JP2008272458A - Game device and card bundle attachment case - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game device which can read two or more sheets of cards, which a player chooses, in the lump and with sufficient accuracy. <P>SOLUTION: The card attachment section of a card bundle attachment case 2 mounts each of cards composing a card bundle with leaving a predetermined space so that the card bundle is arranged in a way able to image by an imaging section 7 when a set of the card bundles are mounted on this case 2 in a body so that an edge portion, which has a code pattern, may be on the same side. The imaging section 7 images the edge portion, which has the code pattern of the card bundle and generates a picture containing the code pattern. The card data identification section of a game execution part 4 identifies and detects code information on each of the cards from a picture containing the code pattern of the card bundle from the imaging section 7 and supplies this code information to the game execution control part. The game execution control means of the game execution part 4 controls the execution of a game from the code information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention reads a game related to a code pattern displayed on a card selected by a player and controls the progress of the game based on the read information, and a card bundle for storing the selected card. It relates to the mounting case.

  Conventionally, as a game apparatus using a plurality of cards as a game medium for executing a game, a game apparatus shown in Patent Document 1 below has been proposed. In this game apparatus, a reading code representing identification information for identifying a card is printed on a side edge (on the side including the thickness direction of the card) of each card used in the game with a fluorescent material. Yes. When the player executes the game, first, the player selects a plurality of cards to be used for the game from the owned card group. Subsequently, the player aligns the side edges on which the reading codes are printed as a bundle of stacked cards, and inserts them into the insertion slot of the card bundle reading device to read the reading codes. Thereby, the game device controls the execution of the game based on the information related to the card reading code read by the card bundle reading device.

  In the game device described in Patent Document 1, the card bundle reading device turns on the ultraviolet light lamp and irradiates ultraviolet light toward the side edge portion where the reading code of each card inserted into the insertion slot is provided. . The fluorescent material receiving the ultraviolet light emits light, and the emitted light is received by the image sensor, whereby an image of the reading code pattern of each card is taken. By analyzing this image, the card bundle reader determines the read code represented on each card constituting the card bundle and identifies the type of card. The game control program controls the progress of the game based on the specified code information.

  The card bundle reading device disclosed in Patent Document 2 below is used in card games such as blackjack, crap, and baccarat performed between a dealer and a player on a card table in a casino or the like. A card (playing card) is printed with a code pattern along the edge on the short side. All cards used in the card game are bundled together to check the cards to be distributed. On the inclined surface of the reading device, the barcode is stacked and placed with all the short side barcodes exposed. The CCD camera of the card bundle reader takes an image of the bar code and detects data from the image. However, Patent Document 2 does not describe that the barcodes of all the cards placed on the inclined surface are imaged simultaneously, and that the detected data is used to execute the game program and use it for the progress of the game. There is no teaching.

JP 2002-143367 A (paragraphs 0056 and 0057, FIGS. 1 and 2 etc.) US Pat. No. 6,460,848 (seventh paragraph, line 42 to eighth paragraph, line 25, FIG. 8 etc.)

  The card used in the game device of Patent Document 1 has a reading code printed on the side edge portion that is easy to come into contact with the outside when handling, so when inserting into the insertion slot of the card bundle reading device or carrying it, It is conceivable that the coating material constituting the reading code may be peeled off or foreign matter may adhere. In addition, the cord may be peeled off due to rubbing. As a result, the card reading accuracy of the card bundle reading device may be reduced. For this reason, the card storage method requires attention and cannot be handled roughly. Further, since it is necessary to perform various types of print display constituting the reading code on the side edge portion of the card having a small area, there is a problem that the manufacturing process including the printing process becomes complicated. Furthermore, it is not easy to read the information related to the fine code pattern displayed on the side edge of the card having a small area as a card bundle in a batch with the card bundle reader.

  In the card bundle reading device of Patent Document 2, a plurality of cards are placed in a state of being stacked on an inclined surface, and the code patterns for all the cards exposed on the edge of the card in this stacked state are imaged with a CCD camera. Yes. However, when a card is placed on an inclined surface, when the card bundle stacked on the inclined surface is viewed from the position of the CCD camera, a problem occurs that the barcodes of adjacent cards overlap on the image, and the stacked There is a possibility that the barcodes of all cards cannot be captured simultaneously.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a game device that enables a plurality of cards selected by a player to be read together as a card bundle with high accuracy by a card bundle reading device, and the selected plurality of cards. It is to provide a card bundle mounting case for mounting on the game device. Here, the plurality of cards to be attached to the game device are those that the player purchases appropriately from a card vending machine or the like, or is selected by the player for each game from among the cards that are previously owned. The apparatus is configured to play a game based on game data detected from a loaded card.

In order to achieve the above object, a game apparatus according to the present invention includes a game execution control means, a card bundle mounting case for mounting a plurality of cards selected by the player as a set of card bundles, an imaging means, And a card data identification means. Each of the cards is formed on a print area where game information is printed on at least one main surface so as to be visible under visible light, and at least one side edge in the main surface of the card. A code pattern having code information related to the game information, wherein the card bundle mounting case is arranged such that the pair of card bundles are aligned so that edges on which the code pattern is formed are on the same side. In order to mount the cards constituting the card bundle at a predetermined interval so that the card bundle can be imaged by the imaging means from the edge side when mounted in the card bundle mounting case. Card mounting means, and the imaging means images the edge of the card bundle on which the code pattern is formed to generate an image including the code pattern of the card bundle. And the card data identification means identifies the code information of the code pattern of each card constituting the card bundle from an image including the code pattern of the card bundle generated by the imaging means. And the detected code information is supplied to the game execution control means as operation information by the player, and the game execution control means controls the execution of the game based on the supplied code information. It is comprised so that it may carry out.
Further, the card bundle mounting case according to the present invention used with this game device is used by being detachably mounted on a game device for playing a game using a plurality of cards selected by the player as a set of card bundles. Card bundle mounting case. Each of the cards is formed on at least one main surface of a print area where game information is printed so as to be visible under visible light, and at least one side edge in the main surface of the card. And a code pattern having code information related to the game information, and the game device includes a game execution control unit, a case mounting unit on which the card bundle mounting case is detachably mounted, When the card bundle mounting case in which the set of card bundles are mounted so that the edge portions on which the code patterns are formed is on the same side is mounted on the case mounting means, the card bundle is An image pickup unit that is arranged to pick up images from an edge side and generates an image including a code pattern of the card bundle, and the code of the card bundle generated by the image pickup unit The code information included in the code pattern of each card constituting the card bundle is identified and detected from an image including a turn, and the detected code information is supplied to the game execution control means as operation information by the player. A card member identifying means, and the card bundle mounting case is provided with an opening into which the card is inserted in at least one side surface, and a case member formed to have a size for storing a plurality of the cards. A spacer member disposed in the case member with an interval corresponding to the one card, and formed so that the card is inserted into each of the intervals from the opening. The execution control means is configured to control the execution of the game based on the supplied code information.
In this card bundle mounting case, the case member may be configured in a polyhedron shape in which an upper surface and a lower surface are substantially the size of the card.
Each of the spacer members is disposed at a position where an area where the code pattern of the card inserted from the opening side is formed is exposed, and the imaging unit is configured to remove the exposed area from the exposed area. It may be arranged at a position for receiving light.
In these card bundle mounting cases, it is also possible to provide a reflecting member arranged at a position for guiding the light from the exposed area to the imaging means.
The mounting depth of the card into the case member is preferably such that at least a part of the area where the code pattern is formed protrudes from the opening.

  The card to be mounted in the card bundle mounting case has a code pattern of code information at an edge on one side in the card main surface, and a plurality of cards are mounted in the card bundle mounting case at intervals. It is like that. Depending on the spacing of the cards in the card bundle mounting case, the game device can reliably capture the code pattern of each card and recognize it with high accuracy.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Each drawing includes a part exaggerated schematically for the purpose of easily showing the configuration. In the present invention, priority is given to what becomes an actual embodiment over what is shown in these schematic diagrams.

(First embodiment)
A game apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 shows the appearance of the game apparatus G, and FIG. 2 shows the configuration relating to the control of the game apparatus G. In the game apparatus G, a game is played using a plurality of cards 1 (FIG. 2) selected by the player as a set of card bundles. These cards 1 used in the game are mounted in a card bundle mounting case 2. The card bundle mounting case 2 is placed on the operation console 101 (FIG. 1). It can be attached to and detached from the case mounting portion 102 having the insertion opening in the direction of the arrow in FIG. Although illustration is omitted here, a coin insertion slot is provided in the operation No. 101, and the player inserts a coin from the coin insertion slot, so that the game on the game apparatus G is started. ing.

  In addition to the card bundle mounting case 2, the game apparatus G includes a reading device 3 and a game execution unit 4 (FIG. 2). To explain the outline, the reading device 3 images a region where a code pattern is formed from a plurality of cards 1 mounted in the card bundle mounting case 2, in this case, from the three cards 1a to 1c. An image of an area including the code pattern is obtained, and image data of an image including the code pattern at the edge of the cards 1a to 1c is generated. The game execution unit 4 cuts out the code patterns of the cards 1a to 1c in the card bundle mounting case 2 from the image data input from the reading device 3, detects information included in each code pattern, and detects the information Based on the information, game execution and various effects are controlled.

  As shown in FIG. 3, each card 1a to 1c used in the game has, for example, a rectangular shape having a horizontal length A (for example, 88 mm) and a vertical length B (for example, 66 mm) in plan view. At least one main surface (front and back surfaces) is provided with a print area 5 on which game information is printed so as to be visible under visible light. In this print area 5, for example, characters and items appearing in the game, equipment and background designs, etc. are printed. The thickness of the print layer 5 in this print area is approximately 0.001 mm for infrared absorbing ink, 0.01 mm for printing with color (including white or black), and 0.015 mm for the varnish applied to the surface. However, depending on the material of the base of the card 1, the purpose and method of use, and the type of ink, the thickness can be changed by adjustment as needed. In addition, the shape of the card | curd 1 can employ | adopt square, a triangle, and other polygonal shapes besides a rectangular shape by planar view.

  Furthermore, the code pattern 6 printed in the width W (for example, 3 mm) is provided in the edge part of at least one side in at least one main surface of each card | curd 1a-1c. The code pattern 6 is code information that is data related to the game information, for example, information for identifying the card (information for identifying a character printed in the print area 5) and characteristics of the character (attack of attack). Information necessary for playing the game, such as information on strength, etc.) is represented by the arrangement positions of the plurality of code patterns 6. The ink for printing the code pattern 6 may be a visible ink, but emits light at a wavelength longer than blue when irradiated with ultraviolet light for the purpose of preventing forgery, and under visible light It is preferable to use a fluorescent material that is colorless and invisible to the human eye. In the case of infrared absorbing ink (stealth ink), color code of the same color as the code color is printed on the part where the code is not printed, and the code cannot be seen under visible light by performing a concealing process. Is possible.

  Note that a light source is not required in an environment where sufficiently visible light can be used from outside the game apparatus G for the card bundle mounting case 2 when visible ink is used. However, when the card 1 is mounted in the game housing, such as when the card bundle mounting case 2 is inserted into the reading device 3 from a slot provided in the game housing, a light source is inserted into the reading device 3. It is necessary to provide it. In addition, when the code pattern 6 is printed using ink that reacts to light of a specific wavelength, the ink reacts from the light source so that the code pattern 6 can be imaged by a CCD camera or the like. It is necessary to irradiate the code pattern 6 with light having a wavelength of. (The inside of the reader 3 is configured so that the position and number of the light sources can be adjusted so that the ink reacts and imaging is performed without any problem.)

  In the example shown in FIG. 3, the code pattern 6 is printed on the edge on the short side in one main surface of each card 1a to 1c. However, the code pattern 6 is printed on the edge on the long side. Also good. Moreover, although the thickness of each card | curd 1a-1c is not limited, Considering the convenience of carrying around and preservation | save, about 0.3-0.5 mm is preferable. The material of each of the cards 1a to 1c is preferably made of plastic such as polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyvinyl chloride, but materials such as paper and wood can also be used. FIG. 3 shows an example in which the print area 5 on which a design such as a character is printed does not overlap with the area on which the code pattern 6 is printed. Unlike this, a design such as a character is printed on the entire area of at least one main surface of each of the cards 1a to 1c, and is necessary for imaging on an edge of at least one side on the printed layer on which the design is printed. You may make it provide the code pattern 6 printed by the width W in the range.

  Next, FIG. 4 shows an arrangement example of the code pattern 6. As shown here, eight pieces having a length L2 and a width W from a position at a distance L1 along the short side from the edge on the long side in one main surface of each card 1a to 1c. Regions D1, D2,..., D8 are set. In addition, each of the regions D1 to D8 includes a region D1_a and a region D1_b in which L3 = 1/2 × L2 in the region divided into two in the long side direction, for example, in the region D1. When the information related to the code pattern of the area D1 is expressed as “1”, the area D1_a is printed with ink made of a fluorescent material that cannot be seen by human eyes by the concealment process under the visible light described above, and the area D1_b is printed. Do not print anything. A code pattern is printed on the areas D2, D3,..., D8 in the same manner as the area D1. Thereby, each area | region D1-D8 can memorize | store 1-bit information, ie, information of "0" or "1". Therefore, it is possible to store identification information consisting of 8 bits by the 8 areas D1 to D8. This 8-bit identification information is the above-described code information. Although not shown, it is possible to specify the position of the entire code by providing a guide bit between each region (for example, between D1 and D2 and between D5 and D6). In the example shown in FIG. 4, the code pattern 6 printed in the areas D1 to D8 represents “11011011” which is 8-digit information.

  In addition, as a code pattern arrangement method, the code pattern is set in two stages, and “0” is displayed when printing is performed at the top and printing is not performed at the bottom, and “0” is displayed when printing is not performed at the top and printing is performed at the bottom. A method of expressing “1” is also conceivable. In such a case, by setting the number to two, printing is always performed on the portion corresponding to the area D1 shown in FIG. 4, so that the end (start position) of the code pattern can be determined. In addition to this, information relating to the code pattern may include barcodes for distribution products of various standards such as JAN, QR code (registered trademark), two-dimensional code, and the like, which can be appropriately selected.

  The case mounting unit 102 described above is a part of the reading device 3 (FIG. 2). The reading device 3 includes an imaging unit 7 and an image data processing circuit 8 in addition to the case mounting unit 102. . The imaging unit 7 includes an image sensor such as a CCD camera, and collectively captures the entire area where the code pattern 6 of each of the cards 1a to 1c mounted in the mounting case 2 is printed, thereby generating image data. . Examples of the image sensor include a CMOS sensor in addition to the above-described CCD camera, and the resolution is required to be a resolution that can read a code of, for example, 672 × 512 pixels or 512 × 480 pixels. Further, the resolution and the distance between the card bundle mounting case 2 and the imaging unit 7 are determined by the focal length, but the positions at which the imaging unit 7 captures all of the code patterns 6 collectively are the codes of the cards 1a to 1c. It is a position on a plane connecting the substantially central portion of the edge portion on which the pattern 6 is printed, and is set by an appropriate distance and imaging angle from this edge portion. The image data processing circuit 8 performs data processing such as binarization processing and black and white threshold processing on the generated image data, and the processed information is sent to the game execution unit 4 side (input / output I / F 13). Is output.

The game execution part 4 comprises the main-body part of the game apparatus G provided with various software, an apparatus, etc. for performing control of game execution, various production outputs, etc. The game execution unit 4 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 11, a RAM (Random
Access Memory) 12, an input / output I / F 13, a display circuit unit 14, a sound circuit unit 15, a communication I / F 16 and the like. These units 10 to 16 are mounted on a circuit board and incorporated in a game case. It is. The units 10 to 16 will be described in order. The CPU 10 performs arithmetic processing according to a computer program. The ROM 11 stores various control software (programs) necessary for executing a game on the game apparatus G, and image data and audio data for effects. As these programs, a card data identification unit (card data identification program, card data for performing processing for analyzing the image data captured by the imaging unit 7 and identifying code information based on the code pattern 6 printed on each of the cards 1a to 1c. Identification means) and various game execution control units (game execution control program, game execution control means) for controlling the progress of the game based on the code information. The RAM 12 stores data during work.

  In addition to the image data processing circuit 8 described above, the input / output I / F 13 is connected to an input device 17 such as a joystick or a switch for inputting operation input information in response to a player's operation. The video signal output from the display circuit unit 14 is displayed on a display device 18 such as a liquid crystal display device, and the audio signal output from the sound circuit unit 15 is output from the speaker 19. The server 21 is connected by connecting the communication I / F 16 to the network via a communication line and connecting to the Internet 20. Further, other game devices 22 are also connected to the server 21 via the Internet 20. As a result, the server 21 can score the game performance results of each player or execute an online battle game using the network. The operation input information may be input also by the player's action of mounting the cards 1a to 1c (at least one of them) in the card bundle mounting case 2 and causing the reading device 3 to read the code pattern 6. .

  Although the image data and sound data for presentation output to the display device 18 and the speaker 19 are not shown in FIG. 2, they may be stored in a flash memory or a hard disk device. By installing a rewritable non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory or a hard disk device, software such as a game program can be appropriately replaced, and a new game can be executed.

  Next, the configuration of the card bundle mounting case 2 will be described. In the card game here, when the player performs the game, the player uses a plurality of cards 1 (at least one of the cards 1a to 1c) to be used in the game from the card group owned by the player for each game. Must be selected in advance. The card bundle mounting case 2 is used as means for collectively inserting (mounting) the selected cards 1 as a set of card bundles and reading the code pattern 6 of each card 1 at a time by the reading device 3. Is. By preparing and providing various cases made up of members with various colors and designs, players can enjoy the purchase and possession of their favorite cases.

  Prior to the execution of the game, the player selects three cards 1a to 1c and mounts them in the card bundle mounting case 2 shown in FIG. In the card bundle mounting case 2, a rectangular parallelepiped outer shape of the casing (case) is configured by the outer frame members 2a to 2c, and one surface (the left side surface in FIG. 5) is open. Although not shown in the figure, an outer frame member disposed in front of the figure and an outer frame member on the side facing the outer frame member and located in the back of the figure may be provided. The outer frame member 2a serving as the upper surface of the card bundle mounting case 2 and the outer frame member 2b serving as the lower surface are approximately the size of the cards 1a to 1c. The support members 2g and 2h have a thickness H2, and are provided to form the card mounting portions 2d to 2f between the outer frame member 2a and the outer frame member 2b. In the card mounting portions 2d to 2f, three cards 1a to 1c are detachably mounted and stored.

  That is, the support members 2g and 2h act as spacers (partition plates) for maintaining a predetermined interval H1 between the inserted cards 1a to 1c, and the cards 1a to 1c are respectively set to the interval H1. In order to insert, card slot 2i-2k is provided in the opening side of card bundle mounting case 2. FIG. This interval (height of the card mounting portions 2d to 2f) H1 is slightly larger than the thickness of the cards 1a to 1c, and the player can easily insert the cards 1a to 1c from the card insertion slots 2i to 2k with their fingertips. It can be inserted into the card mounting portions 2d to 2f. In FIG. 5, the player mounts the cards 1a to 1c on the card mounting portions 2d to 2f so that the code patterns 6 side of the cards 1a to 1c are aligned (so as to be on the left side of the same figure) and face upward. (Insert).

  The outer frame members 2a to 2c and the supporting members 2g and 2h constituting the card bundle mounting case 2 are made of plastic and can be integrally formed by an injection molding machine. Moreover, it is also possible to shape | mold with the metal which consists of light metal raw materials, such as aluminum or aluminum alloy.

  Two features of the card bundle mounting case 2 (FIG. 5) are as follows. The first feature is that in the card bundle mounting case 2, the three cards 1a to 1c are each mounted with a predetermined interval (a value slightly larger than H2). The second feature is that the depth of each of the card mounting portions 2d to 2f is made smaller by P than the length A of the cards 1a to 1c. That is, when the cards 1a to 1c are mounted on the card mounting portions 2d to 2f and the front ends thereof are brought into contact with the outer frame member 2c, the edge portion where the code pattern 6 is located is removed from the card bundle mounting case 2 ( The length P is exposed (from the open ends of the card mounting portions 2d to 2f). The length P of the exposed portion is appropriately determined from the projection angle α from the imaging unit 7 to the cards 1a to 1c, the thickness H1 of the cards 1a to 1c, and the like. As an example, P can be defined as a value close to a value obtained by dividing H2 (or H1) by tanα. Thus, the support members 2g and 2h, the outer frame members 2a and 2b, and the like are arranged in the card bundle mounting case 2 so that the edges of the cards 1a to 1c are exposed.

  Due to the first and second features of the card bundle mounting case 2, (a) the cards 1a to 1c are arranged so that the edge portion with the code pattern 6 is on the same side as shown in FIG. (B) Further, when this card bundle mounting case 2 is mounted on the case mounting portion 102 (FIG. 1), the card 1a mounted on the top of the card bundle mounting case 2 is slanted. With the imaging unit 7 installed above, the code patterns 6 of the cards 1a to 1c exposed from the card bundle mounting case 2 can be collectively imaged. That is, the cards 1a to 1c selected by the player have a predetermined interval in the card bundle mounting case 2 (an interval at which the area where the code patterns 6 of all the cards 1a to 1c are formed as viewed from the imaging unit 7 is not blocked). ) And the edge of each card 1a to 1c having the code pattern 6 on the side of the imaging unit 7 is aligned on a vertical line (a straight line in the vertical direction in FIG. 5). Therefore, it is possible to capture the entire area of the edge of each card 1 a to 1 c including the code pattern 6 or a part of the area along the edge collectively by the imaging unit 7. In order to clearly capture the code pattern 6 by the imaging unit 7, an ultraviolet light emitting lamp 7 a that irradiates ultraviolet light in the direction of the irradiation code pattern 6 is installed in the vicinity of the imaging unit 7. The ultraviolet light emitting lamp 7 a is preferably provided on the left and right sides of the imaging unit 7. The imaging unit 7 receives the light from the code patterns 6 (exposed areas) of all the cards 1a to 1c in the card bundle mounting case 2 so that the code patterns 6 can be read and read. And is configured to be adjustable.

  FIG. 6 shows an image of the portion where the code pattern 6 of each card 1 a to 1 c is exposed from the card bundle mounting case 2 in the state where the cards 1 a to 1 c are mounted on the card bundle mounting case 2. An example image is shown. Image data captured and generated by the imaging unit 7 is subjected to binarization processing, black and white threshold processing, and the like by the image data processing circuit 8, and then stored in the RAM 12 of the game execution unit 4. The image shown in FIG. 6 shows the image data on the RAM 12 as a black and white image. According to this image data, the code pattern 6a of the card 1a exists between the outer frame member 2a and the support member 2g, and the code pattern 6b of the card 1b exists between the support member 2g and the support member 2h. The code pattern 6c of the card 1c exists between the member 2h and the outer frame member 2b.

  The card data identification program stored in the ROM 11 of the game execution unit 4 identifies and detects the code information of the code pattern 6 by analyzing the image data of the code pattern 6 of the cards 1a to 1c stored in the RAM 12. To do. Then, the card data identification program supplies this code information to the game execution control program as operation information by the player. Thereby, the game execution control program controls the progress of the game and the like based on the code information by the cards 1a to 1c and the operation input information by the operation of the input device 17.

  Next, a process for analyzing the image data stored in the RAM 12 by the card data identification program and obtaining code information by the code pattern 6 of the cards 1a to 1c will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the card data identification process. Hereinafter, the steps will be described in the order shown in FIG.

  In step 1 (hereinafter, step is abbreviated as S), first, it is determined whether or not the card bundle mounting case 2 in which the cards 1a to 1c selected by the player are mounted is set in the reading device 3. This determination is made by detecting whether or not the card bundle mounting case 2 inserted by the player into the reading device 3 is set at a predetermined reading position using a photoelectric switch or the like. It is determined that the selected card bundle has been set. On the other hand, the card data identification program waits until a signal from a photoelectric switch or the like is input. Note that an input signal from the photoelectric switch may be processed as an interrupt signal, and when the interrupt signal is input, the following processes S2 to S7 may be executed. In S2, a light emitting element serving as a light source is turned on (lit) in order to cause the code patterns 6 printed with ink that reacts to light of a specific wavelength to react with the cards 1a to 1c. When the code pattern 6 is printed using the visual ink, the process here and the process in S4 described below are unnecessary.

  In S <b> 3, an imaging signal is transmitted to the imaging unit 7. When the imaging unit 7 receives this imaging signal, the imaging unit 7 collectively images the area including the code pattern 6 of each card 1a to 1c exposed from the card bundle mounting case 2. The captured image data is subjected to a binarization process for representing “white” or “black” in pixel units by the image data processing circuit 8. By this processing, the pixel corresponding to the area printed with the ink made of the fluorescent material that cannot be seen by human eyes as the code pattern 6 is converted into binarized data representing “black”. The image data converted into the binarized data is stored in the RAM 12 based on a command from the card data identification program. It should be noted that “reading card information” is displayed on the display device 18 until the processing from S3 to S6 is completed. In S4, when a signal indicating completion of imaging is input from the imaging unit 7, the light-emitting element that is turned on in S2 is turned off (extinguished).

  Next, in S5, correction processing is performed on the image data stored in the RAM 12 in S3. As shown in FIG. 5, the image data obtained by imaging the area including the code pattern 6 of the cards 1 a to 1 c by the imaging unit 7 (FIG. 6 is corrected) is obtained with respect to the code pattern 6 of each card 1 a to 1 c. Distortion occurs due to the projection angle α, and for the images 6a to 6c corresponding to the code patterns 6 of the cards 1a to 1c, the lower image 6c is smaller than the upper image 6a and a distorted image is obtained. The image data correction process in S5 is a process for correcting this distortion. For example, by adopting one of the following [Process 1] or [Process 2], an image as shown in FIG. 6 is obtained. Obtainable. The ratio of reducing or enlarging the image in [Process 1] and [Process 2] is as follows: the projection angle α, the distance from the card bundle mounting case 2 to the imaging unit 7, and the edge having the code pattern 6 is mounted on the card bundle. It is set in advance based on the length P exposed from the case 2. Instead of these, [Process 3] may be employed.

[Process 1] The images 6a and 6b corresponding to the code pattern 6 of the cards 1a and 1b (FIG. 5) on the upper side of the card bundle are equal to the area of the image 6c corresponding to the code pattern 6 of the lowermost card 1c. Reduce so that.
[Process 2] The images 6c and 6b corresponding to the code pattern 6 of the cards 1c and 1b on the lower side of the card bundle are enlarged so as to be equal to the area of the image 6a corresponding to the code pattern 6 of the uppermost card 1a. .
[Process 3] A process is performed in which a large image is captured so that the code pattern 6 is not distorted, and only the portion of the code pattern 6 is cut from the obtained image. (When a code pattern is imaged from a close position, the captured image is distorted. However, if an image is captured from a distant position, no distortion occurs. Processing here enlarges the code pattern in the captured image without the distortion. To do.)

  Further, in S6, a process for determining the code information related to the code pattern 6 of each of the cards 1a to 1c is performed on the image data subjected to the correction process in S5. This code determination process can be performed, for example, according to the procedure shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the steps will be described in the order shown in FIG. First, in S61, preprocessing is performed on the image data stored in the RAM 12 in order to perform code determination processing on the uppermost card 1a (kth card, where k is an initial value of 1) in FIG. . This preprocessing is to obtain a coordinate (0, Y1) that is about Y1 away from the origin O (0, 0) of the XY coordinate set in advance in the Y-axis direction. Image data of the code pattern 6 of the card 1a is stored in the X-axis direction from this coordinate (0, Y1). Subsequently, a coordinate (X1, Y1) advanced by X1 in the X-axis direction from the coordinate (0, Y1) is obtained. The coordinates (X1, Y1) serve as reference points for determining the code pattern of the area in the area D1_a shown in FIG. 4, that is, the image data of the card 1a. At this time, X1 is set to a distance corresponding to (L1 + L3 × 1/2) shown in FIG. 4, for example.

  In S62, it is determined based on a preset threshold value of the pixel characteristic data whether the pixel in the region Dn_a, that is, the region D1_a shown in FIG. 4, is “white” or “black”. In this determination, in order to improve the reliability of the determination of “white” or “black”, “white” or “black” is also applied to several pixels adjacent to the coordinates (X1, Y1) in the X-axis direction. It is advisable to perform the determination process and adopt the one with the larger number of determinations. In subsequent S63, the result determined in S62 for the region D1_a is stored in the RAM 12.

  Next, in S64, it is determined whether the pixel of the region Dn_b, that is, the region D1_b shown in FIG. 4, is “white” or “black”. At this time, the coordinate of the X axis for determining the pixel in the region D1_b is (L1 + L3 + L3 × 1/2), and the coordinate of the Y axis is Y1. In this determination processing, “white” or “black” determination processing may be performed on several pixels adjacent to the XY coordinates in the X-axis direction, and the one with the larger determination number may be employed. In S65, the result determined in the process of S64 for the region D1_b is stored in the RAM 12.

  Subsequently, in S66, based on the determination results in S63 and S65, a process of determining the code pattern of the area Dn, that is, the area D1 shown in FIG. 4, that is, bit information of “0” or “1”. I do. In this process, for example, when the pixel of the region D1_a is determined to be “white” and the pixel of the region D1_b is determined to be “white”, the code pattern 6 printed in the region D1 is “0”. It is determined that On the other hand, if the pixel in the area D1_a is determined to be “black” and the pixel in the area D1_b is determined to be “white”, the code pattern 6 printed in the area D1 is determined to be “1”. To do. In step S67, the bit information determined in step S66 is stored in the RAM 12, and “1” is added to the determination number n.

  In the next S68, it is determined whether or not an undetermined code pattern remains in the X-axis direction. In this determination, it is determined whether or not the number n of determinations exceeds a predetermined value, that is, the number of areas D1 to D8 preset in the card 1. If an undetermined code pattern remains (YES in S68), the process returns to S62 to perform a process of determining the code pattern of the next area D2. At this time, L3 (see FIG. 4) is added to the coordinate value of the X axis. On the other hand, if there is no undetermined code pattern remaining (NO in S68), 1 is added to k corresponding to the number of cards 1 and the process proceeds to the next S69.

  In S69, it is determined whether or not the code determination process has been performed for all the cards 1a to 1c for the image data stored in the RAM 12. If k exceeds 3 and the code determination processing for all the cards 1a to 1c is completed (NO in S69), the process proceeds to the next S70, and if not completed (YES in S69), the process returns to S61. Thus, the XY coordinate value for determining the code pattern 6 is updated. Specifically, when the code determination process for the first card 1a is completed, the code determination process for the second card 1b is started from S61. In this code determination process for the second card 1b, “white” or “black” of the pixel in the X-axis direction from the coordinate position (0, Y2) separated from the origin O (0, 0) by Y2 in the Y-axis direction. Is determined. Thereafter, the code determination process of the third card 1c is performed by “white” or ““ of the pixel in the X-axis direction from the coordinate position (0, Y3) separated from the origin O (0, 0) by Y3 in the Y-axis direction. Judge “black”. The values (number of pixels) of the distances Y1 to Y3 are the projection angle α from the imaging unit 7 to the cards 1a to 1c, the distance from the card bundle mounting case 2 to the imaging unit 7, and the cards 1a to 1 having the code pattern 6. An appropriate value is set in advance in consideration of the length P at which the edge of 1c is exposed from the card bundle mounting case 2, the imaging resolution of the imaging unit 7, and the like.

  By repeating the processes of S61 to S69 described above, the code information (bit information) included in the code pattern 6 of the areas D1 to D8 can be determined for all the cards 1a to 1c shown in FIG. In S70, the code information of each card 1a to 1c is temporarily stored in the RAM 12. After S70, a message indicating the completion of reading the card information is displayed on the display device 18 for a predetermined time.

  Then, after these code determination processes, in S7 (FIG. 7), a process of passing the 8-bit code information of each card 1a to 1c stored in the RAM 12 in S6 as an argument to the game execution control program is performed. The game execution control program determines that the code information of each card 1a to 1c is a card selected by the player to execute the game, and based on the code information and an input signal from the input device 17, the progress of the game, For example, it controls the progress of the fighting game and various effects.

  As described above, the card 1 attached to the card bundle attachment case 2 has the code pattern 6 of the code information at the edge on one side in the card main surface, and the plurality of cards 1a to 1c are connected to the card bundle. The mounting case 2 is mounted at intervals. Depending on the interval between the cards 1a to 1c in the card bundle mounting case 2, the game apparatus G side can reliably capture the code pattern 6 of each card 1a to 1c and recognize it with high accuracy.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a card bundle mounting case according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the card bundle mounting case 30 has an outer frame casing constituted by outer frame members 31a to 31c and a predetermined interval H1 from the outer frame member 31a. A support member 32a having a thickness H2 provided, a support member 32b having a thickness H2 provided with a predetermined interval H1 from the support member 32a, and a thickness provided with a predetermined interval H1 from the support member 32b. It is comprised from the support member 32c of length H2. The support members 32a to 32c function as spacers for providing a gap. Further, on one side surface of the card bundle mounting case 30 (on the right side in FIG. 10), support members 32a to 32c are provided so that card insertion openings 33a to 33c are formed, an outer frame member 31a and an outer frame member 31b. Card mounting portions 34a to 34c for mounting the cards 1a to 1c are formed. The depths of the card mounting portions 34a to 34c are determined by the other edge portions facing the edge portions when the edge portion on which the code pattern 6 of the cards 1a to 1c is printed is inserted into the card mounting portions 34a to 34c. It is preferable to set a dimension that protrudes from the card insertion openings 33a to 33c by a predetermined length P. By projecting in this way, the cards 1a to 1c can be easily attached and detached.

  The material of the outer frame members 31a to 31c and the support members 32a to 32c is made of plastic, and the outer frame member 31c disposed at least on the side surface side is made of a transparent member (for example, plastic or glass). The above-mentioned predetermined interval H1 is set to a value that is the same as the thickness of the card 1 to be mounted or larger than the thickness of the card 1 to the extent that the card 1 can be inserted (attached). Each end surface where the support members 32a to 32c are in contact with the outer frame member 31c forms an inclined surface inclined at about 45 degrees. And on this inclined surface, the reflection members 35a-35c which reflect the light which injects from the direction of the outer side frame member 31c are formed.

  In FIG. 10B, the cards 1a to 1c are inserted into the card mounting portions 34a to 34c with the surface on which the code pattern 6 is printed facing downward. In this card bundle mounting case 30, the imaging unit 7 uses the reflection of light by the reflecting members 35a to 35c to make the code pattern 6 of each card 1a to 1c parallel to the main surface of each card 1a to 1c. It is supposed to take an image from. That is, the ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet light emitting lamp 7a is reflected by the reflecting members 35a to 35c and irradiates the code patterns 6 of the cards 1a to 1c. The fluorescent material of the code pattern 6 emits light by this ultraviolet light. The emitted light of the fluorescent material is reflected by the reflecting members 35 a to 35 c and guided to the imaging unit 7. That is, the reflecting members 35a to 35c have an effect of generating an incident angle of the emitted light so that the edges of the cards 1a to 1c having the code pattern 6 can be imaged. Thereby, the imaging part 7 can image the code pattern 6 of each card | curd 1a-1c collectively.

  As described above, in the card bundle mounting case 30, it is possible to image the code pattern 6 of each card 1a to 1c from a direction parallel to the main surface of each card 1a to 1c. can do. Thereby, since it becomes possible to reduce the occurrence of distortion of the captured image related to the code pattern 6 of each of the cards 1a to 1c imaged by the imaging unit 7, an effect of improving the accuracy of the captured image occurs.

  Note that, in the card bundle mounting case 30 described above, the support members (or spacer members) 32a to 32c are formed on the inclined surfaces provided on the respective end surfaces in contact with the outer frame member 31c so that the reflection members (reflection layers) 35a to 35c are formed. However, instead of forming the reflecting members 35a to 35c, prisms for refracting light at a predetermined angle may be provided.

(Third embodiment)
A card bundle mounting case according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the card bundle mounting case 40, as shown in FIG. 11, unlike the card bundle mounting case 2 (FIG. 5) of the first embodiment, the reflection member 43 is inserted into the card into which the card bundle mounting case 40 is inserted. It is arranged in the vicinity of the outer frame member 41b on the insertion port side. The cards 1a to 1c are configured to be inserted into the card mounting portion with the surface on which the code pattern 6 is printed facing downward. The reflecting member 43 is an ordinary mirror or a plate member made of metal or synthetic resin and provided with a metal plating layer or coating film having a high reflectance. Further, the reflecting member 43 is attached to an appropriate position in the reading device 3, for example. In addition, the card bundle mounting case 2 according to the first embodiment is that the cards 1a to 1c are inserted into the card mounting portion formed by the outer frame members 41a to 41c and the support members 42a and 42b. Is the same.

  In this card bundle mounting case 40, the ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet light emitting lamp 7a is reflected by the reflecting member 43 to irradiate the code patterns 6 of the cards 1a to 1c. The fluorescent material of the code pattern 6 emits light by this ultraviolet light. The emitted light of the fluorescent material is reflected by the reflecting member 43 and reaches the imaging unit 7, so that the code pattern 6 of each of the cards 1 a to 1 c can be imaged by the imaging unit 7. Further, the card bundle mounting case 40 can simplify the configuration of the support members 42a and 42b as compared with the card bundle mounting case 30 of FIG.

(Fourth embodiment)
A card bundle mounting case according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The configuration of the card bundle mounting case 50 is basically the same as that of the card bundle mounting case 2 (FIG. 5) of the first embodiment. In the card bundle mounting case 50, unlike the card bundle mounting case 2 of the first embodiment, a stepped portion 53 is formed on the outer surface of the outer frame members 51a and 51b, and the card bundle mounted from the lower end of the stepped portion 53. Flat surfaces 54 a and 54 b are formed in the direction of one end of the case 50. And the lid | cover (cap) member 55 shown with a dashed-dotted line can be detachably mounted | worn on these flat surfaces 54a and 54b.

  In the card bundle mounting case 50 of FIG. 12, when the player does not play the game, the lid (cap) member 55 is attached to the card bundle mounting case 50, so that the card mounting portion of the card bundle mounting case 50 has dust. It is possible to prevent foreign substances such as Then, when the game is executed, the player removes the lid member 55, inserts the cards 1a to 1c into the card mounting portion of the card bundle mounting case 50, and causes the reading device 3 to read the cards. Further, when the player does not play the game, the card bundle mounting case 50 can be carried in a state where the cards 1a to 1c are inserted into the card mounting portion of the card bundle mounting case 50 and the lid member 55 is attached. It is possible to prevent damage during carrying of the cards 1a to 1c.

(Other embodiments, etc.)
As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated by specific embodiment, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment. The present invention can be implemented by changing the above-described embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention.
a. In each of the above embodiments, an example has been described in which the player selects three cards 1a to 1c and mounts them in the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like. Since the number of cards 1 (maximum number) is set for each type of card game, the number of cards that can be mounted in the card bundle mounting case 2 is set according to the number of cards used in the card game. To.
b. When a plurality of cards 1 are mounted on the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like and set in the reading device 3, the card bundle mounting case 2 is set in the reading device 3 as it is. Unlike this, the card bundle mounting case 2 may be housed in a reading case and set in the reading device 3.

c. Further, the card bundle mounting case 2 and the like are manufactured from a single material by integral molding. In contrast to this, a plurality of materials may be appropriately combined in the production.
d. The shape of the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like is not limited to a box shape, and may be a binder case or a file shape (booklet shape).
e. The card bundle mounting case 2 and the like may be integrated with the reading device 3. That is, the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like is fixed to the game device G side, and the player may mount a plurality of cards 1 on the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like. In that case, the player inserts a card into a plurality of card insertion openings provided at predetermined intervals on the operation console 102 (FIG. 1).

f. The case bundle mounting case 2 and the like are formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape by the outer frame members 2a to 2c and the like. The upper surface and the lower surface here do not necessarily mean that they are positioned on the upper side and the lower side of the case bundle mounting case in a state where the card is mounted. Among the surfaces of the card bundle mounting / mounting case, two surfaces substantially parallel to the card to be mounted correspond to the upper surface and the lower surface, and the card 1 is mounted at a predetermined interval between the two surfaces. Can be. Thus, the case bundle mounting case having two surfaces substantially parallel to the card to be mounted can be formed in a polyhedral shape other than the rectangular parallelepiped shape.

g. 10 to 12, only the outer frame members 31 a to 31 c are illustrated, but the outer frame member may be provided on the side surface on the near side of the drawing and the side surface facing this and on the back side of the drawing. As described above, the card bundle mounting case 30 is formed as a rectangular parallelepiped housing having only one side surface (right side surface in FIG. 10) into which the card 1 is inserted, thereby preventing the card 1 from dropping off from the side surface. Foreign matter such as dust can be prevented from entering.

h. In the game execution unit 4, the code pattern 6 of each card 1a to 1c is cut out. Unlike this, the image data processing circuit 8 cuts out each of the code patterns 6 included in the image data after data processing, detects the code information included in each code pattern 6, and inputs / outputs the detected code information You may make it output to the game execution part 4 via I / F13.

i. Although it is assumed that the card data identification program is executed by the CPU 10 in the main body of the game apparatus G, the reader 3 may be configured such that the reader 3 executes a similar card data identification program. In this case, the reading device 3 transmits the obtained code information to the main body side of the game device G.
j. In order to produce the card 1, hologram processing that shines when the angle is changed may be performed. In this case, if the hologram processing is not performed on the code pattern, an error may hardly occur in the identification by the card data identification unit.

k. In each of the above embodiments, it is assumed that a plurality of cards 1 are combined to form one character on the game and this character is used in a fighting game. Instead of the fighting game, for example, development to the following game is also conceivable.
(1) [Development to Role Playing Game] In the above embodiment, a plurality of cards 1 are combined as a bundle of cards, and these code patterns 6 are read. This method can be utilized in a role playing game for manipulating characters. In other words, with this card bundle, it is possible to load the weapons, armor, items, etc. of the characters in a role playing game. Here, since the player can determine a player's own characters and equipment using a plurality of items with a plurality of cards 1, various game developments are possible.

  For example, the game device G is installed in an arcade game center or a play facility, and the characters in the game can be operated by the input device 17. Here, the card 1 includes identification information and characteristics of the player character that the player himself / herself operates, weapons, armor or items to be equipped to the player character and other characters, or special skill items that the character wants to use. A code pattern 6 corresponding to is formed. When playing a game, the player selects a plurality of the cards 1 according to his / her preference in advance, and selects the selected cards 1 via the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like and the reading device 3. Attach to G. The code pattern 6 of each card 1 is identified by the card data identifying means.

  Then, in the game apparatus G, an image of the player character or other characters or items corresponding to the identified code pattern 6 is read from the ROM 11 and displayed on the display device 18. Further, based on the operation input information by the player, an image in which the selected weapon, armor, item or the like is mounted on the player character or other characters is displayed. At the same time, information indicating that the card data of the player character and other characters (data of the card 1 by the code pattern 6) is associated with the card data of the weapon, the armor, or the item is generated and stored. By this association, it is possible to advance the game in a state where the player character and the characters are associated with weapons, armor or items. In addition, the larger the number of items to be read and the value indicating each skill, the more advantageously the player can advance the game.

  In such a game, when weapons, armor, items, or the like worn on the player character or other characters are consumed or consumed, the game apparatus G uses the card data of the consumed items or the like and the player character or other appearances. Cancel the association with the person's card data. At this time, if there are a large number of cards 1 installed, other weapons, armor, or items are selected based on the read card data of other weapons, armor, items, etc., and the player character and other characters are newly added in the same manner as described above. It is possible to attach other weapons, armor or items.

  Then, the player operates the player character created by the above-described method to move within the game screen by touching, dragging, or double-touching the screen when the touch panel is used. The character is moved in the virtual space corresponding to the operation input information, and the state is displayed on the game screen. Thereby, for example, an operation can be performed in which an item is selected by touching, a player character is moved in the virtual space by dragging, and an item is thrown by double touching.

  In addition, when operating this player character, you may use the button and lever which were provided separately besides the touch panel. In addition, the buttons provided in addition to the touch panel may have special functions such as a button for invoking a special technique that cannot be performed by operating the touch panel, and the ability to change the viewpoint of the player character in the virtual space. .

  By operating the player character created by the player as described above, for example, the player can adventure in the virtual space of a game modeled on the Middle Ages. Also, by connecting a plurality of game devices G over the Internet or the like, it is possible to play a battle between player characters created by a plurality of players, or to defeat another enemy in cooperation. It is also possible to directly connect a plurality of game devices G to compete or cooperate with each other. As a result, the player can determine the equipment for the player character and the character unique to the player using a plurality of items by the plurality of cards 1, so that various game developments can be performed for the role playing game. It becomes possible to make it.

(2) [Development to a competitive game] If the present invention is utilized, the card 1 can be read while being inserted into the card bundle mounting case 2 or the like at the stage of playing the game. There is no need to be damaged by unnecessary access. In addition, since it is possible to read the opponent without seeing a combination of a character card, a special technique card, a support technique card, etc., it is possible to develop a game that is surprisingly unexpected.

  For example, in the game device G installed in an arcade game center or a play facility, the player can play the following battle game. Here, explanation will be given by a game in which three buttons representing stones, scissors, and paper according to the Janken rule are used as the input means 17. In this game, a certain special technique is registered in a button that means a stone, and is activated by using that button, but if the opponent player presses a button that means paper, it follows the rules of Janken. (Strong in the order of stone → scissors → paper → stone →…) to prevent the technique from being activated. Therefore, when it is known which button is the button that activates the special move of the player character operated by the opponent, it becomes easy not to make the special move. Therefore, if the opponents do not know which button is registered as a special move, it is possible to enjoy a more heated battle.

  In such a game, each of the plurality of cards 1 is formed with a code pattern 6 corresponding to identification information and characteristics of the player character and other characters, a special technique, a support technique, and the like. When the player plays the game, the player selects a plurality of cards 1 according to his / her preference in advance, and arranges a special technique card or a support technique card under the character card to the card bundle mounting case 2. Wear it. This prevents the opponent from revealing their own special moves and support skills.

  The card 1 selected in advance is mounted on the game apparatus G via the card bundle mounting case 2 and the like, and the code pattern 6 is identified by the card data identifying means. In the game device G, an image of a player character, a special move or a support skill corresponding to the identified code pattern 6 is read from the ROM 11 and displayed on the display device 18. At this time, the special technique and the support technique are not displayed on the display device 18 for the reason described above, and the game proceeds in a state of being stored in the RAM 12 in association with the button.

  Then, when the game enters the battle state, the player presses a button that opposes the special technique or attack predicted to be issued by the opponent, and that is advantageous to the player as much as possible. At this time, if the player presses a button that activates the special move, and the special move becomes possible, an image of the special move associated with the button is displayed from the RAM 12 and the opponent has the image. A certain amount of damage is dealt. The player who wins the game up to a certain upper limit becomes the winner of this game. In addition, it is also possible to connect a plurality of game devices G through the Internet or other networks so that the player characters created by each of the plurality of players play a battle with each other. It is also possible to advance the game to defeat the enemy.

(3) [Development to other games] In addition, the card mounting case of the present invention can be applied to conventional games such as simulation games, action games, fighting fighting games, shooting games, racing games, and horse racing games. As well as enabling the development of new game creation.

The figure which shows the external appearance of the game device using the card bundle mounting case of 1st Embodiment Block diagram showing the configuration of the game device A plan view for explaining a configuration of cards used in the game device A partially enlarged view of a card showing an example of arrangement of the code pattern 6 of FIG. Sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the card bundle mounting case of FIG. Example of captured image including code patterns of multiple cards in a card bundle mounting case Flowchart for explaining processing for obtaining code information from captured image Flowchart for explaining code determination processing in S6 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating the process which calculates | requires the code information of each card | curd from a captured image Sectional drawing which shows the state (a) before mounting | wearing a card | curd, and the state (b) in which the card | curd was mounted | worn in the card bundle mounting case of 2nd Embodiment. Sectional drawing which shows the card bundle mounting case of 3rd Embodiment Sectional drawing which shows the card bundle mounting case of 4th Embodiment

Explanation of symbols

1, 1a, 1b, 1c ............. Card 2, 30, 40, 50 .......... Card bundle mounting case 2a, 2b, 2c ................... Outer frame member (case member) )
2d, 2e, 2f …………………… Card mounting part (card mounting means)
2g, 2h ……………………………… Supporting member (spacer member)
3 ……………………………………… Reader 4 ……………………………………… Game Execution Unit 6 ……………………………… ……… Code pattern 7 ………………………………………… Imaging unit (imaging means)
8 ……………………………………… Image data processing circuit 10 …………………………………… CPU
18 …………………………………… Display devices 35a, 35b, 35c, 43 …… Reflective member 101 …………………………………… Operation console 102 ……………… …………………… Case mounting part (Case mounting means)

Claims (10)

In a game apparatus comprising: a game execution control means; a card bundle mounting case for mounting a plurality of cards selected by the player as a set of card bundles; an imaging means; and a card data identification means.
Each of the cards is formed on a print area where game information is printed on at least one main surface so as to be visible under visible light, and at least one side edge in the main surface of the card. A code pattern having code information related to the game information,
When the card bundle mounting case is mounted on the card bundle mounting case with the set of card bundles aligned so that the edge portion on which the code pattern is formed is on the same side, the card bundle is attached to the edge portion. Card mounting means for mounting each card constituting the card bundle at a predetermined interval so as to be arranged so as to be imageable by the imaging means from the side,
The imaging means is configured to capture an edge of the card bundle on which the code pattern is formed, and generate an image including the code pattern of the card bundle,
The card data identification means identifies and detects the code information of the code pattern of each card constituting the card bundle from an image including the code pattern of the card bundle generated by the imaging means, and the detection Is configured to supply the generated code information to the game execution control means as operation information by the player,
The game apparatus, wherein the game execution control means is configured to control execution of a game based on the supplied code information.   The card bundle mounting case includes a polyhedron-shaped case member having an opening into which the card is inserted on one side surface, and an upper surface and a lower surface that are substantially the size of the card, and the card mounting means includes the case member. Between the upper surface and the lower surface of the card, and is arranged with a space corresponding to one card, and is constituted by a spacer member formed so that the card is inserted into each of the gaps from the opening. The game device according to claim 1, wherein   Each of the spacer members is disposed at a position where an area where the code pattern of the card inserted from the opening side is formed is exposed, and the imaging unit receives light from the exposed area. The game apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the game apparatus is arranged at a position to receive light.   The game apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a reflecting member disposed at a position for guiding light from the exposed area to the imaging unit.   The mounting depth of the card into the case member is such that at least a part of a region where the code pattern is formed protrudes from the opening. The game device according to any one of the above. A card bundle mounting case that is detachably mounted on a game device for playing a game using a plurality of cards selected by a player as a set of card bundles,
Each of the cards is formed on at least one main surface of a print area where game information is printed so as to be visible under visible light, and at least one side edge in the main surface of the card. And a code pattern having code information related to the game information,
The game apparatus includes a game execution control unit, a case mounting unit on which the card bundle mounting case is detachably mounted, and an edge portion on which the code pattern is formed on the pair of card bundles on the same side. An image including the code pattern of the card bundle, wherein the card bundle mounting case mounted so as to be aligned is arranged so as to image the card bundle from the edge side when mounted on the case mounting means. Identifying and detecting the code information of the code pattern of each card constituting the card bundle from an image including the code pattern of the card bundle generated by the imaging means, Card data identification means for supplying the detected code information to the game execution control means as operation information by the player,
The card bundle mounting case has an opening into which the card is inserted on at least one side surface, and a case member formed to have a size for storing a plurality of the cards, and within the case member, the one card A spacer member that is arranged with an interval of minutes, and is formed so that the card is inserted into each of the intervals from the opening, and
The card bundle mounting case, wherein the game execution control means is configured to control the execution of the game based on the supplied code information.   7. The card bundle mounting case according to claim 6, wherein the case member is formed in a polyhedron shape in which an upper surface and a lower surface are substantially the size of the card.   Each of the spacer members is disposed at a position where an area where the code pattern of the card inserted from the opening side is formed is exposed, and the imaging unit receives light from the exposed area. The card bundle mounting case according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the card bundle mounting case is disposed at a position for receiving light.   The card bundle mounting case according to claim 8, further comprising a reflecting member disposed at a position for guiding light from the exposed area to the imaging unit.   10. The mounting depth of the card into the case member is such that at least a part of a region where the code pattern is formed protrudes from the opening. The card bundle mounting case according to any one of the above.

Images