JP2007200110A - Image processing device, image processing method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a rendering processing load from increasing, and to express a shadow with reality in displaying a shadow of a desired object. <P>SOLUTION: A first position coordinate calculation part 3401a calculates position coordinates of each heel of a dancer 802 in selecting a "dance presentation pattern". A second position coordinate calculation part 3401b calculates a plurality of position coordinates on a stage 801 which are determined by each of the plurality of position coordinates calculated by the first position coordinate calculation part 3401a. Based on the plurality of the position coordinates calculated by the second position coordinate calculation part 3401b and the distance L between the heel of the dancer 802 and the stage 801, a quadrangular region 1007 is determined on the stage 801, and a region 1008 surrounded by a continuous closed curve that falls within the quadrangular region 1007 is determined as a region where a shadow 803 of the dancer 802 is displayed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for image presentation applicable to a gaming machine such as a slot machine.

  In a gaming machine such as a slot machine in recent years, an image effect in which an object of a 3D image composed of a plurality of polygons is arranged in a virtual 3D space is performed, and an effect that is more realistic than a 2D image. It tends to be used (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Such a three-dimensional image is calculated in real time by the image processing apparatus and displayed on the display screen.

JP 2001-112985 A

  When moving a character object on a background object in a virtual three-dimensional space, the shadow of the character may be displayed.

  For example, a method of displaying a predetermined black circular image as a shadow at the foot of a character is known. However, with this method, the shadow becomes monotonous and it is difficult to express a realistic shadow.

  Also, a method is known in which an object identical to a character object is generated, changed to a shape viewed in plan after being made black, and displayed as a shadow on the character's feet. However, with this method, the shadow moves with the movement of each part of the character, so that a realistic shadow can be expressed, but the processing to generate the same object as the character object and the shape in plan view of it Since the process to change is needed, the load of a drawing process will become high.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to avoid a high drawing processing load when displaying a shadow of a desired object and to express a realistic shadow.

  An image processing apparatus according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus that performs image processing for displaying a moving image in real time, and includes a plurality of references for a second object that operates on a first object in a virtual three-dimensional space. Area determining means for determining an area on the first object based on the position of the part, and the second object operating on the first object are displayed and the area determined by the area determining means And a display control means for displaying a shadow of the second object. Thereby, a shadow with reality can be expressed by changing the shadow according to the movement of the plurality of reference parts of the second object. In addition, a process for generating the same object as the second object, a process for changing the object to a shape in plan view, and the like are unnecessary, and an increase in the load of the drawing process can be avoided.

  According to another feature of the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the region determination means further includes the first object based on a distance between a reference portion of the second object and the first object. The point is to determine the upper area. As a result, the shadow can be changed between when the reference part of the second object is in contact with the first object and when the reference part is away from the first object, thereby expressing a more realistic shadow. .

  According to another feature of the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the area determination unit includes a first position coordinate calculation unit that calculates a position coordinate of each reference part of the second object, and the first 2nd position coordinate calculation means for calculating a plurality of position coordinates on the first object determined by each of the plurality of position coordinates calculated by the position coordinate calculation means, and calculated by the second position coordinate calculation means The area on the first object is determined based on the plurality of position coordinates. Thereby, the area | region on a 1st object can be determined based on the position of the some reference | standard site | part of the 2nd object which operate | moves on a 1st object.

  According to another feature of the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the area determination unit includes a first position coordinate calculation unit that calculates a position coordinate of each reference part of the second object, and the first 2nd position coordinate calculation means for calculating a plurality of position coordinates on the first object determined by each of the plurality of position coordinates calculated by the position coordinate calculation means, and calculated by the second position coordinate calculation means Based on the plurality of position coordinates and the distance between the reference portion of the second object and the first object, a rectangular region is determined on the first object, and a continuous closed curve that fits within the rectangular region The area surrounded by is to determine the area to display the shadow. As a result, it is possible to display a shadow with an outline of a continuous closed curve, and in addition to the movement of the plurality of reference portions of the second object, the reference portion of the second object is in contact with the first object. A shadow with more reality can be expressed by changing the shadow between the case and the case of being away from the first object.

  According to another feature of the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the second position coordinate calculation unit is configured such that when the reference portion of the second object is in contact with the first object, When the position coordinate of the reference part calculated by the position coordinate calculation means is the position coordinate on the first object as it is, or the reference part of the second object is away from the first object, By calculating the position coordinate of the intersection of the first object and the perpendicular to the first object passing through the position coordinate of the reference part calculated by the first position coordinate calculation means, It is at the point to be the position coordinate Thereby, the position coordinate on the first object can be determined by the position coordinate of each reference part of the second object.

  Another feature of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is that a shadow displayed in an area on the first object according to a distance between a reference portion of the second object and the first object. Further, there is provided a shadow density determining means for changing the density. As a result, for example, when the reference portion of the second object is away from the first object, the shadow density can be reduced to express a more realistic shadow.

  Another feature of the image processing apparatus of the present invention is that the second object has two reference parts, and the second object is an object of a biped character, The two reference points are at the points of the heels of both feet of the character. Thereby, when performing the image effect which a character moves, a shadow can be changed according to the motion and a realistic image effect can be performed.

  According to the present invention, when displaying the shadow of the second object on the first object, it is possible to avoid an increase in the load of the drawing process and to express a realistic shadow.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an appearance of a slot machine (game machine) according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, “game” refers to a series of operations from the insertion of a medal to the operation of a stop switch before the next medal is inserted.

(Slot machine 10)
A front panel 20 is provided on the front surface of the housing of the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, and a transparent display window 21 is provided on the front panel 20. On the other hand, three reels (rotating drums) are arranged inside the housing and behind the display window 21. A left reel 31L, a middle reel 31C, and a right reel 31R are arranged from the left as viewed from the player. The reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are ring-shaped bodies, and a reel tape on which a plurality of winning symbols (designs constituting a winning combination) are printed is affixed to the outer peripheral surface thereof. For example, 21 types of symbols are arranged at equal intervals on one reel. However, the arrangement of symbols differs for each reel. From the inside of the display window 21, three symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R can be seen.

  A stepping motor (not shown) is connected to the center of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R, and the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are rotated by driving the stepping motor. Therefore, from the standpoint of the player, the symbols of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R appear to move up and down within the display window 21. Further, a back lamp (not shown) is provided inside the reels 31L, 31C and 31R. Three back lamps are arranged for each reel, and are arranged inside the reels 31L, 31C and 31R so as to correspond to each of nine symbols in total that can be seen from the display window 21 when the reels are stopped. ing. The reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are made of a light-transmitting material, and are configured so that the symbols attached to the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are illuminated when the back lamp is turned on.

  In a portion including the display window 21 of the front panel 20, an effective line group 22 including effective lines 22a, 22b, and 22c is set. The effective line group 22 includes a horizontal effective line 22a in the horizontal direction, two effective lines 22b in the upper and lower horizontal directions, and two effective lines 22c in the diagonally downward and leftward directions. ing. The symbols attached to the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are spaced so that all nine symbols visible from the display window 21 are positioned on these effective line groups 22 when the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are stopped. Is arranged in.

  A medal insertion slot 23 is provided on the lower right side of the front panel 20, and when a player inserts a medal from here, one of the effective lines 22a, 22b and 22c, or one of the effective lines 22a, 22b, and 22c. Three lines are activated, and the effective line lamp 24 is lit. When the number of inserted medals is one, one effective line 22a is effective. When two medals are inserted, three horizontal effective lines 22a and 22b are effective. In total, the five effective lines 22a to 22c including the two effective lines 22c become effective. This control is performed by a main CPU 51 (see FIG. 2) described later. For example, when three medals are inserted, if a combination of specific symbols is stopped on at least one effective line 22a to 22c when the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are stopped, the combination depends on the combination. I won the winning role.

  Further, a credit number display unit 25, a game number display unit 26 and a payout number display unit 27 are provided below the display window 21 of the front panel 20. The number of credited medals is displayed on the credit number display unit 25. The number-of-games display section 26 displays the number of remaining predetermined games and the number of games already played in special games and the like. The number-of-payout display unit 27 displays the number of medals when the medals are paid out.

  On the upper side of the display window 21 of the front panel 20, an effect display device 40 such as a liquid crystal display panel for displaying a color image is provided so as to be visible to the player. The effect display device 40 displays various images when performing an effect during the game. In addition, various operation switches that are operated by the player to advance the game are provided on the front surface of the housing. For example, in this embodiment, a start switch 41, a stop switch group 42, and a bet switch group 43 are provided. Furthermore, speakers 71 are provided on the left and right of the effect display device 40 and on the lower part of the front panel 20 (near the medal payout opening).

  The start switch 41 is a switch, for example, a lever, that is operated by the player when starting the rotation of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R. The stop switch group 42 includes a left stop switch 42L that is operated when stopping the left reel 31L, a middle stop switch 42C that is operated when stopping the middle reel 31C, and a right stop that is operated when stopping the right reel 31R. Switch 42R. These stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R are juxtaposed as buttons, for example. The bet switch group 43 is a switch group for designating the number of bets (the number of bets) when a player inserts a medal in a credit. The bet switch group 43 includes a 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a and a MAX bet switch (3-bet switch) 43b. It is configured. These bet switches 43a and 43b are also arranged as buttons, for example. Each time the 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a is operated, the bet number is switched between 1 and 2, and when the MAX bet switch 43b is operated, the bet number becomes 3. Above the bet switches 43a and 43b, a credit number display unit 28 is provided, and in response to an operation of the bet switches 43a and 43b or insertion of medals from the medal insertion slot 23, the credit number display unit 28 displays a medal. The number of inserted sheets is displayed.

  As will be described in detail later, in the normal game, when the player inserts a medal from the medal insertion slot 23 or operates the bet switch group 43, the effective lines 22a to 22c are activated according to the number of bets. Further, when the player operates the start switch 41, a lottery for a combination is performed and the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R start to rotate. When the player operates the stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R, the rotation of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R stops according to the operated button, and a combination of symbols arranged on the activated effective line is displayed. When it matches with a predetermined combination of symbols of a combination, a prize is awarded, and medals are paid out according to the winning combination. However, when the rotation of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R is stopped, control based on the lottery result of the winning combination is performed.

  Further, during the game (game), various effects such as lighting of the back lamp, image display using the effect display device 40, output of sound from the speaker 71, and the like are performed. Further, as such an effect, a notification effect of the possibility of winning a role may be performed.

  Next, a system configuration such as an internal configuration of the slot machine 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of the slot machine 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Inside the casing of the slot machine 10, a main control board 50, a sub control board 60, a reel board 11, a central display board 12, and a power supply board 13 connected to the main control board 50 are arranged.

(Main control board 50)
The main control board 50 is provided with a main CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 54, which are connected to each other via a bus 55.

  The main CPU 51 reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. The main CPU 51 reads out programs, data, and the like stored in the ROM 52, and controls the entire slot machine 10 based on these.

  The ROM 52 stores a program, data, and the like necessary for processing shown in FIG. 6 described later and other game controls in the main CPU 51. The RAM 53 is used when the main CPU 51 performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The I / F circuit 54 performs timing control and the like when signals are transmitted and received between the main control board 50, the sub control board 60, the reel board 11, the central display board 12, and the power supply board 13. . However, transmission of signals from the main control board 50 to the sub control board 60 is performed between the main control board 50 and the sub control board 60, but transmission of signals from the sub control board 60 to the main control board 50 is not performed. Not done.

(Sub-control board 60)
The sub control board 60 is provided with a sub CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, image control processor 64, image data ROM 65, video RAM 66, tone generator circuit 67, amplifier 68 and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 69. The sub CPU 61, ROM 62, control RAM 63, image control processor 64, tone generator circuit 67 and I / F circuit 69 are connected to each other via a bus 70. The image data ROM 65 and the video RAM 66 are connected to an image control processor 64, and the amplifier 68 is connected to a sound source circuit 67.

  The sub CPU 61 reads (fetches), interprets (decodes) and executes instructions constituting the program. Then, the sub CPU 61 reads a program, data, and the like stored in the ROM 62, and controls the sub control board 60 as a whole, particularly controls the effects for the player. Note that there are no restrictions on the processing capability or development language of the sub CPU 61.

  The ROM 62 stores a program, data, and the like necessary for the processing shown in FIG. 7 to be described later and other effects during the game. The RAM 63 is used when the sub CPU 61 performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The sub CPU 61, ROM 62, and RAM 63 have the same functions as the main CPU 51, ROM 52, and RAM 53 provided on the main control board 50, respectively. The ROM 62 and the RAM 63 may be the same as the ROM 52 and the RAM 53, respectively, but those having a capacity larger than these may be used.

  The effect display device 40 described above is connected to an image control processor 64. The image data ROM 65 stores image data such as characters, characters, and backgrounds displayed on the effect display device 40. The video RAM 66 is used when the image control processor 64 creates an image to be displayed on the effect display device 40, and image data to be displayed is developed in the video RAM 66 based on data read from the image data ROM 65. .

  Further, in the present embodiment, a speaker 71, the above-described back lamp, and the like are provided in addition to the effect display device 40 as effect peripheral devices. The speaker 71 is connected to the amplifier 68. These effect peripheral devices output effects during the game (such as a notification effect of the possibility of winning a role), and are connected only to the sub-control board 60 and connected to the main control board 50. Not.

  The I / F circuit 69 performs timing control and the like when receiving a signal from the main control board 50. As described above, the signal is transmitted from the main control board 50 to the sub control board 60, but the signal is not transmitted from the sub control board 60 to the main control board 50. That is, only one-way transmission is possible.

(Reel board 11)
A stepping motor (not shown) for driving the left reel 31L, the middle reel 31C, and the right reel 31R is connected to the reel substrate 11. Control of the operations of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R is performed by the main CPU 51 through the reel substrate 11.

(Central display board 12)
The central display substrate 12 is attached to, for example, a central portion on the back side of the front panel 20. The central display board 12 includes a selector 81, a 1-bet / 2-bet switch 43a, a MAX bet switch (3-bet switch) 43b, a start switch (lever) 41, a left stop switch (button) 42L, and a middle stop switch (button) 42C. A right stop switch (button) 42R, a setting display section 82, and a setting change switch 83 are connected.

  The selector 81 identifies whether or not the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 23 is a regular one, and removes an illegal medal. The setting display unit 82 is arranged so as to be visible from the back side of the front panel 20, and displays settings relating to probability and payout (for example, settings 1 to 6). The setting change switch 83 is a switch operated when changing the setting related to the probability and the payout.

(Power supply board 13)
A setting change enabling switch 91, a power switch 92, a hopper device 93, and a power device 94 are connected to the power device board 13. The setting change enable switch 91 is a switch that is operated when a setting change using the setting change switch 83 is enabled. That is, the setting change using the setting change switch 83 can be performed only when the setting change enable switch 91 is in the ON state. The power switch 92 is a switch for switching the power supply device 94 on / off. The hopper device 93 is a device for storing and paying out medals, and pays out a predetermined number of medals from the stored medals to the player based on an instruction from the main CPU 51 via the power supply device board 13. .

  Next, a functional configuration of the main control board 50 will be described. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the main control board 50. In the present embodiment, for example, the following units 101, 103, 106, 107, 108, and 109 are configured from programs recorded in the main CPU 51 and the ROM 52. For example, the following flag information storage unit 105 is provided in the RAM 53. For example, the following lottery table 102 data is stored in the ROM 52.

(Role lottery section 103)
The role lottery unit 103 draws a role (special role, small role, replay, etc.). Here, the special combination is a combination that is a game different from the normal game and is shifted to a plurality of special games advantageous to the player. A small combination is a combination in which a number of medals are paid out to a player according to the type of the small combination. Replay is a role that gives a player the right to replay while maintaining the number of medals inserted in the previous game.

  Further, the role lottery unit 103 obtains one random number after generating a random number internally for each game, refers to the lottery table 102 stored in the ROM 52, and based on the area to which the obtained random number belongs, The presence / absence of a winning combination and the winning combination are determined.

  That is, the role lottery unit 103 generates random numbers in a predetermined area (0 to 65535 in decimal notation), for example, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, when the start switch 41 is operated, Get the numeric value. In the lottery table 102, a special role winning area, a small role winning area, a replay winning area, a non-winning (losing) area, and the like are set at a predetermined ratio with respect to random numbers that can be acquired by the role lottery unit 103. ing.

  Then, the combination lottery unit 103 compares the acquired random number value with the lottery table 102 to determine an area to which the random value belongs, and determines a combination corresponding to the area to which the random value belongs. For example, when the extracted random number value belongs to the special combination winning area, it is determined that the special combination is won, and when it belongs to the non-winning area, it is determined to be lost. If any combination is won, the flag for the combination is turned on.

(Control unit 101)
The control unit 101 controls the operation timing of the combination lottery unit 103, a reel control unit 106 and a winning determination unit 107, which will be described later. For example, on the condition that the start switch 41 is operated, the control unit 101 causes the combination lottery unit 103 to perform combination lottery, causes the reel control unit 106 to start the rotation of the reel group 31, and the stop switch. The reel control unit 106 performs stop control of the reel group 31 on the condition that the group 42 has been operated, and further causes the winning determination unit 107 to perform a prize determination on the condition that the reel group 31 has stopped. The operation of the control unit 101 is not limited to these.

(Flag information storage unit 105)
The flag information storage unit 105 stores the type of the winning combination and the fact that the flag is turned on when a flag for any combination is turned on by the lottery result of the combination lottery unit 103.

(Reel control unit 106)
The reel control unit 106 controls rotation and stop of the reel group 31 (reels 31L, 31C, and 31R) based on an instruction from the control unit 101. More specifically, the reel control unit 106 has a gaming state (for example, a normal gaming state, a special gaming state, etc.), a result of lottery by the combination lottery unit 103, and a stop switch group 42 (stop switches 42L, 42C and 42R). Based on the operated timing or the like, the stop positions of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R are determined and the driving of the stepping motor is controlled to stop the rotation of the reels 31L, 31C and 31R at the determined positions.

  For example, as a result of the lottery by the part lottery unit 103, when no part is won, the reels 31L, 31C, and 31C, so as not to stop the combination of symbols of any part on the active line that is valid A stop position of 31R is determined. On the other hand, when any combination is won, the stop positions of the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are determined so that the combination of symbols of the winning combination is stopped on the activated effective line.

  In particular, when the special combination is won in the game, the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R are within the range of stop control so that the combination of the special combination symbols is stopped on the activated active line ( For example, within 4 symbols), pull-in control is performed so that the symbols related to special roles are aligned as much as possible. However, even if the special combination is won, when the small combination or replay is selected, the reels 31L, 31C, and 31C, so that the combination of the special combination symbols does not stop on the activated active line. A stop position of 31R is determined. Such control when stopping the reels 31L, 31C and 31R may be performed using a reel control table.

(Winning determination unit 107)
The winning determination unit 107 determines whether or not a combination of symbols in the effective line group 22 is arranged in any of the active lines that are active, and if there is an in-line combination, It is determined that the winning combination has been won. At this time, the winning determination unit 106 determines, for example, a symbol positioned on the effective line by detecting an angle, the number of steps, or the like when the stepping motor is stopped, and based on this, determines whether or not a winning combination has been won. . When a table is used for control when stopping the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R, the winning determination unit 107 does not determine the combination of symbols after the reels 31L, 31C, and 31R actually stop. Instead, when the stop position of the reel group 31 is determined by the reel control unit 106 using a table, the combination of symbols that stop on the effective line may be determined.

(Special game control unit 108)
As a result of the determination by the winning determination unit 107, the special game control unit 108 controls the special game from the next game until a predetermined end condition is satisfied. For example, the special game control unit 108 causes the reel control unit 106 to perform reel control for special games according to the lottery result of the role lottery unit 103 during the special game, or causes the sub control board 60 to perform special game effects. Or let it be done.

(Payout control unit 109)
The payout control unit 109 causes the hopper device 93 to pay out medals corresponding to the winning combination as a result of the determination by the winning determination unit 107.

  Next, a functional configuration of the sub control board 60 will be described. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the sub control board 60. In the present embodiment, for example, the effect pattern selection unit 201 is configured from programs recorded in the sub CPU 61 and the ROM 62, and the programs recorded in the sub CPU 61 and the ROM 62, and the image control processor 64 and the image data ROM 64. The effect control unit 202 is composed of a program recorded in the program.

(Production pattern selection unit 201)
The effect pattern selection unit 201 selects an effect pattern according to the gaming state. Specifically, the effect pattern selection unit 201 receives a signal from the role lottery unit 103 of the main control board 50 and selects an effect pattern according to the winning combination or the like, or a winning determination unit 107 of the main control board 50. Further, in response to a signal from the special role game control unit 108, an effect pattern corresponding to a winning combination or a gaming state is selected.

(Production control unit 202)
The effect control unit 202 controls the effect based on the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection unit 201. That is, the effect control unit 202 creates virtual three-dimensional image data based on the effect pattern and displays the virtual three-dimensional image data on the effect display device 40. In addition, the effect control unit 202 controls the sound source circuit 67 so that a sound signal is generated by the sound source circuit 67, amplified by the amplifier 68, and then output from the speaker 71.

  Next, the configuration of the effect control unit 202 will be described in detail. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing a detailed functional configuration of the effect control unit 202.

  The effect control unit 202 includes an image control unit 301, a sound control unit 302, an image data generation unit 304, an object information storage unit 305, and a display control unit 306. Further, the image data generation unit 304 includes an area determination unit 3401 and a shadow density determination unit 3402 having a first position coordinate calculation unit 3401a and a second position coordinate calculation unit 3401b as functional configurations.

(Image control unit 301)
The image control unit 301 instructs the image data generation unit 304 to generate image data corresponding to the production pattern selected by the production pattern selection unit 201.

(Sound controller 302)
The sound control unit 302 controls the sound source circuit 67 so as to generate a sound corresponding to the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection unit 201.

(Image data generation unit 304)
The image data generation unit 304 reads necessary information from the object information storage unit 305 in response to an instruction from the image control unit 301 and generates three-dimensional image data. In the present embodiment, when the “dance effect pattern” is selected by the effect pattern selection unit 201 and the image control unit 301 instructs to generate image data corresponding to the effect pattern, FIG. , (B) generates three-dimensional image data in which a dancer object 802 (hereinafter simply referred to as “dancer 802”) dances on a stage object 801 (hereinafter simply referred to as “stage 801”). To do. In this case, the shadow 803 of the dancer 802 is displayed on the stage 801.

(Area determination unit 3401)
The area determination unit 3401 determines an area for displaying the shadow 803 of the dancer 802 on the stage 801 based on the position of the heel of both feet of the dancer 802.

First, the first position coordinate calculation unit 3401a sequentially calculates the position coordinates (x ₁ , y ₁ , z ₁ ) and (x ₂ , y ₂ , z ₂ ) of the heels of both feet of the dancer 802.

Next, the second position coordinate calculation unit 3401b uses the position coordinates (x ₁ , y ₁ , z ₁ ) and (x ₂ , y ₂ , z ₂ ) calculated by the first position coordinate calculation unit 3401a, respectively. The position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) and (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) of two points on the determined stage 801 are sequentially calculated. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, when the wing of the dancer 802 is in contact with the stage 801, the position coordinates (x, y, ，) of the heel calculated by the first position coordinate calculation unit 3401a are used. Let z) be the position coordinates (X, Y, Z) on the stage 801 as they are. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 9B, when the heel of the dancer 802 is away from the stage 801, the position coordinates (x, y, z) of the heel calculated by the first position coordinate calculation unit 3401a. ), The position coordinate of the intersection of the perpendicular line 901 with respect to the stage 801 and the stage 801 is calculated and set as the position coordinate (X, Y, Z) on the stage 801.

Subsequently, the area determination unit 3401 includes the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ), (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) calculated by the second position coordinate calculation unit 3401b, and the dancer 802. A square area is determined on the stage 801 based on the distance L between the bag and the stage 801 (see FIG. 9B). Then, the area surrounded by the continuous closed curve that falls within the rectangular area is determined as the area for displaying the shadow 803.

More specifically, when the heels of both feet of the dancer 802 are in contact with the stage 801, as shown in FIG. 10A, the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) of two points on the stage 801, Consider a straight line 1001 passing through (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ). Then, the position coordinates 1002a of the position that is located on the straight line 1001 and that is separated from each position coordinate (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ), (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) by the distance L _{1 in the} opposite directions. , 1002b.

Consider straight lines 1003 and 1004 that pass through the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) and (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) and are orthogonal to the straight line 1001. Then, position coordinates 1005a and 1005b at positions located on the straight line 1003 and separated from the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) by the distance L ₂ are obtained. Similarly, position coordinates 1006a and 1006b of a position located on the straight line 1004 and separated from the position coordinates (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) by the distance L ₂ are obtained.

  As a result, six position coordinates 1002a, 1002b, 1005a, 1005b, 1006a, and 1006b are obtained, and the rectangular area 1007 is determined by these position coordinates 1002a, 1002b, 1005a, 1005b, 1006a, and 1006b. Here, a pair of opposite sides that are orthogonal to the straight line 1001 through the position coordinates 1002a and 1002b are determined, and further, a side that passes through the position coordinates 1005a and 1006a and a side that passes through the position coordinates 1005b and 1006b are determined. To decide. In this case, the quadrangular area 1007 is rectangular or square. Then, as shown in FIG. 10B, a region 1008 surrounded by an ellipse or circle inscribed in a rectangle or square is determined as a region for displaying the shadow 803 of the dancer 802.

Here, for example, it is assumed that the heel of one foot of the dancer 802 is separated from the stage 801. Also in this case, as shown in FIG. 10C, it is the same to consider straight lines 1001, 1003, and 1004, but the heel side away from the stage 801 (in the illustrated example, the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) In the side), the distances L ₁ and L ₂ are shortened. The distances L ₁ and L ₂ are set to be shorter in proportion to, for example, the distance L between the heel and the stage 801 (see FIG. 9B) becomes longer.

  As a result, six position coordinates 1002a, 1002b, 1005a, 1005b, 1006a, and 1006b are obtained, and the rectangular area 1007 is determined by these position coordinates 1002a, 1002b, 1005a, 1005b, 1006a, and 1006b. Again, a pair of opposite sides that are orthogonal to the straight line 1001 through the position coordinates 1002a and 1002b are determined, and further, a side that passes through the position coordinates 1005a and 1006a and a side that passes through the position coordinates 1005b and 1006b are determined. To decide. In this case, the rectangular area 1007 is a trapezoid. Then, as shown in FIG. 10D, a continuous closed curve 1008 that is in contact with the middle point of each side is determined using an appropriate curve function, and an area 1008 surrounded by the continuous closed curve 1008 is defined as a shadow 803 of the dancer 802. Determine the area to be displayed. The same applies to the case where the heels of both feet are separated from the stage 801.

(Shadow density determination unit 3402)
The shadow density determination unit 3402 determines the density of the shadow 803 of the dancer 802 displayed in the region 1008 determined by the region determination unit 3401. When the heels of both feet of the dancer 802 are in contact with the stage 801, the density of the shadow 803 is made constant.

  On the other hand, when the heel of one foot or the heel of both feet of the dancer 802 is separated from the stage 801, for example, the distance L between the heel and the stage 801 on the heel side away from the stage 801 (see FIG. 9B). The density of the shadow 803 becomes lighter in proportion to the increase in the time).

  When the density of the shadow 803 is made different between the left and right feet of the dancer 802, the density may be changed by dividing the region 1008 into left and right, but a more realistic shadow can be expressed by gradation.

(Object information storage unit 305)
The object information storage unit 303 is an operation, position information (including position information of the object group) and attribute information (moving object, object group) of each object in the virtual three-dimensional space generated by the image data generation unit 304. In addition, information on the viewpoint and light source for the three-dimensional space, background image information, and the like are stored.

(Display control unit 306)
The display control unit 306 controls the image data generated by the image data generation unit 304 to be displayed on the effect display device 40.

  Next, the operation of the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment configured as described above will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing control by the main control board 50, and FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing control by the sub control board 60.

  In FIG. 6, when a player inserts a medal and the start switch 41 is operated, the control unit 101 detects that the start switch 41 is turned on, and the combination lottery unit 103 performs a combination lottery process. (Step S101 / YES, Step S102). On the other hand, when the start switch 41 is not operated by the player and the control unit 101 cannot detect that the start switch 41 is turned on, the process proceeds to step S101 until it is detected that the start switch 41 is turned on. Repeat the process.

  In the combination lottery process in step S102, the combination lottery unit 103 acquires a random number and performs a combination lottery process by comparing the acquired random number with the lottery table. As a result of the lottery, if any combination is won, the flag of the combination is turned on in the flag information storage unit 105. The lottery result by the combination lottery unit 103 is transmitted as winning combination information to the sub-control board 60 via the I / F circuit 54 (step S103).

  The reel control unit 106 determines whether any one of the stop switch groups 42 has been operated (step S104). When any one of the stop switches is operated (step S104 / YES), reel control is performed so that the winning combination can be won, and the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operated stop switch is stopped (step S104). S105). If no winning combination has been won in the winning lottery process in step S102 (if the winning combination has been won), the reel control unit 106 corresponds to the case where no winning combination has been won in step S105. Reel control is performed.

  Subsequently, the reel control unit 106 determines whether all the stop switches are operated and all the reels are stopped (step S106). When all the reels have not stopped yet (step S106 / NO), the processing from the detection processing of presence / absence of the stop switch operation in step S104 is repeated.

  When all the reels stop (step S106 / YES), the winning determination unit 107 determines the presence or absence of winning based on the combination of symbols arranged on the activated effective line (step S107). As a result, if there is any winning (step S107 / YES), a winning process corresponding to the winning combination is executed (step S108). That is, when the winning combination is a special combination, the special combination special game control unit 108 performs a transition process for executing the special game from the next game until the predetermined end condition is satisfied. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S107 that there is no winning (step S107 / NO), the process returns to step S101. Subsequently, during the special role game, the special game control unit 108 provides the reel control unit 106 with a reel in the special game so as to provide the player with a game state corresponding to the big bonus game or the regular bonus game as the special role. Control is performed, or the sub control board 60 is caused to perform special games. When the specified number of games of the big bonus game or the regular bonus game is finished, a process of shifting to the normal game is performed.

  If the winning combination is not a special combination, if the flag of the special combination is stored in the on state in the flag information storage unit 105, the storage state of the flag in the flag information storage unit 105 is carried over to the next game.

  When the winning combination is replay, the winning determination unit 107 causes the control unit 101 to carry a bet (the number of bets) on the game to the next game. On the other hand, when the winning combination is neither a special combination nor a replay, the payout control unit 109 causes the hopper device 93 to pay out the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination.

  Next, the operation of the sub control board 60 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, only the effect control operation when the “dance effect pattern” is selected by the effect pattern selection unit 201 will be described, but the sub-control board 60 of the present embodiment can execute a basic control operation for the effect. Of course.

  First, when the production pattern selection unit 201 selects “dance production pattern” (step S201 / YES), the image control unit 301 instructs the image data generation unit 304 to produce the “dance production pattern”. (Step S202).

  The image data generation unit 304 that has received an instruction to perform the “dance performance pattern” provides information on the viewpoint and light source for the three-dimensional space, in addition to the operation, position information, and attribute information of each object from the object information storage unit 305. Then, object information such as background image information is read (step S203).

Next, the first position coordinate calculation unit 3401a of the area determination unit 3401 is a position coordinate of a plurality of reference parts of an object for which a shadow is to be displayed. In this embodiment, the position coordinate (x ₁ , Y ₁ , z ₁ ), (x ₂ , y ₂ , z ₂ ) are calculated (step S204).

Subsequently, the second position coordinate calculation unit 3401b of the region determination unit 3401 calculates the position coordinates (x ₁ , y ₁ , z ₁ ), (x ₂ , y) of the heels of both feet of the dancer 802 calculated in step S204. ₂ , z ₂ ), the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) and (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) of two points on the stage 801 determined by each are calculated (step S205). If the wing of the dancer 802 is in contact with the stage 801, as shown in FIG. 9A, the position coordinates (x, y, z) of the heel are directly used as the position coordinates (X, Y, Z) on the stage 801. ). On the other hand, if the wing of the dancer 802 is away from the stage 801, as shown in FIG. 9B, a perpendicular 901 to the stage 801 passing through the position coordinates (x, y, z) of the heel, and the stage The position coordinates of the intersection point with 801 are calculated and set as the position coordinates (X, Y, Z) on the stage 801.

Subsequently, the area determination unit 3401 determines the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ), (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) calculated in step S 205, the dancer 802, and the stage 801. Based on the distance L (see FIG. 9B), a rectangular area 1007 is determined on the stage 801 as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10C. Then, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 10D, a region 1008 surrounded by a continuous closed curve that falls within the rectangular region 1007 is determined as a region for displaying the shadow 803 (step S206).

  Subsequently, the shadow density determination unit 3042 determines the density of the shadow 803 of the dancer 802 to be displayed in the region 1008 determined in step S206 (step S207). For example, if the heels of both feet of the dancer 802 are in contact with the stage 801, the density of the shadow 803 is made constant. On the other hand, if the heel of one foot or the heel of both feet of the dancer 802 is away from the stage 801, the distance L between the heel and the stage 801 on the heel side away from the stage 801 (see FIG. 9B). The density of the shadow 803 is reduced in proportion to the length.

  The image data generation unit 304 generates three-dimensional image data according to the results of steps S203 to S207 (step S208).

  Then, the display control unit 306 displays the image data generated by the image data generation unit 304 on the effect display device 40 (step S209).

  As described above, a realistic shadow can be expressed by changing the shadow 803 in accordance with the movement of the heels of both feet of the dancer 802. Specifically, if the dancer 802 has both feet aligned, the shadow 803 is small, and if both feet are spread, the shadow 803 increases accordingly. Further, when the dancer 802 raises one leg or jumps and raises both legs, the shadow of the foot away from the stage 801 changes compared to the shadow of the foot when touching the stage 801. In addition, the shadow density at the foot far from the stage 801 is lighter than the shadow at the foot when touching the stage 801.

  In addition, a process for generating the same object as the dancer's object 802, a process for changing the object into a plan view, and the like are unnecessary, and an increase in the load of the drawing process can be avoided.

  In the above embodiment, the heel of both legs of the dancer 802 is used as the reference part. However, for example, when the dancer 802 jumps and raises both legs and puts both hands on the stage 801, the reference part is changed from both legs to both hands. And the shadow 803 may be displayed on the stage 801.

  The embodiment described above can be realized by a computer executing a program. The means for supplying the program to the computer may be a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM recording the program or a transmission medium such as the Internet for transmitting the program.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention has been explained in full detail with reference to drawings, a concrete structure is not restricted to said embodiment, In the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention, it can change suitably.

For example, the determination method (see FIG. 10) of the rectangular area 1007 described in the above embodiment is merely an example. As another example, as shown in FIG. 11, a straight line 1001 passing through position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) and (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) of two points on the stage 801 is considered. Although the points are the same, a straight line that passes through the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ), (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) and intersects the straight line 1001 at a certain angle (45 degrees in the illustrated example). Consider 1009a to 1009d. Then, positioned on each straight line 1009A～1009d, each position coordinates _{(X 1, Y 1, Z} 1), (X 2, Y 2, Z 2) the position coordinates of the position away from the distance L ₃ 1010a~1010d Ask for. As a result, four position coordinates 1010a to 1010d are obtained, and a quadrangular region 1007 having these position coordinates 1010a to 1010d as vertices is determined. Also in this case, by changing the distance L ₃ according to the distance L (see FIG. 9) between the heel and the stage 801 on the heel side away from the stage 801, the quadrangular region 1007 may be rectangular or square, Can be.

Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the example using two reference | standard site | parts, it is good also as three or more points. 2. Referring to the embodiment described above, the position coordinates of the heel of both feet of the dancer _{802 (x 1, y 1,} z 1), (x 2, y 2, z 2) in addition to, waist coordinates ( x ₃ , y ₃ , z ₃ ) may be calculated. In this case, the position coordinates of the three points on the stage 801 determined by these position coordinates (x ₁ , y ₁ , z ₁ ), (x ₂ , y ₂ , z ₂ ), (x ₃ , y ₃ , z ₃ ), respectively. (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ), (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ), (X ₃ , Y ₃ , Z ₃ ) are calculated. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, the position coordinates (X ₃ , Y ₃ , Z ₃ ) corresponding to the waist and the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) determines the region 1008-1, and the position coordinates corresponding to the waist (X ₃ , Y ₃ , Z ₃ ) and the position coordinates corresponding to the other heel (X ₂ , Y ₂ , Z ₂ ) Thus, the area 1008-2 may be determined and the shadow 803 of the dancer 802 may be displayed.

In addition, the first object (above-mentioned) corresponding to a plurality of n reference parts (x ₁ , y ₁ , z ₁ ) to (x _n , y _n , z _n ) of the second object (dancer 802 in the above embodiment). In the embodiment, based on the position coordinates (X ₁ , Y ₁ , Z ₁ ) to (X _n , Y _n , Z _n ) on the stage 801), the shadow of the second object is used using an appropriate curve function. The area for displaying the image may be determined directly.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a slot machine has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a game device.

It is a front view showing the appearance of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows the functional structure of a main control board. It is a functional block diagram which shows the functional structure of a sub control board. It is a functional block diagram showing a detailed functional configuration of an effect control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the control by a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows control of a sub control board. It is a figure which shows the example of the image at the time of "dance production pattern" selection. It is a figure for demonstrating the calculation process of the position coordinate on a stage. It is a figure for demonstrating the determination process of the area | region which displays a shadow. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the determination process of the area | region which displays a shadow. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the determination process of the area | region which displays a shadow.

Explanation of symbols

10: Slot machine 11: Reel board 12: Central display board 13: Power supply board 21: Display window 22a, 22b, 22c: Effective line 23: Medal slot 24: Effective line lamp 25: Credit number display section 26: Number of games Display unit 27: Number-of-payout display unit 31L, 31C, 31R: Reel 40: Effect display device 41: Start switch 42L, 42C, 42R: Stop switch 43a, 43b: Bet switch 50: Main control board 51: Main CPU
52, 62: ROM
53, 63: RAM
54, 69: I / F circuit 60: Sub control board 67: Sound source circuit 68: Amplifier 71: Speaker 95: Medal detection unit 101: Role lottery unit 102: Lottery table 103: Role lottery unit 105: Flag information storage unit 106: Reel control unit 107: Winning determination unit 108: Special game state control unit 109: Payout control unit 201: Production pattern selection unit 202: Production control unit 301: Image control unit 302: Sound control unit 304: Image data generation unit 3401: Area Determination unit 3401a: first position coordinate calculation unit 3401b: second position coordinate calculation unit 3402: shadow density determination unit 305: object information storage unit 306: display control unit

Claims (11)

An image processing apparatus that performs image processing for displaying a moving image in real time,
Area determining means for determining an area on the first object based on the positions of a plurality of reference parts of the second object operating on the first object in the virtual three-dimensional space;
Display control means for displaying the second object that operates on the first object and displaying a shadow of the second object in the area determined by the area determination means. Image processing device.   The area determination unit further determines an area on the first object based on a distance between a reference portion of the second object and the first object. Image processing device. The region determining means includes
First position coordinate calculating means for calculating position coordinates of each reference part of the second object;
Second position coordinate calculation means for calculating a plurality of position coordinates on the first object determined by each of the plurality of position coordinates calculated by the first position coordinate calculation means,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an area on the first object is determined based on a plurality of position coordinates calculated by the second position coordinate calculation unit. The region determining means includes
First position coordinate calculating means for calculating position coordinates of each reference part of the second object;
Second position coordinate calculation means for calculating a plurality of position coordinates on the first object determined by each of the plurality of position coordinates calculated by the first position coordinate calculation means,
A quadrangular region is determined on the first object based on the plurality of position coordinates calculated by the second position coordinate calculation means and the distance between the reference portion of the second object and the first object. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an area surrounded by a continuous closed curve that falls within the rectangular area is determined as an area for displaying a shadow.   The second position coordinate calculation means, when the reference part of the second object is in contact with the first object, uses the position coordinates of the reference part calculated by the first position coordinate calculation means as they are. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the position coordinates are on the first object.   The second position coordinate calculation means passes through the position coordinates of the reference part calculated by the first position coordinate calculation means when the reference part of the second object is away from the first object. 6. The position coordinate of the intersection of the perpendicular to the first object and the first object is calculated and set as the position coordinate on the first object. An image processing apparatus according to 1.   The image processing apparatus further comprises shadow density determining means for changing a density of a shadow displayed in an area on the first object according to a distance between a reference portion of the second object and the first object. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein there are two reference parts of the second object.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second object is an object of a character walking on two legs, and the reference portion of the two points is a heel of both feet of the character. An image processing method for displaying a moving image in real time,
An area determination procedure for determining an area on the first object based on the positions of a plurality of reference parts of the second object operating on the first object in the virtual three-dimensional space;
A display control procedure for displaying the second object operating on the first object and displaying a shadow of the second object in the region determined by the region determination procedure. Processing method. A computer program that causes a computer to execute image processing for displaying a moving image in real time,
An area determination process for determining an area on the first object based on the positions of a plurality of reference parts of the second object operating on the first object in the virtual three-dimensional space;
Displaying the second object that operates on the first object, and causing a computer to execute a display control process for displaying a shadow of the second object in an area determined by the area determination process. Computer program.

Images