CN1919390B - Game Controllers and Gaming Systems - Google Patents

Abstract

The first control unit includes a first operation data generation section for generating first operation data in accordance with a movement of a first control unit body included in the first control unit. The second control unit includes second operation data generation means for generating second operation data in accordance with a direction input operation performed by the player or a movement of a second control unit body included in the second control unit. Further, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a transmission means for transmitting the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer at a predetermined timing.

Description

Translated fromChinese

游戏控制器和游戏系统Game Controllers and Gaming Systems

技术领域technical field

本发明涉及一种游戏控制器和一种游戏系统，并更为具体地涉及包括由柔性线缆彼此连接的两个控制单元并使用这两个控制单元进行操作的游戏控制器，以及包括所述游戏控制器的游戏系统。The present invention relates to a game controller and a game system, and more particularly to a game controller comprising and operated using two control units connected to each other by a flexible cable, and comprising the Game controller for gaming system.

背景技术Background technique

例如，日本公开专利公布No.2004-313492(此后称为专利文件1)公开了一种控制器，其具有由玩家双手分别握着来玩游戏的控制单元。For example, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2004-313492 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 1) discloses a controller having a control unit held by both hands of a player to play a game, respectively.

在专利文件1中公开的控制器由通过玩家右手握着的R单元和通过玩家左手握着的L单元组成。R单元和L单元每个具有在其顶表面上的操作按钮和在其壳体侧的杆。R单元和L单元可彼此物理耦合，以便于用作组合控制器。The controller disclosed in Patent Document 1 is composed of an R unit held by the player's right hand and an L unit held by the player's left hand. The R unit and the L unit each have an operation button on its top surface and a lever on its case side. The R-unit and L-unit can be physically coupled to each other for use as a combined controller.

但是，在专利文件1中公开的控制器通过简单地将传统游戏设备分成右单元和左单元而构成。即，虽然当玩家通过他或她的右手和左手握着R和L单元时玩家可将他或她的右手和左手分别放在任何位置，但玩家不能以改进的灵活性控制控制器本身。例如，不仅组合控制器而且分成右单元和左单元的游戏设备控制器都不能实现新的操作。However, the controller disclosed in Patent Document 1 is constituted by simply dividing a conventional game device into a right unit and a left unit. That is, although the player can place his or her right and left hands anywhere when the player holds the R and L units with his or her right and left hands, respectively, the player cannot control the controller itself with improved flexibility. For example, not only combined controllers but also game device controllers divided into right and left units cannot realize new operations.

发明内容Contents of the invention

因此，本发明的一个目的是提供一种新型游戏控制器和游戏系统，它们通过使用多个控制单元实现了具有提高的灵活性的新型操作。Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a novel game controller and a game system which realize a novel operation with increased flexibility by using a plurality of control units.

为完成上述目的本发明具有下列特征。在括弧中的参考号等指示与下面描述的实施例的对应，以便于帮助理解本发明，而不是意图以任何方式限制本发明的范围。To accomplish the above objects, the present invention has the following features. Reference numerals and the like in parentheses indicate correspondence to the embodiments described below in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

本发明的第一方面涉及用于将操作数据发送到执行游戏程序的计算机(30)的游戏控制器(7)。游戏控制器包括：第一控制单元(70)；第二控制单元(76)；和线缆(79)。线缆为柔性并电连接在第一控制单元和第二控制单元之间。第一控制单元包括第一操作数据产生部件(74，701)。第一操作数据产生部件根据包括在第一控制单元中的第一控制单元体的运动而产生第一操作数据。第二控制单元包括第二操作数据产生部件(78)。第二操作数据产生部件根据由玩家执行的方向输入操作而产生第二操作数据。此外，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中的一个包括发送部件(75)。发送部件以预定时序将第一操作数据和第二操作数据发送到计算机。A first aspect of the invention relates to a game controller (7) for sending operating data to a computer (30) executing a game program. The game controller includes: a first control unit (70); a second control unit (76); and a cable (79). The cable is flexible and electrically connected between the first control unit and the second control unit. The first control unit includes first operation data generating means (74, 701). The first operation data generation part generates the first operation data according to the movement of the first control unit body included in the first control unit. The second control unit includes second operation data generating means (78). The second operation data generating section generates second operation data according to a direction input operation performed by the player. Furthermore, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a sending part (75). The sending part sends the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer in predetermined timing.

在基于第一方面的第二方面中，第一操作数据产生部件包括图像拾取部件(74)。图像拾取部件固定到第一控制单元体并从第一控制单元体沿着预定方向得到外围图像。第一操作数据产生部件输出选自由图像拾取部件获得的图像和对由图像拾取部件获得的图像进行预定计算的结果组成的组中的一个，作为第一操作数据。In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the first operation data generating means includes an image pickup means (74). The image pickup part is fixed to the first control unit body and obtains a peripheral image along a predetermined direction from the first control unit body. The first operation data generating section outputs, as first operation data, one selected from the group consisting of an image obtained by the image pickup section and a result of predetermined calculation performed on the image obtained by the image pickup section.

在基于第二方面的第三方面中，第一操作数据产生部件还包括位置信息计算部件(744)。位置信息计算部件当执行预定计算时计算指示至少一个标记图像在由图像拾取部件得到的图像中的位置的位置信息，并输出位置信息作为第一操作数据，该标记图像包括在获得的图像中并用作成像目标。In a third aspect based on the second aspect, the first operation data generating means further includes position information calculating means (744). The positional information calculation section calculates positional information indicating a position of at least one marker image included in the obtained image in the image obtained by the image pickup section when performing predetermined calculation, and outputs the positional information as first operation data. as an imaging target.

在基于第一方面的第四方面中，发送部件将第一操作数据和第二操作数据无线地发送到计算机。In a fourth aspect based on the first aspect, the transmission means wirelessly transmits the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer.

在基于第一方面的第五方面中，第一操作数据产生部件具有包括在第一控制单元体中的加速度传感器(701)和陀螺传感器中的一个。第一操作数据产生部件输出由加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中的一个产生的数据作为第一操作数据。In a fifth aspect based on the first aspect, the first operation data generating means has one of an acceleration sensor (701) and a gyro sensor included in the first control unit body. The first operation data generating section outputs data generated by one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor as first operation data.

在基于第一方面的第六方面中，线缆可拆卸地连接到至少第一控制单元。发送部件包括在第一控制单元中。In a sixth aspect based on the first aspect, the cable is detachably connected to at least the first control unit. The sending part is included in the first control unit.

在基于第一方面的第七方面中，发送部件以短于1/60秒的间隔将第一操作数据和第二操作数据收集并发送给计算机。In a seventh aspect based on the first aspect, the transmitting means collects and transmits the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer at intervals shorter than 1/60 second.

在基于第一方面的第八方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括杆(78a)，该杆(78a)具有从包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体突起的末梢，并可在第二控制单元体上倾斜。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据杆倾斜方向而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In an eighth aspect based on the first aspect, the second operation data generating part includes a rod (78a) having a tip protruding from a second control unit body included in the second control unit, and being operable at The second control unit body is tilted up. The second operation data generating means outputs the data obtained according to the direction of inclination of the lever as the second operation data.

在基于第一方面的第九方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括操作按钮(78f)，该操作按钮(78f)具有代表至少四个方向的操作部分，并能通过操作部分被推到包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中。第二操作数据产生部件输出对应于操作按钮被推进处的操作部分的数据作为第二操作数据。In a ninth aspect based on the first aspect, the second operation data generating means includes an operation button (78f) having an operation part representing at least four directions and capable of being pushed to the In the second control unit body in the second control unit. The second operation data generating means outputs data corresponding to the operation portion at which the operation button is pushed as the second operation data.

在基于第一方面的第十方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括滑动构件(78g)，该滑动构件(78g)具有从包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体暴露的顶表面并在第二控制单元体上可水平移动。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据滑动构件水平移动方向而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In a tenth aspect based on the first aspect, the second operation data generating part includes a slide member (78g) having a top surface exposed from a second control unit body included in the second control unit and It can move horizontally on the second control unit body. The second operation data generation part outputs data obtained according to the horizontal movement direction of the sliding member as the second operation data.

在基于第一方面的第十一方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括处于包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体的外表面上的接触垫(78h)。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据在接触垫上接触垫被接触的位置而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In an eleventh aspect based on the first aspect, the second operation data generating means includes a contact pad (78h) on an outer surface of a second control unit body included in the second control unit. The second operation data generating section outputs data obtained from a position on the contact pad where the contact pad is contacted as second operation data.

在基于第一个方面的第十二个方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括至少四个操作按钮(78i，78j，78k，78l)，它们能被推到包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据被推进的操作按钮而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In a twelfth aspect based on the first aspect, the second operation data generating means includes at least four operation buttons (78i, 78j, 78k, 78l) which can be pushed to a second operation button included in the second control unit. Two control units in the body. The second operation data generating means outputs the data obtained from the pushed operation button as the second operation data.

在基于第一方面的第十三方面中，第二控制单元进一步包括加速度传感器(761)和陀螺传感器中之一。加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一在包括于第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中提供。除第一操作数据和第二操作数据之外，发送部件将由加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一所输出的数据作为第三操作数据发送到计算机。In a thirteenth aspect based on the first aspect, the second control unit further includes one of an acceleration sensor (761) and a gyro sensor. One of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor is provided in a second control unit body included in the second control unit. The sending means sends data output by one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor to the computer as third operation data in addition to the first operation data and the second operation data.

在基于第一方面的第十四方面中，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中至少一个包括接收部件(75)、扬声器(706)以及声控单元(707)。接收部件接收从计算机发送的发送数据。声控部件利用已由接收部件所接收的发送数据来从扬声器产生声音。In a fourteenth aspect based on the first aspect, at least one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a receiving part (75), a speaker (706), and a voice control unit (707). The receiving part receives the transmission data transmitted from the computer. The voice control section generates sound from the speaker using the transmission data that has been received by the reception section.

本发明的第十五方面涉及用于将操作数据发送到执行游戏程序的计算机的游戏控制器。游戏控制器包括：第一控制单元；第二控制单元；以及无线连接装置。无线连接装置在第一控制单元和第二控制单元之间无线连接。第一控制单元包括第一操作数据产生部件。第一操作数据产生部件根据包括在第一控制单元中的第一控制单元体的运动产生第一操作数据。第二控制单元包括第二操作数据产生部件。第二操作数据部件产生根据由玩家执行的方向输入操作产生第二操作数据。此外，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中之一包括发送部件。发送部件以预定时序将第一操作数据和第二操作数据发送到计算机。A fifteenth aspect of the present invention relates to a game controller for transmitting operation data to a computer executing a game program. The game controller includes: a first control unit; a second control unit; and a wireless connection device. The wireless connection means is wirelessly connected between the first control unit and the second control unit. The first control unit includes first operation data generating means. The first operation data generation part generates the first operation data according to the movement of the first control unit body included in the first control unit. The second control unit includes second operation data generating means. The second operation data generating means generates second operation data in accordance with a direction input operation performed by the player. Furthermore, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a transmission part. The sending part sends the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer in predetermined timing.

在基于第十五方面的第十六方面中，第一操作数据产生部件包括图像拾取部件。图像拾取部件固定到第一控制单元体并从第一控制单元体沿着预定方向得到外围图像。第一操作数据产生部件输出选自由图像拾取部件获得的图像和对由图像拾取部件获得的图像进行预定计算的结果组成的组中的一个，作为第一操作数据。In a sixteenth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the first operation data generating means includes an image pickup means. The image pickup part is fixed to the first control unit body and obtains a peripheral image along a predetermined direction from the first control unit body. The first operation data generating section outputs, as first operation data, one selected from the group consisting of an image obtained by the image pickup section and a result of predetermined calculation performed on the image obtained by the image pickup section.

在基于第十六方面的第十七方面中，第一操作数据产生部件还包括位置信息计算部件。位置信息计算部件当执行预定计算时计算指示至少一个标记图像在由图像拾取部件获得的图像中的位置的位置信息，并输出位置信息作为第一操作数据，该标记图像包括在获得的图像中并用作成像目标。In a seventeenth aspect based on the sixteenth aspect, the first operation data generation means further includes position information calculation means. The position information calculation section calculates position information indicating a position of at least one marker image included in the obtained image and used in the image obtained by the image pickup section when performing predetermined calculation, and outputs the position information as first operation data. as an imaging target.

在基于第十五方面的第十八方面中，发送部件将第一操作数据和第二操作数据无线地发送到计算机。In an eighteenth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the transmission means wirelessly transmits the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer.

在基于第十五方面的第十九方面中，第一操作数据产生部件具有包括在第一控制单元体中的加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中的一个。第一操作数据产生部件输出由加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中的一个产生的数据作为第一操作数据。In a nineteenth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the first operation data generation means has one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor included in the first control unit body. The first operation data generating section outputs data generated by one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor as first operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十方面中，发送部件以短于1/60秒的间隔将第一操作数据和第二操作数据收集并发送给计算机。In a twentieth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the transmitting means collects and transmits the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer at intervals shorter than 1/60 second.

在基于第十五方面的第二十一方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括杆，该杆具有从包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体突起的末梢并可在第二控制单元体上倾斜。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据杆倾斜方向而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In a twenty-first aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the second operation data generating part includes a rod having a tip protruding from a second control unit body included in the second control unit and capable of being mounted on the second control unit. Body tilted. The second operation data generating means outputs the data obtained according to the direction of inclination of the lever as the second operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十二方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括操作按钮(78f)，该操作按钮(78f)具有代表至少四个方向的操作部分，并能通过操作部分被推到包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中。第二操作数据产生部件输出对应于操作按钮被推进处的操作部分的数据作为第二操作数据。In a twenty-second aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the second operation data generating means includes an operation button (78f) having an operation portion representing at least four directions and being pushed through the operation portion. into the second control unit body included in the second control unit. The second operation data generating means outputs data corresponding to the operation portion at which the operation button is pushed as the second operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十三方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括滑动构件，该滑动构件具有从包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体暴露的顶表面并在第二控制单元体上可水平移动。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据滑动构件的水平移动方向而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In a twenty-third aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the second operation data generating part includes a slide member having a top surface exposed from a second control unit body included in the second control unit and positioned at the second The control unit can move horizontally. The second operation data generating section outputs data obtained according to the direction of horizontal movement of the slide member as second operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十四方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括处于包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体的外表面上的接触垫。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据在接触垫上接触垫被接触的位置而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In a twenty-fourth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the second operation data generating part includes a contact pad on an outer surface of a second control unit body included in the second control unit. The second operation data generating section outputs data obtained from a position on the contact pad where the contact pad is contacted as second operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十五方面中，第二操作数据产生部件包括至少四个操作按钮，它们能被推到包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中。第二操作数据产生部件输出根据被推进的操作按钮而获得的数据作为第二操作数据。In a twenty-fifth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the second operation data generating means includes at least four operation buttons which can be pushed into a second control unit body included in the second control unit. The second operation data generating means outputs the data obtained from the pushed operation button as the second operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十六方面中，第二控制单元进一步包括加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一。加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一在包括于第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中提供。除第一操作数据和第二操作数据之外，发送部件将由加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一所输出的数据作为第三操作数据发送到计算机。In a twenty-sixth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, the second control unit further includes one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor. One of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor is provided in a second control unit body included in the second control unit. The sending means sends data output by one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor to the computer as third operation data in addition to the first operation data and the second operation data.

在基于第十五方面的第二十七方面中，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中至少一个包括接收部件(75)、扬声器(706)以及声控单元(707)。接收部件接收从计算机发送的发送数据。声控部件利用已由接收部件所接收的发送数据来从扬声器产生声音。In a twenty-seventh aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, at least one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a receiving part (75), a speaker (706), and a voice control unit (707). The receiving part receives the transmission data transmitted from the computer. The voice control section generates sound from the speaker using the transmission data that has been received by the reception section.

本发明的第二十八方面涉及一种游戏控制器(7)，其用于发送操作数据到执行游戏程序的计算机(30)。游戏控制器包括：第一控制单元(70)；第二控制单元(76)；以及线缆(79)。所述线缆是柔性的且电连接于第一控制单元和第二控制单元之间。第一控制单元包括第一操作数据产生部件(74，701)。第一操作数据产生部件根据包括在第一控制单元中的第一控制单元体的运动来产生第一操作数据。第二控制单元包括第二操作数据产生部件(761)。第二操作数据产生部件根据包括在第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体的运动来产生第二操作数据。此外，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中之一包括发送部件(75)。发送部件以预定时序将第一操作数据和第二操作数据发送到计算机。A twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention relates to a game controller (7) for sending operation data to a computer (30) executing a game program. The game controller includes: a first control unit (70); a second control unit (76); and a cable (79). The cable is flexible and electrically connected between the first control unit and the second control unit. The first control unit includes first operation data generating means (74, 701). The first operation data generation section generates first operation data according to the movement of the first control unit body included in the first control unit. The second control unit includes second operation data generating means (761). The second operation data generation part generates the second operation data according to the movement of the second control unit body included in the second control unit. Furthermore, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a sending part (75). The sending part sends the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer in predetermined timing.

在基于第二十八方面的第二十九方面中，第一操作数据产生部件具有包括在第一控制单元体中的第一加速度传感器(701)和第一陀螺传感器中之一。第一操作数据产生部件将由第一加速度传感器和第一陀螺传感器中之一所产生的数据作为第一操作数据输出。第二操作数据产生部件具有包括在第二控制单元体中的第二加速度传感器(761)和第二陀螺传感器中之一。第二操作数据产生部件将由第二加速度传感器和第二陀螺传感器中之一所产生的数据作为第二操作数据输出。In a twenty-ninth aspect based on the twenty-eighth aspect, the first operation data generating means has one of a first acceleration sensor (701) and a first gyro sensor included in the first control unit body. The first operation data generating section outputs data generated by one of the first acceleration sensor and the first gyro sensor as first operation data. The second operation data generating part has one of a second acceleration sensor (761) and a second gyro sensor included in the second control unit body. The second operation data generating section outputs data generated by one of the second acceleration sensor and the second gyro sensor as second operation data.

在基于第二十九方面的第三十方面中，第一控制单元进一步包括第一键(72)。在第一控制单元体上提供的该第一键根据玩家按动第一键来产生第一键操作数据。第二控制单元进一步包括第二键(78)。在第二控制单元体上提供的该第二键根据玩家按动第二键来产生第二键操作数据。除第一操作数据和第二操作数据之外，发送部件将第一键操作数据和第二键操作数据发送到计算机。In a thirtieth aspect based on the twenty-ninth aspect, the first control unit further includes a first key (72). The first key provided on the first control unit body generates first key operation data according to the player pressing the first key. The second control unit further includes a second key (78). The second key provided on the second control unit body generates second key operation data according to pressing of the second key by the player. The sending part sends the first key operation data and the second key operation data to the computer in addition to the first operation data and the second operation data.

在基于第二十八方面的第三十一方面中，第一操作数据产生部件包括图像拾取部件(74)。图像拾取部件固定到第一控制单元体并从第一控制单元体沿着预定方向得到外围图像。第一操作数据产生部件输出从由图像拾取部件获得的图像和对由图像拾取部件获得的图像进行预定计算的结果所组成的组中所选择的一个，作为第一操作数据。第二操作数据产生部件具有第一加速度传感器(761)和第一陀螺传感器中之一。第一加速度传感器和第一陀螺传感器中之一在第二控制单元体中提供。第二操作数据产生部件将由第一加速度传感器和第一陀螺传感器中之一所产生的数据作为第二操作数据输出。In a thirty-first aspect based on the twenty-eighth aspect, the first operation data generating means includes an image pickup means (74). The image pickup part is fixed to the first control unit body and obtains a peripheral image along a predetermined direction from the first control unit body. The first operation data generating section outputs, as first operation data, one selected from the group consisting of an image obtained by the image pickup section and a result of predetermined calculation performed on the image obtained by the image pickup section. The second operation data generating section has one of a first acceleration sensor (761) and a first gyro sensor. One of the first acceleration sensor and the first gyro sensor is provided in the second control unit body. The second operation data generating section outputs data generated by one of the first acceleration sensor and the first gyro sensor as second operation data.

在基于第三十一方面的第三十二方面中，第一控制单元进一步包括第二加速度传感器(701)和第二陀螺传感器中之一。第二加速度传感器和第二陀螺传感器中之一在第一控制单元体中提供。除第一操作数据和第二操作数据之外，发送部件将由第二加速度传感器和第二陀螺传感器中之一所输出的数据作为第三操作数据而发送到计算机。In a thirty-second aspect based on the thirty-first aspect, the first control unit further includes one of a second acceleration sensor (701) and a second gyro sensor. One of the second acceleration sensor and the second gyro sensor is provided in the first control unit body. The transmission means transmits data output by one of the second acceleration sensor and the second gyro sensor to the computer as third operation data in addition to the first operation data and the second operation data.

在基于第二十八方面的第三十三方面中，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中中至少一个进一步包括接收部件(75)、扬声器(706)以及声控部件(707)。接收部件接收从计算机发送的发送数据。声控部件利用已由接收部件所接收的发送数据来从扬声器产生声音。In a thirty-third aspect based on the twenty-eighth aspect, at least one of the first control unit and the second control unit further includes a receiving part (75), a speaker (706), and a voice control part (707). The receiving part receives the transmission data transmitted from the computer. The voice control section generates sound from the speaker using the transmission data that has been received by the reception section.

本发明的第三十四方面涉及包括游戏控制器和游戏设备(3)的一种游戏系统(1)。游戏控制器在第一个方面中描述。游戏设备可通信地连接到游戏控制器，并包括计算机，该计算机用于通过执行游戏程序而在显示屏幕(2)上呈现虚拟游戏世界。游戏设备根据从第一控制单元发送的第一操作数据和从第二控制单元发送的第二操作数据中的至少一个执行游戏过程。A thirty-fourth aspect of the invention relates to a gaming system (1) comprising a game controller and a gaming device (3). A game controller is described in the first aspect. The game device is communicatively connected to the game controller and includes a computer for presenting a virtual game world on a display screen (2) by executing a game program. The game device executes a game process based on at least one of the first operation data sent from the first control unit and the second operation data sent from the second control unit.

在基于第三十四方面的第三十五方面中，游戏设备使出现在虚拟游戏世界中的玩家角色根据从游戏控制器发送的第一操作数据和从游戏控制器发送的第二操作数据中的至少一个执行动作。In a thirty-fifth aspect based on the thirty-fourth aspect, the game device makes the player character appearing in the virtual game world in accordance with the first operation data transmitted from the game controller and the second operation data transmitted from the game controller. At least one execution action for .

本发明的第三十六方面涉及包括游戏控制器和游戏设备的一种游戏系统。游戏控制器在第十五方面中描述。游戏设备可通信地连接到游戏控制器，并包括计算机，该计算机用于通过执行游戏程序而在显示屏幕上程序虚拟游戏世界。游戏设备根据从第一控制单元发送的第一操作数据和从第二控制单元发送的第二操作数据中的至少一个执行游戏过程。A thirty-sixth aspect of the present invention relates to a game system including a game controller and a game device. A game controller is described in the fifteenth aspect. A game device is communicatively connected to the game controller and includes a computer for programming a virtual game world on a display screen by executing a game program. The game device executes a game process based on at least one of the first operation data sent from the first control unit and the second operation data sent from the second control unit.

在基于第三十七方面的第三十六方面中，游戏设备使出现在虚拟游戏世界中的玩家角色根据从游戏控制器发送的第一操作数据和从游戏控制器发送的第二操作数据中的至少一个执行动作。In a thirty-sixth aspect based on the thirty-seventh aspect, the game device makes the player character appearing in the virtual game world in accordance with the first operation data transmitted from the game controller and the second operation data transmitted from the game controller. At least one execution action for .

本发明的第三十八方面涉及包括游戏控制器和游戏设备的一种游戏系统。游戏控制器在第二十八方面中描述。游戏设备可通信地连接到游戏控制器，并包括计算机，该计算机用于通过执行游戏程序而在显示屏幕上呈现虚拟游戏世界。游戏设备根据从第一控制单元发送的第一操作数据和从第二控制单元发送的第二操作数据中的至少一个来执行游戏过程。A thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention relates to a game system including a game controller and a game device. A game controller is described in the twenty-eighth aspect. The game device is communicatively connected to the game controller and includes a computer for presenting a virtual game world on a display screen by executing a game program. The game device executes the game process according to at least one of the first operation data transmitted from the first control unit and the second operation data transmitted from the second control unit.

在基于第三十八方面的第三十九方面中，游戏设备根据从游戏控制器发送的第一操作数据和从游戏控制器发送的第二操作数据中的至少一个来使出现在虚拟游戏世界中的玩家角色执行动作。In a thirty-ninth aspect based on the thirty-eighth aspect, the game device causes the game device to appear in the virtual game world based on at least one of the first operation data transmitted from the game controller and the second operation data transmitted from the game controller. The player character in performs an action.

根据第一方面，第一控制单元根据包括在游戏控制器中的控制器体的运动产生操作数据，且第二控制单元根据方向输入操作产生操作数据。由此，当游戏控制器在游戏中使用时，玩家可如在使用传统控制器的情形中一样利用一只手的手指进行输入，同时移动另一只手。即，玩家可使他或她的右手或左手执行各个分开的操作，由此提供了传统上不能执行的新的操作。此外，通过由线缆相互连接两个控制单元，游戏控制器只需一个用于计算机的发送部件。According to the first aspect, the first control unit generates operation data according to the motion of the controller body included in the game controller, and the second control unit generates operation data according to the direction input operation. Thus, when the game controller is used in a game, the player can use the fingers of one hand for input while moving the other hand as in the case of a conventional controller. That is, the player can cause his or her right hand or left hand to perform respective separate operations, thereby providing new operations that cannot be performed conventionally. Furthermore, by connecting the two control units to each other by a cable, the game controller only needs one sending part for the computer.

根据第十三方面，第一控制单元根据包括在游戏控制器中的控制器体的运动产生操作数据，且第二控制单元根据方向输入操作产生操作数据。由此，当游戏控制器在游戏中使用时，玩家可如在使用传统控制器的情形中一样利用一只手的手指输入，同时移动另一只手。即，玩家可使他或她的右手或左手执行各个分开的操作，由此提供了传统上不能执行的新的操作。此外，两个控制单元彼此完全分开，由此提供了改进的可控性并能使两个玩家操作游戏控制器。According to the thirteenth aspect, the first control unit generates the operation data according to the motion of the controller body included in the game controller, and the second control unit generates the operation data according to the direction input operation. Thus, when the game controller is used in a game, the player can input with the fingers of one hand while moving the other hand as in the case of using a conventional controller. That is, the player can cause his or her right hand or left hand to perform respective separate operations, thereby providing new operations that cannot be performed conventionally. Furthermore, the two control units are completely separate from each other, thereby providing improved controllability and enabling two players to operate the game controller.

根据第二、第三、第十六和第十七方面，由固定到第一控制单元的图像拾取部分得到的图像或从得到的图像中获得的信息可用作操作数据。例如，第一控制单元相对于成像目标的方向和位置可得到计算，由可根据单元的方向和位置来执行此游戏操作。According to the second, third, sixteenth and seventeenth aspects, an image obtained by the image pickup portion fixed to the first control unit or information obtained from the obtained image can be used as the operation data. For example, the orientation and position of the first control unit relative to the imaged object can be calculated, and the game play can be performed based on the orientation and position of the unit.

根据第四或第十八方面，游戏控制器和计算机彼此无线连接，由此提供了游戏控制器的改进的可控性。According to the fourth or eighteenth aspect, the game controller and the computer are wirelessly connected to each other, thereby providing improved controllability of the game controller.

根据第五或第十九方面，加速度传感器或陀螺传感器用作第一操作数据产生部件，由此减少了成本。According to the fifth or nineteenth aspect, an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor is used as the first operation data generating means, thereby reducing cost.

根据第六方面，线缆从第一控制单元去除，由此可只使用第一控制单元将操作数据发送到电脑。According to the sixth aspect, the cable is removed from the first control unit, whereby operation data can be sent to the computer using only the first control unit.

根据第七或第二十方面，可在短于典型的游戏过程周期(1/60秒)的间隔收集并发送数据。According to the seventh or twentieth aspect, data may be collected and transmitted at intervals shorter than a typical game play period (1/60 second).

根据第八至第十二方面和第十九至第二十三方面中的一个，用于根据由玩家执行的方向输入操作而输出信号的第二操作数据产生部件可由可倾斜杆、诸如具有依照方向被按动部分的十字键的按钮、水平可移动垫、接触垫、代表每个方向的按钮等来实现。According to one of the eighth to twelfth aspects and the nineteenth to twenty-third aspects, the second operation data generating means for outputting a signal according to a direction input operation performed by a player may be composed of a tiltable lever such as a The direction is realized by the button of the cross key of the push part, the horizontal movable pad, the touch pad, a button representing each direction, and the like.

根据第十三方面，每个单元根据单元体的运动而输出操作数据。因此，玩家可如在使用传统控制器的情形中一样利用一只手的手指进行输入，同时移动另一只手，另外玩家可用双手分别握着分开的单元，从而单独地移动双手以便进行输入。According to the thirteenth aspect, each unit outputs operation data according to the movement of the unit body. Thus, the player can input with the fingers of one hand while moving the other hand as in the case of a conventional controller, and alternatively the player can hold separate units with both hands to move both hands independently for input.

根据第十四、第二十七以及第三十三方面，包括在所述单元之一中的扬声器根据来自计算机的数据而输出声音，藉此可在玩家握着该单元的手附近输出声音。According to the fourteenth, twenty-seventh and thirty-third aspects, the speaker included in one of the units outputs the sound according to the data from the computer, whereby the sound can be output near the player's hand holding the unit.

根据第二十八方面，第一控制单元和第二控制单元中的每个根据单元体的运动来产生操作数据。因此，当在游戏中使用游戏控制器时，每个单元根据单元体的运动而输出操作数据，藉此玩家可用双手分别握着分开的单元，从而单独地移动双手以便于进行输入。即，玩家可使他或她的右手和左手执行各个分开的操作，从而提供传统上不能执行的新操作。另外，通过用电缆将两个控制单元彼此连接，游戏控制器仅需要一个用于计算机的发送部件。According to the twenty-eighth aspect, each of the first control unit and the second control unit generates the operation data according to the movement of the unit body. Therefore, when the game controller is used in a game, each unit outputs operation data according to the movement of the unit body, whereby the player can hold the separate units with both hands to move both hands individually for input. That is, the player can cause his or her right and left hands to perform respective separate operations, thereby providing new operations that cannot be performed conventionally. In addition, by connecting the two control units to each other with a cable, the game controller only needs one sending part for the computer.

根据第二十九方面，每个单元根据单元体的倾侧、姿态等来输出操作数据，因此玩家用双手分别握着分开的单元，从而单独地移动双手以便进行输入。According to the twenty-ninth aspect, each unit outputs operation data according to the inclination, posture, etc. of the unit body, so the player holds the separate units with both hands, thereby moving both hands individually for input.

根据第三十方面，每个单元不仅根据单元体的倾侧、姿态等来输出操作数据，而且还根据玩家执行键操作来输出操作数据。因此，玩家可用双手分别握着分开的单元，从而单独地移动双手以便进行输入，并且玩家还可使用他或她的双手的手指以便执行操作。According to the thirtieth aspect, each unit outputs operation data not only according to the inclination, attitude, etc. of the unit body, but also according to the key operation performed by the player. Therefore, the player can hold the separate units with both hands, thereby moving both hands individually for input, and the player can also use the fingers of his or her hands for performing operations.

根据第三十一方面，第一控制单元可第一控制单元相对于成像目标的方向、位置等，藉此可根据第一控制单元相对于显示装置等的方向和位置来执行操作。另一方面，第二控制单元可计算第二控制单元的倾侧、姿态、位置等，藉此可根据第二控制单元的姿态和位置来执行操作。According to the thirty-first aspect, the first control unit can control the direction, position, etc. of the first control unit relative to the imaging target, whereby the operation can be performed according to the direction and position of the first control unit relative to the display device or the like. On the other hand, the second control unit may calculate the tilt, attitude, position, etc. of the second control unit, whereby operations may be performed according to the attitude and position of the second control unit.

根据第三十二方面，第一控制单元还可计算第一控制单元的倾侧、姿态、位置等，藉此可根据第一控制单元的姿态和位置来执行操作。According to the thirty-second aspect, the first control unit may further calculate the tilt, attitude, position, etc. of the first control unit, whereby the operation may be performed according to the attitude and position of the first control unit.

此外，根据本发明的游戏系统可获得和上述游戏控制器相同的效果。In addition, the game system according to the present invention can obtain the same effects as the above-mentioned game controller.

当结合附图时通过本发明的下列详细描述本发明的这些和其它目的、特点、方面以及优势将变得更为清楚。These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

附图说明Description of drawings

图1是图示出根据本发明的一个实施例的游戏系统1的外视图；FIG. 1 is an external view illustrating a gaming system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention;

图2是图1中所示游戏设备3的功能框图；Fig. 2 is the functional block diagram of game device 3 shown in Fig. 1;

图3是图示图1中所示控制器7的外观的透视图；FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the controller 7 shown in FIG. 1;

图4是图示图3中所示控制器7的连接线缆79被连接到核心单元70或从核心单元70断开连接的状态的透视图；4 is a perspective view illustrating a state where theconnection cable 79 of the controller 7 shown in FIG. 3 is connected to or disconnected from thecore unit 70;

图5是从图3中所示核心单元70的顶后侧所见的核心单元70的透视图；FIG. 5 is a perspective view of thecore unit 70 seen from the top rear side of thecore unit 70 shown in FIG. 3;

图6是从图3中所示核心单元70的底前侧所见的核心单元70的透视图；Figure 6 is a perspective view of thecore unit 70 seen from the bottom front side of thecore unit 70 shown in Figure 3;

图7是图示图3中所示核心单元70的上外壳被移走的状态的透视图；FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the upper case of thecore unit 70 shown in FIG. 3 is removed;

图8是图示图3中所示核心单元70的下外壳被移走的状态的透视图；FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the lower case of thecore unit 70 shown in FIG. 3 is removed;

图9是图示图3中所示子单元76的第一例子的透视图；FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a first example of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图10是其中图9中所示子单元76的上外壳被移去的状态的透视图；FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a state where the upper casing of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 9 is removed;

图11A、11B及11C分别是图3中所示子单元76的第二例子的顶视图、底视图以及左侧视图；11A, 11B, and 11C are top, bottom, and left side views, respectively, of a second example of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图12是从图3中所示子单元76的顶前侧所见的子单元76的透视图；FIG. 12 is a perspective view of thesubunit 76 seen from the top front side of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图13是图示图3中所示子单元76的第一种修改的例子的顶视图；FIG. 13 is a top view illustrating a first modified example of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图14是图示图3中所示子单元76的第二种修改的例子的顶视图；FIG. 14 is a top view illustrating a second modified example of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图15是图示图3中所示子单元76的第三种修改的例子的顶视图；FIG. 15 is a top view illustrating a third modified example of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图16是图示图3中所示子单元76的第四种修改的例子的顶视图；FIG. 16 is a top view illustrating a fourth modified example of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 3;

图17是图示图3中所示控制器7的结构的框图；FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the controller 7 shown in FIG. 3;

图18是图示一般被图3中所示控制器7控制的游戏的状态的图；FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the state of a game generally controlled by the controller 7 shown in FIG. 3;

图19示出了从核心单元70的前表面侧所见的玩家利用右手握着核心单元70的示范状态；FIG. 19 shows an exemplary state in which the player holds thecore unit 70 with his right hand as seen from the front surface side of thecore unit 70;

图20示出了从核心单元70的左侧所见的玩家利用右手握着核心单元70的示范状态；FIG. 20 shows an exemplary state in which the player is holding thecore unit 70 with his right hand as seen from the left side of thecore unit 70;

图21是图示LED模块8L的视角、LED模块8R的视角以及图像拾取元件743的视角的图；FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the angle of view of theLED module 8L, the angle of view of theLED module 8R, and the angle of view of the image pickup element 743;

图22示出了从子单元76的右侧所见的玩家利用左手握着子单元76的示范状态；以及Fig. 22 has shown the exemplary state that the player utilizes left hand to holdsubunit 76 seen from the right side ofsubunit 76; And

图23示出了当游戏设备3执行射击游戏时显示在显示器2上的示范性游戏图像。FIG. 23 shows an exemplary game image displayed on thedisplay 2 when the game device 3 executes a shooting game.

具体实施方式Detailed ways

参考图1，将描述根据本发明的一个实施例的游戏系统1。图1是图示出游戏系统1的外部视图。在下列描述中，根据本发明的游戏系统1包括静态游戏设备。Referring to Fig. 1, a game system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is an external view illustrating a game system 1 . In the following description, the game system 1 according to the present invention includes static game devices.

如图1中所示，游戏系统1包括：静止的游戏设备(此后，简单地称作“游戏设备”)3，该游戏设备3经由连接绳连接到具有扬声器2a的家用电视机接收器等的显示器(此后，称为“监视器”)2；以及控制器7，用于对游戏设备给出操作信息。游戏设备3经由连接终端连接到接收单元6。接收单元6接收从控制器7无线发送的发送数据。控制器7和游戏设备3通过无线通信彼此连接。作为可交换信息存储介质的例子的光盘4可拆卸地安装在游戏设备3上。游戏设备3包括电源ON/OFF开关、游戏过程重置开关和用于打开在游戏设备3的顶主表面上的游戏设备3的顶盖的OPEN开关。当玩家按动OPEN开关时，盖被打开，使得可安装或取出光盘4。As shown in FIG. 1 , a game system 1 includes a stationary game device (hereinafter, simply referred to as "game device") 3 connected via a connecting cord to a home television receiver or the like having a speaker 2a. A display (hereinafter, referred to as "monitor") 2; and a controller 7 for giving operation information to the game device. The game device 3 is connected to the receiving unit 6 via a connection terminal. The receiving unit 6 receives transmission data wirelessly transmitted from the controller 7 . The controller 7 and the game device 3 are connected to each other by wireless communication. An optical disc 4 as an example of an exchangeable information storage medium is detachably mounted on the game device 3 . The game device 3 includes a power ON/OFF switch, a game process reset switch, and an OPEN switch for opening the top cover of the game device 3 on the top main surface of the game device 3 . When the player presses the OPEN switch, the cover is opened so that the optical disc 4 can be installed or removed.

此外，当需要时外存储卡5可拆卸地安装在游戏设备3上。外存储卡5具有安装在其上用于固定地存储保存的数据等的备份存储器等。游戏设备3执行存储在光盘4上游戏程序等，并将结果作为游戏图像显示在监视器2上。游戏设备3还可使用存储在外存储卡5中的保存数据来再现过去玩的游戏的状态，并把游戏图像显示在监视器2上。利用游戏设备3玩的玩家通过操作控制器7同时观察在监视器2上显示的游戏图像，可享受游戏的乐趣。In addition, the external memory card 5 is detachably mounted on the game device 3 when necessary. The external memory card 5 has a backup memory or the like mounted thereon for fixedly storing saved data or the like. The game device 3 executes a game program and the like stored on the optical disc 4, and displays the result on themonitor 2 as a game image. The game device 3 can also reproduce the state of a game played in the past using the save data stored in the external memory card 5, and display the game image on themonitor 2. A player playing with the game device 3 can enjoy the game by operating the controller 7 while viewing the game image displayed on themonitor 2 .

使用例如蓝牙(注册商标)技术，控制器7将发送数据从包括在控制器7中的通信部件75(后面描述)无线发送到与接收单元6连接的游戏设备3。控制器7具有两个控制单元，即通过柔性连接线缆79彼此连接的核心单元70和子单元76。控制器7是用于主要操作出现在显示在监视器2上显示的游戏空间中的玩家对象的操作装置。核心单元70和子单元76每个包括诸如多个操作按钮、键、杆等的操作部件。如后面所详细描述的，核心单元70包括用于从核心单元70得到观看的图像的成像信息计算部件74。作为成像信息计算部件74的成像目标的例子，在监视器2的显示屏幕的附近提供了两个LED模块8L和8R。LED模块8L和8R每个输出从监视器2向前的红外光。虽然在本实施例中核心单元70和子单元76通过柔性线缆彼此连接，但子单元76可以具有无线单元，由此去掉连接线缆79。例如，子单元76具有作为无线单元的蓝牙(注册商标)单元，由此子单元76可将操作数据发送到核心单元70。The controller 7 wirelessly transmits transmission data from a communication section 75 (described later) included in the controller 7 to the game device 3 connected to the receiving unit 6 using, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology. The controller 7 has two control units, acore unit 70 and asubunit 76 connected to each other by aflexible connection cable 79 . The controller 7 is an operation device for mainly operating a player object appearing in the game space displayed on themonitor 2 . Thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 each include operating members such as a plurality of operating buttons, keys, levers, and the like. As will be described later in detail, thecore unit 70 includes an imaginginformation calculation section 74 for obtaining a viewed image from thecore unit 70 . As an example of an imaging target of the imaginginformation calculation section 74 , twoLED modules 8L and 8R are provided in the vicinity of the display screen of themonitor 2 . TheLED modules 8L and 8R each output infrared light forward from themonitor 2 . Although thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 are connected to each other by a flexible cable in this embodiment, thesubunit 76 may have a wireless unit, whereby the connectingcable 79 is eliminated. For example, thesubunit 76 has a Bluetooth (registered trademark) unit as a wireless unit, whereby thesubunit 76 can transmit operation data to thecore unit 70 .

接着，将参考图2描述游戏设备3的结构。图2是游戏设备3的功能框图。Next, the structure of the game device 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 2 . FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the game device 3 .

如图2中所示，游戏设备3包括例如用于执行不同类型程序的RISCCPU(中央处理单元)30。CPU 30执行存储在引导ROM(未示出)中的引导程序，以例如初始化包括主存储器33的存储器，然后执行存储在光盘4上的游戏程序以根据该游戏程序执行游戏过程等。CPU 30经由存储控制器31连接到GPU(图形处理单元)32、主存储器33、DSP(数字信号处理器)34和ARAM(音频RAM)35。存储控制器31经由预定总线连接到控制器I/F(界面)36、视频I/F 37、外存储器I/F 38、音频I/F 39和盘I/F 41。控制器I/F 36、视频I/F 37、外存储器I/F 38、音频I/F 39和盘I/F 41分别连接到接收单元6、监视器2、外存储卡5、扬声器2a和盘驱动器40。As shown in FIG. 2 , the game device 3 includes, for example, a RISCCPU (Central Processing Unit) 30 for executing various types of programs. The CPU 30 executes a boot program stored in a boot ROM (not shown) to, for example, initialize memory including the main memory 33, and then executes a game program stored on the optical disc 4 to perform a game process etc. according to the game program. The CPU 30 is connected to a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 32, a main memory 33, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) 34, and an ARAM (Audio RAM) 35 via a memory controller 31. The storage controller 31 is connected to a controller I/F (interface) 36, a video I/F 37, an external memory I/F 38, an audio I/F 39, and a disk I/F 41 via predetermined buses. Controller I/F 36, video I/F 37, external memory I/F 38, audio I/F 39 and disk I/F 41 are respectively connected to receiving unit 6, monitor 2, external memory card 5, speaker 2a and disk drive 40 .

GPU 32基于来自CPU 30的指令而执行图像处理。GPU 32包括例如用于执行为显示3D图形所需的计算过程的半导体芯片。GPU 32使用专用于图像处理的存储器(未示出)和主存储器33的部分存储区域来执行图像处理。GPU32使用这些存储器产生待显示在监视器2上的游戏图像数据和影片，并按需经由存储控制器31和视频I/F 37将产生的数据或影片输出到监视器2。The GPU 32 executes image processing based on instructions from the CPU 30. The GPU 32 includes, for example, semiconductor chips for performing calculation processes required for displaying 3D graphics. The GPU 32 performs image processing using a memory (not shown) dedicated to image processing and a part of the storage area of the main memory 33. The GPU 32 generates game image data and movies to be displayed on themonitor 2 using these memories, and outputs the generated data or movies to themonitor 2 via the memory controller 31 and the video I/F 37 as needed.

主存储器33是由CPU 30使用的存储区域，并按需存储由CPU 30执行的处理所需的游戏程序等。例如，主存储器33存储由CPU 30从光盘4读取的游戏程序、不同类型的数据等。存储在主存储器33中的游戏程序、不同类型的数据等由CPU 30执行。The main memory 33 is a storage area used by the CPU 30, and stores game programs and the like required for processing performed by the CPU 30 as needed. For example, the main memory 33 stores game programs read from the optical disc 4 by the CPU 30, various types of data, and the like. Game programs, various types of data, and the like stored in the main memory 33 are executed by the CPU 30.

DSP 34处理在游戏程序执行期间通过CPU 30产生的声音数据等。DSP34连接到用于存储声音数据等的ARAM 35。当DSP 34执行预定过程(例如，已读的游戏程序或声音数据的存储)时使用ARAM 35。DSP 34读取存储在ARAM 35中的声音数据，并经由存储控制器31和音频I/F 39将声音数据输出到包括在监视器2中的扬声器2a。The DSP 34 processes sound data and the like generated by the CPU 30 during execution of the game program. The DSP 34 is connected to the ARAM 35 for storing sound data and the like. The ARAM 35 is used when the DSP 34 executes a predetermined process such as storage of a game program or sound data that has been read. The DSP 34 reads the sound data stored in the ARAM 35, and outputs the sound data to the speaker 2a included in themonitor 2 via the memory controller 31 and the audio I/F 39.

存储控制器31全面地控制数据发送，并连接到上述不同的I/F。控制器I/F36包括例如四个控制器I/F 36a、36b、36c和36d，并经由控制器I/F36a、36b、36c和36d的连接器将游戏设备3可通信地连接到可接合的外器件。例如，接收单元6与这样的连接器接合，并经由控制器I/F 36连接到游戏设备3。如上所述，接收单元6从控制器7接收发送数据，并经由控制器I/F 36输出发送数据到CPU 30。视频I/F 37连接到监视器2。外存储器I/F 38连接到外存储卡5并可由提供在外存储卡5中的备份存储器访问。音频I/F 39连接到设立在监视器2中的扬声器2a，使得由DSP 34从ARAM 35读取的声音数据或从盘驱动器40直接输出的声音数据可从扬声器2a输出。盘I/F 41连接到盘驱动器40。盘驱动器40在光盘4的预定读取位置读取存储的数据，并输出数据到游戏设备3的总线或音频I/F 39。The memory controller 31 comprehensively controls data transmission, and is connected to the various I/Fs described above. The controller I/F 36 includes, for example, four controller I/Fs 36a, 36b, 36c, and 36d, and connects the game device 3 communicatively to an attachable external devices. For example, the receiving unit 6 is engaged with such a connector, and is connected to the game device 3 via the controller I/F 36. As described above, the receiving unit 6 receives transmission data from the controller 7, and outputs the transmission data to the CPU 30 via the controller I/F 36. Video I/F 37 is connected to monitor 2. The external memory I/F 38 is connected to the external memory card 5 and can be accessed by a backup memory provided in the external memory card 5. The audio I/F 39 is connected to a speaker 2a built in themonitor 2, so that sound data read by the DSP 34 from the ARAM 35 or sound data directly output from the disk drive 40 can be output from the speaker 2a. A disk I/F 41 is connected to a disk drive 40. The disk drive 40 reads the stored data at a predetermined read position of the optical disk 4, and outputs the data to the bus or the audio I/F 39 of the game device 3.

接着，将参考图3和图4描述控制器7。图3是图示控制器7的外观的透视图。图4是图示图3中所示控制器7的连接线缆79被连接到核心单元70到或从核心单元70断开连接的状态的透视图。Next, the controller 7 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 . FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the controller 7 . FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a state where theconnection cable 79 of the controller 7 shown in FIG. 3 is connected to or disconnected from thecore unit 70 .

如图3中所示，控制器7包括通过连接线缆79彼此连接的核心单元70和子单元76。核心单元70具有包括多个操作部件72的壳体71。子单元76具有包括多个操作部件78的壳体77。核心单元70和子单元76通过连接线缆79彼此连接。As shown in FIG. 3 , the controller 7 includes acore unit 70 and asubunit 76 connected to each other by aconnection cable 79 . Thecore unit 70 has ahousing 71 including a plurality of operatingparts 72 . Thesubunit 76 has ahousing 77 including a plurality of operating components 78 . Thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 are connected to each other by aconnection cable 79 .

如图4中所示，连接线缆79在其一端具有可拆卸地连接到核心单元70的连接器73的连接器791，并且连接线缆79在其另一端固定地连接到子单元76。连接线缆79的连接器791与提供在核心单元70的后表面的连接器73接合，从而通过连接线缆79将核心单元70和子单元76彼此连接。As shown in FIG. 4 , theconnection cable 79 has a connector 791 detachably connected to theconnector 73 of thecore unit 70 at one end thereof, and is fixedly connected to thesubunit 76 at the other end thereof. The connector 791 of theconnection cable 79 is engaged with theconnector 73 provided on the rear surface of thecore unit 70 , thereby connecting thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 to each other through theconnection cable 79 .

将参考图5和图6描述核心单元70。图5是从核心单元70的顶后侧所见的核心单元70的透视图。图6是从核心单元70的底后侧所见的核心单元70的透视图。Thecore unit 70 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 . FIG. 5 is a perspective view of thecore unit 70 seen from the top rear side of thecore unit 70 . FIG. 6 is a perspective view of thecore unit 70 seen from the bottom rear side of thecore unit 70 .

如图5和图6中所示，核心单元70包括通过塑料模制等形成的壳体71。壳体71具有在纵向方向上从前到后延伸的大体上平行六面体的形状。壳体71的总体尺寸足够小，以可以通过成人或甚至是孩子的一只手来握着。As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , thecore unit 70 includes ahousing 71 formed by plastic molding or the like. Thehousing 71 has a substantially parallelepiped shape extending from front to rear in the longitudinal direction. The overall size of thehousing 71 is small enough to be held in one hand by an adult or even a child.

在壳体71的顶表面的前部的中心提供了十字键72a。十字键72a为成十字形的四方向推动开关。十字键72a包括对应由箭头表示的四个方向(前、后、左和右)的操作部分，这些箭头分别位于以90度间隔布置的成十字形的突起部上。玩家通过按动十字键72a的操作部分中的一个来选择前、后、左及右方向中的一个。通过对十字键72a的操作，玩家可指示例如出现在虚拟游戏世界中的玩家角色等要移动的方向或光标要移动的方向。At the center of the front of the top surface of thehousing 71 is provided a cross key 72 a. The cross key 72a is a cross-shaped push switch in four directions. The cross key 72a includes operation portions corresponding to four directions (front, rear, left, and right) indicated by arrows respectively positioned on cross-shaped protrusions arranged at intervals of 90 degrees. The player selects one of front, back, left and right directions by pressing one of the operation portions of the cross key 72a. By operating the cross key 72a, the player can indicate, for example, the direction in which a player character appearing in the virtual game world is to move or the direction in which a cursor is to move.

虽然十字键72a是用于根据由玩家执行的前述方向输入操作而输出操作信号的操作部件，但这种操作部件可以其它形式提供。例如，十字键72a可利用包括推动开关和中心开关的复合开关来代替，该推动开关包括环形四方向操作部件，该中心开关提供在复合开关的中心处。可替选地，十字键72a可利用操作部件代替，该操作部件包括从壳体71的顶表面突出的可倾斜杆并根据杆倾斜方向输出操作信号。还是可替选地，十字键72a可利用操作部件代替，该操作部件包括可水平滑动的盘形构件并根据盘形构件的滑动方向输出操作信号。还是可替选地，十字键72a可利用接触垫代替。还是可替选地，十字键72a可利用操作部件代替，该操作部件包括代表至少四个方向(前、后、左及右)的开关并根据由玩家按动的开关输出操作信号。Although the cross key 72a is an operation member for outputting an operation signal in accordance with the aforementioned directional input operation performed by the player, such an operation member may be provided in another form. For example, the cross key 72a may be replaced with a composite switch including a push switch including a ring-shaped four-direction operation member and a center switch provided at the center of the composite switch. Alternatively, the cross key 72a may be replaced with an operation member including a tiltable lever protruding from the top surface of thehousing 71 and outputting an operation signal according to the tilting direction of the lever. Still alternatively, the cross key 72a may be replaced with an operation part including a disk-shaped member slidable horizontally and outputting an operation signal according to the sliding direction of the disk-shaped member. Still alternatively, the cross key 72a may be replaced with a contact pad. Still alternatively, the cross key 72a may be replaced with an operation member including switches representing at least four directions (front, back, left and right) and outputting an operation signal according to the switch pressed by the player.

在壳体71顶表面上的十字键72a后，提供了多个操作按钮72b、72c、72d、72e、72f和72g。每个操作按钮72b、72c、72d、72e、72f和72g是用于当玩家按动操作按钮的头时输出分配给操作按钮72b、72c、72d、72e、72f和72g的各个操作信号的操作部件。例如，操作按钮72b、72c、72d分配有第一按钮、第二按钮和A按钮的功能。此外，操作按钮72e、72f及72g分配有例如减号按钮(minus button)、主页按钮(home button)和加号按钮(plus button)的功能。操作按钮72b、72c、72d、72e、72f和72g根据通过游戏设备3执行的游戏程序而分配有各个功能，但这将不进行详细描述，因为这些功能不直接涉及本发明。在图5中所示的示范性布置中，操作按钮72b、72c、72d在壳体71的顶表面上以前后方向在中心处布置成直线。操作按钮72e、72f和72g在壳体71的顶表面上的操作按钮72b和72d之间的左右方向上布置成直线。操作按钮72f具有埋在壳体71的顶表面中的顶表面，以便于不被玩家不留意地按动。Behind the cross key 72a on the top surface of thehousing 71, a plurality ofoperation buttons 72b, 72c, 72d, 72e, 72f and 72g are provided. Each of theoperation buttons 72b, 72c, 72d, 72e, 72f, and 72g is an operation member for outputting respective operation signals assigned to theoperation buttons 72b, 72c, 72d, 72e, 72f, and 72g when the player presses the head of the operation button. . For example, the functions of the first button, the second button, and the A button are assigned to theoperation buttons 72b, 72c, and 72d. In addition, theoperation buttons 72e, 72f, and 72g are assigned functions such as a minus button, a home button, and a plus button. Theoperation buttons 72b, 72c, 72d, 72e, 72f and 72g are assigned respective functions according to the game program executed by the game device 3, but this will not be described in detail because these functions do not directly relate to the present invention. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 5 , theoperation buttons 72 b , 72 c , 72 d are arranged in a straight line at the center in the front-rear direction on the top surface of thehousing 71 . Theoperation buttons 72 e , 72 f , and 72 g are arranged in a straight line in the left-right direction between theoperation buttons 72 b and 72 d on the top surface of thehousing 71 . Theoperation button 72f has a top surface buried in the top surface of thehousing 71 so as not to be pressed inadvertently by the player.

在壳体71的顶表面上的十字键72a前，提供操作按钮72h。操作按钮72h是用于远程控制游戏设备3的电源开或关的电源开关。操作按钮72h也具有埋在壳体71的顶表面中的顶表面，以便于不被玩家不留意地按动。In front of the cross key 72a on the top surface of thehousing 71, anoperation button 72h is provided. Theoperation button 72h is a power switch for remotely controlling the power on or off of the game device 3 . Theoperation button 72h also has a top surface buried in the top surface of thehousing 71 so as not to be pressed inadvertently by the player.

在壳体71的顶表面上的操作按钮72后，提供多个LED 702。控制器7被分配了控制类型(号)，以便于和其它控制器7区分。例如，LED 702用来告知玩家对他或她在使用的控制器7当前设定的控制器类型。具体地，当核心单元70将发送数据发送到接收单元6时，多个LED 702中对应于控制器类型的一个被点亮。Behind theoperation button 72 on the top surface of thehousing 71, a plurality ofLEDs 702 are provided. The controller 7 is assigned a control type (number) to distinguish it from other controllers 7 . For example, theLED 702 is used to inform the player of the controller type currently set for the controller 7 he or she is using. Specifically, when thecore unit 70 sends transmission data to the receiving unit 6, one of the plurality ofLEDs 702 corresponding to the controller type is lit.

在壳体71的顶表面上，在操作按钮72e、72f以及72g和操作按钮72b之间提供了声孔，用于外部输出来自图7中所示扬声器706的声音，其将在以下描述。On the top surface of thehousing 71, sound holes are provided between theoperation buttons 72e, 72f, and 72g and theoperation button 72b for external output of sound from a speaker 706 shown in FIG. 7, which will be described below.

在壳体71的底表面上形成凹陷部分。如后面所详细描述的，凹陷部分形成在当玩家握着核心单元70时玩家食指或中指所位于的部分。在凹陷部分的后倾斜表面上，提供了操作按钮72i。操作按钮72i是作为例如B按钮的操作部件。操作按钮72i用作例如在射击游戏中的触发开关，或用于将玩家对象的注意力吸引到预定对象。A recessed portion is formed on the bottom surface of thehousing 71 . As will be described later in detail, the depressed portion is formed at a portion where the player's index finger or middle finger is located when the player holds thecore unit 70 . On the rear inclined surface of the recessed portion, an operation button 72i is provided. The operation button 72i is an operation member as, for example, a B button. The operation button 72i is used, for example, as a trigger switch in a shooting game, or for drawing the attention of a player object to a predetermined object.

在壳体71的前表面上，提供了包括在成像信息计算部件74中的图像拾取元件743。成像信息计算部件74是用于分析由核心单元70得到的图像数据并检测图像数据中具有高亮度的区域的距心、尺寸等的系统。成像信息计算部件74具有例如约200帧/秒的最大采样周期，因此可追踪和分析甚至是核心单元70相对快的运动。成像信息计算部件74将在后面详细描述。在壳体71的后表面，提供连接器73。连接器73例如为32-针的边缘连接器，并用来接合和连接核心单元70和连接线缆79的连接器791。On the front surface of thehousing 71, an image pickup element 743 included in the imaginginformation calculation section 74 is provided. The imaginginformation calculation section 74 is a system for analyzing the image data obtained by thecore unit 70 and detecting the centroid, size, etc. of an area having high brightness in the image data. The imaginginformation calculation part 74 has a maximum sampling period of, for example, about 200 frames/second, and thus can track and analyze even relatively fast movements of thecore unit 70 . The imaginginformation calculation section 74 will be described in detail later. On the rear surface of thehousing 71, aconnector 73 is provided. Theconnector 73 is, for example, a 32-pin edge connector, and is used to engage and connect thecore unit 70 and the connector 791 of theconnection cable 79 .

将参考图7和8描述核心单元70的内部结构。图7是图示如从核心单元70的后侧所见的核心单元70的上外壳(壳体71的部分)被移走的状态的透视图。图8是图示如从核心单元70的前侧所见的核心单元70的下外壳被移走的状态的透视图。图8是图示图7中所示基板700的相反侧的透视图。The internal structure of thecore unit 70 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 . FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a state where the upper case (part of the case 71 ) of thecore unit 70 is removed as seen from the rear side of thecore unit 70 . FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a state where the lower case of thecore unit 70 is removed as seen from the front side of thecore unit 70 . FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the opposite side of thesubstrate 700 shown in FIG. 7 .

如图7中所示，基板700固定在壳体71中。在基板700的顶主表面上，提供了操作按钮72a、72b、72c、72d、72e、72f、72g和72h，加速度传感器701，LED 702，天线754等。这些元件经由形成在基板700上的线(未示出)等连接到微型计算机751(见图8和17)等。无线模块753(未示出)(见图17)和天线754允许核心单元70作为无线控制器。石英振荡器703(未示出)，在壳体71中提供，产生后面所描述的微型计算机751的参考时钟。在基板700的顶主表面上，提供了扬声器706和放大器708。在从基板700的中心偏移的基板700的边缘附近提供了加速度传感器701。因此，基于核心单元70相对于其纵向方向的旋转可对重力加速度和包含离心力分量的加速度的方向改变进行检测，以便基于已检测到的加速度数据使用预定计算以有利的精确度来确定核心单元70的旋转。As shown in FIG. 7 , thesubstrate 700 is fixed in thehousing 71 . On the top main surface of thesubstrate 700,operation buttons 72a, 72b, 72c, 72d, 72e, 72f, 72g, and 72h, an acceleration sensor 701, anLED 702, an antenna 754, and the like are provided. These elements are connected to a microcomputer 751 (see FIGS. 8 and 17 ) and the like via lines (not shown) and the like formed on thesubstrate 700 . Wireless module 753 (not shown) (see FIG. 17) and antenna 754 allowcore unit 70 to act as a wireless controller. A quartz oscillator 703 (not shown), provided in thecasing 71, generates a reference clock for amicrocomputer 751 described later. On the top main surface of thesubstrate 700, a speaker 706 and an amplifier 708 are provided. The acceleration sensor 701 is provided near the edge of thesubstrate 700 offset from the center of thesubstrate 700 . Therefore, the gravitational acceleration and the change in direction of the acceleration including the centrifugal force component can be detected based on the rotation of thecore unit 70 with respect to its longitudinal direction, so that thecore unit 70 can be determined with favorable accuracy using predetermined calculations based on the detected acceleration data. rotation.

如图8中所示，在基板700的底主表面的前边缘，提供了成像信息计算部件74。成像信息计算部件74包括红外滤波器741、透镜742、图像拾取元件743和图像处理电路744，它们以这种顺序从在基板700底主表面上的核心单元70的前表面定位。在基板700的底主表面的后边缘，附着了连接器73。此外，在基板700的底主表面上提供了声音IC 707和微型计算机751。声音IC 707，经由形成在基板700等上的线而连接到微型计算机751和放大器708，基于从游戏设备3所发送的声音数据，经由放大器708将声音信号输出到扬声器706。在基板700的底主表面上，提供了振动器704。振动器704是例如振动马达或螺线圈。核心单元70通过振动器704的激励而振动，并且振动传递给玩家握着核心单元70的手。由此，实现了所谓的振动反馈游戏。振动器704稍微向着壳体71的前部设置，从而允许玩家所握着的壳体71强烈地振动，即允许玩家容易地感觉到振动。As shown in FIG. 8 , at the front edge of the bottom main surface of thesubstrate 700 , an imaginginformation calculation section 74 is provided. Imaginginformation calculation section 74 includes infrared filter 741 , lens 742 , image pickup element 743 and image processing circuit 744 located in this order from the front surface ofcore unit 70 on the bottom main surface ofsubstrate 700 . At the rear edge of the bottom main surface of thesubstrate 700, aconnector 73 is attached. Furthermore, on the bottom main surface of thesubstrate 700, asound IC 707 and amicrocomputer 751 are provided. Thesound IC 707 is connected to themicrocomputer 751 and the amplifier 708 via lines formed on thesubstrate 700, etc., and outputs a sound signal to the speaker 706 through the amplifier 708 based on the sound data transmitted from the game device 3. On the bottom main surface of thesubstrate 700, avibrator 704 is provided. Thevibrator 704 is, for example, a vibration motor or a solenoid. Thecore unit 70 is vibrated by the excitation of thevibrator 704 , and the vibration is transmitted to the player's hand holding thecore unit 70 . Thereby, a so-called vibration feedback game is realized. Thevibrator 704 is disposed slightly toward the front of thecasing 71, thereby allowing thecasing 71 held by the player to vibrate strongly, ie, allowing the player to easily feel the vibration.

将参考图9到12来描述子单元76。图9是图示子单元76的第一例子的透视图。图10是图示图9中所示子单元76的上外壳(壳体77的一部分)被移去的状态的透视图。图11A是图示子单元76的第二例子的顶视图。图11B是图示子单元76的第二例子的底视图。图11C是图示子单元76的第二例子的左侧视图。图12是图示从子单元76的顶前侧所见的子单元76的第二例子的透视图。Thesubunit 76 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12 . FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a first example of thesubunit 76 . FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state where the upper case (part of the housing 77 ) of thesubunit 76 shown in FIG. 9 is removed. FIG. 11A is a top view illustrating a second example of thesubunit 76 . FIG. 11B is a bottom view illustrating a second example of thesubunit 76 . FIG. 11C is a left side view illustrating a second example of thesubunit 76 . FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a second example of thesubunit 76 seen from the top front side of thesubunit 76 .

如图9中所示，子单元76包括通过例如塑料模制形成的壳体77。壳体77在纵向方向上从前到后地延伸，并具有包括头的流线型固体形状，所述头是子单元76中最宽的部分。子单元76的总体尺寸足够小，以便于通过成人或甚至是孩子的一只手来握着。As shown in FIG. 9 , thesubunit 76 includes ahousing 77 formed by, for example, plastic molding. Thehousing 77 extends from front to back in the longitudinal direction, and has a streamlined solid shape including a head, which is the widest part of thesubunit 76 . The overall size of thesubunit 76 is small enough to be held in one hand by an adult or even a child.

在壳体77的顶表面上最宽部分附近，提供了杆78a。杆78a是包括从壳体77的顶表面突出的可倾斜杆并根据杆倾斜方向输出操作信号的操作部件。例如，玩家可通过在360度的任意方向上倾斜杆末梢来任意地指定方向和位置，由此玩家可指示出现在虚拟游戏世界中的玩家角色等要移动的方向或光标要移动的方向。Near the widest portion on the top surface of thehousing 77, arod 78a is provided. Thelever 78a is an operation member including a tiltable lever protruding from the top surface of thehousing 77 and outputting an operation signal according to the tilting direction of the lever. For example, the player can arbitrarily designate the direction and position by tilting the stick tip in any direction of 360 degrees, whereby the player can indicate the direction in which a player character, etc. appearing in the virtual game world is to move or the direction in which the cursor is to move.

在子单元76的壳体77的前部提供了多个操作按钮78d和78e。操作按钮78d和78e每个都是一操作部件，用于在玩家按动操作按钮78d和78e的头时输出分配给操作按钮78d和78e的各个操作信号。例如，操作按钮78d和78e分配有例如X按钮和Y按钮的功能。尽管操作按钮78d和78e根据由游戏设备3所执行的游戏程序分配有各个功能，但这将不具体描述，因为所述功能不直接与本发明相关。在图9所示的示范性设置中，操作按钮78d和78e在壳体77的前表面上从顶到底对准。On the front of thehousing 77 of thesubunit 76 are provided a plurality ofoperation buttons 78d and 78e. Theoperation buttons 78d and 78e are each an operation member for outputting respective operation signals assigned to theoperation buttons 78d and 78e when the player presses the head of theoperation buttons 78d and 78e. For example, theoperation buttons 78d and 78e are assigned functions such as an X button and a Y button. Although theoperation buttons 78d and 78e are assigned various functions according to the game program executed by the game device 3, this will not be described in detail because the functions are not directly related to the present invention. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 9 , theoperation buttons 78 d and 78 e are aligned from top to bottom on the front surface of thehousing 77 .

在图10中，基板固定于壳体77中。在基板的顶主表面上提供了杆78a、加速度传感器761等。杆78a、加速度传感器761等经由形成在基板等上的线(未示出)而连接到连接线缆79。In FIG. 10 , the substrate is fixed in ahousing 77 . On the top main surface of the substrate are provided arod 78a, an acceleration sensor 761, and the like. Therod 78a, the acceleration sensor 761, and the like are connected to theconnection cable 79 via wires (not shown) formed on a substrate or the like.

如图11A、11B、11C和12所示，如在第一例子的子单元76的情形中一样，第二例子的子单元76包括壳体77、杆78a、操作按钮78d和78e，并且第二例子的子单元76在壳体77的顶表面上具有操作按钮78b和78c。As shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 12, as in the case of thesubunit 76 of the first example, thesubunit 76 of the second example includes ahousing 77, alever 78a,operation buttons 78d and 78e, and a second Thesubunit 76 of the example hasoperation buttons 78 b and 78 c on the top surface of thehousing 77 .

在壳体77的顶表面上的杆78a后，第二例子的子单元76具有多个操作按钮78b和78c。操作按钮78b和78c每个都是一操作部件，用于在玩家按动操作按钮78b和78c的头时输出分配给操作按钮78b和78c的各个操作信号。操作按钮78b和78c根据由游戏设备3所执行的游戏程序而分配有各个功能。然而，这将不在此描述，因为所述功能与本发明不直接相关。在图11A、11B、11C和12中所示的示范性设置中，操作按钮78b和78c在左右方向上在壳体77的顶表面的中心成直线设置。Behind thelever 78a on the top surface of thehousing 77, thesubunit 76 of the second example has a plurality ofoperation buttons 78b and 78c. Theoperation buttons 78b and 78c are each an operation member for outputting respective operation signals assigned to theoperation buttons 78b and 78c when the player presses the heads of theoperation buttons 78b and 78c. Theoperation buttons 78 b and 78 c are assigned respective functions according to the game program executed by the game device 3 . However, this will not be described here since the function is not directly related to the present invention. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIGS. 11A , 11B, 11C and 12 , theoperation buttons 78 b and 78 c are arranged in line at the center of the top surface of thecase 77 in the left-right direction.

虽然杆78a是用于根据上述由玩家执行的方向输入操作输出操作信号的操作部件，但是这种操作部件也可以其它形式提供。此后，参考图13至图16，将描述第一至第五的示范性修改，这些修改中的每个包括第二例子的子单元76，所述子单元具有用于根据方向输入操作而输出操作信号的操作部件。Although thelever 78a is an operation member for outputting an operation signal in accordance with the above-mentioned directional input operation performed by the player, such an operation member may also be provided in other forms. Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 13 to 16 , first to fifth exemplary modifications will be described, each of which includes asubunit 76 of the second example having a function for outputting an operation according to a direction input operation. The operating part of the signal.

作为如图13中所示的第一示范性修改，子单元76可包括代替杆78a的十字键78f，该十字键78f类似于核心单元70的十字键72a。作为如图14中所示的第二示范性修改，子单元76可包括代替杆78a的滑动垫78g，该滑动垫78g包括可水平滑动的盘形构件并根据盘形构件的滑动方向输出操作信号。作为如图15中所示的第三示范性修改，子单元76可包括代替杆78a的接触垫78h。作为如图16中所示的第四示范性修改，子单元76可包括代替杆78a的操作部件，该操作部件具有分别代表至少四个方向(前、后、左及右)的按钮78i、78j、78k和78l，并根据由玩家按动的按钮(78i、78j、78k或78l)输出操作信号。作为第五示范性修改，子单元76可包括代替杆78a的包括推动开关和中心开关的复合开关，该推动开关具有环形四方向操作部件，该中心开关提供在复合开关的中心处。As a first exemplary modification as shown in FIG. 13 , thesubunit 76 may include a cross key 78 f similar to the cross key 72 a of thecore unit 70 instead of therod 78 a. As a second exemplary modification as shown in FIG. 14 , thesubunit 76 may include, instead of therod 78a, a sliding pad 78g including a disc-shaped member that can slide horizontally and outputs an operation signal according to the sliding direction of the disc-shaped member. . As a third exemplary modification as shown in FIG. 15, thesubunit 76 may include a contact pad 78h instead of therod 78a. As a fourth exemplary modification as shown in FIG. 16 , thesubunit 76 may include an operating member instead of thelever 78a, which hasbuttons 78i, 78j representing at least four directions (front, back, left, and right), respectively. , 78k, and 78l, and output an operation signal according to the button (78i, 78j, 78k, or 78l) pressed by the player. As a fifth exemplary modification, thesubunit 76 may include, instead of thelever 78a, a composite switch including a push switch having a ring-shaped four-direction operation part and a center switch provided at the center of the composite switch.

接着，将参考图17描述控制器7的内部结构。图17是图示控制器7的结构的框图。Next, the internal structure of the controller 7 will be described with reference to FIG. 17 . FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the controller 7 .

如图17中所示，除了如上所述的操作部件72、成像信息计算部件74、加速度传感器701、扬声器706、声音IC 707以及放大器708，核心单元70还包括通信部件75。此外，具有如上所述的操作部件78和加速度传感器761的子单元76经由连接线缆79和连接器791及73而连接到微型计算机751。As shown in FIG. 17 , thecore unit 70 includes a communication section 75 in addition to theoperation section 72, imaginginformation calculation section 74, acceleration sensor 701, speaker 706,sound IC 707, and amplifier 708 as described above. Further, thesubunit 76 having the operation member 78 and the acceleration sensor 761 as described above is connected to themicrocomputer 751 via theconnection cable 79 and theconnectors 791 and 73 .

成像信息计算部件74包括红外滤波器741、透镜742、图像拾取元件743和图像处理电路744。在入射在核心单元70的前表面上的光中，红外滤波器741只允许红外光通过。透镜742收集通过红外滤波器741的红外光，并输出红外光到图像拾取元件743。图像拾取元件743是诸如例如CMOS传感器或CCD的固态成像器件。图像拾取元件743得到由透镜742收集的红外光的图像。从而，图像拾取元件743仅得到了通过红外滤波器741的红外光的图像，并产生图像数据。由图像拾取元件743产生的图像数据通过图像处理电路744处理。具体地，图像处理电路744处理从图像拾取元件743获得的图像数据，识别其中具有高亮度的点，并将代表识别的位置坐标和区域尺寸的处理结果数据输出到通信部件75。成像信息计算部件74固定到核心单元70的壳体71。成像信息计算部件74的成像方向可通过改变壳体71的方向来改变。壳体71通过柔性连接线缆79连接到子单元76，因此成像信息计算部件74的成像方向不通过改变子单元76的方向和位置而改变。如后面所详细描述的，基于由成像信息计算部件74输出的处理结果数据，可根据核心单元70的位置和运动获得信号。The imaginginformation calculation section 74 includes an infrared filter 741 , a lens 742 , an image pickup element 743 and an image processing circuit 744 . Of light incident on the front surface of thecore unit 70, the infrared filter 741 allows only infrared light to pass. The lens 742 collects infrared light passing through the infrared filter 741 and outputs the infrared light to the image pickup element 743 . The image pickup element 743 is a solid-state imaging device such as, for example, a CMOS sensor or a CCD. The image pickup element 743 takes an image of the infrared light collected by the lens 742 . Thus, the image pickup element 743 takes an image of only the infrared light passing through the infrared filter 741, and generates image data. Image data generated by the image pickup element 743 is processed by an image processing circuit 744 . Specifically, the image processing circuit 744 processes image data obtained from the image pickup element 743 , recognizes a point having high brightness therein, and outputs processing result data representing the recognized position coordinates and area size to the communication section 75 . The imaginginformation calculation section 74 is fixed to thecasing 71 of thecore unit 70 . The imaging direction of the imaginginformation calculation part 74 can be changed by changing the direction of thecasing 71 . Thehousing 71 is connected to thesubunit 76 through aflexible connection cable 79 , so the imaging direction of the imaginginformation calculation part 74 is not changed by changing the direction and position of thesubunit 76 . As will be described later in detail, based on the processing result data output by the imaginginformation calculation section 74, a signal can be obtained according to the position and motion of thecore unit 70.

核心单元70优选地包括三轴加速度传感器701。此外，子单元76优选地包括三轴加速度传感器761。三轴加速度传感器701和761每个检测三个方向即上/下方向、左/右方向和前/后方向上的线性加速度。可替换地，根据在游戏过程中所使用的控制信号的类型，在另一实施例中可使用二轴加速度检测装置，其只检测沿着上/下和左/右方向(或其它方向对)上的每个的线性加速度。例如，三轴加速度传感器701和761或二轴加速度传感器701和761可以是可从Analog Device公司或STMicroelectronics N.V.获得的类型。优选地，加速度传感器701和761中的每个是基于硅微机械加工的MEMS(微机电系统)技术的静电电容(电容耦合)类型。然而，现在存在或以后开发的任何其它合适的加速度检测技术(例如，压电类型或压电电阻类型)可用来提供三轴加速度传感器701和761或两轴加速度传感器701和761。Thecore unit 70 preferably includes a three-axis acceleration sensor 701 . Furthermore, thesubunit 76 preferably includes a three-axis acceleration sensor 761 . The three-axis acceleration sensors 701 and 761 each detect linear acceleration in three directions, ie, up/down directions, left/right directions, and front/rear directions. Alternatively, depending on the type of control signals used during the game, in another embodiment a two-axis acceleration detection device may be used which only detects acceleration along the up/down and left/right directions (or other pairs of directions) The linear acceleration of each on . For example, the three-axis acceleration sensors 701 and 761 or the two-axis acceleration sensors 701 and 761 may be of the type available from Analog Devices Corporation or STMicroelectronics N.V. Preferably, each of the acceleration sensors 701 and 761 is an electrostatic capacitance (capacitive coupling) type based on MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) technology of silicon micromachining. However, any other suitable acceleration detection technology now existing or later developed (eg piezoelectric type or piezoresistive type) may be used to provide the three-axis acceleration sensors 701 and 761 or the two-axis acceleration sensors 701 and 761 .

如本领域技术人员所理解的，在加速度传感器701和761中使用的加速度检测装置只能检测沿着对应于加速度传感器每个轴的直线方向的加速度(线性加速度)。换句话说，加速度传感器701和761的每个直接输出限定于指示沿着其两个轴或三个轴中每个轴的线性加速度(静态或动态)的信号。结果，加速度传感器701和761不能直接检测沿着非线性(例如拱形)路径的移动、旋转、旋转移动、角位移、倾侧、位置、姿态或任何其它物理特征。As understood by those skilled in the art, the acceleration detection means used in the acceleration sensors 701 and 761 can only detect acceleration along a straight line direction corresponding to each axis of the acceleration sensor (linear acceleration). In other words, each direct output of acceleration sensors 701 and 761 is limited to a signal indicative of linear acceleration (static or dynamic) along each of its two or three axes. As a result, acceleration sensors 701 and 761 cannot directly detect movement, rotation, rotational movement, angular displacement, roll, position, attitude, or any other physical characteristic along a non-linear (eg, arcuate) path.

但是，如本领域技术人员通过这里的描述将理解的，通过对从加速度传感器701和761所输出的加速度信号的附加处理，可推断或计算涉及核心单元70和子单元76的附加信息。例如，通过检测静态加速度(即，重力)，可以使用加速度传感器701和761的输出、通过将倾侧角与所检测的加速度相关联来推断对象(核心单元70或子单元76)相对重力矢量的倾侧。这样，加速度传感器701和761可与微型计算机751(或其它处理器)组合使用以确定核心单元70和子单元76的倾侧、姿态或位置。类似地，如这里所描述的，核心单元70和子单元76的各种移动和/或位置可通过对加速度信号的处理来计算或推断，该加速度信号在包含加速度传感器701的核心单元70或包含加速度传感器761的子单元76通过例如用户的手而经受动态加速时由加速度传感器701和761所产生。在另一个实施例中，加速度传感器701和761中的每个可包括用于在将信号输出到微型计算机751前从加速度检测装置输出的加速度信号执行任何所需处理的嵌入式信号处理器或其它类型的专用处理器。例如，嵌入式或专用处理器可在加速度传感器意图检测静态加速度(即重力)时将检测到的加速度信号转换成对应的倾侧角。由加速度传感器701和761中的每个所检测到的代表加速度的数据输出到通信部件75。However, through additional processing of the acceleration signals output from acceleration sensors 701 and 761 , additional information relating tocore unit 70 andsubunit 76 may be inferred or calculated, as those skilled in the art will understand from the description herein. For example, by detecting static acceleration (i.e., gravity), the output of acceleration sensors 701 and 761 can be used to infer the tilt of the object (core unit 70 or subunit 76) relative to the gravity vector by correlating the tilt angle with the detected acceleration . As such, acceleration sensors 701 and 761 may be used in combination with microcomputer 751 (or other processor) to determine the tilt, attitude or position ofcore unit 70 andsubunit 76 . Similarly, as described herein, various movements and/or positions of thecore unit 70 andsubunits 76 may be calculated or inferred from the processing of acceleration signals in thecore unit 70 including the acceleration sensor 701 or including theacceleration Subunit 76 of sensor 761 is produced by acceleration sensors 701 and 761 when subjected to dynamic acceleration, for example by the user's hand. In another embodiment, each of the acceleration sensors 701 and 761 may include an embedded signal processor or other processing for performing any necessary processing on the acceleration signal output from the acceleration detection device before outputting the signal to themicrocomputer 751. type of dedicated processor. For example, an embedded or dedicated processor can convert the detected acceleration signal into a corresponding roll angle when the acceleration sensor intends to detect static acceleration (ie, gravity). Data representing acceleration detected by each of the acceleration sensors 701 and 761 is output to the communication section 75 .

在另一个示范性实施例中，加速度传感器701和761中至少一个可利用结合了例如旋转或振动元件的任何合适技术的陀螺传感器来代替。可在此实施例中使用的示范性MEMS陀螺传感器可从Analog Devices公司得到。不像加速度传感器701和761，陀螺传感器能直接检测绕着由其中的陀螺仪元件所限定的至少一个轴的旋转(或角速率(angular rate))。由此，由于在陀螺传感器和加速度传感器之间的基本差异，根据针对具体应用所选的器件，需要对在来自这些器件的输出信号所执行的处理操作进行对应改变。In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the acceleration sensors 701 and 761 may be replaced with a gyro sensor incorporating any suitable technology such as a rotating or vibrating element. An exemplary MEMS gyro sensor that can be used in this embodiment is available from Analog Devices. Unlike acceleration sensors 701 and 761, gyro sensors can directly detect rotation (or angular rate) about at least one axis defined by gyro elements therein. Thus, due to the fundamental differences between gyro sensors and acceleration sensors, depending on the devices selected for a particular application, corresponding changes need to be made to the processing operations performed on the output signals from these devices.

更为具体地，当使用陀螺传感器代替加速度传感器来计算倾侧或姿态时，需要显著的改变。具体地，当使用陀螺传感器时，在检测开始时初始化倾侧值。然后，将与从陀螺传感器输出的角速度有关的数据整合(integrate)。接着，计算倾斜自初始化的倾侧值的改变量。在这种情形中，计算的倾侧对应于角度。相反，当使用加速度传感器计算倾侧时，通过将每个轴分量的重力加速度值与预定参考进行比较来计算倾侧。因此，计算的倾侧可表示为矢量。由此，无需初始化，就可利用加速度检测装置来确定绝对方向。作为倾侧计算的值的类型在陀螺传感器和加速度传感器之间也很不相同；即，当使用陀螺传感器时所述值是角度，而当使用加速度传感器时所述值是矢量。因此，当时使用陀螺传感器来代替加速度传感器时，关于倾侧的数据也需要通过对在两个器件间的基本差异进行了考虑的预定转换来处理，反之亦然。归因于这一事实，即本领域技术人员已知陀螺仪的本质以及在加速度检测装置和陀螺仪之间的基本差异，所以这里不提供进一步的细节。虽然陀螺传感器由于可直接检测旋转而是有利的，但当与在这里描述的控制器结合使用时，加速度传感器一般更为经济。More specifically, when a gyro sensor is used instead of an acceleration sensor to calculate roll or attitude, significant changes are required. Specifically, when using a gyro sensor, a tilt value is initialized at the start of detection. Then, data related to the angular velocity output from the gyro sensor is integrated. Next, the amount of change in tilt from the initialized tilt value is calculated. In this case, the calculated inclination corresponds to the angle. In contrast, when the tilt is calculated using the acceleration sensor, the tilt is calculated by comparing the gravitational acceleration value of each axis component with a predetermined reference. Therefore, the calculated inclination can be expressed as a vector. Thus, the absolute orientation can be determined using the acceleration detection device without initialization. The type of value calculated as tilt is also quite different between gyro sensors and acceleration sensors; that is, the values are angles when a gyro sensor is used and vectors when an acceleration sensor is used. Therefore, when a gyro sensor is used instead of an acceleration sensor, data on tilt also needs to be processed by a predetermined conversion that takes into account the fundamental difference between the two devices, and vice versa. Due to the fact that the nature of gyroscopes and the basic differences between acceleration detection means and gyroscopes are known to those skilled in the art, no further details are provided here. While gyroscopic sensors are advantageous due to their direct detection of rotation, accelerometers are generally more economical when used in conjunction with the controller described here.

通信部件75包括微型计算机751、存储器752、无线模块753和天线754。微型计算机751控制用于无线发送所述发送数据的无线模块753同时在过程期间将存储器752用作存储区域。此外，微型计算机751基于由无线模块753经由天线754所接收的来自游戏设备3的数据来控制声音IC707和振动器704。声音IC 707处理经由通信部件75从游戏设备3所发送的声音数据等。The communication section 75 includes amicrocomputer 751 , a memory 752 , a wireless module 753 and an antenna 754 . Themicrocomputer 751 controls a wireless module 753 for wirelessly transmitting the transmission data while using the memory 752 as a storage area during the process. Furthermore, themicrocomputer 751 controls thesound IC 707 and thevibrator 704 based on data from the game device 3 received by the wireless module 753 via the antenna 754 . Thesound IC 707 processes sound data and the like transmitted from the game device 3 via the communication section 75.

包括来自操作部件72的操作信号(核心键数据)、来自加速度传感器701的加速度信号(核心加速度数据)和来自成像信息计算部件74的处理结果数据在内的来自核心单元70的数据输出到微型计算机751。来自子单元76的操作部件78的操作信号(子键数据)以及来自加速度传感器761的加速度信号(子加速度数据)经由连接线缆79输出到微型计算机751。微型计算机751在存储器752中临时存储输入数据(核心键数据、子键数据、核心加速度数据、子加速度数据和处理结果数据)作为将被发送到接收单元6的发送数据。从通信部件75到接收单元6的无线发送以预定时间间隔周期地执行。因为游戏过程一般以1/60秒的周期来执行，需要以更短时段的周期来收集和发送数据。具体地，游戏过程单元为16.7ms(1/60秒)，而使用蓝牙(注册商标)技术构建的通信部件75的发送间隔为5ms。微型计算机751输出存储在存储器752中的发送数据作为一系列操作信息以对接收单元6的发送时序发送到无线模块753。无线模块753使用例如蓝牙(注册商标)技术来将操作信息调制到预定频率的载波上，并从天线754辐射低功率无线电波信号。由此，来自包括在核心单元70中的操作部件72的核心键数据、来自包括在子单元76中的操作部件78的子键数据、来自包括在核心单元70中的加速度传感器701的核心加速度数据、来自包括在子单元76中的加速度传感器761的子加速度数据和来自成像信息计算部件74的处理结果数据由无线模块753调制到低功率无线电波信号上并从核心单元70被辐射。游戏设备3的接收单元6接收低功率无线电波信号，且游戏设备3解调或解码低功率无线电波信号以获得操作信息序列(核心键数据、子键数据、核心加速度数据、子加速度数据和处理结果数据)。基于获得的操作信息和游戏程序，游戏设备3的CPU 30执行游戏过程。在通信部件75使用蓝牙(注册商标)技术构建的情形中，通信部件75可具有接收从其它器件无线发送的发送数据的功能。Data from thecore unit 70 including the operation signal (core key data) from theoperation section 72, the acceleration signal (core acceleration data) from the acceleration sensor 701, and the processing result data from the imaginginformation calculation section 74 is output to themicrocomputer 751. An operation signal (sub-key data) from the operation member 78 of thesubunit 76 and an acceleration signal (sub-acceleration data) from the acceleration sensor 761 are output to themicrocomputer 751 via theconnection cable 79 . Themicrocomputer 751 temporarily stores input data (core key data, sub key data, core acceleration data, sub acceleration data, and processing result data) in the memory 752 as transmission data to be transmitted to the receiving unit 6 . Wireless transmission from the communication section 75 to the receiving unit 6 is periodically performed at predetermined time intervals. Because the game process is generally executed at a cycle of 1/60 second, it is necessary to collect and send data at a cycle of a shorter period of time. Specifically, the game process unit is 16.7 ms (1/60 second), and the transmission interval of the communication part 75 constructed using Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology is 5 ms. Themicrocomputer 751 outputs the transmission data stored in the memory 752 as a series of operation information to the wireless module 753 at the transmission timing to the receiving unit 6 . The wireless module 753 modulates operation information onto a carrier wave of a predetermined frequency using, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology, and radiates a low-power radio wave signal from the antenna 754 . Thus, the core key data from theoperation part 72 included in thecore unit 70, the subkey data from the operation part 78 included in thesubunit 76, the core acceleration data from the acceleration sensor 701 included in thecore unit 70 , sub-acceleration data from the acceleration sensor 761 included in the sub-unit 76 and processing result data from the imaginginformation calculation section 74 are modulated onto low-power radio wave signals by the wireless module 753 and radiated from thecore unit 70 . The receiving unit 6 of the game device 3 receives the low-power radio wave signal, and the game device 3 demodulates or decodes the low-power radio wave signal to obtain a sequence of operation information (core key data, sub-key data, core acceleration data, sub-acceleration data, and processing result data). Based on the obtained operation information and the game program, the CPU 30 of the game device 3 executes the game process. In the case where the communication section 75 is constructed using Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology, the communication section 75 may have a function of receiving transmission data wirelessly transmitted from other devices.

如图18中所示，为使用控制器7与游戏系统1来玩游戏，玩家用一只手(例如，右手)握着核心单元70(见图19和20)，并用另一只手(例如，左手)握着子单元76(见图22)。玩家握着核心单元70，以便于将核心单元70的前表面(即，具有入口的一侧，光通过入口入射在得到光图像的成像信息计算部件74上)指向监视器2。另一方面，两个LED模块8L和8R提供在监视器2的显示屏幕的附近。LED模块8L和8R每个输出从监视器2向前的红外光。As shown in FIG. 18, to play a game using the controller 7 and the game system 1, the player holds the core unit 70 (see FIGS. 19 and 20) with one hand (for example, the right hand) , left hand) is holding the subunit 76 (see Figure 22). The player holds thecore unit 70 so as to direct the front surface of the core unit 70 (ie, the side having the entrance through which light is incident on the imaginginformation calculation part 74 that obtains a light image) to themonitor 2 . On the other hand, twoLED modules 8L and 8R are provided in the vicinity of the display screen of themonitor 2 . TheLED modules 8L and 8R each output infrared light forward from themonitor 2 .

当玩家握着核心单元70以便于将其前表面指向监视器2时，由两个LED模块8L和8R输出的红外光入射在成像信息计算部件74上。图像拾取元件743得到通过红外过滤器741和透镜742而入射的红外光的图像，并且由图像处理电路744处理得到的图像。成像信息计算部件74检测由LED模块8L和8R输出的红外分量，以便于获得LED模块8L和8R的位置和区域信息。具体地，成像信息计算部件74分析由图像拾取元件743得到的图像数据，从区域信息中去除不代表由LED模块8L和8R输出的红外光的图像，并将每个具有高亮度的点识别为LED模块8L和8R的位置。成像信息计算部件74获得每个具有高亮度的识别点的位置坐标、距心坐标等，并将其输出作为处理结果数据。当这种处理结果数据发送到游戏设备3时，游戏设备3可基于位置坐标和距心坐标获得涉及成像信息计算部件74即核心单元70相对于LED模块8L和8R的运动、姿态、位置等的操作信号。具体地，在通过通信部件75获得的图像中具有高亮度的位置根据核心单元70的运动而改变，因此方向输入或坐标输入根据正被改变的具有高亮度的位置来执行，由此使得方向输入或坐标输入能沿着核心单元70的移动方向来执行。When the player holds thecore unit 70 so as to point its front surface at themonitor 2 , infrared light output by the twoLED modules 8L and 8R is incident on the imaginginformation calculation section 74 . The image pickup element 743 obtains an image of infrared light incident through the infrared filter 741 and the lens 742 , and the resulting image is processed by the image processing circuit 744 . The imaginginformation calculating part 74 detects the infrared components output by theLED modules 8L and 8R in order to obtain the position and area information of theLED modules 8L and 8R. Specifically, the imaginginformation calculation section 74 analyzes the image data obtained by the image pickup element 743, removes images that do not represent the infrared light output by theLED modules 8L and 8R from the area information, and recognizes each point with high brightness as Location ofLED modules 8L and 8R. The imaginginformation calculation section 74 obtains position coordinates, centroid coordinates, and the like of each identification point with high brightness, and outputs them as processing result data. When such processing result data is sent to the game device 3, the game device 3 can obtain information related to the motion, posture, position, etc. of the imaginginformation calculation part 74, that is, thecore unit 70 relative to theLED modules 8L and 8R, based on the position coordinates and the centroid coordinates. Action signal. Specifically, the position with high brightness in the image obtained by the communication part 75 changes according to the movement of thecore unit 70, so direction input or coordinate input is performed according to the position with high brightness being changed, thereby making the direction input Or coordinate input can be performed along the moving direction of thecore unit 70 .

由此，核心单元70的成像信息计算部件74得到静态标记的图像(在本实施例中来自两个LED模块8L和8R的红外光)，因此游戏设备3可使用涉及在游戏过程中核心单元70的运动、姿态、位置等的处理结果数据，由此还直观地执行和通过按动操作按钮或使用操作键而进行的输入不同的操作输入。如上所述，由于标记提供在监视器2的显示屏幕的附近，基于自标记的位置可容易地计算核心单元70相对于监视器2的显示屏幕的运动、姿态、位置等。即，用来获得核心单元70的运动、姿态、位置等的处理结果数据可用作立即施加到监视器2的显示屏幕的操作输入。Thus, the imaginginformation calculation part 74 of thecore unit 70 obtains images of static marks (in this embodiment, infrared light from twoLED modules 8L and 8R), so the game device 3 can use The processing result data of the movement, posture, position, etc. of the user's body, thereby intuitively performing an operation input different from an input by pressing an operation button or using an operation key. As described above, since the marker is provided in the vicinity of the display screen of themonitor 2, the motion, attitude, position, etc. of thecore unit 70 relative to the display screen of themonitor 2 can be easily calculated based on the position of the marker. That is, the processing result data used to obtain the motion, posture, position, etc. of thecore unit 70 can be used as an operation input immediately applied to the display screen of themonitor 2 .

参考图19和图20，将描述玩家用一只手握着核心单元70的状态。图19示出了从核心单元70的前表面侧所见的玩家利用右手握着核心单元70的示范状态。图20示出了从核心单元70的左侧所见的玩家利用右手握着核心单元70的示范状态。Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20 , a state in which the player holds thecore unit 70 with one hand will be described. FIG. 19 shows an exemplary state in which the player holds thecore unit 70 with the right hand as seen from the front surface side of thecore unit 70 . FIG. 20 shows an exemplary state in which the player holds thecore unit 70 with the right hand as seen from the left side of thecore unit 70 .

如图19和图20中所示，核心单元70的整体尺寸足够小，以便与通过成人或甚至是孩子的一只手来握着。当玩家将拇指放在核心单元70的顶表面上(例如，接近十字键72a)，并将食指放在核心单元70底表面上的凹陷部分中(例如，接近操作按钮72i)时，在核心单元70前表面上的成像信息计算部件74的光入口向前暴露给玩家。应理解，同样当玩家用左手握着核心单元70时，握着的状态和对右手的描述相同。As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the overall size of thecore unit 70 is small enough to be held in one hand by an adult or even a child. When the player puts his thumb on the top surface of the core unit 70 (for example, close to the cross key 72a), and puts his index finger in the recessed portion on the bottom surface of the core unit 70 (for example, close to the operation button 72i), the player will The light entrance of the imaginginformation calculation part 74 on the front surface of 70 is exposed to the player forward. It should be understood that also when the player holds thecore unit 70 with the left hand, the holding state is the same as that described for the right hand.

由此，核心单元70允许玩家在用一只手握着核心单元70的同时容易地操作诸如十字键72a或操作按钮72i的操作部件72。此外，当玩家用一只手握着核心单元70时，暴露了在核心单元70前表面上的成像信息计算部件74的光入口，由此光入口可容易地从上述两个LED模块8L和8R接收红外光。即，玩家可用一只手握着核心单元70，而不阻止成像信息计算部件74起作用。即，当玩家相对于显示屏幕移动他或她握着核心单元70的手时，核心单元70可进一步执行使玩家的手的运动直接作用于显示屏幕的操作输入。Thus, thecore unit 70 allows the player to easily operate theoperation member 72 such as the cross key 72a or the operation button 72i while holding thecore unit 70 with one hand. In addition, when the player holds thecore unit 70 with one hand, the light entrance of the imaginginformation calculation part 74 on the front surface of thecore unit 70 is exposed, whereby the light entrance can be easily obtained from the above-mentioned twoLED modules 8L and 8R. Receive infrared light. That is, the player can hold thecore unit 70 with one hand without preventing the imaginginformation calculation part 74 from functioning. That is, when the player moves his or her hand holding thecore unit 70 relative to the display screen, thecore unit 70 may further perform an operation input causing the movement of the player's hand to directly act on the display screen.

如图21中所示，LED模块8L和8R中的每个具有视角θ1。图像拾取元件743具有视角θ2。例如，LED模块8L和8R的视角θ1是34度(半值角)，图像拾取元件743的视角θ2是41度。当两个LED模块8L、8R都在图像拾取元件743的视角θ2中时，图像拾取元件743在LED模块8L的视角θ1和LED模块8R的视角θ1中，游戏设备3使用涉及具有两个LED模块8L和8R的高亮度的点的位置信息来确定核心单元70的位置。As shown in FIG. 21 , each of theLED modules 8L and 8R has a viewing angle θ1. The image pickup element 743 has a viewing angle θ2. For example, the viewing angle θ1 of theLED modules 8L and 8R is 34 degrees (half-value angle), and the viewing angle θ2 of the image pickup element 743 is 41 degrees. When bothLED modules 8L, 8R are in the angle of view θ2 of the image pickup element 743, the image pickup element 743 is in the angle of view θ1 of theLED module 8L and the angle of view θ1 of theLED module 8R, the game device 3 uses The position information of the high-brightness points of 8L and 8R is used to determine the position of thecore unit 70 .

当LED模块8L或是LED模块8R处在图像拾取元件743的视角θ2中时，或者当图像拾取元件743处在LED模块8L的视角θ1或LED模块8R的视角θ1中，游戏设备3使用涉及具有LED模块8L或LED模块8R的高亮度的点的位置信息来确定核心单元70的位置。When theLED module 8L or theLED module 8R is in the angle of view θ2 of the image pickup element 743, or when the image pickup element 743 is in the angle of view θ1 of theLED module 8L or the angle of view θ1 of theLED module 8R, the game device 3 uses the The position information of the high-brightness point of theLED module 8L or theLED module 8R is used to determine the position of thecore unit 70 .

如上所述，可基于自核心单元70的加速度传感器701的输出(核心加速度数据)来确定核心单元70的倾侧、姿态或位置。即，核心单元70用作操作输入装置，用于根据玩家例如向上、向下、向左或向右移动握着核心单元70的手来执行操作。As described above, the inclination, attitude, or position of thecore unit 70 can be determined based on the output (core acceleration data) from the acceleration sensor 701 of thecore unit 70 . That is, thecore unit 70 functions as an operation input device for performing an operation according to the player moving the hand holding thecore unit 70 up, down, left, or right, for example.

接着，将参考图22描述玩家用一只手握着子单元76的状态。图22示出了从子单元76的右侧所见的玩家利用左手握着子单元76的示范状态。Next, a state in which the player holds thesubunit 76 with one hand will be described with reference to FIG. 22 . FIG. 22 shows an exemplary state in which the player holds the sub-unit 76 with his left hand as seen from the right side of the sub-unit 76 .

如图22中所示，子单元76的总体尺寸足够小，以便于通过成人或甚至是孩子的一只手来握着。例如，玩家可将拇指放在子单元76的顶表面上(例如，接近杆78a)，将食指放在子单元76的前表面上(例如，接近操作按钮78d和78e)，并将中指、无名指和小指放在子单元76的底表面上，以便于握着子单元76。应理解，同样地当玩家用右手握着子单元76时，握着的状态类似于对左手的描述。由此，子单元76允许玩家在用一只手握着子单元76的同时，容易地操作诸如杆78a和操作按钮78d、78e的操作部件78。As shown in Figure 22, the overall size of thesubunit 76 is small enough to be easily held in one hand by an adult or even a child. For example, a player may place his thumb on the top surface of subunit 76 (e.g., nearlever 78a), his index finger on the front surface of subunit 76 (e.g., nearaction buttons 78d and 78e), and place his middle, ring and the little finger are placed on the bottom surface of thesubunit 76 to facilitate gripping thesubunit 76. It should be understood that also when the player holds thesubunit 76 with the right hand, the holding state is similar to the description for the left hand. Thus, thesubunit 76 allows the player to easily operate the operation member 78 such as thelever 78a and theoperation buttons 78d, 78e while holding thesubunit 76 with one hand.

如上所述，可基于子单元76的加速度传感器761的输出(子加速度数据)来确定子单元76的倾侧、姿态或位置。即，子单元76用作操作输入装置，用于根据玩家例如向上、向下、向左或向右移动握着子单元76的手来执行操作。As described above, the inclination, posture or position of the sub-unit 76 can be determined based on the output (sub-acceleration data) of the acceleration sensor 761 of the sub-unit 76 . That is, thesubunit 76 functions as an operation input device for performing an operation according to the player moving the hand holding thesubunit 76 up, down, left, or right, for example.

这里将描述使用上述控制器7来玩的示范性游戏。作为第一个例子，将描述使用控制器7来玩的射击游戏。图23是图示当游戏设备3在执行射击游戏时显示在显示器2上的示范性游戏图像。An exemplary game played using the controller 7 described above will be described here. As a first example, a shooting game played using the controller 7 will be described. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary game image displayed on thedisplay 2 when the game device 3 is executing a shooting game.

如图23中所示，三维虚拟游戏空间S的部分显示在监视器2的显示屏幕上。作为根据控制器7的操作而动作的游戏对象，玩家角色P的部分和由玩家角色P握着的枪G的部分显示在显示屏幕上。此外，显示在显示屏幕上的虚拟游戏空间S表示玩家角色P的前视场，且将例如对手角色E显示为图23中的射击目标。指示玩家角色P射击枪G的位置的目标在显示屏幕上显示为目标光标T。As shown in FIG. 23 , part of the three-dimensional virtual game space S is displayed on the display screen of themonitor 2 . A part of the player character P and a part of the gun G held by the player character P are displayed on the display screen as game objects that act according to the operation of the controller 7 . Furthermore, the virtual game space S displayed on the display screen represents the front field of view of the player character P, and displays, for example, the opponent character E as a shooting target in FIG. 23 . A target indicating where the player character P is to shoot the gun G is displayed as a target cursor T on the display screen.

在具有显示在监视器2上的这种游戏图像的射击游戏中，如图18中所示，玩家用一只手操作核心单元70并用另一只手操作子单元76，以便于玩游戏。例如，当玩家在子单元76上倾斜杆78a时(见图11A、11B、11C和12)，玩家角色P根据倾斜方向在虚拟游戏空间S中移动。此外，当玩家相对于显示屏幕移动他或她的握着核心单元70的手时，目标光标T根据核心单元70相对于监视器2(LED模块8L和8R)的移动、姿态、位置等而移动。当玩家按动核心单元70上的操作按钮72i(如图6中所示)时，玩家角色P对准目标光标T射击枪G。In a shooting game with such a game image displayed on themonitor 2, as shown in FIG. 18, the player operates thecore unit 70 with one hand and thesubunit 76 with the other hand in order to play the game. For example, when the player tilts thestick 78a on the subunit 76 (see FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C and 12), the player character P moves in the virtual game space S according to the tilt direction. Furthermore, when the player moves his or her hand holding thecore unit 70 relative to the display screen, the target cursor T moves according to the movement, posture, position, etc. of thecore unit 70 relative to the monitor 2 (LED modules 8L and 8R). . When the player presses the operation button 72i on the core unit 70 (as shown in FIG. 6), the player character P shoots the gun G at the target cursor T.

即，在玩家使用在子单元76上的杆78a来指示玩家角色P移动的同时，玩家可操作核心单元70，就好像核心单元70是用于射击游戏的枪，由此提高了玩射击游戏的乐趣。通过使用由不同手握着的各个单元，玩家可执行移动玩家角色P的操作和移动目标光标T的操作，由此玩家可将各个操作作为独立操作执行。例如，由于显示在显示屏幕上的虚拟游戏空间S根据玩家角色P的移动而改变，因为例如玩家可能正在注意突然跳到虚拟游戏空间S中的对手角色E，所以有时难以保持在由玩家在虚拟游戏空间S中观察到的位置附近定位的目标。但是，在玩家用一只手(例如，左手的拇指)移动玩家角色P的同时，玩家可控制不用来移动玩家角色P的臂的运动(例如，右臂)，使得核心单元70具有指向观察到的位置的前表面，由此基本上提高了用于操作控制器7的灵活性，并增加了射击游戏的真实性。此外，为了移动目标光标T，玩家移动控制器。但是，移动控制器的操作不影响玩家执行用于移动玩家角色P的方向指示操作，由此使玩家能稳定地执行两个方向指示操作。即，通过使用控制器7，玩家可自由地使用他或她的左和右手，并可执行具有提高的灵活性的新操作，这不能使用物理上单个的控制器来实现。That is, while the player uses thelever 78a on thesubunit 76 to instruct the player character P to move, the player can operate thecore unit 70 as if thecore unit 70 were a gun for a shooting game, thus improving the fun of playing the shooting game. pleasure. By using the respective units held by different hands, the player can perform an operation of moving the player character P and an operation of moving the target cursor T, whereby the player can perform each operation as an independent operation. For example, since the virtual game space S displayed on the display screen changes according to the movement of the player character P, because, for example, the player may be paying attention to the opponent character E who suddenly jumps into the virtual game space S, it is sometimes difficult to maintain the virtual game space played by the player. An object located near an observed position in the game space S. However, while the player moves the player character P with one hand (for example, the thumb of the left hand), the player can control the movement of an arm not used to move the player character P (for example, the right arm) so that thecore unit 70 has a direction to observe The position of the front surface, thereby substantially improving the flexibility for operating the controller 7, and increasing the realism of the shooting game. Also, in order to move the target cursor T, the player moves the controller. However, the operation of moving the controller does not affect the player's performance of the direction-pointing operation for moving the player character P, thereby enabling the player to stably perform two direction-pointing operations. That is, by using the controller 7, the player can freely use his or her left and right hands, and can perform new operations with improved dexterity, which cannot be realized using a physically single controller.

在第二个例子中，玩家使在子单元76上的杆78a倾斜，以便于根据如第一个例子中的倾斜方向，在虚拟游戏空间S中移动玩家角色P。玩家相对于显示屏幕移动握着核心单元70的手，以便于根据核心单元70相对于监视器2(LED模块8L和8R)的位置移动虚拟相机的视点。这些操作允许玩家观察核心单元70在虚拟游戏空间S中指向的位置，同时操作在子单元76上的杆78a，以便于指示玩家角色P移动。In the second example, the player tilts therod 78a on thesubunit 76 in order to move the player character P in the virtual game space S according to the tilting direction as in the first example. The player moves the hand holding thecore unit 70 relative to the display screen so as to move the viewpoint of the virtual camera according to the position of thecore unit 70 relative to the monitor 2 (LED modules 8L and 8R). These operations allow the player to observe where thecore unit 70 is pointing in the virtual game space S while operating thelever 78a on thesubunit 76 in order to instruct the player character P to move.

在上述的描述中，控制器7和游戏设备3通过无线通信彼此连接。但是，控制器7和游戏设备3可通过线缆彼此电连接。在这种情形中，连接到核心单元70的线缆连接到游戏设备3的连接终端。In the above description, the controller 7 and the game device 3 are connected to each other by wireless communication. However, the controller 7 and the game device 3 may be electrically connected to each other by cables. In this case, a cable connected to thecore unit 70 is connected to a connection terminal of the game device 3 .

此外，在本实施例中，在控制器7的核心单元70和子单元76中只有核心单元70具有通信部件75。但是，子单元76可具有用于将发送数据无线发送到接收单元6的通信部件。此外，核心单元70和子单元76都可具有各自的通信部件。例如，包括在核心单元70和子单元76中的各个通信部件可将发送数据无线发送到接收单元6，或子单元76的通信部件可将发送数据无线发送到核心单元70的通信部件75，并且核心单元70的通信部件75将从子单元76接收的发送数据和核心单元70的发送数据无线发送到接收单元6。在这些情形中，可去除用于在核心单元70和子单元76之间电连接的连接线缆79。Furthermore, in the present embodiment, only thecore unit 70 has the communication section 75 among thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 of the controller 7 . However, thesubunit 76 may have communication means for wirelessly transmitting transmission data to the receiving unit 6 . Additionally, both thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 may have respective communication components. For example, each communication section included in thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 can wirelessly transmit the transmission data to the receiving unit 6, or the communication section of thesubunit 76 can wirelessly transmit the transmission data to the communication section 75 of thecore unit 70, and the core The communication section 75 of theunit 70 wirelessly transmits the transmission data received from thesubunit 76 and the transmission data of thecore unit 70 to the receiving unit 6 . In these cases, theconnection cable 79 for electrical connection between thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 may be eliminated.

在以上的描述中，连接到游戏设备3的连接终端的接收单元6用作接收从控制器7无线发送的发送数据的接收装置。可替选地，接收装置可以是设立在游戏设备3中的接收模块。在这种情形中，由接收模块接收的发送数据经由预定总线输出到CPU 30。In the above description, the receiving unit 6 connected to the connection terminal of the game device 3 serves as receiving means for receiving transmission data wirelessly transmitted from the controller 7 . Alternatively, the receiving means may be a receiving module built in the game device 3 . In this case, the transmission data received by the receiving module is output to the CPU 30 via a predetermined bus.

虽然在本实施例中，将包括在核心单元70中的成像信息计算部件74描述为用于根据核心单元70体的运动而输出信号(处理结果数据)的确定部件的例子，成像信息计算部件74可以其它形式提供。例如，核心单元70可包括上述的加速度传感器701或可包括陀螺传感器。加速度传感器或陀螺传感器可用来确定核心单元70的运动或姿态，因此，它们可被用作使用针对运动或姿态的检测信号、根据核心单元70体的运动而输出信号的确定部件。在这种情形中，成像信息计算部件74可从核心单元70去除，或者传感器和成像信息计算部件可结合使用。Although in the present embodiment, the imaginginformation calculation section 74 included in thecore unit 70 has been described as an example of a determination section for outputting a signal (processing result data) according to the motion of thecore unit 70 body, the imaginginformation calculation section 74 Available in other formats. For example, thecore unit 70 may include the above-mentioned acceleration sensor 701 or may include a gyro sensor. An acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor can be used to determine the motion or posture of thecore unit 70, and thus, they can be used as a determination means that outputs a signal according to the motion of thecore unit 70 body using a detection signal for the motion or posture. In this case, the imaginginformation calculation section 74 may be eliminated from thecore unit 70, or the sensor and the imaging information calculation section may be used in combination.

此外，虽然在本实施例中只有核心单元70包括成像信息计算部件74，但是子单元76也可以包括类似的成像信息计算部件。Furthermore, although only thecore unit 70 includes the imaginginformation calculation section 74 in the present embodiment, thesubunit 76 may also include similar imaging information calculation sections.

此外，当控制器7包括多个单元，每个单元可具有多个操作装置如成像信息计算部件、加速度传感器、陀螺传感器、杆、十字键以及操作按钮时，操作装置的各种组合可实现各种控制器：这里，在核心单元70和子单元76中包括的操作装置分类成操作装置A和操作装置B。操作装置A，如成像信息计算部件74、加速度传感器701和761以及陀螺传感器，根据单元体的移动来输出信号。操作装置B，如杆、十字键、操作按钮、接触垫，根据玩家按动按钮、倾侧部件或接触部件来输出信号。In addition, when the controller 7 includes a plurality of units each of which may have a plurality of operating devices such as imaging information calculation parts, acceleration sensors, gyro sensors, levers, cross keys, and operating buttons, various combinations of operating devices can realize various Types of Controllers: Here, the operating devices included in thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 are classified into an operating device A and an operating device B. The operation device A, such as the imaginginformation calculation part 74, the acceleration sensors 701 and 761, and the gyro sensor, outputs signals according to the movement of the unit body. The operation device B, such as a lever, a cross key, an operation button, and a touch pad, outputs a signal according to a player pressing a button, a tilting member, or a contacting member.

当核心单元70包括操作装置A而子单元76包括操作装置B时，玩家可移动握着核心单元70的一只手同时玩家如在传统控制器情形中那样利用握着子单元76的另一只手的手指来进行输入。即，玩家可以右手和左手分别执行不同的操作，从而实现不能由传统控制器来执行的新操作。在此情形中，根据本发明，由操作装置A所输出的操作数据对应于第一操作数据，而由操作装置B所输出的操作数据对应于第二操作数据。此外，控制器可被如此构造，使得子单元76可包括操作装置A，核心单元70可包括操作装置A，且子单元76可包括操作装置A和操作装置B。以此方式，玩家可单独地移动双手，从而实现显著改善的操作。在此情形中，根据本发明，由子单元76的操作装置A所输出的操作数据对应于第三操作数据。When thecore unit 70 includes the operating device A and the sub-unit 76 includes the operating device B, the player can move one hand holding thecore unit 70 while the player uses the other hand holding the sub-unit 76 as in the case of a conventional controller. The fingers of the hand are used for input. That is, the player can perform different operations with the right hand and the left hand respectively, thereby realizing new operations that cannot be performed by conventional controllers. In this case, according to the present invention, the operation data output by the operation device A corresponds to the first operation data, and the operation data output by the operation device B corresponds to the second operation data. Furthermore, the controller may be configured such that thesubunit 76 may include the operating device A, thecore unit 70 may include the operating device A, and thesubunit 76 may include the operating device A and the operating device B. In this way, the player can move both hands independently, thereby achieving significantly improved manipulation. In this case, according to the invention, the operating data output by the operating means A of thesubunit 76 corresponds to the third operating data.

此外，当核心单元70和子单元76每个都包括操作装置A时，玩家可移动握着核心单元70的一只手同时玩家可移动握着子单元76的另一只手以便进行输入。即，玩家可单独地移动右手和左手，从而实现不能由传统控制器执行的新操作。在此情形中，根据本发明，由核心单元70和子单元76的各个操作装置A所输出的操作数据对应于第一操作数据和第二操作数据。此外，核心单元70和子单元76中的每个可包括操作装置A和操作装置B两者。以此方式，玩家可通过移动双手以及利用双手的手指来执行操作，从而实现新操作。在此情形中，根据本发明，由核心单元70的操作装置B所输出的操作数据对应于第一操作数据，而由子单元76的操作装置B所输出的操作数据对应于第二操作数据。Furthermore, when thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 each include the operating device A, the player can move one hand holding thecore unit 70 while the player can move the other hand holding thesubunit 76 for input. That is, the player can move the right and left hands independently, thereby realizing new operations that cannot be performed by conventional controllers. In this case, according to the present invention, the operation data output by the respective operation means A of thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 corresponds to the first operation data and the second operation data. Furthermore, each of thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 may include both the operation device A and the operation device B. In this way, the player can realize new operations by moving both hands and performing operations with the fingers of both hands. In this case, according to the present invention, the operation data output by the operation means B of thecore unit 70 corresponds to the first operation data, and the operation data output by the operation means B of thesubunit 76 corresponds to the second operation data.

另外，当核心单元70和子单元76中的每个都包括操作装置A时，核心单元70或子单元76中之一可包括各种类型的操作装置A。如上所述，当操作装置A包括成像信息计算装置时，可计算所述单元相对于成像目标(标记)的方向、位置等，从而基于所述单元相对于监视器2的方向、位置来实现操作。另一方面，当操作装置A包括加速度传感器或陀螺传感器时，可计算所述单元自身的倾侧、姿态、位置等，从而基于所述单元的姿态和位置来实现操作。相应地，当核心单元70包括成像信息计算部件以及加速度传感器或陀螺传感器中之一，且子单元76包括加速度传感器或陀螺传感器时，核心单元70可执行前述的两个操作。在此情形中，根据本发明，由核心单元70的成像信息计算部件所输出的操作数据对应于第一操作数据，由子单元76的加速度传感器或陀螺传感器所输出的操作数据对应于第二操作数据，且由核心单元70的加速度传感器或陀螺传感器所输出的操作数据对应于第三操作数据。In addition, when each of thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 includes the operation device A, one of thecore unit 70 or thesubunit 76 may include various types of the operation device A. As described above, when the operation device A includes imaging information calculation means, the direction, position, etc. of the unit relative to the imaging target (marker) can be calculated, thereby realizing the operation based on the direction, position, etc. of the unit relative to themonitor 2 . On the other hand, when the operation device A includes an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor, it is possible to calculate the inclination, attitude, position, etc. of the unit itself, thereby performing operations based on the attitude and position of the unit. Correspondingly, when thecore unit 70 includes an imaging information calculation component and one of an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor, and thesubunit 76 includes an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor, thecore unit 70 can perform the aforementioned two operations. In this case, according to the present invention, the operation data output by the imaging information calculation part of thecore unit 70 corresponds to the first operation data, and the operation data output by the acceleration sensor or the gyro sensor of thesubunit 76 corresponds to the second operation data , and the operation data output by the acceleration sensor or the gyro sensor of thecore unit 70 corresponds to the third operation data.

在本实施例中，分析由图像拾取元件743得到的图像，以便于获得来自LED模块8L和8R的红外光图像的位置坐标等，且核心单元70从获得的坐标等产生处理结果数据，并将处理结果数据发送到游戏设备3。但是，核心单元70可将在另一个过程步骤中获得的数据发送到游戏设备3。例如，核心单元70将由图像拾取元件743得到的图像数据发送到游戏设备3，并且CPU 30可执行上述的分析以便于获得处理结果数据。在这种情形中，图像处理电路744可从核心单元70中去除。可替选地，核心单元70可将已在分析中的图像数据发送给游戏设备3。例如，核心单元70将从图像数据获得的指示亮度、位置、区域尺寸等的数据发送给游戏设备3，并且CPU30可执行剩余的分析以便于获得处理结果数据。In this embodiment, an image obtained by the image pickup element 743 is analyzed so as to obtain position coordinates and the like of infrared light images from theLED modules 8L and 8R, and thecore unit 70 generates processing result data from the obtained coordinates and the like, and The processing result data is sent to the game device 3 . However, thecore unit 70 may send data obtained in another process step to the game device 3 . For example, thecore unit 70 sends image data obtained by the image pickup element 743 to the game device 3, and the CPU 30 can perform the above-mentioned analysis in order to obtain processing result data. In this case, the image processing circuit 744 can be eliminated from thecore unit 70 . Alternatively, thecore unit 70 may transmit the image data already under analysis to the game device 3 . For example, thecore unit 70 transmits data indicating brightness, position, area size, etc. obtained from the image data to the game device 3, and the CPU 30 may perform the remaining analysis in order to obtain processing result data.

虽然在本实施例中使用来自两个LED模块8L和8R的红外光作为在核心单元70中的成像信息计算部件74的成像目标，但是成像目标并不限于此。例如，可使用来自一个LED模块的红外光或来自提供在监视器2附近的至少三个LED模块的红外光作为成像信息计算部件74的成像目标。可替选地，监视器2的显示屏幕或其它发射器(室光等)可用作成像信息计算部件74的成像目标。当基于在成像目标和监视器2的显示屏幕之间的位置关系计算核心单元70相对于显示屏幕的位置时，可将不同的发射器用作成像信息计算部件74的成像目标。Although infrared light from the twoLED modules 8L and 8R is used as the imaging target of the imaginginformation calculation section 74 in thecore unit 70 in the present embodiment, the imaging target is not limited thereto. For example, infrared light from one LED module or infrared light from at least three LED modules provided near themonitor 2 may be used as the imaging target of the imaginginformation calculation section 74 . Alternatively, the display screen of themonitor 2 or other emitters (room light, etc.) may be used as the imaging target of the imaginginformation calculation section 74 . When calculating the position of thecore unit 70 relative to the display screen based on the positional relationship between the imaging target and the display screen of themonitor 2 , different emitters can be used as the imaging target of the imaginginformation calculation section 74 .

核心单元70和子单元76的上述形状仅仅是例子。此外，核心单元70的操作部件72和子单元76的操作部件78中的每个的形状、数目、设置位置等也仅仅是例子。不用说，即使当核心单元70、子单元76、操作部件72和操作部件78中的每个的形状、数目、设置位置等与实施例中描述的不同时，也能实现本发明。此外，核心单元70的成像信息计算部件74(成像信息计算部件74的光入口)可不定位在壳体71的前表面上。成像信息计算部件74可提供在可从壳体71的外部接收光的另一个表面上。The above-described shapes ofcore unit 70 andsubunit 76 are merely examples. In addition, the shape, number, arrangement position, etc. of each of theoperation part 72 of thecore unit 70 and the operation part 78 of thesubunit 76 are also merely examples. Needless to say, the present invention can be realized even when the shape, number, arrangement position, etc. of each of thecore unit 70,subunit 76,operation member 72, and operation member 78 are different from those described in the embodiment. Furthermore, the imaginginformation calculation section 74 of the core unit 70 (the light entrance of the imaging information calculation section 74 ) may not be positioned on the front surface of thehousing 71 . The imaginginformation calculation part 74 may be provided on another surface that can receive light from the outside of thehousing 71 .

此外，尽管在核心单元70中包括了如上所述的扬声器706、声音IC707以及放大器708，能够输出声音的唾手可得的任何装置可包括在子单元76或核心单元70中。Furthermore, although the speaker 706 , thesound IC 707 , and the amplifier 708 as described above are included in thecore unit 70 , any readily available device capable of outputting sound may be included in the sub-unit 76 or thecore unit 70 .

由此，本发明的控制器允许玩家操作核心单元70和包括在其中的子单元76，以便于享受游戏的乐趣。例如，核心单元70具有根据包括成像信息计算部件74和加速度传感器701在内的单元体的运动而输出信号的功能。而子单元76具有根据由玩家执行的方向输入操作而输出信号的功能。例如，当使用集成了核心单元70和子单元76的控制器时，必须移动整个控制器以便于根据单元体的运动输出信号，由此对方向输入操作施加了一些影响。此外，核心单元70和子单元76的集成产生了相反的影响，即，基本上减少了通过核心单元70和子单元76的分离而实现的灵活性。作为另一例子，核心单元70可具有根据单元体的运动而输出信号的功能，所述单元体包括成像信息计算部件74和加速度传感器701，子单元76可具有根据单元体的运动来输出信号的功能，所述单元体包括加速度传感器761。因此，玩家可单独地移动握着不同单元的双手以便进行输入。相应地，如在传统的用于游戏设备的控制器的情形一样，可将核心单元70和子单元76分成右单元和左单元，且同时核心单元70和子单元76允许玩家自由地使用他或她的右手和左手，由此提供给玩家无法通过集成控制器而执行的新操作。此外，可以充分提高的灵活性来操作控制器，由此提供给玩家具有增加的真实性的游戏操作。Thus, the controller of the present invention allows the player to operate thecore unit 70 and thesubunits 76 included therein in order to enjoy the game. For example, thecore unit 70 has a function of outputting a signal according to the movement of a unit body including the imaginginformation calculation part 74 and the acceleration sensor 701 . And thesubunit 76 has a function of outputting a signal according to a direction input operation performed by the player. For example, when using a controller integrating thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76, the entire controller must be moved in order to output signals according to the movement of the unit body, thereby exerting some influence on the direction input operation. Furthermore, the integration of thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 has the opposite effect, ie, substantially reduces the flexibility achieved by the separation of thecore unit 70 and thesubunit 76 . As another example, thecore unit 70 may have the function of outputting a signal according to the movement of the unit body, and the unit body includes the imaginginformation calculation part 74 and the acceleration sensor 701, and thesubunit 76 may have the function of outputting a signal according to the movement of the unit body. function, the unit body includes an acceleration sensor 761 . Thus, the player can individually move the hands holding the different units for input. Accordingly, as in the case of conventional controllers for gaming devices, thecore unit 70 andsubunit 76 can be divided into right and left units, and at the same time thecore unit 70 andsubunit 76 allow the player to freely use his or her Right and left hands, thereby providing players with new operations that cannot be performed with integrated controllers. Furthermore, the controller can be operated with substantially increased flexibility, thereby providing the player with game operations with increased realism.

根据本发明的游戏控制器和游戏系统可实现具有提高的灵活性的操作，并作为包括两个独立单元且通过玩家握着两个独立单元来操作的游戏控制器和包括该游戏控制器的游戏系统等是有用的。The game controller and the game system according to the present invention can realize operations with improved flexibility, and as a game controller including two independent units and operated by a player holding the two independent units and a game including the game controller systems etc. are useful.

虽然已经详细描述了本发明，上述描述在所有方面中都是示意性而非限制性的。应理解，在不离开本发明的范围内可设计一些其它的修改和变化。While the invention has been described in detail, the foregoing description is in all respects illustrative and not restrictive. It is understood that other modifications and changes can be devised without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims (16)

Translated fromChinese

1.一种用于将操作数据发送到执行游戏程序的计算机的游戏控制器，所述游戏控制器包括：1. A game controller for sending operation data to a computer executing a game program, the game controller comprising:第一控制单元；a first control unit;第二控制单元；和a second control unit; and柔性线缆，用于电连接在所述第一控制单元和所述第二控制单元之间，a flexible cable for electrical connection between said first control unit and said second control unit,所述第一控制单元包括用于根据包括在所述第一控制单元中的第一控制单元体的运动而产生第一操作数据的第一操作数据产生部件，said first control unit includes first operation data generating means for generating first operation data according to movement of a first control unit body included in said first control unit,所述第二控制单元包括用于根据由玩家执行的方向输入操作而产生第二操作数据的第二操作数据产生部件，The second control unit includes second operation data generating means for generating second operation data according to a direction input operation performed by the player,所述第一控制单元和所述第二控制单元中的一个还包括用于将所述第一操作数据和所述第二操作数据以预定时序发送到所述计算机的发送部件，one of the first control unit and the second control unit further includes transmission means for transmitting the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer at a predetermined timing,其中所述第一操作数据产生部件具有包括在所述第一控制单元体中的加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中的一个，并输出由所述加速度传感器和所述陀螺传感器中的一个产生的数据作为所述第一操作数据。wherein the first operation data generating section has one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor included in the first control unit body, and outputs data generated by one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor as the the first operation data.2.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中2. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第一操作数据产生部件进一步包括图像拾取部件，所述图像拾取部件固定到所述第一控制单元体，用于从所述第一控制单元体沿着预定方向获得外围图像；并且所述第一操作数据产生部件进一步输出选自由所述图像拾取部件获得的图像和对由所述图像拾取部件获得的图像进行预定计算的结果组成的组中的一个，作为所述第一操作数据。The first operation data generating section further includes an image pickup section fixed to the first control unit body for obtaining a peripheral image along a predetermined direction from the first control unit body; and the The first operation data generating section further outputs, as the first operation data, one selected from the group consisting of an image obtained by the image pickup section and a result of predetermined calculation performed on the image obtained by the image pickup section.3.根据权利要求2的游戏控制器，其中3. The game controller of claim 2, wherein所述第一操作数据产生部件还包括位置信息计算部件，用于当执行所述预定计算时，计算指示至少一个标记图像在由所述图像拾取部件得到的图像中的位置的位置信息，并输出位置信息作为所述第一操作数据，所述标记图像包括在得到的图像中并用作成像目标。The first operation data generation section further includes a position information calculation section for, when performing the predetermined calculation, calculating position information indicating a position of at least one marker image in the image obtained by the image pickup section, and outputting Position information is used as the first operation data, and the marker image is included in the resulting image and used as an imaging target.4.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中4. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述发送部件将所述第一操作数据和所述第二操作数据无线发送到所述计算机。The sending means wirelessly sends the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer.5.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中5. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述线缆可拆卸地连接到至少所述第一控制单元，以及said cable is detachably connected to at least said first control unit, and所述发送部件包括在所述第一控制单元中。The sending means is included in the first control unit.6.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中6. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述发送部件以短于1/60秒的间隔将所述第一操作数据和所述第二操作数据收集并发送到所述计算机。The sending means collects and sends the first operation data and the second operation data to the computer at intervals shorter than 1/60 second.7.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中7. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第二操作数据产生部件包括杆，所述杆具有从包括在所述第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体突起的末梢，并可在所述第二控制单元体上倾斜，并且所述第二操作数据产生部件输出根据所述杆的倾斜方向而获得的数据作为所述第二操作数据。The second operation data generating part includes a rod having a tip protruding from a second control unit body included in the second control unit and being tiltable on the second control unit body, and The second operation data generating means outputs data obtained according to the inclination direction of the lever as the second operation data.8.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中8. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第二操作数据产生部件包括操作按钮，所述操作按钮具有代表至少四个方向的操作部件，并能通过所述操作部件推到包括在所述第二控制单元中的所述第二控制单元体中，且所述第二操作数据产生部件输出对应于所述操作按钮被推动的操作部分的数据作为所述第二操作数据。The second operation data generation part includes an operation button having an operation part representing at least four directions, and can be pushed to the second control included in the second control unit by the operation part. In the unit body, and the second operation data generating means outputs data corresponding to the operation portion where the operation button is pushed as the second operation data.9.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中9. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第二操作数据产生部件包括滑动构件，所述滑动构件具有从包括在所述第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体暴露的顶表面并在所述第二控制单元体上可水平移动，且所述第二操作数据产生部件输出根据所述滑动构件的水平移动方向而获得的数据作为所述第二操作数据。The second operation data generating part includes a slide member having a top surface exposed from a second control unit body included in the second control unit and horizontally movable on the second control unit body , and the second operation data generation means outputs data obtained according to the horizontal movement direction of the slide member as the second operation data.10.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中10. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第二操作数据产生部件包括处于包括在所述第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体的外表面上的接触垫，并输出根据在所述接触垫上所述接触垫被接触的位置而获得的数据作为所述第二操作数据。The second operation data generation part includes a contact pad on an outer surface of a second control unit body included in the second control unit, and outputs a function according to a position on the contact pad where the contact pad is contacted. The obtained data is used as the second operation data.11.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中11. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第二操作数据产生部件包括至少四个操作按钮，它们能被推到包括在所述第二控制单元中的第二控制单元体中，且所述第二操作数据产生部件输出根据所述被推动的操作按钮而获得的数据作为所述第二操作数据。The second operation data generating part includes at least four operation buttons which can be pushed into a second control unit body included in the second control unit, and the second operation data generating part outputs according to the The data obtained from the pushed operation button is used as the second operation data.12.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中12. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第二控制单元进一步包括加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一，所述加速度传感器和陀螺传感器中之一处于包括在所述第二控制单元的第二控制单元体内，以及The second control unit further includes one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor, one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor is in a second control unit body included in the second control unit, and除所述第一操作数据和所述第二操作数据之外，所述发送部件将由所述加速度传感器和所述陀螺传感器中之一所输出的数据作为第三操作数据发送到所述计算机。The transmission means transmits data output by one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor to the computer as third operation data in addition to the first operation data and the second operation data.13.根据权利要求1的游戏控制器，其中13. The game controller of claim 1, wherein所述第一控制单元和所述第二控制单元中至少一个进一步包括接收部件，用于接收从所述计算机所发送的发送数据，at least one of the first control unit and the second control unit further includes receiving means for receiving transmission data transmitted from the computer,扬声器，以及speakers, and声控部件，用于利用已由所述接收部件所接收的所述发送数据来从所述扬声器产生声音。a voice control section for producing a sound from the speaker using the transmission data which has been received by the reception section.14.一种包括根据权利要求1的游戏控制器和游戏设备的游戏系统，所述游戏设备可通信地连接到所述游戏控制器，并包括用于通过执行游戏程序而在显示屏幕上呈现虚拟游戏世界的计算机，所述游戏系统包括14. A game system comprising a game controller according to claim 1 and a game device, said game device being communicatively connected to said game controller and comprising means for presenting a virtual game on a display screen by executing a game program. A computer for a game world, the game system comprising所述游戏设备，根据从所述第一控制单元发送的所述第一操作数据和从所述第二控制单元发送的所述第二操作数据中的至少一个而执行游戏过程。The game device executes a game process based on at least one of the first operation data transmitted from the first control unit and the second operation data transmitted from the second control unit.15.根据权利要求14的游戏系统，其中所述游戏控制器中的所述第一操作数据产生部件进一步包括图像拾取部件，所述图像拾取部件固定到所述第一控制单元体，用于从所述第一控制单元体沿着预定方向获得外围图像；并且所述第一操作数据产生部件进一步输出选自由所述图像拾取部件获得的图像和对由所述图像拾取部件获得的图像进行预定计算的结果组成的组中的一个，作为所述第一操作数据。15. The game system according to claim 14, wherein said first operation data generation part in said game controller further comprises an image pickup part fixed to said first control unit body for obtaining from The first control unit obtains a peripheral image along a predetermined direction; and the first operation data generation part further outputs a selection selected from an image obtained by the image pickup part and a predetermined calculation performed on the image obtained by the image pickup part One of the group consisting of the results is used as the first operation data.16.根据权利要求14的游戏系统，其中16. The gaming system according to claim 14, wherein所述游戏设备使出现在所述虚拟游戏世界中的玩家角色根据从所述游戏控制器发送的所述第一操作数据和从所述游戏控制器发送的所述第二操作数据中的至少一个而执行动作。The game device makes the player character appearing in the virtual game world according to at least one of the first operation data transmitted from the game controller and the second operation data transmitted from the game controller. And execute the action.

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