JP2001327765A - Electronic toy and method for controlling same and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To change movement, facial expression, cry, etc., in accordance with how a user treat an electronic toy. SOLUTION: The electronic toy 10 has a head part 12, a trunk part 14 and leg parts 16-19. At the front face of the head part 12, a displaying part 20 for displaying the expression of the eyes is provided and on the top face of the head part 12, a speaker 26 and a detecting switch 59 for detecting that the speaker 26 is pressed are provided. In the nose part 22, a sound sensor 24 and a light sensor 25 are stored. On both sides of the head part 12, ear parts 28 are rotatably provided and on the underside of the nose part 22, a jaw part 30 is openably and closably provided. In addition, on the back part of the trunk part 14, a tail 32 is rockably provided. The control part stored in the nose part 22 controls posture of the control, the cries, melodies, the expression of the eyes from a communication biorhythm and a pet biorhythm prepared in accordance with how the user comes in contact with the electronic toy (the sound sensor 24, the light sensor 25, a detecting signal from a detecting switch 59).

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an electronic toy for controlling an arbitrary operation in response to an external sound or contact, a control method thereof, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, stuffed animals such as dogs, cats, and bears have been widely used as animal toys. In addition, a motor and a speaker are built in the body of a synthetic resin made of a stuffed animal or an animal, and perform predetermined operations such as moving a foot or a mouth by, for example, touching and pressing the head. There are also animal toys that are configured to produce a predetermined call.

[0003] In this kind of animal toy, since the same operation is repeated and the same cry is repeatedly produced, the user often gets bored immediately.

[0004] Conversely, if an operation is selected at random, the expected operation does not occur for the user, and the user may soon get bored.

An electronic toy equipped with a microcomputer for controlling such a conventional animal toy to perform various operations so as to keep the user from getting tired is being developed.

[0006] As electronic toys, for example, stroking the head,
Some are configured to perform a certain operation (for example, an operation of uttering a pre-stored word from a speaker, shaking the body, or the like) in response to a command from a microcomputer when the user lifts or calls up. Also, with this type of electronic toy, the number of times you stroke your head,
The number of times of calling is counted, and for example, as the count value increases, control is performed so that words to be uttered from the speaker are gradually changed to a pretty expression.

[0007]

In the conventional electronic toy described above, as the number of times of stroking the head, the number of times of holding it up, the number of times of speaking, etc. increase, the words spoken gradually change into cute expressions. Therefore, the operation pattern can be predicted.

[0008] Therefore, in the conventional electronic toy, the user becomes tired in a relatively short period of time because it becomes clear as to what words will be uttered next as the contact time becomes longer. .

Accordingly, the present invention provides an electronic toy and a control method therefor which solve the above-mentioned problem by changing an operation pattern in accordance with a result obtained by combining a parameter which changes depending on the number of times of input of external voices and contacts or the like and time. And a storage medium.

[0010]

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following features.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the detection signal is output from the detection means, the detection signal is stored in the storage means based on the count value of the counter means and the value of the first parameter set by the parameter change means. Information of an arbitrary operation pattern is selected from the plurality of operation patterns. For example, when there is an external input such as voice or contact, different operations can be performed depending on the input timing. Further, since it is difficult to predict an operation pattern, it is possible to control the input device to perform an unexpected action on the input, so that the user will not get tired of playing for a long time.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the mood mode and the mood mode are alternately repeated at a predetermined cycle based on a control parameter that changes with the passage of time. Alternatively, the mode can be switched to the grumpy mode, and an unexpected operation can be performed to increase the fun.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the period of the mood mode and / or the mood mode is changed according to the number of detections. Since the cycle of the displeased mode becomes long, it is difficult to predict the operation pattern at that time, and it is possible to increase the fun by performing an unexpected operation.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a special operation pattern is selected when the value indicating the change of the first parameter and the count value of the counter means coincide with each other. By the reaction, it is possible to enjoy more than when a normal operation is performed.

Further, the invention according to claim 5 is for detecting an external sound, an external contact, or a change in ambient light intensity, and recognizes that the user is loved. Accordingly, the operation and effect can be achieved, and the same operation and effect as those of the first aspect can be obtained.

Further, according to the present invention, the number of times of voice detection counted by the first to third counter means,
The operation pattern selected according to the number of times of contact detection and the number of light changes changes, and the same operation is not repeated together with the timing when there is an input, so that the fun of the reaction to the input can be produced.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the selection means selects the information on the special operation pattern when the value indicating the parameter change matches the count value of the first to third counter means. Therefore, it is possible to enjoy more than selecting a special operation pattern different according to each count value and performing an unexpected operation.

According to the present invention, the posture operation pattern stored in the first storage section based on the count value of the counter means and the value of the first parameter set by the parameter changing means, In this case, an arbitrary operation is selected from the voice pattern data stored in the storage unit and the expression pattern data stored in the third storage unit, and the operation and effect of the first aspect can be achieved.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an attitude motion pattern based on a count value of a counter means and a value of a first parameter set by a parameter changing means.
A combination of a voice pattern and an expression pattern is selected, and the operation and effect of the first aspect can be achieved.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the expression pattern is operated so as to include at least an operation pattern for changing the size or shape of the eyes, and is set by the count value of the counter means and the parameter changing means. The size or shape of the eyes is changed based on the value of the first parameter to be performed, and an expression corresponding to the personality change at that time can be produced.

According to the present invention, a first step of counting the number of detection signals, a second step of changing the value of the first parameter, a third step of selecting an operation pattern, This is a control method for performing a fourth step of performing control in accordance with the set operation pattern, and can achieve the functions and effects of the first aspect.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the first to fourth control programs stored in a storage medium are executed, and the same operations and effects as those of the first aspect can be obtained.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, an arbitrary operation pattern is selected from a plurality of operation patterns stored in the storage means in accordance with the timing at which the detection signal is output from the first to third detection means. The drive motor and the display pattern of the display unit are controlled in accordance with the selected operation pattern, and the same operation and effect as those of the first aspect can be obtained.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, an individual difference is set according to a count value of the number of times of detection detected by the detecting means while the initial setting mode is set by the initial setting means. For example, an individual difference such as gender can be preset as an initial value depending on the number of times the user makes contact while the battery is first installed and the initial setting mode is set, and corresponds to the user's contact after the initial setting period. Individual differences appear in facial expressions, voices, and movements, and it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, an individual difference according to a user's contact method is initially set in order to set an individual difference according to a detection unit having the largest number of detections among a plurality of detection units. This value is set in advance as a value, and individual differences appear in facial expressions, voices, and movements corresponding to the user's contact after the initial setting period, and it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal become.

According to the present invention, the individual difference is set depending on whether the count value of the number of inputs detected while the initial setting mode is set is an even number or an odd number. Individual differences appear in facial expressions, voices, and movements corresponding to the user's contact, and it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the gender is set according to the count value of the number of times of input detected while the initial setting mode is set, and the eye expression corresponding to the set gender is set. , Voice, and at least one of the movements are changed, and the gender according to the user's contact method and the contact method can be preset as an initial value, and individual differences appear in the facial expression, voice, and movement of the eyes, It is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal.

The invention according to claim 18 is a sound registration means for registering a sound inputted from the outside when the battery is installed, and a control means for performing an operation control in accordance with an instruction by the sound registered by the sound registration means. , And can be operated so as to preferentially follow registered voice instructions.

The invention according to claim 19 is characterized in that when the battery is installed, the character standard mode or the character standard mode is operated according to the operation of the selection switch for selecting the character standard mode or the character training mode for developing the character. One of the breeding modes is set and operated in the set personality standard mode or the personality cultivation mode. After the battery is installed according to the user's request, the personality breeding mode is omitted and the operation is performed in the personality standard mode. Alternatively, in the personality development mode, a personality according to the user's development method can be developed.

In the invention according to claim 20, when the character standard mode is set by the initial setting means, the operation is controlled based on control data of the standard mode set in advance, and the character cultivation mode is omitted. Then, the operation can be controlled based on the control data of the general character.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, when the personality development mode is set, the control data is updated to emotion data of a control level corresponding to the number of inputs from outside within a predetermined time, and the update is performed. It controls motion based on the emotion data obtained, and the character changes depending on how much the user has contacted within a predetermined time, and it is possible to control the motion based on the emotion data according to how the user responds Become.

In the invention according to claim 22, when the character cultivation mode is set, the control data is not updated every predetermined time, the immature period, and the emotion data of the control level corresponding to the number of inputs from the outside. The breeding time to be updated, the cultivation completion time to be operated and controlled according to the emotion data of the control level updated at the cultivation time, and the immature time, the cultivation time,
After the completion of the training, it can be updated to the emotion data according to the number of times of contact and the contact method of the user.

Further, the invention according to claim 23 updates the emotion data in accordance with the number of times of input of voice, bait, contact and the like input during the breeding period, and controls the operation in accordance with the updated emotion data. Yes, it can be updated to emotion data according to the number of times of contact and the contact method of the user.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the emotion data is updated during the training period in accordance with the instruction given by the voice registered by the voice registration means, and the voice data is preferentially reacted to the voice of the registered user. Then, the emotion data can be updated.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the second condition indicating the fullness in accordance with the number of times of input of the bait input during the raising period.
Is updated, and the operation is controlled according to the updated second parameter. Since the operation can be performed according to the number of times of input of the bait input during the breeding period, the actual pet can be bred. It can be raised with the same feeling as that of, and you can enjoy the growing period.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the first parameter is changed according to the second parameter updated at the raising time, and the first parameter is changed at the raising time according to the number of times the user inputs the bait. Since the period of the mood mode becomes longer or the period of the mood mode becomes longer by changing the first parameter, it is difficult to predict the operation pattern at that time, and it is interesting to perform an unexpected operation. Can be increased.

Further, according to the invention of claim 27, the emotion data of the control level updated at the breeding time is stored in the memory, and based on the emotion data set at the breeding time after the cultivation time is over. The emotion data stored in the memory is saved even when the battery is replaced, so that there is no need to repeat the training period.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a first control flag for performing an action faithful to the instruction content at least for an instruction input according to the emotion data, or an instruction for the input instruction. 2nd action that differs from the content
Is set, and operation control is performed in accordance with the set flag. The operation can be performed based on the flag set in accordance with the emotion data updated during the breeding period. Yes, the character corresponding to the set flag can be selected.

[0039]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a front view of an electronic toy according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a rear view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the electronic toy shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the electronic toy shown in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the electronic toy 10 is a dog-shaped toy having a head 12, a trunk 14, and legs 16 to 19. In addition, the electronic toy 1 of the present embodiment
Reference numeral 0 denotes a configuration having four legs 16 to 19 on both side surfaces of the trunk 14, but does not walk. That is, the electronic toy 10 rotates the legs 16 to 19 by a predetermined angle according to the emotional change at that time, as described later, and
It is configured to change the posture by the rotation operation of No. 9.

The four legs 16 to 19 are circular shaft portions 16 a rotatably supported on both side surfaces of the body portion 14, respectively.
19a, shins 16b to 19b extending in the radial direction from the shafts 16a to 19a, and fingers 16c to 19c provided at the tips of the shins 16b to 19b.

The legs 16 to 19 are provided with shafts 16a to 19
a, the shin portions 16b to 19b, and the finger portions 16c to 19c are integrally formed, and the legs 16 to 19 are not provided with an indirect portion like an actual dog. Further, hemispherical caps 16d to 19d are attached to side surfaces of the shaft portions 16a to 19a, and the caps 16d to 19d are colored in an arbitrary color.

On the front surface of the head 12, there is provided a display section 20 for displaying facial expressions. The display unit 20 normally displays an elliptical eye by turning on a light emitting diode (LED). However, as described later, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are selectively turned on, and the emotion at that time is displayed. The display pattern of the eyes can be changed so that it can be expressed.

A sound sensor 24 (sound detecting means) comprising a microphone for detecting the surrounding sound is built in the tip of the nose 22 projecting forward from the front of the head 12. An optical sensor 25 for detecting the ambient light intensity is housed in the upper corner portion. Optical sensor 25 of the present embodiment
Consists of, for example, a CdS cell (cadmium sulfide cell), and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the received light intensity.

Further, on the upper surface of the head 12, there is provided a speaker 26 for producing a cry or playing a melody. The speaker 26 is mounted so as to be slidable in the vertical direction as described later.
When the is pressed, it is provided so that it can be detected that it is moved downward and stroked.

On both sides of the head 12, ears 28 made of a translucent material colored in an arbitrary color different from the head 12 are provided. The ear portion 28 has a head 12 near the upper end.
Is rotatably connected to the side surface of the camera, and rotates upward or downward according to a change in emotion at that time, as described later.

The jaw 3 provided below the nose 22
0 is provided rotatably at an open position or a closed position,
As described later, it operates in a state where the mouth 31 is opened or a state where the mouth 31 is closed according to the emotional change at that time.

Further, a tail 32 is provided at the rear part of the trunk 14 so as to be swingable, and the tail 32 moves upward or downward according to a change in emotion at that time.

Next, an operation pattern of the electronic toy 10 configured as described above will be described.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the electronic toy 10 showing the directions and angles of rotation of the legs 16 to 19.

As shown in FIG. 7, of the legs 16 to 19, the legs 16, 17 serving as the front legs can be moved to the operating position A, which is rotated 60 degrees forward (direction a) from the stationary position B. ,
It is provided at an operating position C which is turned 30 degrees backward from the rest position B. Also, the legs 18, 19 serving as the rear legs
Is possible at an operating position A rotated 90 degrees forward (direction a) from the stationary position B, and is provided at an operating position C rotated 45 degrees backward from the stationary position B.

FIG. 8 is a side view showing an operation state when the electronic toy 10 is in the sleeping posture A. As shown in FIG. 8, when the electronic toy 10 is in the sleeping position A, each leg 1
6 to 19 are rotated to the operating position A. Therefore, in the electronic toy 10, the legs 16 to 19 extend forward along both sides of the body 14, and the bottom of the body 14 is
The posture A approaches 4.

Therefore, when the electronic toy 10 is, for example, sleepy or sick, the posture A
By taking, the emotion at that time can be expressed in the whole body.

FIG. 9 is a side view showing an operation state when the electronic toy 10 is in the standing position B.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the electronic toy 10 is in the standing position B, the legs 16 to 19 are rotated to the operating position B. Therefore, the electronic toy 10 is rotated to a position (stationary position B) in which the legs 16 to 19 extend downward from both side surfaces of the body 14, and the bottom of the body 14 is a floor surface. From the position B. Further, in the posture B, the bottom surface (the back of the leg) of each of the legs 16 to 19 is the floor surface 34.
Abut in close contact with

Therefore, the electronic toy 10 normally maintains the standing posture B as described above when, for example, doing nothing.

FIG. 10 is a side view showing an operation state when the electronic toy 10 is in the forward turning posture C.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the electronic toy 10 is in the forward turning posture C, the legs 16 to 19 are rotated in the direction b with respect to the posture B and are in the operating position C. Therefore, in the electronic toy 10, the legs 16 to 19 have the finger portions 16c to 19c.
The tip of the toe, and each leg 16-1
The heel 9 is in a posture C floating from the floor surface 34. In the case of the posture C, the jaw 30 rotates downward (in the direction c) and the mouth 3
1 and the tail 32 is moved upward (d
Direction). Further, although not shown in FIG. 1, the ears 28 are pivoted upward (direction e) as shown in FIG.

When the electronic toy 10 is, for example, happy or happy, it can express the emotion at that time by taking the posture C as described above.

In the electronic toy 10 of this embodiment, the above-described FIGS.
The operation patterns of the three types of postures A to C shown in FIG. 10 are basic operations.

Here, the internal structure of the electronic toy 10 will be described.

FIG. 11 is a front vertical sectional view showing the internal structure of the electronic toy 10. FIG. 12 is a side longitudinal sectional view showing the internal structure of the electronic toy 10. FIG. 13 is a plan vertical sectional view showing the internal structure of the electronic toy 10.

As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the electronic toy 10 has a motor 36 and a motor 36 inside the head 12.
The rotation driving force of the legs 16 to 19, the ears 28, the jaws 30,
A transmission mechanism (transmission means) 38 for transmitting to the tail 32 is provided. Legs 16 to 19, ears 28, jaw 3
0 and the tail 32 are each driven by one motor 36, and the rotational driving force of the motor 36 is selectively transmitted by the transmission mechanism 38 according to each of the postures A, B, and C.

The motor 36 and the transmission mechanism 38
And, it is supported by a bracket 41 provided inside the body 14. Therefore, the motor 36 and the transmission mechanism 38
The electronic toy 10 has a compact configuration, and is configured to cope with miniaturization of the electronic toy 10.

The transmission mechanism 38 includes a driving gear 40 attached to a driving shaft 36 a of the motor 36 and a driving gear 4.
0, the first transmission gear 42 meshed with the first transmission gear 4
A second transmission gear 44 meshing with the second transmission gear 4;
A third transmission gear 46 meshing with the third transmission gear 4;
And a fourth transmission gear 47 meshing with the fourth transmission gear 4.
A first cam gear 48 coaxially arranged with the first cam gear 7, a first shaft 50 supporting the first cam gear 48, a fifth transmission gear 52 supported on the first shaft 50, And a second cam gear 54 meshing with the transmission gear 52.

The transmission gears 42, 44, 46 are respectively composed of large-diameter gears 42a, 44a, 46a and small-diameter gears 42b, 42b.
44b and 46b are integrally formed, and the rotation from the motor 36 is reduced at a predetermined reduction ratio. Also, shafts 42c, 44c, 46 to which the respective transmission gears 42, 44, 46 are fitted.
c is supported by the bracket 41.

The first cam gear 48 is connected to the leg 1 serving as a front foot.
6 and 17 are driving means for driving the motor 36
Leg 1 according to the rotation direction and the amount of rotation of the drive shaft 36a
6, 17 are formed so as to be turned to the above-mentioned turning positions A, B, C. Further, the third and fourth cam gears 54, 5
Reference numeral 5 denotes driving means for driving the legs 18 and 19 serving as hind legs.
C is formed so as to be rotated.

The second cam gear 54 is connected to a transmission path 56 for driving the tail 32 and the ear 28 and the jaw 30 while driving the tail 32. This transmission path 56
For example, as shown by an alternate long and short dash line, it is composed of a wire, a pulley, and the like.
In the process of rotating 9 from the operating position B to the operating position C, the ear 28, the jaw 30, and the tail 32 are rotated in the e, c, and d directions.

A battery housing section 60 for housing a battery 58 as a power supply is provided inside the head 12.
Further, a substrate 64 on which the control unit 62 is mounted is housed inside the nose 22. The speaker 26 is provided so as to be slidable in the vertical direction, and a push-type detection switch (contact detection means) 59 for detecting that the speaker 26 has been pressed downward and moved downward is provided below the speaker 26. Have been.

The detection switch 59 is used when the user
By stroking or knocking, it is detected that the speaker 26 has moved down, and it can be detected without being conscious of the contact of the user.

The motor 36 and the battery 58, which are relatively heavy among the above components, are arranged near the center of gravity of the electronic toy 10, that is, substantially at the center of the head 12. Therefore, the balance of the electronic toy 10 is stable even when operating in each posture.

Next, the structure of the display section 20 for displaying the expression of the eyes will be described.

The display unit 20 has a black colored smoke plate 68 mounted on the front surface thereof, and four red acrylic plates 71 to 74 of edge emission type are mounted inside the smoke plate 68. Weighted. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) 75 to 79 are provided above and below the red acrylic plates 71 to 74, respectively.
Is arranged. Note that the display unit 20 is not limited to the edge emission type display device, but may use another type of display device (for example, a liquid crystal display with a backlight).

FIGS. 14A to 14D are front views showing the red acrylic plates 71 to 74 incorporated in the display unit 20 individually.

As shown in FIG. 14A, the red acrylic plate 71 has light emitting portions 71a and 71b formed in a shape in which the lower part of the elliptical shape is deleted. This light emitting section 71
Small holes a and 71b are provided at regular intervals, and light emitting diodes 7 are provided at incident portions 71c and 71d provided at the end faces.
When light from 5,76 is incident, red light is emitted from the inner wall of each small hole. Therefore, when the light-emitting portions 71a and 71b emit light, the upper left and right circles appear to shine in an inverted U-shape.

Further, a shielding portion 71e for blocking light is provided between the light emitting portions 71a and 71b. Therefore, when light is incident from only one of the light-emitting diodes 75 and 76, one of the light-emitting portions 71a and 71b emits light, and it looks as if winking.

As shown in FIG. 14 (B), the red acrylic plate 72 has light emitting portions 72a, 72 formed in a heart shape.
2b. The light emitting portions 72a and 72b are provided with small holes in a heart shape at regular intervals. When light from the light emitting diode 77 is incident on the incident portion 72c provided on the end face, each small hole is provided. Red light is emitted from the inner wall of the. Therefore,
The left and right eyes appear to glow in a heart shape when the light emitting units 72a and 72b emit light.

As shown in FIG. 14C, the red acrylic plate 73 is provided with the light emitting portions 71a and 71A shown in FIG.
It has small semicircular light emitting portions 73a and 73b formed continuously below the lower portion 71b. This light emitting portion 73a,
In 73b, small holes are provided in a semicircle at regular intervals,
When light from the light emitting diode 78 is incident on the incident portion 73c provided on the end face, red light is emitted from the inner wall of each small hole. Therefore, the left and right eyes appear to be angry with small eyes when the light emitting units 73a and 73b emit light.

As shown in FIG. 14D, the red acrylic plate 74 is provided with the light emitting portions 71a and 71A shown in FIG.
Small points formed continuously below the lower part 71b have light emitting parts 74a and 74b provided radially. The light emitting units 74a and 74b are provided on the incident surface 74 provided on the end face.
When light from the light emitting diode 79 is incident on c, red light is emitted from the inner wall of each small hole. Therefore, the light emitting unit 73
The left and right eyes appear to be angry with small eyes as if they were angry due to the light emission of a and 73b.

The light emitting diodes 75 to 79 are
The arrangement is dispersed at the upper or lower portions of the red acrylic plates 71 to 74 so that light does not enter another adjacent red acrylic plate, and is covered by a partition wall (not shown) so that light does not leak to the surroundings. Have been done. Thereby, even if the red acrylic plates 71 to 74 are overlapped, each display pattern can be prevented from interfering with each other, and can be attached even in a narrow space in the head 12.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing combinations of display patterns displayed by light emission on the display section 20. In FIG.

As shown in FIG. 15, for example, nine types of display patterns can be selectively displayed on the display unit 20.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 77
Lights up, and the heart-shaped light-emitting portions 72a and 72b emit light.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 76 is used.
Is turned on, and the light emitting section 71b on the right circle emits light.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 78 is used.
Is turned on, and the light emitting portions 73a and 73b on the left and right eyes emit light.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 7
5, 78 are turned on, the left eye light emitting portion 71a emits light, and the left and right angry eye light emitting portions 73a, 73b emit light to display right eye wink.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 7
5, 76, 79 are turned on and the left and right light emitting portions 71a, 71
b emits light, and the light-emitting portions 74a, 74 representing left and right tears
4b emits light to display a weeping eye.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 7
5, 76, 78 are turned on and the light emitting section 71 on the left and right round eyes
a and 71b emit light, and the light emitting portion 73 under the left and right circles.
a and 73b emit light to display the entire elliptical circle.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 75
Is turned on, and the light emitting section 71a on the left circle emits light.

In the display pattern, the light emitting diode 7
6 and 78 are turned on, the right eye light emitting portion 71b emits light, and the left and right angry eye light emitting portions 73a and 73b emit light to display the left eye wink.

In the display pattern, each light emitting diode 7
5 to 79 are turned off, and the light emission display of the display unit 20 is eliminated.

In the display section 20, the lighting control of each of the light emitting diodes 75 to 79 is performed by the control signal from the control section 62, and the expression of the eyes is expressed by any of the above nine types of display patterns. It can produce a change in emotion at that time.

Here, the configuration of the control system of the electronic toy 10 configured as described above will be described.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of the electronic toy 10. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 16, the control unit 62
Display unit 20, sound sensor 24, optical sensor 25, speaker 2
6, the motor 36, the battery 58, and the detection switch 59, and are connected to the sound sensor 24 and the optical sensor 2 as described later.
5. The detection signal from the detection switch 59 is counted, and control data is extracted from the relationship between the count value and the elapsed time to drive and control the display unit 20, the speaker 26, and the motor 36.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the structure of the control unit 62.

As shown in FIG. 17, the control unit 62
It has a CPU 80 as a central processing unit, a ROM 82 (storage means, first to third storage units), a RAM 84, and a timer 86. The ROM 82 has an operation control program 82A for driving and controlling the display unit 20, the speaker 26, and the motor 36, and a change in personality (a value in the mood mode or a value in the mood mode) at that time. Posture control data 82B for controlling the rotation direction and the amount of rotation of the motor 36 to switch between the operation postures A to C, and a sound for causing the speaker 26 to produce a cry or melody according to the change in personality at that time. The control data 82C, the display control data 82D for switching the display pattern of the display unit 20 according to the personality change at that time, and the pet biorhythm data 8 for periodically changing the personality (good mode or bad mode)
2E and biorhythm correction data 8 for correcting the period of the pet biorhythm based on the count value of the detection signal.
2F are stored.

The operation control program 82A stored in the ROM 82 includes a first control program for counting the number of detection signals output from the detection means for detecting an external input, and a first control program for counting the number of times of the detection signal. A second control program for changing the value of the parameter, and a third operation for selecting an arbitrary operation pattern from a plurality of operation patterns based on the number of detection signals and the value of the parameter when the detection signal is output from the detection means. And a fourth control program for performing control so as to operate in the selected operation pattern.

The RAM 84 stores a counter 84A for counting detection signals from the sound sensor 24, the optical sensor 25, and the detection switch 59, and communication biorhythm data 84B created by the count value of the counter 84A. .

In the counter 84A, the sound sensor 24,
A count mode 1 for counting the detection signals from the optical sensor 25 and the detection switch 59 without selecting them;
4. a counting mode 2 having first to third counters (not shown) for individually counting the detection signals from the optical sensor 25 and the detection switch 59 and creating communication biorhythm data for each sensor; Can be set.

Next, control processing executed by CPU 80 of control unit 62 will be described.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the control processing executed by CPU 80 of control unit 62. FIG. 19 is a graph showing changes in the pet biorhythm and the communication biorhythm.

The CPU 80 repeatedly executes the control processing shown in FIG. 18 every 50 msec, for example, based on the operation control program 82A stored in the ROM 82.

As shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 80
In step S11 (hereinafter, "step" is omitted), it is confirmed whether or not there is an input from the sound sensor 24, the optical sensor 25, and the detection switch 59. Sound sensor 24, optical sensor 2
5. When the detection signal is input from the detection switch 59, the process proceeds to S12, and 1 is added to the count value of the counter 84A.

In the next S13, the elapsed time measured by the timer 86 is read.

Then, the process proceeds to S14, where a communication biorhythm graph II (see FIG. 19 described later) is created based on the count value of the counter 84A, and the communication biorhythm data is updated in the RAM 84. Update.

At S15, the graph I of the pet biorhythm data stored in the ROM 82 (see FIG.
Read).

Then, the process proceeds to S16, where the first parameter at this time (see FIG. 2 described later) is determined from the relationship between the pet biorhythm data and the communication biorhythm data.
0, the value of the mood mode and the value of the mood mode shown in FIG. 21 (parameter changing means).

Subsequently, in S17, based on the personality data, the operation patterns (1) to (12) (FIGS.
Reference) (selecting means).

In the next step S18, the motors 36 are driven and controlled in accordance with the selected operation pattern to operate the legs 16 to 19 so as to attain the specified operation posture. Speaker 26 while switching
A cry or melody is uttered (control means).

In S12, the count value of each sensor, that is, the count value of the sound sensor 24, the optical sensor 25, and the detection switch 59 is counted, and a graph of communication biorhythm corresponding to each count value is created. It is also possible to control the posture, the expression of the eyes by the display unit 20, the squeal from the speaker 26, and the like.

Next, the relationship between the pet biorhythm and the communication biorhythm will be described.

As shown in FIG. 19, in this embodiment,
An electronic toy 10 based on the relationship between the pet biorhythm graph I and the communication biorhythm graph II
Control the posture, cry, melody and facial expressions of the eyes.
In FIG. 19, for convenience of explanation, a change in the value of the pet biorhythm is shown by a graph I, and a change in the value of the communication biorhythm is shown by a graph II. The control processing is performed by comparing the indicated value with the count value of the counter means.

The pet biorhythm is created based on the data stored in the pet biorhythm data 82E, and is periodically (as shown in FIG. 19).
Every minute), the mood mode (good personality) and the bad mood mode (bad personality) are set to be alternately repeated. Further, in the mood mode and the mood mode based on the pet biorhythm, each of the levels becomes level 0 with the passage of time.
The value of the first parameter at that time changes in the range of ５０50.

Further, as shown in the graph II created by the data stored in the communication biorhythm data 84B, the communication biorhythm has the sound sensor 24, the optical sensor 25, and the detection switch 59.
Therefore, the operation and expression of the electronic toy 10 change depending on how much the user of the electronic toy 10 loves the electronic toy 10. Therefore,
The electronic toy 10 can change the posture, the operation postures A to C, and the expression of the eyes (see FIGS. 8 to 10 and 13) by the display unit 20 according to the number of times of contact and the number of times of calling. When the number of times of contact of the user, that is, the number of inputs to the sound sensor 24, the optical sensor 25, and the detection switch 59 increases based on the biorhythm correction data 82F, the control unit 62 extends the period of the mood mode and sets the When the number of input times decreases, the mood mode is extended by shortening the mood mode and the cycle is changed, so that the mood mode and the mood mode do not repeat in a fixed time .

Therefore, the user does not get tired because the reaction of the electronic toy 10 is not constant even if they are in contact in the same manner, and the user performs actions and expressions according to the personality change at that time. In addition, since the user cannot predict a change in the character of the electronic toy 10, the user can enjoy an unexpected operation and expression.

For example, in the mood mode, when the personality level is 0, the user strokes the head 12 of the electronic toy 10 to output a detection signal from the detection switch 59, or speaks to the detection signal from the sound sensor 24. Is output, or when a detection signal is output from the optical sensor 25 by waving his hand at the tip of the nose, a notification event (generates a squeal twice and blinks a heart-shaped eye on the display unit 20 (FIG. 15)
)) To enter the mood mode.

In the mood mode, for example, if the user makes five contacts (inputs) to the electronic toy 10 while the personality level of the pet biorhythm changes from 0 to 50, the event (howling + special) Perform melody (marriage march, etc.). In the mood mode, the communication biorhythm graph II
Event occurs when () crosses the pet biorhythm graph I. (Sound effect + melody + slot game start)
I do. In the slot game, the display pattern 20 is sequentially displayed on the display unit 20, and when the speaker 26 is pressed and the detection switch 59 is turned on, the display pattern 2 is displayed.
It is also possible to enjoy a slot game in which any one of them is stopped and displayed.

In the mood mode, when the personality level returns to 0 due to the pet biorhythm, a notification event (two squeals are generated + the anger is blinking on the display unit 20 (see FIG. 15)) is performed to enter the mood mode. Let them know you have entered.

Further, when the communication biorhythm graph II intersects with the pet biorhythm graph I in the sullen mode, an event occurs (sound effect +
(Melody + slot game start).

In the grumpy mode, when the character level of the pet biorhythm is around 50, the electronic toy 10 becomes unresponsive no matter what the user does, and becomes in a very grumpy state. For example, the display on the display unit 20 becomes angry in response to a user's operation input, and the speaker 26
A sigh is uttered from.

Further, when the personality level of the pet biorhythm returns to 0 in the sullen mode, the above-mentioned notification event (two squeals generated + the blinking heart on the display unit 20 (see FIG. 15)) is performed and the sullen mode is performed. Inform that you have entered.

In the counter 84A, the sound sensor 24,
Although the number of inputs from the optical sensor 25 and the detection switch 59 is counted, as described above, the graph II of the communication biorhythm is the graph I of the pet biorhythm.
, Or when the count reaches a preset maximum value (max value), it is reset to 0.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an operation performed in response to an operation input from each sensor in the mood mode and a method of controlling the expression.

As shown in FIG. 20, for example, when the electronic toy 10 receives an input from the user when the personality is in the mood mode, the following operation patterns (1) to (1)
Change the posture and expression according to 2). (1) When there is no input, the operation posture B is changed from the operation posture B (see FIG. 9) to the operation posture A (see FIG. 8), the display on the display unit 20 is changed from the rounded state to the unlit state, and the snoring is uttered from the speaker 26. Let it. (2) When there is an input from only the sound sensor 24, the operation posture is changed from B to A, the display on the display unit 20 is changed from the unlit state to the crying state, and a joyful voice is uttered from the speaker 26. (3) When there is an input from only the optical sensor 25, the operating posture B is maintained, the display unit 20 displays a circle, and the speaker 2
6. Make a single word or sound effect from 6. (4) When there is an input from only the detection switch 59, the operation posture B is changed to the operation posture C (see FIG. 10) → the operation posture B, and the display on the display unit 20 is changed from the unlit state to the rounded state. Utter the voice of (5) When there is an input from the sound sensor 24 and the optical sensor 25, the operation posture B is maintained, the display on the display unit 20 is switched to the blinking of a circle, and one voice is uttered from the speaker 26. Alternatively, the operating posture is changed from B to C to B, the display unit 20 displays a heart-shaped eye, and the speaker 26 makes a howling sound. (6) Sound sensor 24, optical sensor 25, detection switch 5
When there is an input from 9, the operation posture B → C → B → C → B is performed, and the display on the display unit 20 changes from a circle to a heart, or a wink is displayed on the display unit 20 and a laughing voice is heard from the speaker 26. Utter. (7) When the input from the optical sensor 25 is repeated, the operation posture B is maintained, the circle is blinked on the display unit 20, and a joyful voice and a laughing voice are emitted from the speaker 26. (8) When the input from the sound sensor 24 and the input from the optical sensor 25 are repeated, the operating posture B → C → B → C → B is performed, the heart is blinked on the display unit 20, and the speaker 26 is turned on.
To say a single word. (9) When the input from the sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59 and the input from the optical sensor 25 are repeated, the operation posture B
→ C → B → C → B is performed, the heart is blinked on the display unit 20, and a laughter and a melody are uttered from the speaker 26. (10) When the input from the detection switch 59 and the input from the optical sensor 25 are repeated, the operation posture B → C → B → C →
B is performed, the heart is blinked on the display unit 20, and a joy voice and a melody are uttered from the speaker 26. (11) When there is an input from the sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59, the operation posture is changed from B to A, the circle is blinked on the display unit 20, and a single word is uttered from the speaker 26. (12) When there is an input from the optical sensor 25 and the detection switch 59, the operation posture B → C → B → C → B is performed, and the display unit 2
At 0, the heart is blinked, and a joy voice and a melody are uttered from the speaker 26.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a method of controlling an operation and an expression performed in response to an operation input from each sensor in the displeased mode.

As shown in FIG. 21, for example, when the electronic toy 10 receives an input from the user when the personality is in the displeased mode, the following operation patterns (1) to (1)
Change the posture and expression according to 2). (1) When there is no input, the operation posture is changed from B to A, the display on the display unit 20 is changed from round eyes to off, and the speaker 26 makes a snoring sound. (2) When there is an input from only the sound sensor 24, the operation posture is changed from B to A, the display on the display unit 20 is changed from off to anger, and a groaning anger voice is produced from the speaker 26. (3) When there is an input from only the optical sensor 25, the operation posture B is maintained, an angry eye is displayed on the display unit 20, and a low-pitched monologue or sound effect is emitted from the speaker 26. (4) When there is an input from only the detection switch 59, the operating posture is changed from B to A, the display on the display unit 20 is changed from off to anger, and the sigh is uttered from the speaker 26. (5) When there is an input from the sound sensor 24 and the optical sensor 25, the operation posture B is maintained, the anger is displayed on the display unit 20, and the speaker 26 makes a cry. Alternatively, the operating posture B is maintained, a wink is displayed on the display unit 20, and a laughter is emitted from the speaker 26. (6) Sound sensor 24, optical sensor 25, detection switch 5
When there is an input from 9, the operation posture B → C → B is performed, and the display on the display unit 20 is changed from angry eyes to extinguished, or the wink is displayed on the display unit 20 and a squeal is made from the speaker 26. Alternatively, the operating posture B → C → B
Is performed on the display unit 20 to blink the circle, and the howling is uttered from the speaker 26. (7) When the input from the optical sensor 25 is repeated, the operation posture B is maintained, the circle is blinked on the display unit 20, and the sneezing is uttered from the speaker 26. (8) When the input from the sound sensor 24 and the input from the optical sensor 25 are repeated, the operation posture B is maintained and the display unit 2
At 0, the anger eyes are blinked, and anger + screams are emitted from the speaker 26. (9) When the input from the sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59 and the input from the optical sensor 25 are repeated, the operation posture B
→ C → B is performed, the circle is blinked on the display unit 20, and the howling is uttered from the speaker 26. (10) When the input from the detection switch 59 and the input from the optical sensor 25 are repeated, the operation posture B is maintained, the circle is blinked on the display unit 20, and the baboon is uttered from the speaker 26. (11) When there is an input from the sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59, the operation posture is changed from B to A, an angry eye is displayed on the display unit 20, and a sigh is produced from the speaker 26. (12) When there is an input from the optical sensor 25 and the detection switch 59, the operation posture B is maintained, the circle is blinked on the display unit 20, and the baboon is uttered from the speaker 26. As described above, in the electronic toy 10, the personality is switched to the mood mode or the mood mode at a predetermined cycle based on the personality change due to the communication biorhythm, so that it is difficult for the user to predict the response to the input, and the user may be bored. Absent.

Further, the period of the mood mode and / or the mood mode can be changed according to the number of detections by each sensor. For this reason, the period of the mood mode becomes longer or the period of the mood mode becomes longer depending on how the user is in contact with the user. Can be increased.

Here, control processing in the initialization mode executed by the CPU 80 of the control section 62 will be described.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining the initial setting process.

As shown in FIG. 22, C of the control unit 62
In step S20, the PU 80 checks whether a new battery 58 is installed. When the battery 58 is inserted into the battery storage section 60 for the first time, or when the battery is replaced, the process proceeds to S21, and the initial value stored in the memory (not shown) is reset. Subsequently, in S22,
Set the initialization mode. In the initial setting mode, the character is the puppy mode, and the character is relatively quiet.

In the next S23, it is checked whether or not a switch input has been made. In this case, the detection operation of the sound sensor 24 as the detection means and the detection switch 59 is monitored, and when a detection signal is output from each sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59, the process proceeds to S24, and the number of detections n is calculated. The integration is performed, and the integrated value (count value n + 1) is stored in the memory.

In the next S25, a predetermined time T (for example, T
= 1 hour) has elapsed. Therefore, until one hour has passed since the battery 58 was mounted,
The processing of S23 to S25 is repeated.

[0135] Then, in S25, the 1 hour has elapsed, the process proceeds to S26, and compares the count value _{n B} of the count value _{n A} and the detection switch 59 of the sound sensor 24.

[0136] In the next S27, when the count value _{n A} of the sound sensor 24 is larger than the count value _{n B} of the detection switch 59 _(n A> n _B) proceeds to S28, the setting of the gender data male.

In S27, the power of the sound sensor 24 is
Und value n_AIs the count value n of the detection switch 59_BThan
When not large, that is, the count of the sound sensor 24
Value n _AIs the count value n of the detection switch 59_BLess than
Time (n_A<N_B), The count value n of the sound sensor 24_A
Is the count value n of the detection switch 59_BWhen (n
_A= N_B), The count value n of the sound sensor 24_AAnd detection
The count value n of the switch 59_BIs zero (n_A=
0, n_B= 0) proceeds to S29, and sets gender data in the female.
Set. In the above case, it is determined in advance as described above.
May be set to your gender, or
The gender can be set using random numbers.
 When the gender data is set to male in S28,
Alternatively, after the gender data is set to female in S29,
Proceeding to S30, the initial setting mode is canceled. And
The processing shifts to the main control processing shown in FIG.

[0138] After the initial setting of male or female at the time of mounting the battery in this way, expressions and actions according to the set gender (individual difference) are performed thereafter.

[0139] Examples of facial expressions and actions depending on gender are shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B.

For example, when the gender data is set to male, as shown in FIG. 23A, the voice is set to the bass version and the normal pattern of the eyes is set to FIG.
(B) is set to the pattern A, and has a special song only for males. Further, when the gender data is set to female, as shown in FIG. 23A, the voice is set to the basic pattern and the normal pattern of the eyes is set to FIG.
Set to pattern B shown in (C), and have a special dance for female only. Thus, in order to set the gender (individual difference) according to the count values n _A and n _B of the number of times of detection detected by the sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59 while the initial setting mode is set, for example, for the first time While the battery is installed and the initial setting mode is set, individual differences such as gender can be preset as initial values depending on the number of times the user touches, and individual expressions and expressions that the user does not expect Action can be produced.

In the above description, the number of times of detection by the sound sensor 24 and the detection switch 59 is counted and the gender is set by comparing the count values. However, other detection means such as the optical sensor 25 It is a matter of course that the detection signal may be counted.

Furthermore, the characteristics when the gender data is set to male or female are not limited to the operation patterns shown in FIGS. 23A to 23C, and initial settings are made so as to perform other facial expressions and operations. Of course, it may be.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart for explaining a modification of the initial setting process.

As shown in FIG. 24, C
Among the control processes executed by the PU 80, the processes of S31 to S34 are the same processes as the processes of S20 to S23 described above.
The description is omitted.

In S35, in this case, the detection operation of the detection switch 59 as the detection means is monitored, and when a detection signal is output from the detection switch 59, S35 is performed.
Then, the number of detections n is integrated, and the integrated value (count value n + 1) is stored in the memory. In the next S36,
It is checked whether a predetermined time T (for example, T = 1 hour) has elapsed. Therefore, 1 after the battery 58 is attached.
Until the time elapses, the processing of S34 to S36 is repeated.

After one hour has passed in S36, the process proceeds to S37, where the count value n of the detection switch 59
Read. In S38, it is checked whether the count value n of the detection switch 59 is an odd number.

In the next S38, when the count value n of the detection switch 59 is an odd number, the sex data is set to male.

When the count value n of the detection switch 59 is not an odd number in S38, that is, when the detection switch 59
Since the count value n is even or zero, the process proceeds to S40, where the gender data is set to female.

When the gender data is set to male in S39 or after the gender data is set to female in S40, the process proceeds to S41, and the initial setting mode is canceled. Then, the processing shifts to the main control processing shown in FIG.

When the initial setting of male or female is performed when the battery is installed in this manner, thereafter, the facial expressions and actions according to the set gender (individual difference) are performed (FIGS. 23A to 23C).
(See (B)). Therefore, since the gender is set according to whether the count value of the number of times of input detected while the initial setting mode is set is an even number or an odd number, a facial expression or an action corresponding to the set gender or personality regardless of the user's intention. Can be produced. That is, individual differences appear in facial expressions, voices, and movements corresponding to the user's contact after the initial setting period, and it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and character like an animal.

In the above description, the number of detections of the detection switch 59 is counted, and the sex is set by judging whether the count value is odd or even. However, other detection means such as the sound sensor 24 Of course, the gender may be set by counting the detection signals from the optical sensor 25 and the like and determining whether the count value is odd or even.

In FIGS. 20 and 21, a plurality of types of voices from the speaker 26 are prepared for each item, and when in the mood mode, the sound is lower than in the mood mode. ).

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 25 is a front view of an electronic toy according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26 is a side view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 27 is a plan view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 28 is a rear view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 25 to 30, the same components as those of the electronic toy 10 of the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 25 to 30, the electronic toy 90 has the head 12,
It is a dog-shaped toy having a trunk 14 and legs 16 to 19.
The operations of the electronic toy 90 different from those of the electronic toy 10 described above include a point that the head 12 can be swung in the left-right direction and a point that the tail 32 is swingably provided in the left-right direction.

Further, the electronic toy 90 includes two push-type mode selection switches 91A and 91A on the chest of the body 14.
1B is provided. This mode selection switch 91
One of A and 91B is selectively operated when, for example, a voice registration mode to be described later is started or when a character development mode, a character standard mode, or the like is selected. The mode selection switches 91A and 91B function as reset switches for resetting the control data stored in the memory when both are turned on at the same time.

The electronic toy 90 can perform 15 types of operations.

FIG. 31 shows the operation type of the electronic toy 90 and the leg 1.
It is a figure showing a combination with 6-19 operation positions,
(A) is a figure which shows the combination of the operation | movement type and the operation | movement position of the leg parts 16-19, (B) is a figure which shows the rotation angle of each leg part 16-19.

As shown in FIGS. 31 (A) and 31 (B), the legs 16, 17 serving as the forefoot of the electronic toy 90 are positioned at the vertical position A.
Or, the leg 1 which turns to any of the horizontal positions B and becomes the rear foot
8, 19 rotate to any one of the vertical position C, the front tilt position D, the horizontal position E, and the rear tilt position F. And leg 16,
17 rotates to either the vertical position A or the horizontal position B,
When the legs 18 and 19 rotate to any of the positions C to F, they stand, sit down, face down, threaten, hand, good, flutter 1, flutter 2, stretch 1, stretch 2, stretch 3, push-up fuzz, Each operation of back 1, back 2, and performance can be performed.

For example, as shown in FIG. 32, when the user inputs the word “stand”, the legs 16 to 19 of the electronic toy 90 are turned to the vertical positions A and C to be in the standing state. Become. Also, as shown in FIG. 33, when the word “sitting” is input by the user, the electronic toy 90 has the legs 18, 17 on the rear side while the legs 16, 17 are rotated to the vertical position A. 19 is rotated to the front inclined position D and enters a sitting state.

As shown in FIG. 34, when the word "hand" is input by the user, the electronic toy 90 is moved to the right front with the legs 17 to 19 rotated to the vertical positions A and C. The leg 16 serving as a foot is rotated to the horizontal position B to be in the hand state. Also, as shown in FIG.
Means that when a user enters the word "down,"
Each of the legs 16 to 19 is turned down to the horizontal positions B and E in the forward position.

The electronic toy 90 is provided with a display section 20 for displaying facial expressions on the front of the head 12. The display unit 20 includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEs) as described above.
D) can be selectively turned on, and the emotion at that time can be expressed by an eye display pattern.

Here, the display pattern of the display unit 20 will be described.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of a display pattern on the display section 20, wherein FIG.
FIG. 3C is a diagram showing eyes, FIG. 3C is a diagram showing heart eyes, FIG. 3D is a diagram showing zigzag eyes, and FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 36 (A) to (E),
On the display unit 20 of the second embodiment, for example, five types of display patterns 1 to 5 can be selectively displayed.

In the display pattern, an arc-shaped Nico eye pattern emits light at the light emitting portions 92a and 92b.

In the display pattern, a question mark shape? The eye pattern emits light at the light emitting portions 94a and 94b.

In the display pattern, a heart-shaped heart-eye pattern emits light from the light-emitting portions 96a and 96b.

In the display pattern, a crescent-shaped zigzag pattern emits light at the light emitting portions 98a and 98b.

In the display pattern, the light emitting portions 100a and 100b emit light in the multi-eye pattern in which the above-mentioned two-eye pattern and the two-eye pattern are simultaneously displayed.

Next, the voice registration mode executed when a battery is mounted on the electronic toy 90 will be described.

FIGS. 37A and 37B are diagrams for explaining voice registration, FIG. 37A is a diagram showing an example of a registered word used for voice registration, FIG. 37B is a flowchart for explaining a voice registration procedure, (C) is a flowchart for explaining a voice registration failure example, and (D) is a flowchart for explaining a voice registration success example.

As shown in FIG. 37 (A), in this embodiment, six types of words, ie, dog name, hand, face down, sitting, Yoshiyoshi, and Asoboyo are used as words for voice registration. .

Next, a procedure of voice registration executed by the CPU 80 of the control section 62 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 37 (B), first, S
After the battery is attached to the electronic toy 90 at 51, when the mode selection switch 91A is turned on, the voice registration mode is started. In the next S52, the speaker 26 of the electronic toy 90 utters a message such as "Please say your name", and the display unit 20 displays the smiley eyes (FIG. 36).
(Refer to (A)). On the other hand, when the user says the name of the dog (for example, Poo), the name of the dog is input to the sound sensor 24.

When the voice input of the dog name is registered, S5
Proceed to 3 and use the speaker 26 to say "Please say a hand."
Is displayed, and a smiley eye (see FIG. 36 (A)) blinks on the display unit 20. On the other hand, when the user says “hand”, the word “hand” is input to the sound sensor 24.

When the voice input of the hand is registered, the process proceeds to S54, in which a message such as "Please say that you are sitting" is uttered from the speaker 26, and a smile (see FIG. 36A) is displayed on the display unit 20. Flashing display. In contrast,
When the user says “sitting”, a word such as “sitting” is input to the sound sensor 24.

When the voice input of the sitting is registered, S55
Then, a message such as “Please say prone” is uttered from the speaker 26 and a smiley eye (see FIG. 36 (A)) is blinkingly displayed on the display unit 20. On the other hand, if the user says “prone”, A word such as “down” is input to the sound sensor 24.

[0179] When the face-down voice input is registered, the process proceeds to S56, and "Please say good" from the speaker 26.
Is displayed, and a smiley eye (see FIG. 36 (A)) blinks on the display unit 20. On the other hand, when the user says “yoshi”, the word “yoshi” is input to the sound sensor 24.

When the voice input of Yoshiyoshi is registered, S5
7 and a message such as “Please say play” is issued from the speaker 26 and the display unit 2
At 0, a blinking eye (see FIG. 36A) blinks. On the other hand, when the user says “play”, a word such as “play” is input to the sound sensor 24.

When the voice input of Asoboyo is completed, S5
Proceeding to 8, the speaker 26 emits an electronic sound such as, for example, pyrroline, and the voice registration mode ends.

As described above, the dog name, hand,
Six types of words, prone, sitting, good, and play, are registered with the user's voice. After this, the voice of the registered user has priority over other voices.

Next, a case where voice registration has failed will be described.

As shown in FIG. 37 (C), a message “Please say your name” is uttered from the speaker 26 in S61, and
6 (A)), if the user says the name of the dog (for example, Poo) and the dog name is not input from the sound sensor 24 and is not registered, the process proceeds to S62 and the speaker 26 is displayed. And an error sound, such as a booming sound, is displayed on the display unit 20. The eyes (see FIG. 36B) are displayed. Thus, the user can confirm that the voice registration has failed.

Then, in S63, a message such as "Please say your name again" is uttered from the speaker 26.

The operation when the voice registration is successful will be described.

As shown in FIG. 37 (D), a message "Please say your name" is uttered from the speaker 26 in S71, and
6 (A)), when the name of the dog (for example, Poo) that the user has said is registered, S7
36, an electronic sound such as ping-pong is produced from the speaker 26, and a heart-shaped eye is displayed on the display unit 20 (FIG. 36).
(See (C)). Thereby, the user can confirm that the voice registration has been successful.

Next, when the voice registration mode of the electronic toy 90 is completed, the mode shifts to the character registration mode for registering the character of the electronic toy 90.

Now, the character registration mode of the electronic toy 90 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 38 is a diagram for explaining an example of a condition for character formation.
(A) is a diagram showing personality characteristics, (B) is a diagram showing an example of a personality formation parameter MAP, and (C) is a diagram showing an example of a personality change condition.

As shown in FIG. 38A, the character that can be registered with the electronic toy 90 is a dog (characteristic is, for example, singing a vulgar song with vulgar voice, performing different actions without listening to the master's instruction content). Going or sleeping all the time), loyal dogs (characteristically, they act strictly according to the master's instructions and can sing)
There are three types of art dogs (they have the same loyal character and charm as the loyal dogs, such as performing a special art when saying "Asobo").

As shown in FIG. 38B, a character formation parameter MAP102 for forming the character of the electronic toy 90 is provided.
Has a loyalty dog parameter and a performance dog parameter. This personality parameter is set after the user has installed the battery,
Points are counted according to the manner and number of contacts (discipline) performed within a predetermined time (for example, 4 hours).
The contact (discipline) method counted as the loyalty dog parameter includes, for example, a call such as a hand, sitting, and lying down.
In addition, as a contact (discipline) method counted as a performance dog parameter, there is a call of "play".

For example, when the user says the hand, and when the electronic toy 90 performs the hand operation shown in FIG. 34, the point of the hand is increased. As described above, when the electronic toy 90 complies with the user's command, the character formation parameter MAP10
Each item of 2 is filled with a circle, and the points of the loyalty dog parameter and the performance dog parameter increase.

Then, as shown in FIG. 38 (C),
As a condition of the personality change, for example, when all the items of the personality formation parameter MAP102 become 25 points within four hours, the personality of the electronic toy 90 becomes an entertainment dog. If each item of the loyalty dog parameter in the character formation parameter MAP 102 becomes 25 points within four hours, the character of the electronic toy 90 becomes a loyalty dog. If each item of the loyalty dog parameter and the performance dog parameter of the character formation parameter MAP 102 does not reach 25 points within four hours, the character of the electronic toy 90 becomes a dog.

FIG. 39 is a view for explaining an example of the personality registration operation. FIG. 39 (A) shows an example of an incorrect answer operation.
(B) is a diagram showing an operation example of a correct answer.

As shown in FIG. 39A, for example,
In the case where the user instructs “hand” and the Oswari is selected from the operation candidates and the electronic toy 90 performs the operation of the Oswari (see FIG. 33), the user performs an erroneous operation. The speaker 26 provided on the upper surface of the head 12 is hit. As a result, the detection switch 59 provided below the speaker 26 is pressed with a strong force and is turned on.

When it is detected in the determination process that the detection switch 59 is pressed with a strong force, the character forming parameter MA
Not registered as the point of P102, the control unit 62 selects the next operation candidate.

However, as shown in FIG. 39 (B), for example, although the user instructs “hand”, one of the motion candidates is selected, and the electronic toy 90 is operated by the electronic toy 90 (see FIG. 34). ), When the user says Yoshi, a word such as “Yoshiyoshi” is input to the sound sensor 24. Thus, the control unit 62 resets the ante from the next operation candidate and registers it as a point of the character formation parameter MAP102. FIG. 40 is a graph showing the character of the electronic toy 90 set according to the change (increase) in the number of points of the loyalty dog parameter I and the performance dog parameter II registered in the personality formation parameter MAP102, and (A)
Is a graph showing a loyal dog setting mode, (B) is a graph showing a performance dog setting mode, and (C) and (D) are graphs showing a dog setting mode. In addition, personality formation is the time of the puppy (for example,
4 hours after battery installation).

As shown in FIG. 40A, the electronic toy 90 is a little dog when the battery is attached, and the learning function does not function, so that the operation cannot be predicted in response to a user's command. Then, when the puppy period (immature period) has passed, the puppies enter the puppy period (bredging period), and character formation becomes possible. And
The number of points of the loyalty dog parameter I and the performance dog parameter II registered in the personality formation parameter MAP 102 changes (increases) according to the number of times and the contact method of the user during the puppy period.

For example, if the loyalty dog parameter I achieves the target (point 25) earlier than the performance dog parameter II point in the puppy period, the electronic toy 90 will be The character is a loyal dog, and a loyal dog flag (first control flag) is set.

As shown in FIG. 40 (B), the point of the performance dog parameter II during the puppy period is
100% target (point 25) ahead of point
When this is achieved, the character of the electronic toy 90 becomes a performance dog when the adult dog period is entered, and the performance dog flag is set.

As shown in FIG. 40 (C), at the beginning of the puppy period, the point of the performance dog parameter II increases in the same manner as the point of the loyalty dog parameter I, and the performance dog parameter II sharply increases in the middle. When the target (point 25) is achieved by increasing, the character of the electronic toy 90 becomes a dog when the adult dog period is entered, and the dog dog flag (second control flag) is set.

Further, as shown in FIG. 40 (D), at the beginning of the puppy period, the point of the performance dog parameter II changes lower than the point of the loyalty dog parameter I, and the performance dog parameter II rapidly increases in the middle. If the value of the loyalty dog parameter I increases to a value larger than the point, the electronic toy 90 becomes a dog when entering the adult dog period.

As described above, the number of points of the loyalty dog parameter I and the performance dog parameter II changes (increases) according to the user's contact method and the number of times of contact during the puppy period, and the character of the electronic toy 90 becomes loyalty dog. , Dogs, or dogs, so if the user makes sufficient contact within the specified time after installing the battery, the dog can be cultivated as a loyal dog or a dog. Because it becomes
You can enjoy the training method.

Next, the personal toy 9
A description will be given of an emotion parameter for performing operation control when 0 becomes an adult dog.

The emotion parameters include a mood parameter that changes with the passage of time and a satiety parameter that changes with the number of feeds.

FIG. 41 is a diagram for explaining mood parameters, wherein FIG. 41 (A) shows a mood parameter level.
(B) is a diagram showing a state of each level, (C) is a diagram showing a positive condition of a mood parameter, and (D) is a diagram showing a negative condition of a mood parameter.

[0207] As shown in FIG. 41 (A), the value _{P A} mood parameters are set to change in five stages of levels 1-5. Level 1 _P A = 0 to 20, level 2, _P A = 20 to 40, level 3, _P A = 40
60, Level 4, _P A = 60-80, the _P A = _{80~100,100~127} At level 5.

[0208] It should be noted, initially start, the value _{P A} mood parameters, the initial value is registered in the _P A = 50.

[0209] As shown in FIG. 41 (B), when the value P _A mood parameter is level 1, the electronic toy 90 is controlled mode is super moody state. Further, when the value P _A mood parameter is level 2, the electronic toy 90 is controlled mode becomes moody state. Further, when the value P _A mood parameter is level 3, the electronic toy 90 is in the state of the control mode is Normal (normal). Further, when the value P _A mood parameter is level 4, the electronic toy 90 is controlled mode the humor state. Further, when the value P _A mood parameter is level 5, the electronic toy 90 is the control mode is the state of super humor.

[0210] As shown in FIG. 41 (C), the user value P _A mood parameters when stroking the head 12 of the electronic toy 90 is increased 2 points, praised after operation instruction by voice from the user when in (e.g., words such as "Good Good") the value P _a mood parameter is increased 4 points. Further, when said spoiled after operation instruction by voice from the user is a value P _A mood parameter is increased 4 points.

[0211] As shown in FIG. 41 (D), when the user hit the head 12 of the electronic toy 90, the value _{P A} mood parameter is one point minus. In addition, as the feeding time elapses (for example, every one minute), the satiety level gradually decreases and the mood parameter value P _A
But at satiety level 5, 2 points minus, satiety level 4
Then, 4 points minus, satiety level 3 minus 6 points, satiety level 2 minus 8 points, and satiety level 1 minus 10 points. Accordingly, the mood parameter is set to vary according to the value P _B of fullness parameters.

[0212] In addition, if the value _{P A} mood parameters was over 100 at the time when the electronic toy 90 is sleep, level 5
Therefore, it is corrected to P _A = 100.

[0213] In addition, the value _{P A} mood parameters 127
If it exceeds (level maximum value of 5), since the ultra Gokigen condition quite Subsequently, by modifying the P A ₌ 20 is changed to ultra grumpy state.

FIG. 42 is a diagram for explaining the satiety parameter. FIG. 42 (A) is a diagram showing the level of the satiety parameter.
(B) is a diagram showing a state of each level, (C) is a diagram showing a plus condition of a satiety parameter, and (D) is a diagram showing a minus condition of a satiety parameter.

[0215] As shown in FIG. 42 (A), the value _{P B} of fullness parameters are set to change in five stages of levels 1-5. Level 1 _P B = 0 to 20, level 2, _P B = 20 to 40, level 3, _P B = 40
60, Level 4, _P B = 60-80, the _P B = _{80~100,100~127} At level 5.

[0216] Incidentally, initially started, the initial value of the value _{P B} of fullness parameter is registered in the _P B = 50.

[0217] As shown in FIG. 42 (B), when the value P _B of the mood parameter is level 1, the electronic toy 90 is controlled mode is super hungry state. Further, when the value P _B of fullness parameter is level 2, the electronic toy 90 is controlled mode is hungry state. Further, when the value P _B of fullness parameter is level 3, the electronic toy 90 is in the state of the control mode is Normal (normal). Further, when the value P _B of fullness parameter is level 4, the electronic toy 90 is controlled mode is satiety. In addition, the value P of the satiety parameter
_{When B} is at level 5, the control mode of the electronic toy 90 is super-full.

Note that the value P _{B of the} satiety parameter is P _B = 12.
Above 7, the stomach punctures, so P _B = 20
To reduce.

As shown in FIG. 42C, when the user feeds the electronic toy 90, the value of the satiety parameter P
_B is increased by 4 points.

As shown in FIG. 42 (D), when electronic toy 90 utters a voice requesting a food or performs an operation requesting a food, value of satiety parameter P
_B loses one point.

[0221] Further, the predetermined time from the electronic toy 90 is requesting a bait become hungry (e.g., 1 minute) value P _B of fullness parameters every time elapses is 4 points negative. Accordingly, the user periodically value P _B of the fullness parameters give food increases, with the value P _B of the fullness parameter user not feed the hungry decreases, mood parameters P _A also decreased And change to a sullen state.

[0224] As a food, for example, a magnet is embedded in a resin material having a shape similar to a bone, and a magnetic sensor is provided inside the mouth 31 of the electronic toy 90. . Alternatively, an optical sensor may be provided inside the mouth 31 of the electronic toy 90 to detect a feed.

FIG. 43 is a graph showing an example of changes in mood parameters.

As shown in FIG. 43, from time 0 to t ₁
Between the values P _A mood parameter is increased because the user is raised with Kama'. Further, between the time t ₁ of t _2, the value P _A mood parameter is reduced because the user does not give to Kama'.

[0225] At time _{t 3,} since the value _{P A} mood parameter is equal to or greater than _P A = 127, the value _{P B} of fullness parameters
It drops sharply. This prevents the user from getting tired of the super happy mode continuously.

[0226] Figure 44 is a diagram showing an example of a variation of mood parameters corresponding to the value P _B of fullness parameters.

As shown in FIG. 44, in this embodiment,
When the value _{P B} of fullness parameter is 0 to 20, the mood parameter value _{P A} variation value 100 points minus,
When the value _{P B} of fullness parameter is 20 to 40, the variation of the values _{P A} mood parameter 90 points minus,
When the value _{P B} of fullness parameter is 40 to 60, the variation of the values _{P A} mood parameter 80 points minus,
When the value _{P B} of fullness parameter is 60 to 80, the mood parameter value _{P A} fluctuation value of 70 points minus,
When the value _{P B} of fullness parameter is 80-127, the variation of the values _{P A} mood parameter is 60 points minus.

Therefore, the negative fluctuation value of the mood parameter is large when the stomach is hungry, and the negative fluctuation value of the mood parameter is small when the stomach is full. Thus, the mood parameter fluctuates due to the input of the voice from the user and the stroking of the head 12, and is affected by the satiety parameter which fluctuates depending on the number of feedings and the feeding interval. Therefore, the user needs to pay attention to the time and the number of times of feeding as well as the actual dog, and can play with the electronic toy 90 as if he / she owns the actual dog.

Here, the control process executed by the control unit 62 of the electronic toy 90 configured as described above will be described.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart of a main process executed by control unit 62 of electronic toy 90. FIG.
FIG. 46 is a flowchart of a main process executed after the process of FIG. 45.

As shown in FIG. 45, when a battery is attached to the electronic toy 90, words for voice recognition are registered in S80. This voice registration process is performed according to FIGS.
See (D).

In the next S81, one of the character development mode in which the character of the electronic toy 90 is raised in the puppy period and the character standard mode in which character development is omitted is selected. For example, S
At 81, when the user operates the mode selection switch 91A on, the character cultivation mode is selected, and when the user operates the mode selection switch 91B on, the character standard mode is selected.

Therefore, when the mode selection switch 91A is turned on in S81, the process proceeds to S82, and the character development mode is set. If the mode selection switch 91B is turned on in S81, the process goes to S83.
And the loyalty dog mode set as the personality standard mode is set.

If the loyal dog mode is set in S83, the control data of the loyal dog mode is read from the ROM 82 in S84. Subsequently, in S85, control of the loyalty dog mode is performed. Then, the control of the loyal dog mode is continued until reset in S86.

If the character development mode is set in S82, the flow advances to S87 to control the operation of the child.
As the operation control during the puppy period, each voice input and the head 12
An operation for an input such as stroking, an operation when there is no input, an operation based on a mood parameter and a satiety parameter, and the like are performed. In the next S88, it is checked whether or not the childhood period has ended.

When the childhood period ends in S88, the flow advances to S89 to control the operation of the puppy period. The operation control during the puppy period is the above-described learning mode (see FIGS. 38 to 40), processing for each input such as switch of head 12, voice, food, etc., processing when there is no input, mood parameter and satiety. There are parameter processing, writing in the character formation parameter MAP 102 for words (loyal dog parameter processing), performing dog parameter processing, and the like. In the next S90, it is checked whether the puppy period has ended. Until the puppy period ends, the operation control of the puppy period in S88 is executed.

At S90, when the puppy period ends, S
Proceeding to 91, a flag for any of the loyalty dog, the performance dog, and the dog is set according to the personality data (the loyalty parameter, the performance dog parameter) cultivated in the process of S88 (FIG. 40A).
To (D)).

In the next S92 (see FIG. 46), it is checked whether or not the loyalty dog flag has been set. If the loyalty dog flag is set in S92, the process proceeds to S93, and it is checked whether the performing dog flag is set. In S93, when the performing dog flag is set, the process proceeds to S94, and after setting the performing dog mode, control data of the performing dog mode is read from the ROM 82 in S95. Subsequently, in S96, control of the art dog mode is performed. Then, the control of the entertaining dog mode is continued until reset in S97.

If it is determined in S92 that the loyalty dog flag is not set, the process proceeds to S98 in which it is determined that the dog dog flag is set, and the dog dog mode control data is set in S99. Is read from the ROM 82. Subsequently, in S100, control of the dog mode is performed. Then, the control in the dog mode is continued until reset in S101.

If it is determined in step S93 that the performing dog flag has not been set, the flow advances to step S83 to return to step S8.
3 to S86 are executed.

As described above, in the second embodiment, individual character data (loyal dog parameters, performing dog parameters) can be formed by performing the character breeding process in accordance with the way the user responds during the puppy period. You can play with the same feeling as keeping an actual pet.

In the above embodiment, the dog-shaped electronic toy has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is possible to imitate other animals such as cats, tigers, lions, monkeys, horses, elephants, and giraffes. Of course, it can be applied to electronic toys.

[0243]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, when the detection signal is output from the detection means, the detection value is based on the count value of the counter means and the value of the parameter set by the parameter change means. Since information of an arbitrary operation pattern is selected from a plurality of operation patterns stored in the storage means, for example, when there is an external input such as voice or contact, different operations can be performed depending on the input timing. Further, since it is difficult to predict an operation pattern, it is possible to control the input device to perform an unexpected action on the input, so that the user will not get tired of playing for a long time.

Further, according to the second aspect of the present invention, since the parameters are changed while alternately repeating the mood mode and the mood mode at a predetermined cycle based on the control parameters which change with the passage of time, the input The mode is switched to the mood mode or the mood mode depending on the timing, and an unexpected operation is performed to increase the fun.

According to the third aspect of the present invention,
Since the period of the mood mode and / or the mood mode is changed according to the number of detections, the period of the mood mode becomes longer or the period of the mood mode becomes longer depending on how the user touches. Is difficult to predict, and an unexpected operation is performed, thereby increasing the fun.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, a special operation pattern is selected when a value indicating a change in a parameter matches the count value of the counter means. It can be more enjoyed than when a normal operation is performed.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, by detecting external sound, external contact, and a change in ambient light intensity, it is recognized that the user is loved, and the content of the detection is determined. , And the same operation and effect as those of the first aspect can be obtained.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the first
The same operation is not repeated together with the timing when the operation pattern selected according to the number of voice detections, the number of contact detections, and the number of light changes counted by the third counter means and the input is made, The fun of the reaction to the input can be produced.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when the value indicating the change of the parameter and the count value of the first to third counter means cross each other, the selection means can output the information of the special operation pattern. For selection, it is possible to enjoy more than selecting a special operation pattern different according to each count value and performing an unexpected operation.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the posture motion pattern stored in the first storage section based on the count value of the counter means and the value of the parameter set by the parameter changing means, Since any operation can be selected from the voice pattern data stored in the storage unit and the expression pattern data stored in the third storage unit, the operation and effect of the first aspect can be achieved.

Further, according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the posture operation pattern based on the count value of the counter means and the value of the parameter set by the parameter changing means,
Since the combination of the voice pattern and the expression pattern can be selected, the operation and effect of the first aspect can be obtained.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, since the expression pattern includes at least an operation pattern for changing the size or shape of the eye, the count value of the counter means and the parameter set by the parameter change means can be changed. By changing the size or shape of the eyes based on the value, it is possible to produce an expression corresponding to the personality change at that time. According to the eleventh aspect, a first step of counting the number of detection signals, a second step of changing a parameter value, a third step of selecting an operation pattern, and a selected operation pattern The operation and effect of the first aspect can be obtained by the control method of performing the fourth step of performing the control.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the same operations and effects as those of the first aspect can be obtained by executing the first to fourth control programs stored in the storage medium.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, any one of a plurality of operation patterns stored in the storage means according to the timing at which the detection signal is output from the first to third detection means. Since the pattern is selected and the display pattern of the drive motor and the display unit is controlled according to the selected operation pattern, the same operation and effect as those of the first aspect can be obtained.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the individual difference is set according to the count value of the number of detections detected by the detecting means while the initial setting mode is set by the initial setting means. For example, individual differences such as gender can be preset as an initial value according to the number of times the user makes contact while the battery is installed for the first time and the initial setting mode is set, corresponding to the user's contact after the initial setting period Expressions, voices, and movements show individual differences, and it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, since the individual difference is set according to the detecting means having the largest number of detections among the plurality of detecting means, the individual such as gender corresponding to the user's contact method is set. The difference can be set in advance as an initial value, and individual differences appear in facial expressions, voices, and movements corresponding to the user's contact after the initial setting period, as if the electronic toy had sex and personality like an animal Direction becomes possible.

According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the individual difference is set depending on whether the count value of the number of times of input detected while the initial setting mode is set is an even number or an odd number. Individual differences appear in facial expressions, voices, and movements corresponding to later contact of the user, and it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal.

According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the gender is set according to the count value of the number of times of input detected while the initial setting mode is set, and the set gender is corresponded. In order to change at least one of the facial expression, voice and movement of the eyes, the user's contact method and the gender corresponding to the contact method can be preset as initial values, and individual differences appear in the facial expression, voice and movement of the eyes Thus, it is possible to produce an electronic toy as if it had sex and personality like an animal.

According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, when the battery is installed, the voice registration means for registering the voice input from the outside and the operation control in accordance with the instruction by the voice registered by the voice registration means are performed. Control means,
It is possible to operate to preferentially follow the registered voice instruction.

According to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, when the battery is installed, the personality standard mode is operated according to the operation of the selection switch for selecting the personality standard mode for operating with the personality of the standard specification or the personality development mode for developing the personality. Alternatively, to set one of the character cultivation modes and operate in the set character standard mode or character cultivation mode, operate the character cultivation mode by omitting the character cultivation mode after installing the battery according to the user's request. Alternatively, in the personality development mode, a personality according to the user's development method can be developed.

According to the twentieth aspect, when the character standard mode is set by the initial setting means, the operation is controlled based on the control data of the standard mode set in advance, so that the character cultivation mode is omitted. Then, the operation can be controlled based on the control data of the general character.

According to the twenty-first aspect, when the character cultivation mode is set, the control data is updated to character data of a control level corresponding to the number of inputs from outside within a predetermined time, Since the operation is controlled based on the updated personality data, the personality changes depending on how much the user has contacted within a predetermined time, and the operation can be controlled based on the personality data according to the user's response method. Become.

According to the twenty-second aspect of the present invention, when the character cultivation mode is set, the control data is not updated every predetermined time, immature period, and the character of the control level according to the number of inputs from outside. Training period to update to data,
In order to set the cultivation completion time, the operation of which is controlled in accordance with the control level character data updated at the cultivation time, the immature time, the cultivation time,
After the completion of the training, the data can be updated to the personality data according to the number of times of contact and the contact method of the user.

According to the twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the personality data is updated according to the number of times of input of voice, bait, contact, etc. input during the breeding period, and the operation is controlled according to the updated personality data. Therefore, it is possible to update the personality data according to the number of times of contact and the contact method of the user.

According to the twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the personality data is updated at the breeding time in accordance with the voice instruction registered by the voice registration means, so that the voice of the voice-registered user is preferentially reacted. To update the personality data.

According to the twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the second parameter indicating the fullness is updated according to the number of times of input of the bait input during the raising period, and the second parameter indicating the fullness is updated according to the updated second parameter. Since the operation is controlled, it can be operated according to the number of times of input of the bait input during the breeding period, so that it is possible to breed with the same feeling as raising an actual pet, and enjoy the breeding period it can.

According to the twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the first parameter is changed according to the second parameter updated at the breeding time, so that the number of baits input by the user during the breeding time is changed. Since the period of the mood mode becomes longer or the period of the mood mode becomes longer by changing the first parameter, it is difficult to predict the operation pattern at that time, and it is interesting to perform an unexpected operation. Can be increased.

According to the twenty-seventh aspect, since the control level character data updated at the breeding time is stored in the memory, after the breeding time is over, the character data set at the breeding time is used. Since the personality data stored in the memory is preserved even when the battery is replaced, there is no need to repeat the training period.

According to the twenty-eighth aspect, at least a first control flag for performing an action faithful to the instruction content in response to an instruction input according to the emotion data, or an instruction in response to the input instruction The second that performs an action different from the content
Is set, and operation control is performed in accordance with the set flag. The operation can be performed based on the flag set in accordance with the emotion data updated during the breeding period. Yes, the character corresponding to the set flag can be selected.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of an electronic toy according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the electronic toy shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the electronic toy shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 1;

6 is a perspective view of the electronic toy shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the electronic toy 10 showing a rotation direction and a rotation angle of the legs 16 to 19;

FIG. 8 is a side view showing an operation state when the electronic toy 10 is in a sleeping posture A.

FIG. 9 is a side view showing an operation state when the electronic toy 10 is in a standing position B.

FIG. 10 is a side view showing an operation state when the electronic toy 10 is in the forward turning posture C.

11 is a front vertical sectional view showing the internal structure of the electronic toy 10. FIG.

FIG. 12 is a side longitudinal sectional view showing the internal structure of the electronic toy 10.

FIG. 13 is a plan vertical sectional view showing the internal structure of the electronic toy 10.

14 shows a red acrylic plate 7 incorporated in the display unit 20. FIG.
It is a front view which shows 1-74 individually.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing combinations of display patterns displayed by light emission on the display unit 20;

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of the electronic toy 10.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control unit 62.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a control process executed by CPU 80 of control unit 62.

FIG. 19 is a graph showing changes in pet biorhythm and communication biorhythm.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an operation performed in response to an operation input from each sensor in the mood mode and a method of controlling a facial expression.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an operation performed in response to an operation input from each sensor and a method of controlling a facial expression in a displeased mode.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an initial setting process.

23A and 23B are diagrams showing characteristics for each gender when personality data is set to male or female, where FIG. 23A shows a list of male and female characteristics, and FIG. 23B shows personality data set to male. FIG. 7C is a diagram showing the expression of the eyes when the character is set, and FIG.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a modification of the initial setting process.

FIG. 25 is a front view of an electronic toy according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

26 is a side view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a plan view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a rear view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the electronic toy shown in FIG. 25.

30 is a perspective view of the electronic toy shown in FIG.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a combination of the operation type of the electronic toy 90 and the operation positions of the legs 16 to 19, and FIG. 31A is a diagram showing a combination of the operation type and the operation positions of the legs 16 to 19; FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a rotation angle of each of the legs 16 to 19.

32 is a side view for explaining a standing operation of the electronic toy 90. FIG.

33 is a side view for explaining the sitting operation of the electronic toy 90. FIG.

FIG. 34 is a side view for explaining the manual operation of the electronic toy 90.

FIG. 35 is a side view for explaining the prone operation of the electronic toy 90.

36A and 36B are diagrams illustrating an example of a display pattern on the display unit, wherein FIG. 36A is a diagram illustrating a smile, and FIG. FIG. 3C is a diagram showing eyes, FIG. 3C is a diagram showing heart eyes, FIG. 3D is a diagram showing zigzag eyes, and FIG.

FIG. 37 is a diagram for explaining voice registration; FIG.
Is a diagram showing an example of registered words used for voice registration,
(B) is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of voice registration, (C) is a flowchart for explaining a voice registration failure example, and (D) is a flowchart for explaining a voice registration success example.

FIGS. 38A and 38B are diagrams for explaining an example of a condition for character formation, in which FIG. 38A shows a character feature, FIG. 38B shows an example of a character formation parameter MAP, and FIG. It is a figure showing an example of a condition.

39A and 39B are diagrams illustrating an example of a personality registration operation, wherein FIG. 39A is a diagram illustrating an example of an incorrect answer operation, and FIG. 39B is a diagram illustrating an example of a correct answer operation.

FIG. 40 is a graph showing the personality of the electronic toy 90 set in accordance with the change (increase) in the number of points of the loyalty dog parameter I and the performing dog parameter II registered in the personality formation parameter MAP102, and FIG. Graph showing loyalty dog setting mode, (B) is a graph showing performing dog setting mode, (C)
(D) is a graph showing a dog setting mode.

FIG. 41 is a diagram for explaining mood parameters;
(A) is a diagram showing the level of the mood parameter, (B) is a diagram showing the state of each level, (C) is a diagram showing a plus condition of the mood parameter, (D) is a diagram showing a minus condition of the mood parameter is there.

FIG. 42 is a diagram for explaining satiety parameters;
(A) is a diagram showing the level of the satiety parameter, (B) is a diagram showing the state of each level, (C) is a diagram showing a plus condition of the satiety parameter, and (D) is a diagram showing a minus condition of the satiety parameter. is there.

FIG. 43 is a graph showing an example of a change in a mood parameter.

44 is a diagram showing an example of a change value of the mood parameter corresponding to the value P _B of fullness parameters.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart of a main process executed by the control unit 62 of the electronic toy 90.

FIG. 46 is a flowchart of a main process executed after the process of FIG. 45.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Electronic toy 12 Head 14 Body 16-19 Leg 20 Display 22 Nose 24 Sound sensor 25 Optical sensor 26 Speaker 28 Body 30 Jaw 31 Mouth 32 Tail 36 Motor 38 Transmission mechanism 40 Drive gear 42 First Transmission gear 44 Second transmission gear 46 Third transmission gear 48 First cam gear 52 Fourth transmission gear 54 Second cam gear 56 Transmission path 58 Battery 59 Detection switch 62 Control unit 64 Substrate 71 to 74 Red acrylic plate 75 -79 Light emitting diode (LED) 80 CPU 82 ROM 82A Operation control program 82B Attitude control data 82C Voice control data 82D Display control data 82E Pet biorhythm data 82F Biorhythm correction data 84 RAM 84A Counter 84B Communication biorhythm data 86 Timer 90 electronic toys 91A, 91B select switch 102 character formation parameter MAP

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] June 9, 2000 (200.6.9)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] All figures

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG.

FIG. 4

FIG. 10

FIG. 2

FIG. 3

FIG. 5

FIG. 6

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 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Yuichi Aochi 1-4-4 Yanagisashi Building, Taito-ku, Tokyo Inside Sega Toys Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Eiji Takuma 1-4-4 Yanagisashi Building, Taito-ku, Tokyo F-term (reference) in SEGA TOYS CO., LTD.

Claims (28)

[Claims] 1. An electronic toy for controlling an arbitrary operation in response to an external input, a detecting means for detecting the external input, and counting the number of detection signals output from the detecting means. Counter means for storing information relating to a plurality of operation patterns for operating the electronic toy; parameter changing means for changing a value of a first parameter according to a predetermined time interval; and a detection signal from the detection means. Is output, information of an arbitrary operation pattern from a plurality of operation patterns stored in the storage unit based on the count value of the counter unit and the value of the first parameter set by the parameter changing unit. And control means for controlling the operation in accordance with the operation pattern selected by the selection means. Electronic toys characterized by comprising Te. 2. The electronic toy according to claim 1, wherein the parameter changing means alternately repeats the mood mode and the mood mode at a predetermined cycle based on a control parameter that changes over time. . 3. The electronic toy according to claim 1, wherein the parameter changing unit changes a cycle of the mood mode and / or the mood mode according to the number of times of detection by the detection unit. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the selecting unit selects information on a special operation pattern when a value indicating a change in the first parameter matches a count value of the counter unit. The electronic toy according to 1. 5. The detecting means includes: a voice detecting means for detecting an external voice; a contact detecting means for detecting an external contact; and a light detecting means for detecting a change in ambient light intensity. The electronic toy according to claim 1, wherein: 6. The counter means includes: first counter means for counting the number of detections by the sound detection means; second counter means for counting the number of detections by the contact detection means; and detection of the light detection means. The electronic toy according to claim 1, further comprising: third counter means for counting the number of times. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the selecting unit selects information on a special operation pattern when a value indicating a change in the first parameter matches a count value of the first to third counter units. The electronic toy according to claim 1, wherein the electronic toy is characterized in that: 8. A first storage unit for storing data of a plurality of posture operation patterns for changing a posture, and a second storage unit for storing data of a plurality of voice patterns for changing a sound. The electronic toy according to claim 1, further comprising: a third storage unit that stores data of a plurality of facial expression patterns that change facial expressions. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the selection unit selects a combination of the posture operation pattern, the voice pattern, and the expression pattern stored in the storage unit based on the first parameter and a count value of the counter unit. 9. The electronic toy according to claim 1, wherein: 10. The electronic toy according to claim 8, wherein the expression pattern includes at least an operation pattern for changing the size or shape of the eyes. 11. A first step of counting the number of detection signals output from a detection means for detecting an external input, and a second step of changing a value of a first parameter according to a predetermined time interval. And selecting an arbitrary operation pattern from a plurality of operation patterns based on the number of detection signals and the value of a first parameter set by the parameter changing unit when a detection signal is output from the detection unit. And a fourth step of performing control so as to operate in the selected operation pattern. An electronic toy control method comprising: 12. A first control program for counting the number of detection signals output from a detection means for detecting an external input, and a second control program for changing a value of a first parameter according to a predetermined time interval. A control program, when a detection signal is output from the detection unit, an arbitrary operation pattern from a plurality of operation patterns based on the number of detection signals and a value of a first parameter set by the parameter changing unit A computer-readable storage medium storing: a third control program for selecting a control program; and a fourth control program for performing control so as to operate according to the selected operation pattern. 13. An electronic toy for controlling so as to perform an arbitrary operation in response to an external input, a head in which a driving motor and a transmission mechanism for transmitting a rotational driving force of the driving motor are housed; A display unit provided on the front of the unit for displaying the shape of eyes; a first detection unit provided on the top surface of the head for detecting pressing; a second detection unit for detecting voice; Third detection means for detecting ambient light intensity; a body housing a cam mechanism for transmitting the rotational driving force of the drive motor via the transmission mechanism; and a leg driven by the cam mechanism. A jaw driven by the transmission mechanism; an ear driven by the transmission mechanism; a storage unit configured to store respective operation patterns of the leg, the jaw, and the ear; Output the detection signal from the detection means A control unit that selects an arbitrary operation pattern from a plurality of operation patterns stored in the storage unit according to the control unit, and controls a display pattern of the drive motor and the display unit according to the selected operation pattern. An electronic toy comprising: 14. An electronic toy for controlling to perform an arbitrary operation in response to an external input, wherein: an initial setting means for setting an initial setting mode until a predetermined time elapses after power-on; Detecting means for detecting the input of a counter; a counter for counting the number of detections detected by the detecting means while the initial setting mode is set by the initial setting means; and an individual difference according to the count value of the counter. An electronic toy comprising: an individual difference setting means for setting; 15. An electronic toy for controlling to perform an arbitrary operation in response to an external input, comprising: an initial setting means for setting an initial setting mode until a predetermined time elapses after power-on; A plurality of detecting means for detecting an input of the plurality of counters, a plurality of counters for counting the number of detections detected by the plurality of detecting means while the initial setting mode is set by the initial setting means, An electronic toy comprising: an individual difference setting unit configured to set an individual difference according to a detection unit having the largest number of detections among the count values. 16. The electronic toy according to claim 14, wherein said individual difference setting means sets the individual difference according to whether the count value of said counter is even or odd. 17. The personal difference setting means sets a gender according to the count value of the counter, and changes at least one of an eye expression, a voice, and a motion corresponding to the set gender. The electronic toy according to claim 14, wherein 18. An electronic toy for controlling to perform an arbitrary operation in response to an external input, wherein when a battery is installed, a voice registering means for registering a voice input from the outside, and a voice registered by the voice registering means. Control means for performing an operation control in accordance with a voice instruction. 19. An electronic toy which controls to perform an arbitrary operation in response to an external input, selects a character standard mode for operating with a standard character or a character cultivation mode for developing a character when a battery is installed. A selection switch; initial setting means for setting the personality standard mode or personality development mode in accordance with operation of the selection switch; and control means for operating in the personality standard mode or the personality development mode set by the initial setting means. An electronic toy comprising: 20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein when the personality standard mode is set by the initial setting means, the control means controls the operation based on control data of the standard mode set in advance. Electronic toys. 21. The control means, when the personality development mode is set by the initial setting means, updates the control data to emotion data of a control level corresponding to the number of inputs from outside within a predetermined time. 20. The electronic toy according to claim 19, wherein the operation is controlled based on the updated emotion data. 22. When the personality development mode is set by the initial setting means, the control means controls the control level according to the immature period when the control data is not updated every predetermined time and the number of inputs from outside. 20. The electronic toy according to claim 19, further comprising: setting a breeding time to be updated to the emotion data, and a cultivation completion time to be operated and controlled according to the emotion data of the control level updated at the cultivating time. 23. The control means updates the emotion data according to the number of times of input of voice, bait, contact, and the like input during the raising period, and controls the operation according to the updated emotion data. The electronic toy according to claim 22, characterized in that: 24. The control device according to claim 23, wherein the control unit updates the emotion data at the cultivation period in accordance with a voice instruction registered by the voice registration unit.
Electronic toys as described. 25. The control means updates a second parameter indicating the degree of fullness in accordance with the number of times of input of bait input during the raising period, and controls the operation in accordance with the updated second parameter. The electronic toy according to claim 23, wherein: 26. The electronic toy according to claim 23, wherein the control unit changes the first parameter according to the second parameter updated at the time of the raising. 27. The electronic toy according to claim 23, wherein said control means stores emotion data of said control level updated at said raising time in a memory. 28. A first control flag for performing an action faithful to the input instruction at least according to the emotion data, or an instruction content for the input instruction. 24. The electronic toy according to claim 23, wherein any one of the second control flags for performing an action different from the above is set, and operation control is performed according to the set flag.