JP6274718B2 - Operation device and game device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an operation device for a player to perform operation input in a game machine or the like, and a game apparatus including the operation device.

  Conventionally, there are games such as a race game and an action game that cause a player character to move in a virtual game space in response to a player's operation. In this type of game, the player's operation based on the player's operation is realized by the player performing an operation input using the operation device.

  There are operation devices that can be used universally regardless of the action of the player character (see, for example, Patent Document 1), and those that are specifically used for predetermined actions of the player character (see, for example, Patent Document 2). To do. In particular, in a racing game or the like, by using an operation device having a shape imitating a steering wheel of an automobile or a motorcycle, it becomes possible to perform an intuitive and realistic operation from an operation device that can be used for general purposes.

JP 2010-252977 A JP 2012-055340 A

  However, for example, in a game in which an object that is normally not directly operated by a human, such as a four-legged animal character, is used, an operation device that imitates an actual operation mechanism as in Patent Document 2 is actually a reality. There is a problem that there is no feeling and an intuitive operation cannot be performed, and a new operation input mode is required.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an operation device that can be operated intuitively and can realize a realistic game while providing a new operation input mode, and a game apparatus including the operation device. And

  An operation device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a base portion, a main body portion attached to the base portion so as to be relatively movable, a connecting portion that connects the base portion and the main body portion so as to be relatively movable, An operation signal generation unit configured to generate an operation signal according to a change in relative position of the main body unit with respect to the base unit, and the connection unit includes a first axis parallel to a predetermined reference plane of the base unit, and the reference A second axis perpendicular to the surface, and the operation signal generator is configured to perform a first operation based on a first operation by swinging the main body about the first axis with respect to the base. A signal is generated, and a second operation signal is generated based on a second operation by swinging the main body portion around the second axis with respect to the base portion.

  The connecting portion includes a first restricting mechanism for restricting the swing of the main body portion around the first axis within a predetermined first range, and the main body portion on one side around the first axis of the first range. A first biasing mechanism that biases may be provided.

  The connecting portion includes a second restricting mechanism for restricting the swing of the main body portion around the second axis within a predetermined second range, and the main body portion at a center position around the second axis of the second range. A second biasing mechanism that biases may be provided.

  The operation signal generation unit may generate a third operation signal based on a third operation in which the first operation and the second operation are combined.

  The operation signal generation unit may generate the second operation signal that gradually increases the operation amount as the swing angle of the main body unit around the second axis from a predetermined reference position is larger. Good.

  The first operation signal may be a signal for accelerating the player character, and the second operation signal may be a signal for changing the direction of the player character.

  The third operation signal may be a signal that changes the direction of the player character at a faster speed than in the second operation.

  The main body portion may have a shape imitating a player character, and may be provided with a grip portion for the player to perform each operation.

  A game device according to another aspect of the present invention includes the operation device having the above-described configuration.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to perform an intuitive operation while providing a new operation input mode, and it is possible to realize a realistic game.

It is a side view which shows the state which has a main-body part in an upper limit position in the operating device in this embodiment. It is a side view which shows the state which has a main-body part in a lower limit position in the operating device in this embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the mechanism part of the operation device shown in FIG. It is a top view which shows the state which has a main-body part in the center position in the operating device shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a state in which the main body is positioned in the first stage right direction in the operation device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a state in which the main body is positioned in the second stage right direction in the operation device shown in FIG. 1. It is a block diagram which shows the structure regarding the signal processing of the operation device in this embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an operation device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Game Overview]
A game to which the operation device according to the present embodiment is applied is controlled by another character (a player character or a computer operated by another player or a computer) by moving a player character arranged in the game space in accordance with the operation of the player. This is a game competing with (non-player character). Specifically, it is a game in which a player competes with other characters for the order of reaching the goal while overcoming obstacles or obstructing other characters over a predetermined course provided in the game space.

  In order to realize such a game, in the present embodiment, one or a plurality of operation devices having a shape imitating a player character is opposed to the display device in front of the display device that displays the game screen. Installed. The player advances the game by holding and operating the operation device behind the operation device (on the side opposite to the side where the display device is located).

[Operation device structure]
The operation device in the present embodiment for use in the game as described above will be described. 1 and 2 are side views showing an operation device according to this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a mechanism portion of the operation device shown in FIG. In this embodiment, an operation device applied to a game apparatus installed in a commercial facility in which a game apparatus main body and an operation device are integrally fixed will be described as an example.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the operation device 1 in the present embodiment includes a base portion 10 having an attachment surface A for attachment to a base of a game apparatus, and a main body portion 20 that is directly operated by a player. The base part 10 and the main body part 20 are connected to each other by a connecting part 30 so as to be relatively movable. The connecting portion 30 includes a first axis S1 parallel to the attachment surface A, which is a predetermined reference surface of the base portion 10, and a second axis S2 perpendicular to the attachment surface A. Among these, the first axis S1 forms an axis that swings the main body 20 in the vertical direction, and the second axis S2 forms an axis that swings the main body 20 in the left-right direction when viewed from above. Note that the predetermined reference surface does not necessarily coincide with the mounting surface A of the base portion 10, but it is preferable that a plane close to the horizontal is selected as the reference surface. In the following, the axial direction of the first axis S1 is defined as the left-right direction, and the direction parallel to the reference plane and orthogonal to the first axis S1 is defined as the front-rear direction.

  The connecting portion 30 includes a first plate member 31 parallel to the attachment surface A of the base portion 10. The 1st plate member 31 is arrange | positioned above the base part 10, and both are connected via 2nd axis | shaft S2. Therefore, the first plate member 31 is configured to be swingable about the second axis S <b> 2 with respect to the base portion 10. The first shaft S1 is fixed to the upper portion of the first plate member 31 and in front of the connection portion with the second shaft S2.

  The main body portion 20 has a shape imitating a player character, and a grip portion 60 for the player to grip, a second plate member 21 to which the grip portion 60 is attached, the second plate member 21 and the first shaft And a connecting member 22 for connecting S1. The connecting member 22 extends rearward and obliquely upward from the first axis S1 over the second axis S2, and the second plate member 21 is connected to the rear end thereof. In the present embodiment, the gripping portion 60 has a shape imitating an animal (pig) player character walking with four legs, and the second plate member 21 is below the gripping portion 60 (the lower surface portion of the abdomen). It is connected to the.

  The connecting portion 30 includes a first restricting mechanism 32 that restricts the swing of the main body portion 20 around the first axis S1 within a predetermined first range, and the main body portion 20 within the first range. And a first urging mechanism 33 that urges one side around the axis S1.

  The first restricting mechanism 32 includes a first extending portion 23 extending downward from the second plate member 21 and a plate-like second extending portion extending in the left-right direction from the lower end portion of the first extending portion 23. 24 and a third extension 34 extending upward from the first plate member 31. The first extending portion 23 has a rectangular tube shape with an open front portion, and the third extending portion 34 is configured by a plate member that is erected on the left and right sides of the first extending portion 23. A rectangular opening is formed in the third extending portion 34, and a second extending portion 24 extending from the first extending portion 23 to the left and right is inserted into the opening so as to be vertically movable. Therefore, the first restricting mechanism 32 moves upward about the first axis S <b> 1 of the main body portion 20 by the upper surface of the second extending portion 24 coming into contact with the upper end portion of the opening provided in the third extending portion 34. Is restricted (the upper limit position shown in FIG. 1 is set). On the other hand, the lower surface of the second extending portion 24 comes into contact with the lower end portion of the opening provided in the third extending portion 34, thereby restricting the downward swing of the main body portion 20 around the first axis S1 ( The lower limit position shown in FIG. 2 is set).

  The first urging mechanism 33 is configured by a coil spring interposed between the lower end portion of the first extension portion 23 and the first plate member 31. Thereby, the 2nd plate member 21 of the main-body part 20 is urged | biased above the 1st axis | shaft S1 with respect to the 1st plate member 31 (direction which both plate members separate). That is, the first urging mechanism 33 has the coil spring contracted to some extent in a state where the second plate member 21 is in the upper limit position (that is, the second plate member 21 is separated from the first plate member 31). In this state, the coil spring contracts (the repulsive force increases) as the second plate member 21 of the main body 20 approaches the first plate member 31. However, the configuration of the first urging mechanism 33 is not limited to this. For example, the second plate member 21 rotates around the first axis S1 with respect to the first plate member 31 by a coil spring wound around the first axis S1. It is good also as energizing to the side (direction which both plate members leave | separate). Further, the urging member used in the first urging mechanism 33 is not limited to the coil spring, and various types can be adopted. When the second plate member 21 is urged upward by the first urging mechanism 33 and is in the upper limit position, the first restriction mechanism 32 is configured to be parallel to the mounting surface A of the base portion 10. ing. Further, in the first restriction mechanism 32 of the present embodiment, a buffer member made of rubber or the like is attached to the upper surfaces of the left and right second extending portions 24. Therefore, when the second plate member 21 is urged upward and the second extending portion 24 comes into contact with the upper end portion of the opening of the third extending portion 34, the impact is alleviated.

  The operation device 1 also includes a first detection unit 51 that detects the swing of the main body unit 1 around the first axis S1. The first detection unit 51 includes an upper limit position and a lower limit of the main body unit 20 based on a relative positional relationship between the first blocking member 25 provided in the lower part of the first extension unit 23 of the main body unit 20 and the first blocking member 25. An upper limit position detection sensor 35 and a lower limit position detection sensor 36 for detecting the respective positions are provided.

  The first blocking member 25 has a shape that extends forward from the lower end portion of the first extension portion 23 of the main body portion 20, extends downward from the front end portion, and further widens to the left and right. In the present embodiment, the first blocking member 25 is configured integrally with the second extending portion 24. The upper limit position detection sensor 35 and the lower limit position detection sensor 36 are fixed to the first plate member 31, and the upper limit position detection sensor 35 is disposed above the lower limit position detection sensor 36. Each of the sensors 35 and 36 has a configuration in which, for example, a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit that receives light from the light emitting unit are arranged opposite to each other, and the first blocking member 25 is provided between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit. The widened part of is passed. Accordingly, the first blocking member 25 blocks light from the light emitting unit to the light receiving unit in either the upper limit position detection sensor 35 or the lower limit position detection sensor 36 according to the swing of the main body unit 20 about the first axis S1. To do.

  In this case, in the state of FIG. 1, since the light receiving unit of the upper limit position detection sensor 35 cannot receive the light from the light emitting unit by the first blocking member 25, the first detection unit 51 has the main body unit 20 positioned at the upper limit position. Detect that you are doing. On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 2, since the light receiving unit of the lower limit position detection sensor 36 cannot receive light from the light emitting unit by the first blocking member 25, the first detection unit 51 has the main body unit 20 positioned at the lower limit position. Detect that

  By having the first urging mechanism 33 as described above, the player can repeatedly perform the “first operation” in which the rear portion of the grip portion 60 is pushed down from above. Then, the first detection unit 51 detects that the main body unit 20 moves between the upper limit position and the lower limit position by such a first operation, and generates a first operation signal based on the detection. Can do. In the present embodiment, the two position detection sensors 35 and 36 are provided as the first detection unit 51, but more position detection sensors may be used. Thereby, the displacement of the main body 20 around the first axis S1 can be detected in multiple stages. Other configurations may be employed as long as at least the upper limit position and the lower limit position of the main body 20 can be detected. For example, an on / off switch, a distance measuring sensor, an angle detection sensor, or the like may be used.

  4 to 6 are plan views of the operation device shown in FIG. As described above, the main body portion 20 is fixed to the first plate member 31 of the connecting portion 30 so as to be swingable in the vertical direction around the first axis S1. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the first plate member 31 swings around the second axis S <b> 2 with respect to the base portion 10, so that the main body portion 20 has a second axis with respect to the base portion 10. Swings left and right around S2. In other words, when viewed from above, the main body 20 can swing clockwise and counterclockwise about the second axis S2.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the connecting portion 30 includes a second restricting mechanism 37 that restricts the swing of the main body 20 about the second axis S <b> 2 to the left and right within a predetermined second range, and the main body 20. And a second urging mechanism 38 that urges the second range S2 to the center position around the second axis S2 (so that the gripping portion 60 simulating the player character is directed straight forward).

  The second restriction mechanism 37 will be described. The base portion 10 is provided with a pair of left and right regulating wall members 11 and 12 extending upward from the mounting surface A. Each of the regulation wall members 11 and 12 has a regulation wall constituted by a surface perpendicular to the circumferential direction around the second axis S2. The regulating wall members 11 and 12 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the imaginary line in the front-rear direction passing through the second axis S2 so that the angle between the regulating walls is a predetermined angle around the second axis S2. ing.

  On the other hand, the connecting portion 30 includes a support member 39 that supports the first plate member 31 with respect to the second axis S2. The support member 39 has an M shape in a side view. Specifically, it extends diagonally upward and forward from the middle of the second axis S2 to reach the lower surface of the front part of the first plate member 31, and extends diagonally backward from the same part of the second axis S2 and the part extending downward from here. The first plate member 31 extends upward, reaches the lower surface of the rear portion of the first plate member 31, and extends downward from the first plate member 31. A portion of the support member 39 that extends downward on the rear side is located between the regulating wall members 11 and 12. Therefore, when the support member 39 abuts on the restriction wall member 11 located on the left side, the clockwise rotation of the second axis S2 in the top view of the main body 20 is restricted. Further, when the support member 39 abuts on the restriction wall member 12 located on the right side, the counterclockwise rotation of the second axis S2 in the top view of the main body portion 20 is restricted.

  The second urging mechanism 38 has a coil spring supported at a position above the front portion of the base portion 10. That is, a support body having a predetermined height dimension is erected at a position in front of the second axis S2 in the base portion 10, and one end portion (front end portion) of the coil spring is locked to the upper portion. On the other hand, the other end portion (rear end portion) of the coil spring is a front end portion of the first plate member 31 and is locked at a front position of the second shaft S2. Therefore, when an external force is not applied to the first plate member 31, the coil spring with both ends locked is in a posture along the front-rear direction. More precisely, the coil spring is located on the imaginary line in the front-rear direction passing through the intermediate position between the regulating wall members 11 and 12. The coil spring at this time is in a state of being extended more than the natural state, and biases the first plate member 31 to return to the center position (reference position) of the second range described above.

  The operation device 1 also includes a second detection unit 52 that detects the swing of the main body unit 20 about the second axis S2. The second detection unit 52 includes a second blocking member 40 (see also FIG. 1) attached to the lower end of the M-shaped support member 39 extending downward from the front portion of the first plate member 31. And at least one left-right position sensor attached to the upper surface of the base portion 10. Of these, the second blocking member 40 is located at the center in the left-right direction of the first plate member 31 in a top view, and is parallel to the first plate member 31 and has a predetermined width in the circumferential direction around the second axis S2. It is comprised with the board member which has a dimension. On the other hand, the left / right position sensor is disposed on the opposite side of the restriction wall members 11 and 12 with respect to the second axis S2 and is fixed to a plate member extending upward from the mounting surface A of the base portion 10.

  In the present embodiment, three left and right position detection sensors are provided concentrically around the second axis S2. Among these, the center position detection sensor 41 located at the center is provided on a line connecting the intermediate position of the regulating wall members 11 and 12 and the second axis S2. A right position detection sensor 42 is provided on the right side of the central position detection sensor 41, and a left position detection sensor 43 is provided on the left side. More specifically, the right position detection sensor 42 is configured such that when the first plate member 31 swings clockwise in a top view and the support member 39 approaches the left regulation wall member 11, the first plate member 31. Are provided on a straight line passing through the central portion of the first axis S1 direction. When the first plate member 31 swings counterclockwise in a top view and the support member 39 comes into contact with the right regulation wall member 12, the left position detection sensor 43 has a first position on the first plate member 31. It is provided on a straight line passing through the central part in the axis S1 direction.

  Each of the center position detection sensor 41, the right position detection sensor 42, and the left position detection sensor 43 has a configuration in which, for example, a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit that receives light from the light emitting unit are vertically opposed to each other. The blocking member 40 is located between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit. Accordingly, when the first plate member 31 swings around the second axis S2, the second blocking member 40 is positioned corresponding to one or two of the position detection sensors 41, 42, 43, and the sensor The light from the light emitting part to the light receiving part is blocked. That is, in the present embodiment, the circumferential dimension of the second blocking member 40 around the second axis S2 is the second width between the center position detection sensor 41 and the right position detection sensor 42 or the left position detection sensor 43. It is configured to be larger than a circumferential distance around the axis S2 and smaller than a circumferential distance around the second axis S2 between the right position detection sensor 42 and the left position detection sensor 43. Therefore, when the first plate member 31 is at the central reference position, the second shielding member 40 is shielded by the central position detection sensor 41, and when the first plate member 31 is at the right limit position, the second shielding member 40 is shielded. The shielding member 40 is shielded by the center position detection sensor 41 and the right position detection sensor 42. When the first plate member 31 is at the left limit position, the second shielding member 40 is detected by the center position detection sensor 41 and the left position detection. The sensor 43 is shielded from light.

  As a result, the second detection unit 52 has a central reference position, a first stage position when it is displaced to the left and right, and a first position when it is further displaced to the left and right, respectively, with respect to the posture of the body 20 around the second axis S2. A total of five postures can be detected in two stages. Specifically, in the state of FIG. 4, the second detection unit 52 is not shielded by the second blocking member 40 and the light receiving unit of the center position detection sensor 41 cannot receive light from the light emitting unit. Is detected at the center position (reference position). Further, in the state of FIG. 5 in which the main body portion 20 is rotated clockwise about the second axis S2 with respect to the base portion 10, the respective light receiving portions of the center position detection sensor 41 and the right position detection sensor 42 by the second blocking member 40 Since the light from the light emitting unit cannot be received, the second detection unit 52 detects that the main body unit 20 is located at a position displaced by the first step in the right direction. Further, in the state shown in FIG. 6, only the light receiving part of the right position detection sensor 42 cannot receive light from the light emitting part by the second blocking member 40, so that the second detecting part 52 causes the main body part 20 to move rightward. It is detected that it is located at a position displaced by a second stage greater than one stage (a position where the support member 39 is in contact with the left regulation wall member 11). The same applies to the case where the main body 20 rotates counterclockwise about the second axis S2 with respect to the base 10.

  In the present embodiment, the three position detection sensors 41 to 43 are provided as the second detection unit 52, but more position detection sensors may be used. Thereby, the displacement of the main body 20 around the second axis S2 can be detected in more stages. Or you may comprise the 2nd detection part 52 by angle detection sensors, such as a potentiometer and a rotary encoder.

  By having such a configuration, the player can perform a “second operation” such as turning the rear part of the gripping part 60 leftward or rightward with respect to the front part. By the operation, the second detection unit 52 can detect the position within the second range around the second axis S2 by the operation, and a second operation signal based on this can be generated. As shown in FIG. 1, the second axis S <b> 2 is positioned between two positions before and after the main body 20 is connected to the first plate member 31, i.e., the first axis S <b> 1 located on the front side and the rear side. The first plate member 31 is connected to the third extending portion 24b. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently convert the operating force applied to the gripping portion 60 into a moment around the second axis S2.

  The operation device 1 according to the present embodiment can perform operation inputs other than operations around the first axis S1 and operations around the second axis S2. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, a pair of left and right side operation buttons 71 </ b> L and 71 </ b> R provided on both ends of the main body 20 in the first axis S <b> 1 direction may be provided. The pair of left and right side operation buttons 71 </ b> L and 71 </ b> R are arranged so as to be located on both side surfaces of the gripper 60 and inside the gripper 60. Specifically, side operation buttons 71L and 71R are attached to each of a pair of left and right stay members 72 provided so as to extend upward from both end portions of the second plate member 21, respectively.

  In the present embodiment, the gripping part 60 is entirely formed of a flexible material, and even if the side operation buttons 71L and 71R are inside the gripping part 60, the gripping part 60 is pressed from the side. It is possible to press the side operation buttons 71L and 71R. Note that the pair of left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R have a shape in which three buttons are arranged in the front-rear direction of the grip portion 60, as shown in FIGS. These three buttons have the same configuration, and when at least one of the three buttons is pressed, the side operation buttons 71L and 71R are operated. This is to make it easier for the player to operate the side operation buttons 71L and 71R that cannot be seen from the outside. Of course, the configuration of the side operation buttons 71L and 71R is not limited to this. For example, the buttons may have a large area, or more buttons may be arranged in various ways.

  Further, an upper surface operation button 74 may be provided on the upper surface of the grip portion 60 from the rear end portion of the second plate member 21 via the stay member 73. The upper surface operation button 74 is formed outside the grip portion 60 so that the player can directly press the button. It should be noted that the upper surface operation button 74 is located in front of the portion that grips the grip portion 60 in the swing operation about the first axis S1 so that the swing operation about the first axis S1 does not occur simultaneously when the upper surface operation button 74 is operated. Has been placed.

  A vibration motor 75 is attached to the stay member 73 on which the upper surface operation button 74 is supported. The vibration motor 75 vibrates in accordance with the movement and state of the player character in the game space, and informs the player of changes in the movement and state of the player character in an easy-to-understand manner. The various operation buttons are connected to a control unit 80 (see FIG. 7), which will be described later, provided on the base of the game apparatus by a signal line. This signal line passes through the inside of the gripping portion 60, passes through an opening formed in the center of the main body portion 20 (see FIG. 3), the internal space of the first extending portion 23, and the internal space of the second axis S2. And extended to the base of the game device.

[Configuration for signal processing of operation device]
Hereinafter, a configuration related to signal processing for generating an operation signal corresponding to each operation described above will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration related to signal processing of the operation device according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, operation information from each operation unit of the operation device 1 is sent to the control unit 80. Specifically, the detection signal from the first detection unit 51 that detects the first operation associated with the swing of the main body 20 about the first axis S1 and the swing of the main body 20 about the second axis S2 are detected. A detection signal from the second detection unit 52 that detects the accompanying second operation is input to the control unit 80. In addition, a signal based on the operation of the left operation button 71L, the right operation button 71R, and the upper operation button 74 is input to the control unit 80. A vibration command signal is output from the control unit 80 to the vibration motor 75 in accordance with the movement and state of the player character in the game space.

  The control unit 80 includes an operation signal generation unit 81 that generates an operation signal according to a relative position change of the main body unit 20 with respect to the base unit 10. Note that the control unit 80 may be configured by a microcontroller or the like provided in the operation device 1, or directly input operation information from each operation unit to the control unit that controls the entire game device, The unit may function as the operation signal generation unit 81.

  The operation signal generation unit 81 generates a first operation signal based on a first operation by swinging the main body unit 20 around the first axis S1 with respect to the base unit 10, and the main body unit 20 is used as the base unit. 10 generates a second operation signal based on a second operation by swinging around 10 around the second axis S2. Specifically, the operation signal generation unit 81 generates a first operation signal based on the position information of the main body unit 20 detected by the first detection unit 51, and the main body unit detected by the second detection unit 52. A second operation signal is generated based on the 20 position information.

  In the present embodiment, the first operation signal is a signal for accelerating the player character in the game space based on the first operation. The second operation signal is a signal for changing the direction of the player character based on the second operation. Therefore, the player character in the game space moves forward by repeatedly performing the first operation of holding the rear portion (butt portion) of the grip portion 60 imitating the shape of the player character and pushing the grip portion 60 downward. ,To accelerate. The player character is further accelerated by increasing the speed of repeatedly pressing down, and decelerated by stopping the first operation. In addition, when the player performs a second operation of gripping the rear portion of the gripping portion 60 and moving (sliding) the gripping portion 60 to the left or right, the player character in the game space moves the front portion of the gripping portion 60. Change direction to face. That is, by moving the rear part of the gripper 60 to the right, the head of the gripper 60 turns to the left, and the player character in the game space also turns to the left. Similarly, by moving the rear part of the gripper 60 to the left, the head of the gripper 60 turns to the right, and the player character in the game space also turns to the right. Therefore, when the player character performs the second operation while moving forward, the player character can change the direction according to the second operation.

  Note that the player character in the game space may be set to advance at a predetermined speed regardless of the presence or absence of the first operation. In this case, the player may accelerate by performing the first operation (then, the player may decelerate to a predetermined speed when the first operation is stopped).

  Here, the operation signal generator 81 gradually increases the operation amount as the swing angle of the main body 20 around the second axis S2 from the predetermined reference position (the biasing position by the second biasing mechanism 38) increases. A second operation signal that is increased is generated. As described above, in the present embodiment, the second detection unit 52 causes the main body unit 20 to perform the second urging by combining the detection results from the center position detection sensor 41, the right position detection sensor 42, and the left position detection sensor 43. A displacement in two steps left or right from the biased position by the mechanism 38 can be detected. Therefore, the operation signal generation unit 81 generates the second operation signal based on the displacement detected by the second detection unit 52, thereby stepping the operation amount in the left-right direction according to the player's operation. Can be different. Specifically, when only the right position detection sensor 42 or the left position detection sensor 43 detects the presence of the second blocking member 40 (when it is detected that light from the light irradiation unit does not reach the light receiving unit). As compared with the case where both the right position detection sensor 42 or the left position detection sensor 43 and the center position detection sensor 41 detect the presence of the second blocking member 40, the angle toward the left or right becomes larger. Therefore, a sudden change of direction can be performed by moving the gripping part 60 to the left or right.

  In addition, the operation signal generation unit 81 generates a third operation signal based on a third operation that is a combination of the first operation and the second operation. Specifically, the third operation is, for example, a second operation in which the first operation of pushing the rear part of the gripping part 60 downward is performed (in a state where the grip part 60 is pushed down) and moved to either the left or right. Is to do. When such an operation is performed by the player, the operation signal generation unit 81 generates a third operation signal instead of the first operation signal and the second operation signal.

  In the present embodiment, the third operation signal is a signal for changing the direction of the player character at a faster speed than the time of the second operation (so-called drift running). That is, when the third operation is performed, the direction of the player character is changed at a higher speed than the case where the second operation is performed even with the same operation amount (swinging angle). For example, assuming that the speed of the player character moving straight by the first operation is 100, the second operation decelerates to a predetermined speed (for example, 80) and changes direction. When the operation is performed, the direction may be changed at a faster speed (for example, 90) than in the second operation. Alternatively, assuming that the speed of the player character traveling straight by the first operation is 100, the third operation is performed on a curve that cannot be bent unless the vehicle is decelerated to a predetermined speed (for example, 80) in the direction change by the second operation. May be turned even at a higher speed (for example, 90). Alternatively, immediately after the third operation is stopped, the vehicle may be temporarily accelerated (for example, from 100 to 120), so that the curve can be turned faster than the second operation.

  As in the case of only the second operation, the operation signal generation unit 81 increases the operation amount as the swing angle around the second axis S2 of the main body unit 20 from the urging position by the second urging mechanism 38 increases. A third operation signal is generated so as to increase stepwise. Therefore, even in the case of drift travel, a sudden change of direction can be performed by moving the gripping part 60 to the left or right. By combining a plurality of operations in this manner, the player character can perform a new action, so that the game performance can be improved and an effect that does not make the player tired can be performed.

  Further, the operation signal generation unit 81 generates a fourth operation signal based on the fourth operation by pressing the side operation buttons 71L and 71R. In the present embodiment, the fourth control signal is generated by pressing one of the pair of left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R, thereby moving the game space from the side pressing the side operation button toward the opposite side. It is a signal that causes the player character to tackle. Therefore, the player presses one of the left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R so as to strike the left or right side of the grip 60 (unlike the second operation, the grip 60 By performing a fourth operation), the player character in the game space tackles toward the side opposite to the side on which the side operation buttons 71L and 71R are pressed. To do.

  At the time of tackling, an attack determination is provided at the tip of the player character in the traveling direction. Therefore, by performing the tackle, when the leading end of the player character in the traveling direction comes into contact with another competitor character, the other character can be decelerated. In addition, by performing tackle, when the front end of the player character in the traveling direction comes into contact with the obstacle, the obstacle can be destroyed.

  Further, the operation signal generation unit 81 can generate a fifth operation signal based on a fifth operation that operates the pair of left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R at the same time. In the present embodiment, the fifth control signal is a signal for jumping the player character in the game space by simultaneously pressing both the left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R. Accordingly, the player character in the game space is made by performing the fifth operation of simultaneously pressing both the left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R so that the player strikes the left and right side portions of the grip portion 60. Jump.

  Further operations can be performed during the jump. For example, the posture during the jump can be changed by performing the second operation during the jump. Further, during a jump, an attack that changes the trajectory of the jump by simultaneously pressing both the left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R again to cause the player character to fall while rotating from the sky (rolling attack). It can be performed. During this rolling attack, an attack determination is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating player character. Therefore, by performing a rolling attack, when the outer surface of the player character comes into contact with another competitor, the other character can be crushed. Also, by performing a rolling attack, when the outer peripheral surface of the player character comes into contact with the obstacle, the obstacle can be destroyed.

  Further, in addition to or instead of the fifth operation (simultaneous pressing operation of the pair of left and right side operation buttons 71L and 71R), instead of this, the operation signal generating unit is also operated. 81 may generate the fifth operation signal. In this case, when the upper surface operation button 74 is pressed once, the player character jumps, and when the upper surface operation button 74 is pressed again during the jump, the player character performs a rolling attack. Thus, the difficulty of operation can be adjusted by the player by realizing the operation of the same player character by a plurality of operations.

  As described above, according to the operation device 1 in the present embodiment, the main body portion 20 to which the grip portion 60 is attached to the base portion 10 is around the first axis S1 and the second axis S2 that intersect each other three-dimensionally. Is configured to swing. For this reason, it is possible to provide the player with a new operation mode that is different from the operation device optimized for a racing game using a conventional automobile or motorcycle. In particular, in a game in which an object that is not directly operated by a human is normally operated, it is likely that a sense of incongruity is likely to occur when a conventional operation device is used. The operation can be performed. In particular, an operation device that operates a player character such as a quadruped walking animal (pig) as exemplified in this embodiment is preferable. That is, the shape of the gripping portion 60 is made to resemble such a player character, and each operation is performed so as to strike the player character's hip or change its direction so that the player can drive the player character. The operation can be performed with a simple sense, and the operation can be performed more intuitively and without a sense of incongruity. Various operations can be performed by combining a plurality of operations.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various improvements, changes, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  For example, a configuration different from the operation device 1 may be provided as input means to the game apparatus. That is, for example, separately from the operation device 1, an operation button may be provided on the base of the game apparatus. For example, by pressing the operation button, an item that makes game progress advantageous can be used, or the speed at which the player character moves forward for a certain period of time can be increased.

  In the present embodiment, the commercial game device in which the base unit 10 of the operation device 1 is fixed to the game device has been described. However, the present invention is also suitable for an operation device that is used by being connected to a home game device. Can be applied.

  The present invention can be operated intuitively while providing a new operation input mode, and is useful for realizing a realistic game.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Operation device 10 Base part 20 Main body part 30 Connection part 32 1st control mechanism 33 1st biasing mechanism 37 2nd control mechanism 38 2nd biasing mechanism 71L, 71R Side operation button 74 Upper surface operation button 81 Operation signal production | generation part S1 1st axis S2 2nd axis

Claims (3)

A base part;
A main body attached to the base so as to be relatively movable;
A connecting portion for connecting the base portion and the main body portion so as to be relatively movable;
An operation signal generation unit that generates an operation signal according to a relative position change of the main body unit with respect to the base unit;
The connecting portion includes a first axis parallel to a predetermined reference surface of the base portion, and a second axis perpendicular to the reference surface,
The operation signal generation unit generates a first operation signal based on a first operation by swinging the main body about the first axis with respect to the base, and the main body is moved to the base. Generating a second operation signal based on a second operation by swinging about a second axis with respect to the part,
The main body is provided with a grip for the player to perform each operation,
The grip portion extends rearward from the first shaft,
The second axis is located behind the first axis ,
The first operation signal is a signal for accelerating the player character,
The operation device, wherein the second operation signal is a signal for changing the direction of the player character . A base part;
A main body attached to the base so as to be relatively movable;
A connecting portion for connecting the base portion and the main body portion so as to be relatively movable;
An operation signal generation unit that generates an operation signal according to a relative position change of the main body unit with respect to the base unit;
The connecting portion includes a first axis parallel to a predetermined reference surface of the base portion, and a second axis perpendicular to the reference surface,
The operation signal generation unit generates a first operation signal based on a first operation by swinging the main body about the first axis with respect to the base, and the main body is moved to the base. Generating a second operation signal based on a second operation by swinging about a second axis with respect to the part,
The main body is provided with a grip for the player to perform each operation,
The grip portion extends rearward from the first shaft,
The second axis is located behind the first axis,
The operation signal generation unit is a third operation signal that is different from the first operation signal and the second operation signal based on a third operation in which the first operation and the second operation are combined. Produces
It said third operation signal is a signal for turning at a faster speed than in the player character second operation, the operation device. Including operation device according to claim 1 or 2, the game apparatus.

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