CN113661537A

CN113661537A - Image display device and operation control method thereof

Info

Publication number: CN113661537A
Application number: CN202080027993.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 土手真悟
Original assignee: Marvelous Inc
Current assignee: Marvelous Inc
Priority date: 2019-04-11
Filing date: 2020-04-01
Publication date: 2021-11-16
Also published as: TWI826679B; KR20210144864A; SG11202111203PA; WO2020209162A1; TW202046083A; JP2021102061A; JP6851555B1; JP2021142344A; JPWO2020209162A1; JP6892973B1

Abstract

An image display device is provided with a display unit for displaying a predetermined image and an operation unit for receiving an operation input from a user. The display portion includes a first region and a second region, and the operation portion includes a first operation portion provided corresponding to the first region and a second operation portion provided corresponding to the second region. The image display device further has a separation unit provided between the first region and the second region to separate the first region and the second region. Thus, one image display device can provide the same function as that of the plurality of image display devices.

Description

Image display device and operation control method thereof

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an image display device and an operation control method thereof, and more particularly to a game device that displays a game image and an operation control method thereof.

Background

A game device that executes a match-up game or a cooperation game played by a plurality of players is known (for example, patent document 1). In patent document 1, in the single-player mode, one image is displayed on a display unit of one game device to execute a game. On the other hand, in the cooperation mode, one image is displayed on the display units of the adjacent game devices to execute the cooperation type game.

In such a cooperation mode, a plurality of game devices are arranged, and these display portions are used as one display portion. Therefore, a plurality of game devices are required, which leads to high cost. In addition, in order to install a plurality of game devices in a game center, a large-area game center is required. Accordingly, a game device that improves such a problem has been desired.

Prior art documents

Patent document

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open publication No. 2018-158025

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

The invention aims to provide an image display device capable of providing the same function as that of a plurality of image display devices by using one image display device. In particular, it is an object to provide a game device capable of providing the same function as that of a plurality of game devices by one game device. Another object of the present invention is to provide an operation control method for the image display device.

Means for solving the problems

Such an object is achieved by the present invention described in the following (1) to (16).

(1) An image display device having a display unit for displaying a predetermined image and an operation unit for receiving an operation input from a user,

the display portion includes a first region and a second region,

the operation portion includes a first operation portion provided corresponding to the first region and a second operation portion provided corresponding to the second region,

the image display device further has a separation unit provided between the first region and the second region to separate the first region and the second region.

(2) The image display device according to (1) above, wherein the first region and the first operation portion, and the second region and the second operation portion are configured to be bilaterally symmetrical about the partition unit as a central axis.

(3) The image display device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the partitioning means is configured to be removed from between the first region and the second region when a predetermined event is present.

(4) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (3), wherein the dividing means is a divided image that divides the first region and the second region.

(5) The image display device according to (4) above, wherein the partition image includes the predetermined image.

(6) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (5), wherein the display unit has a full-screen region including the first region and the second region, and displays the predetermined image in the full-screen region.

(7) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (6), wherein the display portion has a rectangular frame body surrounding the first region and the second region, and

the partition unit is configured to appear to be integral with the frame.

(8) The image display device according to (7) above, wherein the housing has a joining portion formed so as to be recessed inward.

(9) The image display device according to the above (7) or (8), wherein the housing has a first frame member provided corresponding to the first operation portion and a second frame member provided corresponding to the second operation portion,

one end and the other end of the first frame member are disposed facing each other, and

one end and the other end of the second frame member are disposed facing each other.

(10) The image display device according to (9) above, wherein the partition unit is formed to connect the one end and the other end of the first frame member, and is formed to connect the one end and the other end of the second frame member.

(11) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (10),

the first operation unit and the second operation unit are configured to be capable of simultaneously receiving the operation input from the user.

(12) The image display device according to (6) above, further comprising a switching unit that switches an area in which the predetermined image is displayed between the first area and the full-screen area.

(13) The image display device according to (12) above, wherein the switching means switches the region in which the predetermined image is displayed between the second region and the full-screen region, and wherein the switching means switches the region in which the predetermined image is displayed between the second region and the full-screen region

The first area and the second area are configured to be capable of independently displaying the predetermined image.

(14) The image display device according to (12) or (13) above, wherein the switching unit simultaneously performs switching of the region from the first region to the full-screen region and switching of the region from the second region to the full-screen region.

(15) An image display device including a first sub-image display device having a first display unit for displaying a predetermined image and a first operation unit for receiving an operation input from a user, and a second sub-image display device having a second display unit for displaying the predetermined image and a second operation unit for receiving the operation input from the user,

the first display unit and the second display unit are constituted by one display surface,

the image display device further includes a partition unit that is provided between the first display unit and the second display unit and partitions the first display unit and the second display unit.

(16) An operation control method for an image display device, comprising the steps of:

displaying a predetermined image in a first region and a second region of a display unit;

switching an area in which the predetermined image is displayed from the first area to a full screen area including the first area and the second area when a predetermined event exists;

removing a separation unit disposed between the first region and the second region; and

displaying the prescribed image in the full-screen region.

The object of the present invention can also be achieved by the following inventions (1) to (12).

(1) An image display device includes:

a display unit having a full-screen region including a first region for displaying a predetermined image and a second region different from the first region;

an operation unit that receives an operation input from a user; and

a switching unit that switches an area in which the predetermined image is displayed between the first area and the full screen area.

(2) The image display device according to (1) above, wherein the switching means switches the region in which the predetermined image is displayed when a predetermined event exists.

(3) The image display device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the switching means switches the region displaying the predetermined image between the second region and the full-screen region,

(4) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (3), wherein the switching unit simultaneously performs switching of the region from the first region to the full-screen region and switching of the region from the second region to the full-screen region.

(5) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (4), wherein the operation section receives the operation input, whereby the switching unit switches the region in which the predetermined image is displayed.

(6) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (5), wherein when the switching means switches the region to the full-screen region, the display unit displays the predetermined image in the full-screen region.

(7) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (6), wherein the operation section is capable of simultaneously receiving the operation input to the first region and the operation input to the second region.

(8) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (7), wherein the operation section has a first operation section and a second operation section that are independently operable,

the first region is provided corresponding to the first operation portion, and

the second region is provided corresponding to the second operation portion.

(9) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (8), further comprising a partition unit that partitions the first region and the second region.

(10) The image display device according to any one of the above (1) to (9), wherein the image display device is a game device.

(11) An operation control method for an image display device, comprising the steps of:

displaying a predetermined image in a first region of a display unit;

switching an area in which the predetermined image is displayed from the first area to a full screen area including the first area when a predetermined event exists; and

displaying the prescribed image in the full-screen region.

(12) The operation control method for an image display device according to (11) above, further comprising:

displaying the prescribed image in a second region different from the first region; and

switching an area displaying the predetermined image from the second area to the full screen area including the second area when the predetermined event exists, and

the step of switching the region displaying the predetermined image from the first region to the full-screen region and the step of switching the region displaying the predetermined image from the second region to the full-screen region are performed simultaneously.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, the same function as that of a plurality of image display apparatuses can be provided by one image display apparatus. In particular, one game device can provide the same functions as those of a plurality of game devices. Thus, a small game device with reduced cost can be provided. Further, it is possible to provide a method of controlling the operation of providing a plurality of independent games and providing one game with one game device.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a recording medium used in a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is an enlarged view showing a configuration of a display unit of a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is an enlarged view showing a configuration of a display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is an enlarged view showing a configuration of a display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is an event table stored in the storage unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a game process of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a plan view schematically showing an image display device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view schematically showing an image display device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a front view, a top view, and a bottom view schematically showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 12 is a rear view and a left side view schematically showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 14 is an enlarged view schematically showing the configuration of a display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

The image display device and the operation control method thereof according to the present invention will be described in detail below.

< first embodiment >

A. Image display device

The image display device of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it can display an image. Such an image display device includes, for example, a desktop personal computer, a notebook computer, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a television, a game device, a liquid crystal display, and the like.

Hereinafter, for easy understanding, a case where the image display device is a game device will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments shown in the drawings. For convenience of explanation, the upper side in the drawings is referred to as "upper", the lower side is referred to as "lower", the left side is referred to as "left", the right side is referred to as "right", the front side in the drawing is referred to as "front", and the back side in the drawing is referred to as "back".

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 to 6 are enlarged views showing the configuration of the display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 is an event table stored in the storage unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

1. Summary of the Game

First, a game executed by the game device 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The game device 1 can execute, for example, a battle game, a role-playing game, or the like using the recording medium 11. Specifically, the game device 1 scans the recording medium 11 to obtain information on characters (hereinafter, referred to as "character information") recorded on the recording medium 11. Then, the game device 1 displays the image of the character on the display unit 6. Thereby, the game device 1 can execute a match-up game in which the character matches up with an opponent character. After the game is completed, a new recording medium 11 is distributed from the game device 1. The game executed by the game device 1 is not limited to the above game.

2. Recording medium

The recording medium 11 used in the game device 1 of the present embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it can store character information. Such a recording medium 11 is formed into a card shape as shown in fig. 2, for example. The recording medium 11 has a two-dimensional code 111 on the surface. The two-dimensional code 111 records angular color information, article information, and the like. The two-dimensional code 111 includes a QR code (registered trademark), Zcode (registered trademark), and the like. In the case of Zcode, the information is recorded in a manner that can be recognized under invisible light (infrared ray). The recording medium 11 may be a game IC card storing player information or character information. The recording medium 11 may be formed in an elliptical shape, a circular shape, a rectangular shape, or the like.

3. Game device

Next, the game device will be described. As shown in fig. 1, the game device 1 of the present embodiment includes two game devices (a first sub game device 1A and a second sub game device 1B) provided adjacent to each other. The game device 1 has a display unit 6 and is controlled by a control unit 8. Therefore, the entire size of the game device 1 can be reduced. This can reduce the cost of the entire game device 1. The game device 1 of the present embodiment is not limited to the configuration in which two game devices are provided adjacent to each other (2-in-1 configuration), and may be a configuration in which three or more game devices are provided adjacent to each other.

At first glance, the game device 1 of the present embodiment seems to have two adjacent game devices. However, the game device 1 is configured by connecting these two game devices to constitute one game device 1. Therefore, each player (user) can execute a game on each of the child game devices, and can also cooperatively execute one game play. As shown in fig. 1 and 3, such a game device 1 includes a housing 2, an operation unit 3, a reading unit 4, a speaker 5, a display unit 6, a storage unit 7, a control unit 8, and a communication unit 9. The structure of each part will be explained below.

The casing 2, the operation unit 3, the reading unit 4, and the speaker 5 of the game device 1 are the same as the sub-casing 2A, the first sub-operation unit 3A, the sub-reading unit 4A, and the sub-speaker 5A for the first sub-game device 1A, and the sub-casing 2B, the second sub-operation unit 3B, the sub-reading unit 4B, and the sub-speaker 5B for the second sub-game device 1B. Therefore, only the respective parts of the game device 1 will be representatively described below.

< housing >

The housing 2 has a function of setting or accommodating each component of the game device 1. As shown in fig. 1, the housing 2 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, but is not limited thereto. The housing 2 may be formed of one housing (double housing) or may be formed by coupling sub-housings for the respective sub-game devices. In the case of a double housing, the housing 2 is formed symmetrically, and the central portion (particularly, the front surface) of the housing 2 may be recessed inward. This makes it possible for the player to see two game devices at first glance.

The casing 2 has a maintenance door 21 for allowing a game manager to perform maintenance and management of the operation rate of the game device 1, the distribution rate of the recording medium 11, and the like. The door 21 is provided on the front surface of the housing 2. The door 21 has a function of accessing the maintenance panel 22 accommodated in the housing 2. As shown in fig. 13, a maintenance panel (electronic device) 22 is disposed on the rear surface of the door 21. The maintenance panel 22 is constituted by buttons for the game administrator to test and manage the game apparatus 1. With such a configuration, for example, when a game of the first sub-game device 1A is to be reset, the game of the first sub-game device 1A can be managed independently without interrupting the game in the second sub-game device 1B. The door 21 is not an essential element of the game device 1.

< operating section >

The operation unit 3 has a function of receiving an operation input performed by a player to execute a game. The operation unit 3 includes 4 buttons 31 and two rectangular operation regions 32. The buttons 31 are disposed on the front side of the upper surface of the housing 2 in bilateral symmetry. The operation region 32 is provided on the back side of the push button 31 on the upper surface of the housing 2. The shape and position of the operation region 32 are not particularly limited, and may be a rod or a circle, a position between the buttons 31, or a position in front of the buttons 31. Such an operation field 32 is a field in which the player can set and move the recording medium 11. The operation field 32 is configured such that the reading unit 4 described later can read the recording medium 11.

The operation unit 3 includes a first sub-operation unit (first operation unit) 3A for the first sub-game device 1A and a second sub-operation unit (second operation unit) 3B for the second sub-game device 1B. The first sub-operation section 3A and the second sub-operation section 3B can be independently operated and can simultaneously receive different operation inputs. This enables the first sub-game device 1A and the second sub-game device 1B to perform their respective operations.

< reading section >

The reading section 4 has a function of reading information of the recording medium 11 set on the operation field 32. The reading unit 4 is provided in the lower portion of the operation field 32 inside the housing 2. Such a reading unit 4 is constituted by, for example, an imaging device (camera) and an infrared light source. The infrared light source of the reading unit 4 irradiates the two-dimensional code 111 of the recording medium 11 with infrared light from below the operation region 32. In this state, the imaging device images the two-dimensional code 111 of the recording medium 11, whereby information recorded in the two-dimensional code 111 of the recording medium 11 can be read. In addition, the reading section 4 may be disposed at any position within the housing 2 as long as the imaging device can image the operation field 32. In addition, the reading section 4 may be constituted only by the image forming device.

< speaker >

The speaker 5 has a function of outputting various sounds. The speaker 5 is provided below the display unit 6 at the rear of the upper surface of the housing 2. The number of speakers 5 is not particularly limited, and may be one or two or more. In the present embodiment, two speakers 5 are provided on both sides of the rear portion of the upper surface of the housing 2 corresponding to each sub game device. The sound output from the speaker 5 includes music, sound effects, and the like stored in the storage unit 7.

< display part >

The display unit 6 has a function of displaying a game image (predetermined image). As shown in fig. 1, the display portion 6 is provided above the speaker 5 on the upper surface of the housing 2. The display unit 6 is configured by one display panel, but may be a touch panel. As shown in fig. 1, the display unit 6 is formed in a quadrangular shape, but is not limited thereto, and may be formed in a circular shape or a triangular shape.

The display unit 6 includes a full-screen region 61 for displaying a game image and a frame 62 surrounding the full-screen region 61. The full screen area 61 includes an individual area 611 and a divided area 612. As shown in fig. 5, the full screen area 61 has a function of displaying a game image on the entire display unit 6. When the player of the first sub game device 1A cooperates with the player of the second sub game device 1B, a match-up game, or the like, a game image is displayed in the full screen area 61.

The individual area 611 includes an area (first area) 611A in which a game image for the first sub game device 1A is displayed and an area (second area) 611B in which a game image for the second sub game device 1B is displayed. As shown in fig. 4 and 6, these

regions

611A and 611B are formed to have the same area with each other by the partition region 612. This makes it possible for the player to appear as if there are two game devices at first sight. However, the area of any one region may be smaller than the area of the other regions. For example, in the case where a match-up game is executed between the first sub-game device 1A and the second sub-game device 1B, if the area of the region 611A for the first sub-game device 1A is large, the game image for the first sub-game device 1A is displayed large. In such a case, the player can be given an impression that the player of the first sub game device 1A has an advantage.

The first region 611A is provided corresponding to the first sub operation unit 3A of the first sub game device 1A. The first region 611A is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto. The second region 611B is provided corresponding to the second sub operation unit 3B of the second sub game device 1B. The second region 611B is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto. The first region 611A may display the same image as the image displayed in the second region 611B, or may display a different image. In addition, the first and

second regions

611A and 611B can independently display images, respectively.

The partition region (third region) 612 has a function of partitioning the first region 611A and the second region 611B. Thus, the partition region 612 is disposed between the first region 611A and the second region 611B. The shape of the partition region 612 is not particularly limited, and may be elongated (fig. 4), rectangular, substantially trapezoidal (fig. 6), or the like. The area of the partition region 612 is not particularly limited, and may be larger or smaller than the areas of the first region 611A and the second region 611B. The dividing region 612 may be further divided into a plurality of regions.

For example, as shown in fig. 4, the dividing region 612 may be divided along the short side direction thereof to have two dividing regions. That is, the partition region 612 may have a first partition region 612A for the first region 611A and a second partition region 612B for the second region 611B. In addition, as shown in fig. 6, the partition region 612 may be divided along its length direction to have two partition regions. That is, the divided region 612 may have a third divided region 612C for game images and a fourth divided region 612D for character images. By doing so, a plurality of images, different from each other, can be displayed in the divided region 612.

The frame 62 is provided on the speaker 5 or the housing 2. The frame 62 is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto. For example, the frame 62 may be formed in any shape such as a circular shape or an elliptical shape. The frame 62 has a joining portion 621 formed to be recessed inward at the center of the long side thereof. The frame is formed symmetrically by the joint 621. Therefore, the display unit 6 can be displayed as two display units, as in the case of the sub-display unit 6A for the first sub-game device 1A and the sub-display unit 6B for the second sub-game device 1B.

The frame 62 may include a first frame member 62A for the first sub game device 1A and a second frame member 62B for the second sub game device 1B. As shown in fig. 4 to 6, the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B are formed in a substantially "C" shape. One end and the other end of the first frame member 62A are in contact with one end and the other end of the second frame member 62B, respectively, to form a joint 621. With this configuration, the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B are arranged symmetrically with respect to the joint 621 as the center. Therefore, the display unit 6 can be displayed as two display units.

As shown in fig. 4, one end and the other end of the first frame member 62A are disposed opposite to each other. Therefore, an image (divided image) having the same appearance as the short side of the housing 62 can be displayed in the first divided region 612A from one end thereof toward the other end thereof. Thus, the first frame member 62A is connected to the partition image, and a ring-shaped frame member (first frame member 62A) can be formed. That is, the partition image appears to be formed integrally with the first frame member 62A. Therefore, the player can recognize that the display unit 6 includes the individual sub-display unit 6A.

On the other hand, one end and the other end of the second frame member 62B are disposed opposite to each other. Therefore, an image (divided image) having the same appearance as the short side of the housing 62 can be displayed in the second divided region 612B from one end thereof toward the other end thereof. Thus, the second frame member 62B is connected to the partition image, and a ring-shaped frame member (second frame member 62B) can be formed. That is, the partition image appears to be formed integrally with the second frame member 62B. Therefore, the player can recognize that the display unit 6 includes the individual sub-display unit 6B.

In this way, the first frame member 62A and the partition image constitute the frame 62 for the first sub game device 1A. Further, the second frame member 62B and the partition image constitute a frame 62 for the second sub game device 1B. This makes it possible to divide one housing 62 into two

housing members

62A and 62B, and to give the player the impression that there are two game apparatuses although the player is the game apparatus 1. The first frame member 62A (first region 611A) and the first sub-operation unit 3A, and the second frame member 62B (second region 611B) and the second sub-operation unit 3B are arranged symmetrically with respect to the partition image as the center axis. Therefore, the player can be given the impression that there are two game devices.

< storage section >

Next, the storage unit 7 will be described. The storage unit 7 stores game programs and game data. The game program is a program for causing the game device 1 to execute a game, and is realized by cooperation with hardware. The game data is data related to the game, and includes character data, music data, image data, sound effect data, and the like.

The role data is the name, the requisite skills, weapons, strengths and weaknesses of the role. The music data is music data played from the speaker 5. The music data includes a plurality of pieces of music data such as music of singers and music of games. The image data is game image data. The game image data includes data such as a character image, a background image, and various effect images. The sound effect data is sound data played in playing a game, and is different from the music data. The sound effect data includes, for example, evaluation sound data played in accordance with the operation result of the player.

As shown in fig. 7, the storage unit 7 stores predetermined events. The prescribed event includes a head character departure event, a bonus event, an intrusion fighting event, a favorite character, etc. as shown in fig. 7. Such a predetermined event is stored in association with a display area in which a game image is to be displayed and a partition image that partitions the display area. For example, the present event a of the head character is associated so that the display area is only the full screen area 61 and no separate image exists. At this time, as shown in fig. 5, an image is displayed in the full screen area 61. The display area is the single area 611 and the divided area 612, and the divided image is the image of the head character B and the character image of "strength 20%" corresponding to the head character appearance event B. At this time, as shown in fig. 6, the divided image is displayed in the divided region 612.

Further, for example, when one player plays the game with the first sub game device 1A in the full screen area 61, and when another player plays the game with the second sub game device 1B, an event is started. That is, the second sub-operation unit 3B of the second sub-game device 1B receives an operation input of another player to break into the battle, and thereby initiates an event of breaking into the battle B. At this time, the intrusion combat B is dealt with in such a manner that the display area is the individual area 611 and the divided area 612, and the divided image is the bar image. At this time, as shown in fig. 4, the divided image is displayed in the divided region 612.

Further, in a state where the recording media 11 of the same favorite character are distributed by the first sub game device 1A and the second sub game device 1B, in a case where a game is played with the first sub game device 1A and the second sub game device 1B, an event is started. That is, during the play of the game with the first sub game device 1A, the play of the game with the second sub game device 1B is executed, thereby launching the event of the intended character. At this time, for example, as shown in fig. 5, an image is displayed in the full screen area 61.

< control section >

Next, the control unit 8 will be explained. The control unit 8 controls all functions related to the execution of the game. As shown in fig. 3, such a control section 8 has an obtaining unit 81, a game processing unit 82, a display control unit 83, a switching unit 84, a partitioning unit 85, and a sound output control unit 86.

(obtaining Unit)

The obtaining unit 81 has a function of obtaining information of operation input by the player, character information of the recording medium 11, game information, and the like. The obtaining unit 81 obtains information of the operation input by the press of the button 31 by the player. This enables to receive information of the operation input from the first sub-operation section 3A and the second sub-operation section 3B at the same time. The information input by such an operation includes, for example, information related to game interruption, information related to character selection, and the like. The obtaining unit 81 obtains character information and the like read by the reading unit 4. In addition, various kinds of information obtained via the communication unit 9 described later are obtained.

(Game processing unit)

The game processing unit 82 has a function of processing the progress of the game with respect to the information obtained by the obtaining unit 81. For example, the game processing means 82 determines information on the game image stored in the storage unit 7, and supplies the information to the display control means 83. The game processing unit 82 determines sound information and supplies it to the sound output control unit 86. In addition, the game processing unit 82 determines and issues a predetermined event. In this way, the game processing unit 82 processes the progress of the entire game.

Here, the game processing unit 82 may determine the predetermined event at random, periodically, by receiving an operation input from the player, or according to the number of the desired recording media 11 (a plurality of sheets). As shown in fig. 7, the game processing unit 82 specifies a specified partition image corresponding to a predetermined event, but may determine to display a predetermined image in addition to the specified partition image.

(display control Unit)

The display control unit 83 has a function of controlling display of all images related to the game. That is, the display control unit 83 controls the display of the game image information supplied from the game processing unit 82, and the display of the partition image by the partition unit 85. For example, as shown in fig. 4, the display control unit 83 controls the display of the game image independently for both the first region 611A and the second region 611B of the display portion 6. In addition, as shown in fig. 5, the display control unit 83 controls display of the game image in the full screen area 61. The display control unit 83 controls display of a linear partition image (fig. 4), a game image, a character image, and other partition images (fig. 6) in the partition area 612. In this way, the display control means 83 can control the display unit 6 to display a predetermined image in each region.

(switching unit)

The switching means 84 has a function of switching the full-screen area 61 and the single area 611 to each other when a predetermined event is initiated by the game processing means 82 or when predetermined input information is received by the operation unit 3. Specifically, when the game play is executed, the switching means 84 switches the display area of the display unit 6 from the individual area 611 to the full-screen area 61 or from the full-screen area 61 to the individual area 611 in response to the start of the predetermined event or the reception of the input information. That is, when there is a predetermined event, the switching unit 84 refers to the event table of fig. 7 and controls to switch the display area to the display area corresponding to the event.

In general, the game device 1 is set such that each sub-game device executes a game independently. Accordingly, a divided image is displayed in the divided region 612 between the first region 611A and the second region 611B. Therefore, when a predetermined event is initiated, the switching unit 84 can simultaneously perform the operation of switching the display region from the first region 611A to the full-screen region 61 and the operation of switching the display region from the second region 611B to the full-screen region 61. On the other hand, when it is set that the respective sub-game devices execute the game in cooperation with each other, the game image is displayed in the full-screen area 61. Therefore, in the case of a predetermined event, the switching unit 84 can switch the display area from the full-screen area 61 to the individual area 611 (the first area 611A and the second area 611B).

(partition unit)

The partition unit 85 has a function of partitioning the first region 611A and the second region 611B, and is constituted by a partition image. Specifically, when the switching unit 84 switches the display area, the dividing unit 85 specifies the divided area 612 and the divided image corresponding to the event, with reference to the information table of fig. 7. The dividing unit 85 supplies the information of the specific designated divided region 612 and the divided image to the display control unit 83.

The partition image is not particularly limited as long as it can partition the first region 611A and the second region 611B. Therefore, the partition image may be an elongated image (bar image), a circular image, a curved image, a game image, a predetermined character image, or the like. For example, as shown in fig. 7, in the case of launching an event of intruding into the battle B, the partitioning unit 85 specifies a bar image and a display area of the partition image in particular. The partitioning unit 85 supplies the information to the display control unit 83. In this case, as shown in fig. 4, bar images are displayed in the first and second divided

areas

612A and 612B, respectively. At this time, the bar image is constituted by an image having the same appearance as that of the opposing frame member. Thus, the first frame member 62A is visually recognized as being formed in a frame shape by the first frame member 62A and the bar image. In addition, the second frame member 62B is visually recognized as being formed in a frame shape by the second frame member 62B and the bar image. Therefore, the player can visually recognize the two game devices.

As shown in fig. 7, when an event of the headword character entering a or the neutral character is started, the partition unit 85 determines that there is no partition image to be displayed. Therefore, the partitioning unit 85 supplies information of eliminating the displayed partitioning image to the display control unit 83. In this case, as shown in fig. 5, the division image is eliminated, and the game image is displayed in the full screen area 61. Thereby, two players can enjoy the game on one display unit 6 at the same time.

As shown in fig. 7, when an event of the heading character entering the field B is initiated, the partition unit 85 specifies "heading character B" and "strength 20%" of the partition image and the display area. The partitioning unit 85 supplies the information to the display control unit 83. In this case, as shown in fig. 6, the head character B is displayed in the third divided area 612C, and the character image of "power 20%" is displayed in the fourth divided area 612D. This makes it possible to notify the player of the strength of the head character B. The layout of the third partition region 612C and the fourth partition region 612D is not particularly limited, and the fourth partition region 612D may be located above the third partition region 612C.

(Sound output control Unit)

The sound output control unit 86 controls the output of all sounds and music related to the game. Specifically, the audio output control section 86 controls the output of the music and audio determined by the game processing section 82. The speaker 5 can output the sound or music by supplying the sound or music information to the speaker 5 through the sound output unit 86.

In addition to the above configuration, the control unit 8 of the present invention may include an appearance changing means having a function of changing the appearance of the partition image. The appearance changing unit can change the appearance of the division image by receiving an operation input or randomly. For example, when the housing 62 of the display unit 6 of the game device 1 shown in fig. 1 is changed to another housing having a different appearance (design) from the housing, the appearance changing means can change the appearance of the partition image so as to match the appearance of the other housing members. The appearance changing means may change the color and design of the partition image specified by the partition means 85, and decorate the partition image with a prestored image. Thus, the partition image can be changed to match the appearance of the frame member regardless of the appearance.

Specifically, the appearance changing means (not shown) receives an operation input from the user, and changes and adjusts the parameters (hue, chroma, and lightness) of the colors of the divided images in the divided region 612. The appearance changing means can change or adjust the parameter of the color of the divided image in the first divided region 612A or the second divided region 612B for each sub game device. In this case, the appearance changing means can change and adjust the parameters of the colors of the divided images for each of the upper region, the middle region, and the lower region of the first divided region 612A.

For example, as shown in fig. 14, the parameters of the color of the divided image in the upper region of the first divided region 612A are shown in the display unit 6 of the first sub game device 1A. Next to each parameter name, a bar indicating the degree of the parameter and the current scale value are displayed. For example, a higher value of the scale of the parameter "chroma" indicates a higher vividness of the color. The "hue" and "lightness" are also the same. The appearance changing means can collectively change and adjust the parameters of the colors of the divided images in the upper region, the middle region, and the lower region.

The control unit 8 may include a mode changing means for changing the game mode. The modes include a stand-alone game mode, a battle game mode, a cooperation game mode, a rendezvous game mode, and the like. The mode changing means can change the game mode by receiving an operation input or randomly. The mode changing means can perform the mode change as needed. When there is a mode change, the control unit 8 executes the above-described processing in accordance with the mode change.

< communication section >

The communication unit 9 has a function of communicating with an external network (LAN, WAN, internet, etc.) or device via wire or wireless. The game device 1 of the present invention may perform data communication with other devices such as other game devices and information terminals via the communication unit 9. For example, the communication unit 9 can communicate with another device to obtain music data or a game program. This makes it possible to update the game program and provide the latest game. The game device 1 may not have the communication unit 9.

Although the image display device of the present invention has been described as the game device 1, the game device 1 of the present embodiment includes a coin insertion opening, a coin return opening, a dispensing opening for the recording medium 11, and the like on the front surface of the housing 2 in addition to the above-described parts.

B. Method for controlling operation of image display device

Next, an operation control method of the image display device of the present invention will be described. Hereinafter, for the sake of easy understanding, a case where the image display device is a game device will be described as an example. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of a game process in the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

First, when the player inserts coins, the display control unit 83 controls the display of the game image. Thereby, the display unit 6 displays the game image (S1). In the execution of the game by the player, the control unit 8 determines whether or not a predetermined event is fired by the game processing unit 82 (S2). In the case where the prescribed event is not fired, the process proceeds to step S1, and steps S1 and S2 are repeated. On the other hand, when a predetermined event is initiated, the process proceeds to step S3.

In step S3, the control unit 8 determines whether or not a game image is displayed in the individual area 611 (S3). When determining that the game image is displayed in the separate area 611, the control unit 8 determines that the game image is displayed in the first area 611A and the second area 611B, and that the divided image is displayed in the divided area 612. At this time, the switching unit 84 switches the display area of the display unit 6 from the individual area 611 to the full-screen area 61 (S4). After that, the separate image is eliminated from the separate region 612 (S5). Thereby, the display unit 6 displays the game image in the full screen area 61 (S6), and the process ends.

On the other hand, in step S3, when determining that the game image is not displayed in the separate area 611, the control unit 8 determines that the game image is displayed in the full screen area 61. At this time, the process advances to step S7. Next, the control unit 8 determines whether or not to switch the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611 (S7). When the control unit 8 determines that the full screen area 61 is not switched to the single area 611, the process proceeds to step S6, and the game image continues to be displayed in the full screen area 61 (S6). This completes the process.

On the other hand, when the control section 8 determines to switch the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611, the switching unit 84 switches the display area from the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611 (S8). Then, the partition unit 85 specifies the partition image and displays the partition image (S9). Then, the process advances to step S1. Thus, steps S1 to S9 are repeated.

The processing method described above can be created by a program executed by a computer. Such programs are implemented by a CPU (central processing unit), a microprocessor, a GPU (graphics processing unit), a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), and the like.

< second embodiment >

Next, a second embodiment of the image display device of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Fig. 9 is a plan view schematically showing an image display device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Although the second embodiment will be described below, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and descriptions of the same matters will be omitted. Note that the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The image display device 100 of the present embodiment is different from the game device 1 of the image display device of the first embodiment described above in that the operation unit 3 is formed of a touch panel and does not include the reading unit 4. Specifically, as shown in fig. 9, the image display device 100 of the present embodiment is configured by a smartphone. The image display apparatus 100 includes: a display unit 6 having a first region 611A and a second region 611B, and an operation unit 3 having a first sub-operation unit 3A corresponding to the first region 611A and a second sub-operation unit 3B corresponding to the second region 611B. The processing of the image displayed in the first region 611A based on the first sub-operation part 3A and the processing of the image displayed in the second region 611B based on the second sub-operation part 3B can be simultaneously performed.

The image display apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is capable of operating the image of the first region 611A with the first sub-operation unit 3A and the image of the second region 611B with the second sub-operation unit 3B while displaying the images in the first region 611A and the second region 611B. Then, when a predetermined event is initiated, the switching unit 84 switches the display area to the full-screen area 61 in which the first area 611A and the second area 611B are combined. At the same time, the separation unit 85 eliminates the separation image. As described above, the image display device 100 of the present embodiment has the same effects as those of the image display device 1 of the first embodiment.

Since the image display apparatus 100 of the present embodiment does not include the reading device 4, the apparatus itself can be downsized. In addition, since the operation unit 3 of the image display device 100 of the present embodiment overlaps the display unit 6, the device itself can be further downsized. Therefore, the cost required for the apparatus can be reduced.

< third embodiment >

Next, a third embodiment of the image display device of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view schematically showing an image display device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The third embodiment will be described below, but differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and descriptions of the same matters will be omitted. Note that the same components as those of the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The image display device 200 of the present embodiment is different from the game device 1 of the first embodiment in that the partition unit 85 is not a partition image. Specifically, as shown in fig. 10, in the image display device 200 of the present embodiment, the partition unit 85 is separated from the control unit 8 and is constituted by a physical unit. That is, the partition member 85 includes a partition member 851, a spindle portion provided at the tip end of the partition member 851, and a winding mechanism, not shown, provided at the base end of the partition member 851.

When a game image is displayed in the full screen area 61, the partition member 851 is usually housed in a not-shown housing portion provided in the upper joining portion 621 of the housing 62. The partition member 851 has substantially the same length as the short side member of the housing 62. The partition member 851 has the same appearance as the short side member of the housing 62. The spindle portion may be a magnet, for example, and the partition member 851 is coupled to the lower joining portion 621 of the housing 62. The winding mechanism is housed in the housing section and has a function of winding the partition member 851.

When the event is started in a state where the partition member 851 is accommodated in the accommodation portion, the spindle portion is dropped in accordance with an instruction of the game processing unit 82 (fig. 10). By the falling of the spindle portion, the partition member 851 is elongated. Finally, the spindle portion reaches and joins the lower joining portion 621 of the frame body 62. In this way, the partition member 851 can partition the first region 611A and the second region 611B.

On the other hand, when the kick-up mechanism by the event is operated, the partition member 851 is wound up, and the spindle portion is accommodated in the accommodation portion of the upper engagement portion 621. This enables the game image to be displayed in the full screen area 61.

The image display device 200 of the present embodiment separates the first region 611A and the second region 611B by a physical mechanism. Therefore, the appearance of the partition member 851 becomes similar to the appearance of the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B. Therefore, the partition member 851 can be given an impression that it is a part of the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B. The image display device 200 of the present embodiment has the same effects as those of the image display device 1 of the first embodiment.

The image display device and the operation control method according to the present invention have been described above based on preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The structure of each part can be replaced with any structure having the same function. In addition, other arbitrary units or constituents may be added to the present invention. In the present invention, two or more arbitrary structures (features) in the above embodiments may be combined.

Fig. 11 is a front view, a plan view, and a bottom view schematically showing the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and fig. 12 is a rear view and a left side view schematically showing the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The game machine is constituted by 1 game machine, but can give an impression of being constituted by two separate independent game machines.

Industrial applicability

The invention provides an image display device, which comprises a display part for displaying a specified image and an operation part for receiving operation input from a user. The display portion includes a first region and a second region. The operation portion includes a first operation portion provided corresponding to the first region and a second operation portion provided corresponding to the second region. The image display device also has a separation unit that is provided between the first region and the second region, and separates the first region from the second region. Thus, the same function as that of the plurality of image display devices can be provided by one image display device. Therefore, the present invention has industrial applicability.

Claims

1. An image display device having a display unit for displaying a predetermined image and an operation unit for receiving an operation input from a user,

the display portion includes a first region and a second region,

the operation portion includes a first operation portion provided corresponding to the first region and a second operation portion provided corresponding to the second region, and

2. The image display device according to claim 1, wherein the first region and the first operation portion, and the second region and the second operation portion are configured to be bilaterally symmetrical about the partition unit as a central axis.

3. The image display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the partitioning unit is configured to be removed from between the first region and the second region when a predetermined event exists.

4. The image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the separation unit is a separation image that separates the first region and the second region.

5. The image display device according to claim 4, wherein the division image contains the prescribed image.

6. The image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the display unit has a full screen area including the first area and the second area, and displays the predetermined image in the full screen area.

7. The image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the display portion has a rectangular frame body that surrounds the first region and the second region, and

the partition unit is configured to appear to be integral with the frame.

8. The image display device according to claim 7, wherein the frame body has a joining portion formed so as to be recessed inward.

9. The image display device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the frame body has a first frame member provided corresponding to the first operation portion and a second frame member provided corresponding to the second operation portion,

10. The image display device according to claim 9, wherein the partition unit is formed to connect the one end and the other end of the first frame member, and is formed to connect the one end and the other end of the second frame member.

11. The image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first operation portion and the second operation portion are configured to be capable of simultaneously receiving the operation input from the player.

12. The image display device according to claim 6, further comprising a switching unit that switches an area in which the predetermined image is displayed between the first area and the full-screen area.

13. The image display apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the switching unit switches the region in which the prescribed image is displayed between the second region and the full-screen region, and

14. The image display apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the switching unit simultaneously performs switching of the area from the first area to the full-screen area and switching of the area from the second area to the full-screen area.

15. A game device including a first sub-image display device having a first display unit for displaying a predetermined image and a first operation unit for receiving an operation input from a user, and a second sub-game device having a second display unit for displaying the predetermined game image and a second operation unit for receiving the operation input from the player,

the game device further includes a partition unit that is provided between the first display unit and the second display unit and partitions the first display unit and the second display unit.

16. A method for controlling the operation of a game device, comprising the steps of:

displaying the prescribed image in the full-screen region.