JP2011024693A - Lever input device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a visually characteristic lever input device of a new concept. <P>SOLUTION: The lever input device includes: a lever operating part 52 formed above a lever 51 for the operation input by a player; a support part for tiltably supporting the lever 51; an energizing device for returning the lever 51 to an initial posture; a detection device for detecting the inclination of the lever 51; a motor 56 rotatable forward/backward; a power transmitting mechanism 57 for transmitting the power of the motor 56 to the lever 51; a clutch 58 for connecting/cutting a power transmitting pathway of the power transmitting mechanism 57 in the middle; and a control device for transmitting motion signals to the motor 56 and the clutch 58. The lever operating part 52 is of a size equivalent to or larger than the head of the player, and of such a height as for the player in the upright posture to operate the lever by one hand or both hands. The lever operating part 52 controls the power of the motor 56 to be transmitted to the lever 51 during the operation input to the lever 51 by the player or in appropriate times other than the operation input. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a lever input device. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improvement of a lever input device for inputting a predetermined instruction to the game device.

  A lever input device that inputs a predetermined instruction by tilting a lever supported to be tiltable from an initial posture around a fulcrum is used in a game device such as a game device.

  As such a lever input device, conventionally, a control stick such as a control stick used for a flight simulator or the like (see, for example, Patent Document 1), and a feeling of actually operating a simulator such as an aircraft is expressed as a bodily sensation. A control stick with a kickback mechanism that can be used has been proposed (see Patent Document 2). Also, a simulated input device (see, for example, Patent Document 3) designed to be closer to a real vehicle by simulating the force transmitted to the input device (for example, a handle), depending on the operation to enjoy the actual feel A control lever (see, for example, Patent Document 4) in which an impact is generated has also been proposed.

JP 2001-273840 A Japanese Patent No. 3331378 Japanese Patent No. 3271324 Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 4-41899

  However, conventional input devices generally have a shape or structure that imitates an actual input device such as a control stick, and those that consider actual input operations on game devices such as control sticks. However, a lever input device having completely different visual characteristics is not proposed.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a new concept lever input device that is visually distinctive.

  In order to solve this problem, the present inventor has made various studies. First, as described above, the lever input device with a shape or structure that imitates an actual input device is a real thing that emphasizes realism and simulated experience under the concept of producing an unusual scene with few opportunities to actually experience it. Tend to be designed to resemble In addition, under the concept of pursuing operability of game devices that enthusiastic masters and enthusiasts enjoy, there is a lever input device with a shape or structure that emphasizes operability and is familiar and easy to operate. There is a tendency to be designed. Of course, the lever input device designed under such a background has a size that allows the lever head to fit in the player's palm, or a size that is easy to grip, such as a control stick. There has never been such a novel lever input device. In light of such background and background, the present inventor, who has repeatedly studied while focusing on the visual aspect, has obtained new knowledge that leads to the solution of such problems.

  The present invention is based on such knowledge, and a player inputs an operation in a lever input device that inputs a predetermined instruction to the game device by tilting a lever supported to be tiltable from an initial posture around a fulcrum. Therefore, a lever operation part formed on the upper part of the lever, a support part that supports the lever so as to be tiltable, a biasing device that returns the lever to the initial posture, a detection device that detects the tilt of the lever, and a detection signal by the detection device And an operation input unit that allows a player to input with one or both hands, and the lever operation unit of the lever is equal to or larger than the player's head. In addition, the player who is still in an upright position is at a height that can be operated with one or both hands.

  Further, the present invention provides a lever input device for inputting a predetermined instruction to a game device by tilting a lever supported to be tiltable from an initial posture around a fulcrum. A formed lever operation section, a support section that supports the lever so as to be tiltable, an urging device that returns the lever to an initial posture, a detection apparatus that detects the tilt of the lever, and a power transmission mechanism that transmits power to the lever; A clutch that cuts off the middle of the power transmission path by the power transmission mechanism, and a control device that receives a detection signal from the detection device and transmits an operation signal to the clutch. Alternatively, an operation input unit that can be input with both hands is formed, and the lever operation unit of the lever is the same size as or larger than the player's head and is in an upright position. It is at a height that allows the player to operate with one or both hands, and control is performed so that the power is transmitted to the lever at any time during operation input to the lever by the player or other than operation input. .

  Furthermore, the present invention provides a lever input device for inputting a predetermined instruction to a game device by tilting a lever supported to be tiltable from an initial posture around a fulcrum. The formed lever operation portion, a support portion that supports the lever so as to be tiltable, a biasing device that returns the lever to an initial posture, a detection device that detects the tilt of the lever, a motor that can rotate forward and reverse, and the motor A power transmission mechanism that transmits the power of the motor to the lever, a clutch that interrupts the middle of the power transmission path by the power transmission mechanism, a control device that receives a detection signal from the detection device and transmits an operation signal to the motor and the clutch, The lever operating part of the lever is the same size as or larger than the player's head, and the player who is standing upright can operate with one or both hands. It has a height capable performs control so as to transmit the power of the motor to the lever in a timely manner other than the operation input during or operation input to the lever by the player, is that the.

  Thus, according to the lever whose lever operation part is larger than the player's head, an operational feeling different from that of the conventional input device can be produced. In other words, unlike a conventional input device that imitates realism and simulated experience, and an input device that pursues operability as a shape or structure that is familiar and easy to operate, it is such a big The operation feeling when inputting a lever through the lever operation unit is clearly different from the conventional one. Specifically, a player who faces a huge lever operation unit, for example, performs an operation of tilting the lever in each direction in a posture in which both hands (or one hand) are placed on the lever operation unit while standing upright. Rather than making sure to input quickly, rather than using the whole arm (and thus the whole body) to operate the lever, it feels different from the conventional sense of operation, new playability and fun I can remember. Such a new operation sensation and the like is difficult to be realized in a home game machine and the like, and can exert appeal to the player in this respect.

  Moreover, the lever with the lever operating part larger than the player's head can give an impression that it is deformed and out of shape, and appeals not only to the player but also to the passersby and the viewer. sell. In addition, the lever input device is connected to the surroundings, such as the player may be attracted as if the player is playing while operating a huge lever. The appeal effect can also be demonstrated. If the present invention is applied to, for example, a large game device that displays an image on a huge screen, it is possible to realize a device that is conspicuous as a case and a player's operation during play.

  In such a lever input device, it is preferable that the power of the motor is transmitted to the lever at a time other than the input by the player and the lever is automatically tilted. In this case, it is also preferable to tilt the lever in the left-right direction when viewed from the front of the game device. If the lever is tilted automatically, it can be effectively advertised so as to attract the attention of passers-by in combination with the appearance of the lever being deformed and protruding. it can.

  If there is an external input to the game device while the lever is automatically tilted as described above, it is preferable to disconnect the power transmission path by disconnecting the clutch.

  Further, during operation input to the lever by the player, it is preferable that the power of the motor is intermittently transmitted to the lever to vibrate the lever according to the progress of the game in the game device. In this case, the power of the motor can be intermittently transmitted to the lever by repeating the clutch transmission state and the disengagement state.

  When the lever is vibrated as described above, it is also preferable to intermittently transmit the power of the motor to the lever when the lever is tilted and the progress of the game in the game device satisfies a predetermined condition. .

  Moreover, it is also preferable that the lever operation unit is formed with an operation input unit that allows a player to input with one hand or both hands. In this case, it is more preferable that the left-hand operation input unit and the right-hand operation input unit are arranged at an equal distance when viewed from the player when playing in front of the lever.

  Moreover, it is preferable that a pair of the lever input devices described above is arranged on the left and right in the game device. The lever input devices in this case may have different heights. Or the lever input device may be arrange | positioned at the space | interval which can be operated simultaneously by one player. In this case, it is also preferable that the left-hand operation input unit and the right-hand operation input unit are formed asymmetrically as viewed from the player.

  It is also preferable that a light emitting device is provided in the lever input device.

  Furthermore, it is also preferable that the lever input device is provided in a game device provided with video equipment that projects video on a vertically placed image display unit.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the lever input device of the new concept with the visually characteristic can be provided.

It is a whole perspective view which shows the external appearance of a game device. It is a front view of a game device. It is a rear view except the screen of the game device. It is a partial side view of a game device. It is a perspective view when the game apparatus is seen from obliquely rear. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the optical axis of the illumination unit in a game device, and the inclination | tilt angle of a top plate. It is a front view showing one embodiment of the lever input device concerning the present invention. It is a left view of a lever input device. It is a rear view of a lever input device. It is a rear view of the lever input device in a state where the lever is tilted. It is a perspective view of a lever input device. It is a perspective view of a lever input device in the state where a lever tilted. It is a perspective view for demonstrating the basic structure of the support part of a lever. It is a perspective view for demonstrating the basic structure of the support part of a lever. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the control apparatus etc. of a game device. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a machine control command issue. It is a flowchart which shows an example of machine operation control. It is a perspective view which shows the other structural example of a lever input device. It is a partial front view of the lever input device shown in FIG. It is the (A) top view and (B) front view which show the further another structural example of a lever input device. It is a partial view of a lever input device having a configuration in which a left lever input device and a right lever input device are linked. It is a top view which shows the structural example of the lever input device made to rotate or rotate a lever. It is a front view which shows the structural example of the lever input device made to rotate or rotate a lever.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a lever input device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Below, the game device 1 including the lever input device 5 will be described first, and then the lever input device 5 will be described in detail.

  First, with reference to FIG. 1, the game apparatus 1 includes a main body housing portion 2 and a support 4 that is connected to the main body housing portion 2 and supports the screen 3. In addition, the main body housing unit 2 is provided with a lever input device 5 and an operation panel 6 operated by a player.

  The main body housing unit 2 is a core component of the game apparatus 1, and houses a power supply unit, a control board, a cooling fan, a projector, and the like (not shown). A game image projected from the projector under the control of the control board is emitted from the back surface of the main body casing 2 and projected onto the screen 3. As will be described later, a leg adjuster mechanism 23 is provided on the bottom surface of the main body casing 2 so that the projection angle of the projector can be adjusted by adjusting the inclination of the main body casing 2 itself.

  The screen 3 is a projector screen for reflecting light emitted from the projector and projecting it as a game image. The screen 3 of the present embodiment is constituted by a hard plate-like member whose surface is processed into a film. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be made of a flexible material such as cloth. The screen 3 is attached to the support body 4 so that the center thereof is located in the direction of the line of sight of the player standing on the front surface of the main body casing 2.

  The support body 4 is configured to include a support column 42 erected from the gantry beam portion 41, thereby supporting the screen 3 and connecting and fixing the main body housing portion 2. Left and right shielding curtains 7 and a top plate 8 are attached to the support 4 so as to surround the screen 3. These are for preventing the visibility of the game image projected on the screen 3 from being affected by external light. Further, the shielding curtain 7 functioning as an example of a shielding member is useful for shielding game images that are completely unrelated to the other gaming devices 1 when the gaming device 1 of the present embodiment is arranged adjacently.

  The top plate 8 is provided at an angle slightly inclined with respect to the horizontal plane. A flexible sheet 9 is attached to the top plate 8 so as to form a curved surface substantially along the top plate 8. The flexible sheet 9 can print advertising characters and pictures. The flexible sheet 9 is illuminated by the lighting unit 2 (see FIG. 4) provided in the main body housing 2 and exhibits an advertising function.

  Next, the detail of each part of the game apparatus 1 is demonstrated.

  FIG. 2 is a front view of the game apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the main housing 2 is composed of a controller cabinet 21 disposed in the center and side cabinets 22A and 22B disposed on the left and right sides thereof.

  On the upper surface of the controller cabinet 21, an operation panel 6 on which a speaker 62 and various operation buttons 63 are arranged is formed. In addition, what is formed on the front surface of the controller cabinet 21 is a coin insertion portion 64 for a player to insert coins necessary for starting a game.

  The left and right side cabinets 22A and 22B are respectively provided with lever input devices 5A and 5B that are swing-operated by a player. The side cabinets 22A and 22B are provided with a sensor mechanism that detects the movement of the lever input devices 5A and 5B and outputs an operation signal, and a drive mechanism that applies a predetermined movement to the lever input device 5, respectively. In this embodiment, the lever input devices 5A and 5B are not large enough to be gripped by the player's hand, but are upright to the height of the player's (infant or child) 's height, It is designed to be large enough to swing using motion or movement of the entire body. Further, in this embodiment, the lengths of the axes of the lever input devices 5A and 5B are different so that an adult player and a child player can enjoy the game together, but they are set to the same length. May be. Operation buttons may be formed on the spherical surfaces provided at the upper ends of the shaft portions of the lever input devices 5A and 5B. The operation buttons provided on the spherical surface of the lever input device 5 may be assigned the same function as the operation buttons 63 provided on the operation panel 6 or may be assigned different functions. An operation signal generated based on an input operation performed on the lever input devices 5A and 5B by the player is input to a control board in the controller cabinet 21.

  FIG. 3 is a rear view of the game apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, excluding the screen. As shown in the figure, a door having a transmission window 24 is formed on the back surface of the main body casing 2. The transmission window 24 is a window through which light emitted from the projector 26 fixedly disposed inside the controller cabinet 21 is transmitted. The transparent window 24 is preferably fitted with transparent glass. The door is detachable for maintenance.

  Two illumination units 25 that house light sources such as halogen lamps are attached to the back surface of the main body housing unit 2 with arms 251 facing upward (see FIG. 4). Light emitted from the illumination unit 25 is applied to the flexible sheet 9 attached to the top plate 8 of the support 4. The length of the arm 251 is set so that the light emitted from the illumination unit 25 hits a part of the main body housing 2 and does not form a shadow.

  FIG. 4 is a partial side view of the game apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the inside of the controller cabinet 21 is shown with the side wall of the controller cabinet 21 removed.

  As shown in the figure, a projector 26 is fixedly arranged inside the controller cabinet 21. Further, a cooling fan that discharges heat generated by the projector 26 to the outside may be provided.

  A plurality of leg adjuster mechanisms 23 are provided on the bottom surface of the main housing 2 and support the main housing 2 with respect to the installation surface. In the present embodiment, four leg adjuster mechanisms 23 are attached to each of the corner vicinity portions of the bottom surface of the main body housing 2.

  Specifically, an adjuster having a foot portion 232 to which a first fixing nut 231 is fixed by welding or the like so as to correspond to a bolt hole (not shown) provided at a predetermined portion of the bottom surface of the side cabinet 22. Bolts 233 are screwed. A second fixing nut 234 is fixed to the foot portion 232 by welding or the like. Further, a locking nut 235 is screwed onto the adjuster bolt 233.

  Therefore, the second fixing nut 234 is rotated. The adjuster bolt 233 expands and contracts according to the rotating direction, and the support length changes. Then, the rotation of the second fixing nut is suppressed and the locking nut 235 is tightened. As a result, the adjuster bolt 233 is fixed at a predetermined support length.

  In this way, the leg adjuster mechanism 23 can adjust the height from the installation surface to the bottom surface of the main housing 2. Therefore, the operator can freely adjust the inclination of the main body casing 2 by changing the support length of each leg adjuster mechanism 23, and as a result, the operator can fix the screen 3 to the inside of the main body casing 2. The projection angle of the installed projector 26 can be adjusted. This eliminates the need for the operator to open the door of the main body housing 2 and adjust the tilt angle of the projector 26 itself.

  Further, a joining plate 27 for joining to the support 4 is attached to the bottoms on both the left and right sides of the main body casing 2. In the joining plate 27, a plurality of vertically long slots 271 for inserting bolts are formed, and some of the plurality of slots 271 are provided in the gantry beam portion 41 of the support 4. The bolts are fitted and bolted.

  As described above, in the game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, in order to set the projection angle of the projector 26, the leg adjuster mechanism 23 can adjust the inclination of the main body housing 2 with respect to the installation surface. Therefore, the long hole 271 of the joining plate 27 contributes to absorbing the displacement of the bolt insertion position based on the height displacement amount of the main body housing 2.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the game apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention when viewed obliquely from the rear. In the figure, the shielding curtain 7 is omitted for convenience.

  The support 4 is a structure that supports the large screen 3. The support body 4 includes a pair of support beam portions 41 and a pair of left and right support columns 42 which are joined to one end portions of the pair of left and right support beam portions 41 and are erected therefrom. Moreover, the screen 3 is joined by the fastening member. The other end of the pair of gantry beam portions 41 joins the joining plate of the main body housing portion 2.

  A reinforcing member 43 is disposed between the pair of gantry beam portions 41 and connects the pair of gantry beam portions 41. A reinforcing plate 44 is disposed between the pair of support columns 42. The reinforcing plate 44 serves as a decorative plate that connects the support pillars 42 to increase the strength of the support 4 and covers the back of the game apparatus 1.

  A bracket 45 is attached to each tip of the pair of support pillars 42, and a pair of cantilever beams 46 are joined together. The cantilever 46 extends obliquely upward toward the main body casing 2 side. The cantilever 46 is used to support the top plate 8.

  The inclination angle of the cantilever beam 46 with respect to the horizontal plane is defined in relation to the looseness (curved surface) of the flexible sheet 9 suspended from the top plate 8 in consideration of the shielding of external light from above that is inserted into the screen 3. It is preferred that

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the relationship between the optical axis of the illumination unit 25 and the inclination angle of the top plate 8 in the game apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  That is, as shown in the figure, the top plate 8 attached to the cantilever beam 46 extending from the support column 42 is inclined at an angle θ with respect to the horizontal plane. Therefore, the flexible sheet 9 adhered to the front and rear end portions of the top plate 8 is slackened so as to form a curved surface by its own weight, and the lowest point P is located slightly rearward (screen 3 side) from the center. . In other words, the normal vector of the region of the flexible sheet 9 behind the lowest point P is directed toward the screen 3. Therefore, when such an area is illuminated from below, the reflected light is directed toward the screen 3.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the direction of the illumination unit 25 is set so that the point on the optical axis C of the illumination unit 25 is located in a region in front of the lowest point P (on the main body housing unit 2 side). The Thereby, the central light of the light irradiated to the flexible sheet 9 by the illumination unit 25 is reflected in a direction away from the screen 3.

  In addition, the area of the flexible sheet 9 behind the lowest point P is difficult to see from the eyes of people facing the game apparatus 1. Therefore, a paint that absorbs light may be applied or a film may be attached to all or part of the region. Thereby, the amount of reflected light toward the screen 3 out of the light irradiated to the flexible sheet 9 by the lighting unit 25 can be suppressed, and a reduction in the visibility of the game image projected on the screen 3 is prevented. be able to.

  Next, the lever input device 5 in the game device 1 of the present embodiment will be described (see FIG. 11 and the like).

  The lever input device 5 is a device that inputs a predetermined instruction to the game device 1 by tilting a lever supported to be tiltable from an initial posture around a fulcrum provided in the side cabinet 22 (22A, 22B). is there. The lever input device 5 of the present embodiment is composed of a pair of a lever input device 5A on the left side and a lever input device 5B on the right side as viewed from the player. The lever input devices 5A and 5B are provided in the corresponding left side cabinet 22A and right side cabinet 22B, respectively (see FIG. 1). The pair of lever input devices 5A and 5B in the present embodiment have the same structure except that the lengths of the levers are different. Hereinafter, one of the pair of lever input devices 5A and 5B (for example, the left lever input device 5A) will be described (see FIG. 11 and the like). Hereinafter, as an example of the lever input device 5, the lever input device 5 capable of operating using the power of an actuator or the like will be described.

  The lever input device 5 of this embodiment includes a lever 51, a lever operation unit 52, a support unit 53, an urging device 54, a detection device 55, a motor 56, a power transmission mechanism 57, a clutch 58, and the like.

  The lever 51 is a cylindrical member that tilts in accordance with an input operation by the player and inputs an operation signal to the game apparatus 1 in accordance with the tilting operation. The lever 51 of the present embodiment is formed thicker corresponding to a lever operation portion 52 that is formed large as will be described later. Further, the lever 51 is formed so as to be in an upright state when neutral without any player input (see FIG. 11 and the like).

  The lever operation part 52 is formed on the upper part of the lever 51, and is a part where the player touches and inputs an operation (see FIG. 11 and the like). In the present embodiment, the lever operating portion 52 is formed in a spherical shape, and is larger than the general size of a human head (for example, a diameter of about 30 cm) (see FIG. 11 and the like). ). The spherical lever 51 that is larger than the head in this way and the lever 51 that is formed thick as described above are generally used in a conventional arcade type video game device or the like when they are combined. It is formed with a configuration ratio that is approximately similar to the upright lever input device that has been used. For this reason, when the lever 51 and the lever operation unit 52 of this embodiment are installed in an arcade type game device (game device 1), for example, the device itself is similar to a conventional lever input device at first glance. It is quite large and demonstrates the appealing power of attracting the interest of passers-by who have entered the field of view.

  In the lever input device 5, the lever operation unit 52 is provided at a height at which a player in an upright position can operate with one hand or both hands (see FIG. 1 and the like). Such a lever operation unit 52, in combination with a left button 521L and a right button 521R, which will be described later, suggests a game posture in which both hands are placed on the buttons 521L and 521R in an upright posture.

  The lever operation unit 52 is provided with a left-hand / right-hand operation input unit for performing a specific operation input with one or both hands placed on the lever operation unit 52. For example, in this embodiment, the left button 521L as the left-hand operation input unit and the right button 521R as the right-hand operation input unit are arranged at positions closer to the center left and right of the lever operation unit 52 (FIG. 7 and the like). reference). The left button 521L and the right button 521R are preferably arranged at an equal distance as viewed from the player who plays in front of the lever 51 and the lever operation unit 52, or are preferably arranged asymmetrically. In this embodiment, the left button 521L and the right button 521R are connected to the lever operation unit 52 so that both buttons 521L and 521R are equidistant when viewed from a player standing in front of the lever 51 and the lever operation unit 52. It is arranged at a position that is symmetrical with respect to the center. Further, regarding the arrangement in the front-rear direction, in this embodiment, the left button 521L and the right button 521R are arranged at a position slightly closer to the player from the center of the lever operation unit 52 so that the player can easily operate. (See FIG. 8 etc.). Although not particularly illustrated, signal lines for transmitting input signals of the left button 521L and the right button 521R are wired inside the cylindrical lever 51. Further, when an example of a case where the left button 521L and the right button 521R are asymmetrically arranged is shown, the right button 521R composed of six buttons, for example, is simulated on the right lever by simulating the arrangement in a portable portable game device. For example, it may be arranged only on the 51 lever operation portions 52.

  Although not particularly illustrated, the left button 521L and the right button 521R described above may be formed of a light-transmitting resin, and a light-emitting device may be incorporated so as to emit light appropriately from the inside. Alternatively, part or all of the portions other than the left button 521L and the right button 521R in the lever operation unit 52 may be formed of a translucent resin, and the light emitting device may be embedded to emit light.

  The support portion 53 is a member that supports the lever 51 so as to be tiltable. For example, in this embodiment, the lever 51 is tilted in the front-rear direction (the direction connecting the front side where the player is and the back side where the screen 3 is located) and in the left-right direction (the left-right direction as viewed from the player). The universal attachment which supports the lever 51 so that tilting is possible is comprised using the universal support apparatus which accept | permits independently. An example of the universal support device will be briefly described. First, the frame 531 is attached to the housing 59 so as to be rotatable in one direction (for example, the left-right direction), and the lever 51 is attached to the frame 531 in another direction ( For example, the universal support structure can be configured by being rotatably attached in the front-rear direction (see FIGS. 13 and 14). The frame 531 is rotatably attached to the housing 59 via a support shaft 532 extending in the front-rear direction, for example. The support shaft 532 is integrated with the frame 531, and rotates together with the lever 51 tilting. The lever 51 is rotatably attached to the frame 531 via a support shaft 533 extending in the left-right direction, for example.

  The biasing device 54 is a member that biases the tilted lever 51 in a direction to return to the initial position. Specific examples of such a biasing member are not particularly limited, and various members can be adopted. For example, in this embodiment, a rubber member that can be used as a vibration-proof rubber or the like is used as the biasing member 54. ing. The urging device 54 is arranged at the center of the internal plate 592 constituting the housing 59 with the lower end of the lever 51 attached to the upper end thereof. Such an urging device 54 is elastically deformed according to the tilt of the lever 51 and urges the lever 51 to return to the initial upright posture (see FIGS. 13 and 14).

  The detection device 55 is a device that detects the inclination of the lever 51 (lever input device 5) (see FIG. 8). A specific example of the detection device 55 is not particularly limited. For example, a limit switch provided at a position where the lever 51 contacts when tilting can be used. In this embodiment, the detection device 55 includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element. An optical sensor is used to detect whether the lever 51 has tilted beyond a predetermined tilt. Although not shown in detail, four sets of optical sensors are provided to independently detect the forward tilt, the rear tilt, the left tilt, and the right tilt of the lever 51. ing. An optical sensor (a light emitting element, a light receiving element) that detects, for example, a forward tilt of the lever 51 is disposed so that a part of the lever 51 tilted beyond a predetermined tilt is shielded from light. As described above, in the present embodiment, it is detected whether the lever 51 has tilted beyond a predetermined tilt. However, the tilt of the lever 51 is detected using a displacement sensor such as an optical sensor including a rotary encoder or a potentiometer. A quantity (angle) can also be detected.

  The motor 56 is an actuator provided as a power source for automatically operating the lever 51 of the lever input device 5 and further as a power source for vibrating the lever 51 of the lever input device 5. For example, the power of the motor 56 disposed in the lower portion of the housing 59 is transmitted to the lever 51 via the power transmission mechanism 57 and the clutch 58 (see FIG. 12 and the like). In this embodiment, for example, an AC motor that rotates forward and backward according to a machine control output signal from a CPU (control device) 60 is used. Reference numeral 561 denotes a motor capacitor that is electrically connected to the motor 56 (see FIG. 8 and the like). In the present embodiment, the motor 56 is illustrated as a power source. However, a solenoid coil, a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, or the like can be used as a drive source.

  The power transmission mechanism 57 is a mechanism that also serves as a speed reducer that transmits the power of the motor 56 to the lever 51. In this embodiment, a belt (not shown), a pulley 572, a clutch 58, a transmission shaft 574, another belt (not shown), another pulley (not shown), a short link 576, a long link 578, and the lever 51 A power transmission mechanism 57 for transmitting power is configured (see FIG. 8 and the like).

  That is, first, a belt (not shown) is wound around a pulley (not shown) of the rotating shaft of the motor 56 and a pulley 572 of the input shaft of the clutch 58, and this belt passes to the clutch 58 via the pulley 572. Transmit power. A transmission shaft 574 is connected to the output side of the clutch 8, and the rotation of the transmission shaft 574 is transmitted to the short link 576 via another belt and another pulley.

  The short link 576 is a lever that is rotatably attached to the housing 59. A projection 576a for engaging with the long link 578 is formed at the swing end of the short link 576 (see FIG. 10 and the like).

  One end of the long link 578 is fixed to the support shaft 532 of the support portion 53, and is provided to tilt (swing) by the same amount as the lever 51 and the frame 531 around the support shaft 532 ( (See FIGS. 9 and 10). A long hole 578a is formed at the other end (lower swing end) of the long link 578 to engage with the short link protrusion 576a in a slidable state.

  The clutch 58 is a mechanical element that cuts off the power transmission path between the motor 56 and the lever 51 described above and appropriately switches between a power connection state and a disconnection state. The clutch 58 of this embodiment is engaged and disengaged according to a machine control output signal from a CPU (control device) 60.

  The CPU 60 is a control device that receives various reception signals (for example, detection signals from the detection device 55) and transmits operation signals (machine control output signals, etc.) to various devices such as the motor 56 and the clutch 58 described above. For example, the CPU 60 according to the present embodiment includes a function of the central processing unit 600 that performs arithmetic processing based on a signal input from an input unit (for example, the detection device 55), a program or data read from the storage unit 61, and communication. It has each function as the control part 602, the image process part 604, the audio | voice process part 606, and the machine control process part 608 (refer FIG. 15). The communication control unit 602 executes communication control when communicating by connecting to a network system such as WAN or LAN. The image processing unit 604 executes processing of an image displayed on the image display unit (screen 3). The audio processing unit 606 executes audio output processing from the speaker 62 or the like. The machine control processing unit 608 executes control processing for elements such as the motor 56 and the clutch 58. Such a CPU 60 includes a CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) system, a RISC (Reduce Instruction Set Computer) system CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). ), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Processor, processor for specific application) and the like. The CPU 60 may be provided with functions such as a storage unit 61, a GPU (graphic processor), and an audio processor.

  The storage unit 61 includes, for example, a program and data, and an OS (Operating System) for causing the game apparatus 1 to function as a computer. A program or the like can access each function of the game apparatus 1 through various APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) of the OS. Such a storage unit 61 includes, for example, high-speed storage means used for main storage such as RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), magnetic tape. Auxiliary storage means such as a device or an optical disk device is included. The storage unit 61 in the game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a program and data. Further, the storage unit 61 may include an OS (Operating System, not shown) for causing the game apparatus 1 to function as a computer.

  The program is a game program for the CPU 60 to execute the game apparatus 1. The program itself can be downloaded from the server and updated, or downloaded at the start of the game. The data is various data for the game program, and includes data necessary for game execution, such as display polygon data and music data for each character. Information such as difficulty level settings can also be stored.

  The game apparatus 1 is provided with a communication I / F, a peripheral I / F, and an audio processor as necessary. The communication I / F (not shown) is used to connect to a network such as a LAN (local area network) or a WAN (wide area network) (for example, WiMax (registered trademark), c. Link (registered trademark)). ), HDMI (registered trademark), wired / wireless LAN, telephone line, mobile phone network, PHS network, power line network, IEEE 1394, etc.). The peripheral I / F (not shown) is a part that provides an interface such as USB, IEEE1394, serial, parallel, infrared, and wireless for connection to various peripheral devices (peripherals). As various peripheral devices connected by the peripheral I / F, in the game apparatus 1, various button switches, a coin insertion device, a power switch, and the like can be used. Further, a stick type controller, a force feedback device such as a vibration device, a touch pad, a touch panel, a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball, etc. can be connected and used. The peripheral I / F can also control electronic switches and the like, and can also reduce power consumption by turning on / off various peripheral devices.

  The audio processor (not shown) is a DSP (digital signal processor) provided with a PCM (Wave) sound source for outputting music, voice, and sound effects. The audio processor can calculate physical sound sources, FM sound sources, and the like, and can calculate various sound effects such as reverberation and reflection. The output of the audio processor is D / A (digital / analog) converted, connected to a digital amplifier or the like, and reproduced as music, sound, or sound effect by a sound output unit such as the speaker 62. The audio processor may include a storage medium (audio memory) that stores digitally converted data for music, voice, and sound effects.

  Next, a control example of the motor 56, the clutch 58, etc. in the game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be shown (see FIG. 16 and the like). In the game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the motor 56 and the clutch 58 are controlled in a variety of manners during the operation input to the lever 51 (lever input apparatus 5) by the player or at a time other than the operation input. Is transmitted to the lever 51.

<First Control Example of Motor 56, Clutch 58, etc.>
It is preferable to automatically tilt the lever 51 (lever input device 5) under a predetermined condition. In the present embodiment, the lever 51 is tilted in the left-right direction as viewed from the front of the game apparatus 1 after a predetermined time has passed without any external input by the players (no-input scene). As described above, since the lever operation unit 52 is larger than the player's head and can be given an impression that it is deformed and out of shape as a whole, the lever 51 is automatically operated in this way. In the case of a swinging motion that tilts, it is expected to exhibit an advertising function (advertisement function) that appeals greatly to the visual sense of not only players but also passersby and onlookers.

In addition, for the exercise that exhibits such an advertisement function (advertisement function), the screen displayed on the screen 3 can be switched, the movement of the display object in the screen, the movement in accordance with the music flowing from the speaker 62, and the like. Good. That is,
-Swing motion that matches the logo production on the title screen, etc.-Swing motion that matches the music-Replay scene (playing the game content on the screen again or its video), etc. It is also preferable to move the lever 51 in accordance with the swing motion.

Further, in the present embodiment, when there is an external input to the game apparatus 1 while the lever 51 is automatically tilted as described above, the power transmission path is disconnected by disconnecting the clutch 58. Yes. For example,
-Stop operation for a certain time by inserting coins in a no-input scene-Stop operation for a certain time by receiving a player's input (for example, a player touches the lever input device 5) in a no-input scene In the operation stop / no-input scene after a certain time has elapsed after the game ends, the operation itself is turned on / off depending on the setting of the operator.

  The operator here refers to, for example, a store clerk of a game store (amusement arcade), and performs a predetermined setting operation on the game device 1 in advance via a master operation panel (not described in detail in this specification). A person who has authority to perform or perform maintenance inspections (also referred to as a game administrator or an attendant).

<Second Control Example of Motor 56, Clutch 58, etc.>
During operation input to the lever input device 5 by the player during the game, the motor 56, the clutch 58, etc. are controlled according to the progress of the game, and the power of the motor 56 is intermittently transmitted to the lever input device 5. The lever 51 is vibrated. In this case, the power of the motor 56 can be intermittently transmitted to the lever operation unit 52 by repeatedly engaging and disengaging the clutch 58 (transmission state and disconnection state).

As a scene where the lever 51 is vibrated in this way, for example, when the lever 51 is tilted and the progress of the game in the game apparatus 1 satisfies a predetermined condition, the power of the motor 56 is used as the lever operation unit 52. To intermittently communicate. Alternatively, a player's input or game (for example, a game in which various shaped blocks as operation objects are moved left and right and downward while rotating left or right, and appropriately combined with other block blocks already stacked. , Etc.), the lever 51 may be vibrated as follows. That is, for example,
・ Vibration when the operation object touches or touches the block block ・ Vibration due to collision of the operation object with another object ・ Vibration ・ Operation object or scene is destroyed when the operation object is added by a suitable operation When the vibration / player is subjected to some sort of attack when trying to move the vibration / operation object out of the movable range in case of (for example, the effect that all existing objects are destroyed at the end of the game) In the case of vibration / competition format, when a player's victory or defeat is decided, in vibration / game mode selection, etc., vibration / game result display according to input, display according to result / game cannot be continued If there is vibration. Depending on the combination of the scene in which the lever 51 is vibrated and the vibration pattern, it is possible to give the player a feeling as if the progress of the game is obstructed.

  It is preferable that these vibrations can be set on / off or strength by an operator. It is also preferable that the strength of vibration changes linearly according to the outcome and result of the game. Furthermore, in order to control vibration more effectively, it is also preferable to set the direction of forward / reverse rotation of the motor 56 according to the direction of operation input by the player so as to experience effective vibration.

<Example of flow of issuing machine control commands when controlling motor 56, clutch 58, etc.>
An example of issuing a machine control command when controlling the motor 56, the clutch 58, etc. will be described with reference to the flow shown in FIG.

  First, when there is an input in the game apparatus 1 (step SP1), the central processing unit 600 of the CPU 60 performs processing (step SP2). The input here is a general input including both an input with machine control and an input without machine control, which will be described later.

  Next, it is determined whether the input is an input with machine control or an input without machine control (step SP3). Input without mechanical control is mainly a game device such as an operation input to the lever input device 5 by a player during a game as described in <Second Control Example of Motor 56, Clutch 58, etc.> The event from the outside of 1. On the other hand, the input accompanied by the machine control is constant in a state where there is no external input by the players (no input scene) as described in <First control example of the motor 56, the clutch 58, etc.> It mainly refers to an internal event in the CPU 60 of the game apparatus 1, such as the control for automatically swinging the lever 51 when time has elapsed.

  If the input is not an input accompanied with machine control (NO in step SP3), it is subsequently determined whether the scene is accompanied by machine control (step SP4). The scene accompanied by machine control here refers to, for example, a sequence when the lever 51 is automatically swung as described above. When it is not a scene (sequence) with machine control (NO in step SP4), as an example, when shifting to a scene that displays a standby screen such as a logo on the screen 3, the motor 56, the clutch 58, etc. are not controlled. Then, the process returns to the input waiting (idling) step (step SP1).

  On the other hand, when the scene (sequence) is accompanied by machine control (YES in step SP4), as an example, when the lever 51 is automatically swung as described above, whether to control the clutch 58 is determined. Judgment is made (step SP5). This determination is based on, for example, whether or not the clutch 58 needs to be controlled in order to realize a predetermined operation of the plurality of patterns when the lever 51 is swung automatically. If clutch control is to be performed (YES in step SP5), a predetermined clutch control command is issued (step SP6), and a predetermined value is added to a counter described later. When the clutch control is not performed (NO in step SP5), it is determined whether or not the motor 56 is controlled in the next step (step SP7).

  The determination of whether or not to execute the motor control in step SP7 is based on whether or not the motor 56 needs to be controlled when shifting to a scene (sequence) accompanied by machine control. For example, when only the light emitting device (not shown) of the game apparatus 1 is caused to emit light or a predetermined sound is output from the speaker 62, the motor control may not be performed (NO in step SP7). On the other hand, when performing motor control (YES in step SP7), a predetermined motor control command is issued (step SP8), and a predetermined value is added to a counter described later.

  Next, a case where the above input is an input accompanied with machine control (YES in step SP3) will be described. In this case, in this embodiment, in order to perform control for vibrating the lever 51, it is first determined whether or not the control of the clutch 58 is to be performed (step SP9). For this determination, for example, as illustrated in <Example of vibration pattern using motor 56 and clutch 58> described later, it is necessary to control the clutch 58 in order to realize a predetermined vibration among a plurality of patterns. Based on whether there is. When clutch control is to be performed (YES in step SP9), a predetermined clutch control command is issued (step SP10), and a predetermined value is added to a counter described later. When the clutch control is not performed (NO in step SP9), it is determined whether or not the motor 56 is controlled in the next step (step SP11).

  The determination of whether or not to perform motor control in step SP11 is based on whether or not the motor 56 needs to be controlled when the lever 51 is caused to vibrate in a predetermined manner. For example, when it is necessary to change the rotation speed of the motor 56 (YES in step SP11), a motor control command is issued (step SP12), and a predetermined value is added to a counter described later. On the other hand, for example, when a predetermined vibration can be realized only by controlling the clutch 58 without changing the rotation speed of the motor 56 (NO in step SP11), the motor waits for input (idling) without issuing a motor control command. Return to step (step SP1).

<Flow example of machine operation control during control of motor 56, clutch 58, etc.>
An example of machine operation control during control of the motor 56, the clutch 58, and the like will be described with reference to the flow shown in FIG.

  If there is an input in the game device 1 (step SP21), the central processing unit 600 of the CPU 60 performs processing (step SP22). As described above, the input here is a general input including both an input with machine control and an input without machine control.

  Next, it is determined whether the machine control counter exceeds 0 (step SP23). If it does not exceed 0 (NO in step SP23), the process returns to the input waiting (idling) step (step SP21). If it exceeds 0 (YES in step SP23), it is determined in the next step whether or not the control blank counter exceeds 0 (step SP24).

  If the control blank counter exceeds 0 in step SP24 (YES in step SP24), it is determined in step SP37 whether clutch control is to be performed. On the other hand, if the control blank counter does not exceed 0 in step SP24 (NO in step SP24), it is determined in step SP25 whether the reverse rotation control counter of the motor 56 exceeds 0 (step SP25).

  If the reverse rotation control counter exceeds 0 in step SP25 (YES in step SP25), it is determined in step SP32 whether or not to perform clutch control. On the other hand, if the reverse rotation control counter does not exceed 0 in step SP25 (NO in step SP25), it is determined in step SP26 whether the normal rotation control counter of the motor 56 exceeds 0 (step SP26).

  If the normal rotation control counter exceeds 0 in step SP26 (YES in step SP26), it is determined whether or not clutch control is to be performed in step SP27. On the other hand, if the forward rotation control counter does not exceed 0 in step SP26 (NO in step SP26), the process returns to the input waiting (idling) step (step SP21).

  If clutch control is to be performed in step SP27 (YES in step SP27), a predetermined clutch control command is issued (step SP28), and it is determined whether or not to perform normal rotation control in step SP29. On the other hand, when the clutch control is not performed (NO in step SP27), it is determined whether or not the forward rotation control is performed in step SP29 without issuing a clutch control command.

  When the forward rotation control is performed in step SP29 (YES in step SP29), a predetermined forward rotation control command is issued (step SP30), and, for example, 1 is subtracted from the value of the forward rotation control counter (step SP31). On the other hand, when the forward rotation control is not performed (NO in step SP29), for example, 1 is subtracted from the value of the forward rotation control counter without issuing a clutch control command (step SP31).

  If the reverse rotation control counter exceeds 0 in step SP25 described above (YES in step SP25), it is determined whether or not clutch control is to be performed (step SP32). When the clutch control is to be performed (YES in step SP32), a predetermined clutch control command is issued (step SP33), and it is determined whether or not the reverse rotation control is to be performed in step SP34. On the other hand, when clutch control is not performed (NO in step SP32), it is determined whether or not reverse rotation control is performed in step SP34 without issuing a clutch control command.

  When reverse rotation control is performed in step SP34 (YES in step SP34), a predetermined reverse rotation control command is issued (step SP35), and, for example, 1 is subtracted from the value of the reverse rotation control counter (step SP36). On the other hand, when the reverse rotation control is not performed (NO in step SP34), for example, 1 is subtracted from the value of the reverse rotation control counter without issuing the reverse rotation control command (step SP36).

  If the control blank counter exceeds 0 in step SP24 described above (YES in step SP24), it is determined whether or not clutch control is to be performed (step SP37). When performing clutch control (YES in step SP37), a predetermined clutch control command is issued (step SP38), and, for example, 1 is subtracted from the value of the control blank counter (step SP39). On the other hand, when clutch control is not performed (NO in step SP37), for example, 1 is subtracted from the value of the control blank counter without issuing a clutch control command (step SP39).

<Example of vibration pattern using motor 56 and clutch 58>
In the game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, a plurality of patterns of vibrations with respect to the lever 51 of the lever input device 5 according to the combination of forward / reverse rotation of the motor 56 and ON / OFF of the clutch 58. Can be realized. Hereinafter, the vibration pattern by these combination is illustrated. The “frame” used below corresponds to 16 ms.

・ Clutch ON → (1) Forward rotation n1 frame → (2) Reverse rotation n2 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 frame → (2) Forward rotation n2 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Forward rotation n1 frame → (2) Blank n2 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 frame → (2) Blank n2 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1 ) Forward rotation n1 frame → (2) Blank n2 frame → Reverse rotation n3 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 frame → (2) Blank n2 frame → Forward rotation n3 frame → (1)・ Clutch ON → (1) Forward rotation n1 frame → (2) Blank n2 frame → Reverse rotation n3 frame → (2) Blank n4 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 frame → (2) Blank n2 frame → Forward rotation n3 frame → (2) Blank n4 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Forward rotation n1 frame → Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n2 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 Rame → Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n2 frame → (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Forward rotation n1 frame → Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n2 frame → Clutch ON → (3) Reverse rotation n3 frame → Clutch ON → To (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 frame → Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n2 frame → Clutch ON → (3) Forward rotation n3 frame → Clutch ON → To (1) ・ Clutch ON → (1) Forward rotation n1 frame → Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n2 frame → Clutch ON → (3) Reverse rotation n3 frame → (1) Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n4 frame → Clutch ON → (1) Clutch ON → (1) Reverse rotation n1 frame → Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n2 frame → Clutch ON → (3) Forward rotation n3 frame → (1) Clutch OFF → (2) Blank n4 frame → Clutch ON → (1 )What

  As described above, the game device 1 of the present embodiment described so far is particularly characteristic in the following points.

  First, since the lever operation unit 52 is the lever input device 5 having a size larger than the player's head, an operational feeling different from that of the conventional input device can be produced. That is, the operation feeling when inputting a lever through such a large lever operation unit 52 is different from the conventional one, and a player who faces the huge lever operation unit 52, for example, holds both hands with levers With the posture placed on the operation unit 52, the lever 51 is tilted in each direction. Rather than performing a reliable input with a quick operation, the lever should be operated using the entire arm and the whole body. Such an operation feeling different from the conventional one, and a new playability and interest that are different from the conventional one.

  In addition, such a lever input device 5 is attracted to the spectators and the like around it, as if the player is playing while operating the huge lever input device 5, and the situation is likely to be seen. It can also produce appealing effects to the surroundings, such as creating. Moreover, according to the present embodiment in which such a lever input device 5 is applied to the game device 1 that displays an image on the large-screen screen 3, it is highly appealing to spectators and the like regardless of whether or not the game is being played. It is possible to realize the game device 1 that stands out as a whole.

  The game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is also characterized in that various vibration patterns are realized by using the power of the motor 56, preferably by using a combination of this and the operation of the clutch 58. is there. That is, the lever 51 can be vibrated in a plurality of patterns according to the combination of forward / reverse rotation of the motor 56 and ON / OFF of the clutch 58, and fine and strong vibration can be given depending on the combination. Further, when a motor 56 with low operation accuracy such as inferior responsiveness is adopted, fine vibrations that are difficult to be realized only by controlling the motor 56 are relatively simple by combining on / off control of the clutch 58. Although it is an apparatus, it can be realized by using a sufficiently fine pulse signal that can be generated.

  Moreover, in the game apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, a relatively rigid rubber member that can be used as an anti-vibration rubber or the like is used as the urging member 54, and a high restoring force (centering) of the urging member 54 is used. Finer vibrations can be realized by using (drag). In particular, when the motor 56 is switched between forward rotation and reverse rotation, when it is difficult to realize sufficient vibration due to play or backlash in the power transmission mechanism 57, such rigidity is relatively high. Combination with the force member 54 is effective.

  The above-described embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that depending on the combination of the scene where the lever 51 is vibrated and the vibration pattern, it is possible to give the player a feeling as if the progress of the game is obstructed. In relation to the operation in the lateral direction (left-right direction) of the lever 51, it is also possible to apply a force (obstruct the operation) using the motor 56. For example, a fan-shaped driven member 511 is provided at the base end (lower end) of the lever 51, and the transmission belt 512 is brought into contact with the arc-shaped lower end of the driven member 511. Further, the transmission belt 512 is wound around the pulley 513 and the drive shaft of the motor 56 with appropriate tension (see FIGS. 18 and 19). When the player tries to operate the lever 51 in the right direction, for example, the motor 56 is operated to apply a half force in the opposite direction (in this case, a force in the left direction). The player can feel as if they are being played. In this case, it is also preferable that the driven member 511 and the transmission belt 512 slide appropriately. Further, if a servo motor is used as the motor 56, for example, finer control (vibration) can be performed. In addition, as a method of applying a force that hinders the operation, the motor (AC motor) 56 and the clutch 58 may be combined to apply the force, or the brake 58 or the lock may be applied only by the clutch 58 to provide a feeling of operation. You may give the force which makes it heavy.

  Alternatively, the left lever input device 5A and the right lever input device 5B as viewed from the player may be linked, and a single motor 56 may be used as a common power source for both lever input devices 5A and 5B (see FIG. 20). The link can be composed of, for example, a plurality of transmission belts 512, a pulley 513, a clutch 514 interposed in the middle of the link, and the like. In the game device 1 having such a configuration, for example, a game mode (normal reaction mode) in which only the lever input device 5 on the side to be operated is linked using the clutch 514 and the reaction to the lever 51 is performed, A mode (left-right coupling mode) or the like in which both the lever input devices 5 are interlocked for a certain period of time with the clutch 514 in the connected state can be implemented.

  Further, when a plurality of players perform a game (simultaneous play) in which each of the left lever input device 5A and the right lever input device 5B is used simultaneously, the left lever input device can be transmitted through the hand. 5A and the right lever input device 5B may be linked via a linkage member 515 (see FIG. 21). Specific examples of the connecting member 515 include a spring member that applies a strong reaction force as the difference in the operation amount increases, a torque limiter that applies a reaction force only when the lever 51 is moved, and a reaction force corresponding to the operation speed. The damper etc. which make it act can be mentioned. It is preferable that the reaction force by these linkage members 515 has a magnitude that does not interfere with the operation.

  In the above-described embodiment, the lever input device 5 in which the lever 51 tilts has been described. However, the lever 51 may be rotated or rotated around the long axis (lever shaft) of the lever 51. For example, there is a configuration in which a horizontal link 516 extending in the horizontal direction is provided below the lever 51, and a drive link 518 of an external motor (for example, AC motor) 517 and the horizontal link 516 are connected by a connection link 518 (FIG. 22, FIG. (See FIG. 23). In this configuration, by rotating the motor 517 in a certain direction, it is possible to make a rotational movement within a certain range of angles around the lever shaft. Further, the lever 51 may be turned (turned) regardless of whether it is driven by the external motor 7157 or the like, and the turning (turning) of the lever 51 may be included in the operation movement by the player.

  In the lever input device 5 described above, the left lever input device 5A is set higher than the right lever input device 5B (see FIG. 2 and the like). May be set to the same height. Moreover, both lever input device 5A, 5B may be arrange | positioned at the space | interval which can be operated simultaneously by one player. In this case, a game may be set in which one player uses the left and right lever input devices 5A and 5B simultaneously. In the game apparatus 1 in which one lever input device 5 is lower than the other lever input device 5 as in the present embodiment, a child or the like uses at least one lever input device 5 without adjusting the height. There is an advantage that you can play.

  In the above-described embodiment, the left button 521L and the right button 521R have been described as specific examples of the left-hand / right-hand operation input unit, but these are merely examples. In addition to such buttons, a left hand / right hand operation input unit including a handle, a lever, a grip, and the like may be formed in the lever operation unit 52 of the lever input device 5.

  The screen 3 in the game apparatus 1 is an example of an image display unit. In addition, the game apparatus 1 adopts display means such as a liquid crystal display, a PDP (plasma display panel), and an HMD (head mounted display). You can also Such an image display unit can display a setting screen and the like in addition to specific game development and scores related to the game.

  Moreover, it is also possible to connect a plurality of game apparatuses 1 to communicate with each other. The game device 1 in this case is set so as to be able to communicate with other game devices 1 and servers via the communication I / F, and thus, for example, other game devices 1 that are communicably connected. So-called competitive games with other players (games that compete against each other) and games played in cooperation or in cooperation. In addition, a plurality of game devices 1 are communicably connected to each other, so that game scores (scores, scores, etc.) are counted and played against game devices 1 arranged in other game facilities via a server. It is possible to play a game and to count the rankings.

  In the present embodiment, the game device has been described as a specific example of the game device 1, but this is only a preferable example, and a device other than the game device (for example, a device such as karaoke, a device for performing a virtual experience, a device capable of exercise) Naturally, the present invention can also be applied to a communication device or the like.

  The present invention is suitable for application to the lever input device 5 for inputting a predetermined instruction by tilting the lever 51 supported so as to be tiltable from an initial posture around a fulcrum.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game device, 2 ... Main body housing part, 3 ... Screen (image display part), 4 ... Support body, 5 (5A, 5B) ... Lever input device, 6 ... Operation panel, 7 ... Shielding curtain, 8 ... Top Plate, 9 ... Flexible sheet, 21 ... Controller cabinet, 22A, 22B ... Side cabinet, 23 ... Leg adjuster mechanism, 24 ... Transmission window, 25 ... Illumination unit, 26 ... Projector, 27 ... Joint plate, 51 ... Lever , 52 ... Lever operation part, 53 ... Support part, 54 ... Biasing device, 55 ... Detection device, 56 ... Motor, 57 ... Power transmission mechanism, 58 ... Clutch, 59 ... Housing, 60 ... CPU (control device), 61 ... RAM, 62 ... speaker, 63 ... operation button, 64 ... coin slot, 511 ... driven member, 512 ... transmission belt, 513 ... pulley, clutch 514, 515 ... linkage member, 516 ... Flat link, 517 ... motor, 521L ... left button (left hand operation input unit), 521R ... right button (right hand operation input unit), 531 ... frame, 532 ... support shaft, 533 ... support shaft, 561 ... motor capacitor, 572 ... pulley, 574 ... transmission shaft, 576 ... short link, 576a ... protrusion, 578 ... long link, 578a ... long hole, 592 ... internal plate

Claims (10)

In the lever input device for inputting a predetermined instruction to the game device by tilting the lever supported to be tiltable from the initial posture around the fulcrum,
A lever operation part formed on the upper part of the lever for a player to input an operation;
A support portion for tiltably supporting the lever;
A biasing device for returning the lever to an initial position;
A detection device for detecting the inclination of the lever;
A control device for receiving a detection signal from the detection device;
With
In the lever operation unit, an operation input unit that can be input by a player with one hand or both hands is formed,
The lever input is such that the lever operating part of the lever is the same size as or larger than the player's head, and at a height that allows the player in an upright position to operate with one or both hands. apparatus. In the lever input device for inputting a predetermined instruction to the game device by tilting the lever supported to be tiltable from the initial posture around the fulcrum,
A lever operation part formed on the upper part of the lever for a player to input an operation;
A support portion for tiltably supporting the lever;
A biasing device for returning the lever to an initial position;
A detection device for detecting the inclination of the lever;
A power transmission mechanism for transmitting power to the lever;
A clutch that cuts off the middle of the power transmission path by the power transmission mechanism;
A control device for receiving a detection signal from the detection device and transmitting an operation signal for the clutch;
With
In the lever operation unit, an operation input unit that can be input by a player with one hand or both hands is formed,
The lever operating portion of the lever is the same size as or larger than the player's head, and is at a height that allows a player in an upright position to operate with one or both hands. A lever input device that performs control so that power is transmitted to the lever at an appropriate time during operation input to the lever by or other than operation input. In the lever input device for inputting a predetermined instruction to the game device by tilting the lever supported to be tiltable from the initial posture around the fulcrum,
A lever operation part formed on the upper part of the lever for a player to input an operation;
A support portion for tiltably supporting the lever;
A biasing device for returning the lever to an initial position;
A detection device for detecting the inclination of the lever;
A motor capable of rotating forward and reverse,
A power transmission mechanism for transmitting the power of the motor to the lever;
A clutch that cuts off the middle of the power transmission path by the power transmission mechanism;
A control device that receives a detection signal from the detection device and transmits an operation signal to the motor and the clutch;
With
The lever operating portion of the lever is the same size as or larger than the player's head, and is at a height that allows a player in an upright position to operate with one or both hands. A lever input device that performs control so that the power of the motor is transmitted to the lever at an appropriate time during an operation input to the lever by or other than the operation input.   The lever input device according to claim 3, wherein the power of the motor is transmitted to the lever at a time other than the input by a player, and the lever is automatically tilted.   The lever input device according to claim 4, wherein the lever is tilted in the left-right direction when viewed from the front of the game device.   The lever input device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein when there is an external input to the game device while the lever is automatically tilted, the clutch is disengaged to cut the power transmission path.   7. The lever according to claim 3, wherein during operation input to the lever by a player, the power of the motor is intermittently transmitted to the lever in accordance with the progress of the game in the game device, and the lever is vibrated. The lever input device according to one item.   The lever input device according to claim 7, wherein the power of the motor is intermittently transmitted to the lever by repeating the transmission state and the disengagement state of the clutch.   The lever according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the power of the motor is intermittently transmitted to the lever when the lever is tilted and the progress of the game in the game device satisfies a predetermined condition. Input device.   The lever input device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein an operation input unit that allows a player to input with one hand or both hands is formed in the lever operation unit.

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