the terminal apparatus 10: and an icon I ibr
information to be displayed thai has not yet been stored in the terminal apparatus ! 0.
in other words, the control unit 115 conirols display forms of icons 1 such that a user
10 can identify an icon I for information that can be displayed once the user selects the
icon 1 at that time. FIG. 8 illustrates a state 1 in which inlormalion for executing the
function of an icon 1-3 has not yet been acquired, and a state 2 in which the
information for executing the function of the icon 1-3 has been already acquired.
The control unij ] 15 can change a display form of the icon 1-3 for the acquired
Ef> information by cliaugmg the design of the icon 1-3 such as color, shape, and
transparency
[0034]
As illuslxated in FIG 9, the control unit \]5 may make an icon 1 for
information smaller than the other icons, the information being displayed when Ihe
20 icon I is selected, and having not been stored in me lermina] apparatus 10. This
allows a user to identify an icon I for information that can be displayed once Ihe user
selects the icon I at thai lime. l-'KI 9 illustrates it sfcile 3 in which information for
executing Ihe function of the icon 1-3 has not yet been acquired, and a stale 4 in
winch the information for executing the function of the icon 1-3 has been already
25 acquired,
j0035|
As described with reference lo FIGS. K and 9, a display form of an icon I is
changed before and after information is acquired, thereby allowing a user to identify
an icon I for information that can be displayed once the use selects the icon I al that
30 time. Accordingly, there is less possibility that a user is kepi wailing because the
information is noi displayed even though Ihe user has selected the icon 1.
SP345208WO00
14/35
[0036]
As illustrated in 1'IG 30, the size of a circle CI may be changed hi
accordance with the number of icons I displayed on the circle CI, In other words:
the control unit 115 cart increase the size of the circle CI with an increase in the
5 number of icons I that are displayed, FIG 10 illustrates a cii-de CI in a stale 5 irt
which five icons I arc included, and a circle CI in a state 6 in which eight icons I are
included, The size of the circle CI in the s£a£e 6 is greater than the size of the circle
CI in the stale .Sr
[0037]
10 A representation when an operation is performed at the end of a display
screen 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 11, When a point PI designated
near the end of the display screen 20 is dctectcd: the control unit i 15 cannot display
the whole circle CI within the display screen 20, The control unit 115 may then
display icons 1 at narrowed intervals. The control unit 115 may also overlay the
15 icons i with each other, the control unit 115 may further shrink the icons I in size,
As illustrated hi the bottom of FIG 11, when a user performs a dragging operation
from the designated point Pi to a point P2 on any one of the icons !: the control nnit
115 can make the selected icon I (that namely refers lo Ihe icon I including (he point
P2) larger than the other icons I.
30 J003KL
As discussed above, an operation performed near the end of ihe display
screen 20 leads to a smaller area in which the icons I are displayed than an operation
performed near the center of the display screen 20 docs. Accordingly, Ihe intervals
among the icons 1 arc narrowed, the icons are shrunk in size, or some of the icons T
25 are prioritized such that icons I of high priority are enlarged and icons I of low
priority are shrunk. This can prevent the opcrability for users within a limited
display area from lowering,
[0039|
'A. lid iting Croup of icons to Be Displayed"-
30 Next, editing a group of icons 1 to be displayed will be described with
reference to MGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12 is an explanatoiy diagram itlusfraiing an
SPB452U8WO0G
15/35
operation of adding an icon to a group o!" icons displayed by [he terminal apparatus
according to the present embodiment. 1IG 13 is an explanatory diagram
illustrating an operation of removing an icon from a group of icons displayed by the
terminal apparatus according to Ihe present embodiment.
5 [0040]
I'irst, the addition of an icon I to the group of icons I will be described with
reference lo FIG. 32. When a user designates a given point PI on a display screen
20, Ihe control unit 115 displays a circle C\ and a group of icons 1 around the point
PI. When Ihe group of icons I arc displayed hi this way and a user performs a
1(1 predetermined operation for starting lo edit an icon I displayed on the circle CI, the
control unit 115 displays an icon 1 Jo be added to the group of icons 1 displayed on
Ihe circle E. When a user selects and drags an icon 1^ (o be added and then drops
the icon IdI| on the circle C1S ihe icon lr],i is added onto the circle CI as illustrated hi
Ihe bottom,
15 [004lj
Au operation of removing an icon I from a circle CI will be described with
reference to Fit J. \3. When a user designates a given point PI on a display screen
20, the control unit 11.5 displays a circic CI and a group of icons I around ihe point
PI. When the group of icons I are displayed in this way and a user performs a
20 predetermined operation for starting lo edit an icon 1 displayed on the circle CI, lire
control unit 115 displays an icon I to be added to the group of icons J displayed on
the circle CL Among the icons 1 displayed on the circle Ct. a user selects an icon
Tdc thai Ihe user would like to remove from the circle CI, and drags the icon IriP out of
the circic CI. The selected icon l^ is then removed from the circle CI. When a
25 user can intuitively edit the group of icons J displayed on (he circle CI in this way.
the opcrability for the user is enhanced.
[0042]
<5. Selection of lcon>
Nextv ihe description will be made with reference lo FIGS. 14 lo Ift
J JO regarding an operation when She terminal apparatus 10 according to the present
embodiment perfoiTiis a selection operation on a group of icons T displayed in
fiP,'MG208WO00
16/35
designating a given poinl PI, FIG. E4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an
example of an operation in the detection of an operation of designating an icon on a
borne screen displayed by (he leiminal apparalus according to the present
embodiment. FTCi. 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an
5 operation in the detection of an operation of designating an icon on a navigation
screen displayed by the terminal apparatus according to tbe preseni embodiment.
11G 36 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation in an
operation of designating another icon after Ihe detection of the operation of
designating the icon on the navigation screen displayed by the terminal apparatus
10 according to the present embodiment. FIQ 17 is an explanatory diagram
illustrating an example of an operation of deleting information displayed by the
terminal apparatus according to the present embodiment jn accordance with (he
designation of an iconr FICi. IK is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of
a second ring displayed when an icon is designated from a group of icons in a first
1!> ring displayed by the teiminal apparatus according to the present embodiment.
|0043|
First, as illustrated in FIQ 14, a group of icons I displayed on a circle CI-A
displayed when a user designates a given point PI on a home screen 20A include, for
example, a sixth icon 1-6 for executing a ielepbone call function, a seventh icon 1-7
20 Jbr executing a mail function, an eighth icon 1-8 for executing a browser function, a
ninth icon 1-9 for executing a music playback Junction, and a tenth icon 1-10 Jbr
executing a schedule function. Additionally, the display of the icons is called ofT
once a finger F is lifted off the home screen 20A.
10044J
25 When, for example, a user performs an operation of selecting the tenth icon
T-10 from tbe group of displayed icons I: a schedule screen 20C is displayed. 'Hie
operation of selecting the tenth icon 1-10 may be an operation of designating a
direction from the designated point PI to the tenth icon 1-10, lor example. For
example, when tbe operation of designating a direction is detected, the control unit
,^0 115 may display the schedule screen 20(\ Alternatively, Ihe control unit I 15 may
also display the schedule screen 20C when a finger F is lifted off the tenth icon 1-10.
SP345208WO00
17/35
[0045]
As illustrated in FIG 15, when a user performs an operation of designating
an icon 1-3 among a group of icons I displayed on a circle Ct-R, information 50
displayed hy the selection of the icon 1-3 is temporarily displayed, the circle Cl-B
ft being displayed "when the user designates a given point PI on a navigation screen
20B. The information 50 is displayed at a particular position on a map. The
information 50 may be a display object that indicates the presence of a posted
message associated with this position,
[0046|
10 A dragging operation with the icon 1-3 designated allows a user to change an
icon T to he designated. The control unit 115 can temporarily execute the functions
associated with icons I designated one by one. For example, when the icon 1-5 is
designated after foe dragging operation, ihe control unit 115 displays the information
50, which is displayed by the designation of the third icon 1-3. and information 60.
15 which is displayed hy the designation of I he !iHh icon \-5. Like the information 50,
the information 60 may also be a display object tiiat indicates the presence of a
posted message associated with a particular position. Examples of the posted
message include word-of-moulh information, diary text, and images associated with
that place.
20 [0047]
in this way. when the icons arc designaled one by one: information
displayed hy the execution of the functions associated with the respective icons 1
may be overlaid. In this case, as illustrated hi 1IG. 17, for example, when a user
perfomis EL holding-down operation and Ehen performs a dragging operation. Ihe
2fi display of the icons 1, the information 50, and the information 60 is called off
[0048]
When a user designates the icon 1-3, that is, when his/her linger \- is
detected on the icon l-3: the control unit 115 may LurLher display a second circle C2
associated with the designated icon 1-3. An icon !-3a and aniconI-3b are displayed
30 on the circle C2. For example, when Ihe icon 1-3a shown here is designaled,
information on congestion in particular is selectively displayed among posted
18/35
messages, When Hie icon I-3b shown here is designated, information on an event is
selectively displayed among posted messages,
[0049]
A user may predefine icons I lhal are displayed on ihe circle C2, The icons
5 1 displayed on the circle C2 may be recommendation information that has been
selected on the basis of current position information and ihe like,
10050]
<6. Operation Exampto
Next, an operation example of Ihe terminal apparatus 10 according to an
10 embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference K> FIG 19.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example o! the terminal apparatus
according to the present embodiment.
[0051J
hirst, the control unii 115 judges whether the operation detection unit 110
15 detects an operation of holding down a given spot (SI 00), If Ihe holding-down
operation is detected, the control unit I E5 displays a group of icons 1 on a circle
(S105), Next, allei" the group of icons 1 are displayed, the control wait 115 judges
whether a finger is lifted off the screen {S110), I f it is delected that a finger is lifted
off the screen, the control unit 115 clears the group of displayed icons I and brings
20 back the display screen Into a state before ihe holding-down operation (SI 15).
[0052]
To the contrary, if it is judged thai a linger is not lilted, Ihe control unit 115
judges whether an operation of indicating a direction from the hcld-down point is
detected (Si 20). If an operation of indicating a direction lioni Ihe held-down point
2!i is detected, the control unit 115 (hen temporarily previews information associated
wilh Ihe icon I designated by ihe operation of indicating a direction (SI 23),
TO053]
The conlrol unit 115 then judges whelber a linger is lifted off ihe screen
with any one of the icons I designated (SI30), If it is detected (bat a finger is lifted
30 off the screen, ihe control unit 115 decides the selection of the designated icon 1
(SI 35). Next, the control mill 115 clears (be group of displayed icons I (Si 40).
SP34520SWO0O
19/35
[0054]
<1. Hardware Configuration Example>
Next, a hardware configuration example of the lerminal apparatus 10
according to an embodiment of ihe present disclosure will be described with
fi reference to FIG. 20, FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware
eonliguration example of the lenuinal apparatus according to the present
embodiment.
[0055]
A configuration example oflne terminal apparatus 10 will be now described.
10 FIG 20 shows lhal the terminal apparatus 10 includes^ for example, a telephone
neEwork antenna K17, a telephone processing unit 819, a GPS antenna 821, a GPS
processing unit 823, a WiM antenna 825, a WiO processing unit 827, a geomagnetic
sensor 829: an acceleration sensor 831, a gyro sensor 833, an air pressure sensor 835,
an imaging unit 837, a central processing unit (CPU) 839, read only memory (ROM)
15 841, random access memory (RAM) 843, an operation unit 847, a display unit 849; a
decoder 851, a speaker 853, an encoder #55, a microphone 857, and a storage unit
859. The hardware con figuration illustrated here is an example. Some of the
structural elements may be omitted. There is no need to say that a siruclural
clement other than the slructural elements ilhislraled here may be further added.
20 10056]
(Telephone Network Antenna X17)
The telephone network anlenna 8 17 is an example of an antenna having a
function of wirelcssly connecting to a mobile phone nelwork. for telephone call and
communication. The telephone network antenna K17 can supply a telephone call
2fi signal received via a mobile phone network to the telephone processing uniE 819.
[0057]
(Telephone Processing Unit 819)
The Edephone processing unil 819 has a function of performing various
signal processing on signals iransmiitcd and received by the telephone network
30 antenna 817. Fi>r example, the telephone processing unit 819 can receive an inpul
via the microphone 857, perform various signal processing on an audio signal
3P315208WG00
2(3/35
encoded by Ihe encoder #55, and supply the encoded audio signal lo She telephone
network antenna 817. The telephone processing unit 819 ean also perform various
signal processing on an audio signal supplied from Ihe telephone lid work antenna
819, and supply the audio signal to the decoder 851.
5 [0058]
(GPS Antenna K21)
The GPS antenna 821 is an example of an antenna that receives a signal
from a positioning satellite. Hie (IPS antenna 82J can receive GPS signals Irom
GPS satellites, and inputs the received GPS signals to Ihe GPS processing unit 823.
10 [O0.S9J
(GPS Processing Unit 823)
Tlie GPS processing unit 823 is an example ol a calculalion unit tbal
calculates position information on the basis of the signals received from the
positioning satellites. The GPS processing unit 823 calculates current position
!fl information on the basis of the GPS signals input from the GPS antenna 821: and
outputs the calculated position information, SpecificEilly; Ihe GPS processing imil
823 calculates the posilions of GPS satellites from orbital dala of the GPS satellites,
and calculates the distances from the respective GPS SFitellites to the terminal
apparalus 10 on Ihe basis of the lime difference between the transmission lime and
20 the reception time of die GPS signals. The GPS processing unit 823 can then
calculate Ihe cuiTenl Ibtee-dimensional position on Ihe basis of the calculated
positions of the respective GPS satellites and the distances from the respective GPS
satellites to the terminal apparatus 10, Tlie orbital data of die GPS satellites used
here may be, for example, included in the GPS signals. Alternatively, the orbital
25 dala of the GPS satellites may also be acquired liom an external server via the
com muni can on antenna 825.
[0060]
(Will Antenna 825)
The Wifi antenna 825 is an antenna having a function of transmitting and
30 receiving a communication signal with a wireless local area network (LAN)
communication network, for example, in accordance with the specification of Will.
SP:-MG2OHWOOU
21/35
The Wifi antenna 825 can supply ihe received signal k> Ihe communication
processing unit 827,
|0061]
(Wifi Processing Unit 827)
5 "!"hc Wifi processing unit 827 has a function of performing various signal
processing on the signal supplied Jioni ihe Will antenna S2.5. The Wili processing
urtil 827 can supply a digital signal generated from the supplied analog signal to the
CPU 839.
[0062]
10 (Geomagnetic Sensor 829)
The geomagnetic sensor 829 is a sensor that detects geomagnetism as a
voltage value. The geomagnetic sensor 829 may be a triaxial geomagnetic sensor
that detects geomagnetism in [he X-axial direction, (he Y-axtal direction, and She Zaxial
direction. The geomagnetic sensor 829 can supply data of the detected
lit geomagnetism to the CPU 839.
[0063]
(Acceleration Sensor 831)
The accelera&iou sensor 831 is a sensor that detects acceleration as a voltage
value. The acceleration sensor 831 may be a IviaxiaJ acceleration sensor I hat detects
20 acceleration along the X-axial direction, acceleration along the Y-axial direction, and
acceleration along (lie Z-axial direction. The acceleration sensor 831 can supply
data of the detected acceleration lo the CPU 839.
[0064]
(Gyro Sensor 833)
25 The gyro sensor 833 is a kind of measuring instrument that detects an angle
and angular velocity of an objecl, The gyro sensor 833 may be a triaxiaJ gyro
sensor (bat detecLs, as voltage values, the changing velocity (angular velocity) of
rotational angles with rospect lo Ihe X-axis, Ihe Y-axis, and the 7 axis. 'Use gyro
sensor 833 can supply data ofthc detected angular velocity to the CPU 839.
3i) JO065]
(Air Pressure Sensor 83.S)
22/35
The air pressure sensor 835 is a sensor that detects the atmospheric pressure
in a nearby area as a vollage value. The air pressure sensor 835 detects Ihe
atmospheric pressure at a predetermined sampling; frequency, and can supply data of
the delected atmospheric pressure lo Pie CPU 839,
5 [00G6J
(Imaging Unit 837)
The imaging unit 837 has a function of shooting a shl] image or a moving
image via a Jens under the control of the CPU 839. The imaging unit 837 may
cause the s!orage unil 859 lo slorc die shot image.
10 |67|
(CPU 839)
The CPU 839 functions as a processing device and a control device, and
controls the whole operation of Ihe terminal apparalus 10 in accordance with various
programs. The CPU 839 may also be a mievopiYiccssor. The CPU 839 can
15 implement various functions in accordance with various programs,
[0068]
(ROM 841 and RAM 843)
The ROM 841 can slore a program.. an operation parameter, and the likeused
hy the CPU 839. The RAM 843 can temporarily store a program used upon
20 the execution of the CPU 839 and a parameter changing !' a display screen on which an operation of displaying a group
15 of icons 1 is performed, the present technology is not limited (hereto, For example,
the present technology can also be applied to a screen on which any application other
than the navigation function is executed. The conlro! unit 135 can then display
icons T that dilfers for each screen to be operated.
|0080|
20 The steps illustrated in the flowcharts in the present description naturally
include processes performed in the described and chronological order, and further
include processes that are not necessarily performed in chronological order, but arc
also performed in parallel or are individually performed. Needless to say. it is also
possible to change the order as necessary even in the steps lor chronologically
25 performing Lhe processes.
[0081|
Additionally, [he present technology may also be configured as below.
0)
An information processing apparatus Including:
HO a detection unit configured to detect a position of a lirst point thai has been
designated; and
,SiM4n?,08WO0H
26/35
a control unit configured to display an icon at a position designated by
indicating a direction from the first point,
(2)
The information processing apparatus according So (1),
5 wherein, when a first operation of indicating the direction from the first
point is detected, the control unit further displays information associated with (he
icon to be designated.
o
I'hc information processing apparatus according to (I) or (2),
10 wherein, when the first operation of indicating the direction from the fust
point is detected, the control unit further displays the icon olher than the icon to be
designated, the icon being associated with the icon to be designated.
(4)
The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3),
lf> whcrehi: when a second operation of selecting the icon designated by the
first operation of indicating the direction from the first point is detected, the control
unit executes a function shown by the icon.
(5)
The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (A),
20 wherein the contra! unit previews information displayed by selection of the
icon designated in accoi dance with the first operation of indicating the direction from
the first point.
(6)
'flic information processing apparatus according to any one of (0 T-If (5)-.
25 wherein select ion of ihe icon ts detected in accordance with a position of an
operating object, and
wherein, when il is detected thai the operating object has stopped operating
on the basis of a stale in which the position of the operating object is detected on the
icon, the control unit decides the selection of the icon.
™> V)
'Ihe information processing apparatus according to any one of ( I ) to (6),
Hrr*4ft208WO00
27/35
wherein the control unit arranges the icons on a circle substantially centered
at the first point,
(8)
The informal ion processing apparatus according to (7),
Fi wherein the control unit changes a size of the circle in accordance with a
number of the icons to be displayed.
'Hie information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (8),
Tur!her including;
JO a storage unit configured to store information,
wherein the control unit determines arrangement ol" the icons on the basis of
whether information displayed by the selection of t he icon is the information stored
in the storage imit
(10)
la The information processing apparatus according !o any one of (1) to (9),
further including;
a storage unit configured to information,
wherein Ihe control unit changes a display form of the icon in accordance
with whether information displayed by the selection of the icon is the information
20 stored in the storage -unit
(11)
The information processing apparatus according to any one of(J) to (10),
wherein, when the first point is detected at a peripheral part of a display
screen, the control unit displays the icons at a narrowed interval.
2f> (12)
The information processing apparal us according lo any one of (1) to (11),
wherein, when the first point is detected at the peripheral part of the display
screen and a first operation of indicating a direction from the first point designates
one ol" Lhe icons, Ihe coulroi unit makes the designated icon larger than the other
3U icons,
(13)
SP345208WO00
28/35
The information processing apparatus according to anyone of (I} to (12),
wherein the control unit displays an editing screen OH which a combination
of the icons is edited, the icons being displayed when the first point is detected, and
wherein the combination of icons displayed when die fust point is detected
.r> iri displayed on a circle, and the icon to be added to die combination of icons is
displayed outside the circle on the editing screen,
(14)
The information processing apparatus according to anyone of (1) to (13),
wherein Ihe control unit displays a group of the icons according to a screen
10 on which the llrst point is detected.
(15)
The information processing apparatus according to any one of ( I ) to (14),
wherein, when the first point is detected on a home screen and a first
operation of indicaling a direction from the first point is detected, the control unit
15 displays a screen associated with the icon designated by the first operation.
(16)
The information processing apparatus according to (15),
wherein, when a screen associated with a first icon Ihal is the icon to he
designated is displayed and then an operation of designating a second icon that is the
20 icon other than the first icon is detected, the control unit displays a screen associated
wTith the designated second icon.
07)
The inlbrmalion processing apparatus according to any one of ( i ) to (16),
wherein, when the first point is detected on a navigation screen and a firs)
2f> operation of indicating a direction from the first point is detected, the control unit
superimposes first information associated with the icon designated by the first
operation on a spot on a map on the basis of position information in the first
information.
(IK)
30 The information processing apparatus according to (17).
wherein5 when the lirst inlbrmation is displayed and tben an operation ol
spaisaoywooa
29/35
designating the icon didcrent from the icon associated wilh the first information is
detected, the control unit further superimposes second information associated with
the designated icon on (he spol on Hie map on the basis of position information. in Ihe
second information.
6 (19)
An information processing method including:
detecting a position of a first point lhal has been designated; and
displaying an icon at a position designated by indicating adiieciion from the
first point.
10 (20)
A program for causing a computer to function as an information processing
apparatus, ihe information processing apparalEis including
a detection unit configured to detect a position of a first point that has been
designated, and
\fi a conlrol unit configured to display an icon at a position designated by
indicating a direction from the fust point,
Reference Signs List
[O0S2J
20 10 terminal apparatus (information processing apparatus)
105 display unit
110 operation detection unit
335 control unit
120 communication unit
25 125 storage unit
130 position information acquiring unit
SFB45aoywooo
30/35
CLAIMS
Claim An information processing apparatus comprising:
a deieelion unit configured to detect a position of a first point thai has been
,ri designated; and
a control unit configured lo display an icon at a position designated by
indicating a direction from the first point,
Claim 2
10 The information processing apparatus according to claim !:
wherein, when a first operation of indicating the direction from the first
point is detected, the control unit further displays inforrmition associated with the
icon lo be designated,
15 Claim 3
Hie in format] on processing apparatus according to claim 2,
wherein, when the fust operation of indicating the direction liom the first
point is detected, the control unit further displays the icon other than the icon to be
designated, the icon being associated with the icon to be designated,
20
Claim 4
The information processing apparatus according to claim 3,
wherein, when a second operation of selecting the icon designated by the
first opeialion of indicating the direction from the first point is detected, the control
ar» unit executes a function shown by the icon,
Claim 5
The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,
wherein the control unit previews information displayed by selection oflhe
30 icon designated in accordance with the IIrst operation of indicating the direction from
the first point
spaiaaoswouo
31/35
Claim 6
The information processing apparatus according to claim 3,
wherein selection of the icon is detected in accordance with a position of an
5 operating object, and
wherein, when it is detected that the operating object has stopped operating
on the basis of a state in which the position of Ihe operating object is detected on the
icon, Ihe control unii decides the selection of the icon.
Claim 7
The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.
wherein the control imil arranges the icons on a circle substantially centered
at the iirsi point.
Claim tt
The information processing tipparalus according to claim 7,
wherein the conlrol unit changes a size of the circle in accordance with a
number of the icons to be displayed.
20 Claim 9
The information processing apparatus according ha claim 7: further
comprising:
a storage unit configured to store information.,
wherein the control unit determines arrangement of the icons on the basis of
Z5 whether information displayed by the selection of the icon is ihe information stored
in Ihe s1oi"age iiniL
Claim 10
The information processing apparaius according to claim 7, further
,10 comprising:
a storage unit configured to information,
10
15
SP34ri2fiftWO00
32/35
wherein (be control unit clsanges a display form of the icon in accordance
with whether information displayed by Ihe seteelion of Ihe icon is the informaium
stored in the storage unit.
5 Claim 11
The information processing apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein, when Ihe first point is detected Hi a peripheral pari of a display
screen, the control unit displays the icons at a narrowed interval.
fO Claim 12
The information processing apparatus according lo claim 11,
wherein, when the first point is detected at the peripheral part of the display
sciccn and a fust operation of indicaling a direction Irom the first point designates
one of the icons, the conlrol unit makes the designated icon forger than the other
f,r> icons.
Claim 13
The information processing apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein ihe control unit displays an editing screen on which a combination
20 of the icons is edited, the icons being displayed when Ihe first point is delected, and
wherein the combination of icons displayed when the first point is detected
is displayed on a circle, and the icon to be added to the combination of icons is
displayed o^Lside Ihe circle on the editing screen.
25 Claim 14
The information processing apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein ihe conlrol unit displays a group of the icons according to a screen
on which the first point is detected.
30 Claim 15
The information processing apparatus according to claim 7:
33/35
SP345U08WO00
wherein, when Ihe firs! point is delected on a home screen and a first
operation of indicating a direction from the first point is defected, the control unit
displays a screen associated wilh Ihe icon designated by the first operation,
r. Claim J 6
The information processing apparatus according to claim 15,
wherein, when a screen associated wilh a llrsi icon ihat is the icon to lie
designated is displayed and then an operation of designating a second icon that is the
icon other than the first icon is detected, the control unit displays a screen associated
10 with the designated second icon,
Claim 17
The iulbnualion processing apparatus according to claim 6,
whcrem: when the first point is deEecled on ;t navigation screen and a lirst
15 operation, of indicating a direction from the first point is detected, the control unit
superimposes lirst information associated wifh Ihe icon designated by the lirst
operation on a spot on a map on Hie basis of position information in the first
inlbrmation.
20 Claim !R
The information processing apparatus according to claim E7,
wherein, when the first information is displayed and then an operation of
designating the icon different from the icon associated with (he lirst information is
detecled, Ihe conlrol unit lurther superimposes second information associated wilh
2C> the designated icon on the spot on the map on Ihe basi^ of position information in the
second information,
Claim 19
An information processing method comprising:
30 detecting a posiiion of a lirst point that has been designated; and
displaying an icon at a position de-signaled by indicating a direclion from the
SP3452U8WO00
3-1/35
first point.
Claim 20
A program for causing a computer to function as an in [bniia.[.ion processing
apparatus,. Ibe in Fomiaiioii processing apparai us including
a detection unit configured to detect a position of a first point that has been
designated, find
a control unit conlignred to display an icon at a position designated by
indicating a direction from the first point