JP2021037260A - Peripheral device, game controller, information processing system, and information processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

To make a game controller have versatility which easily corresponds to a peripheral device.SOLUTION: A peripheral device can communicate with a game controller which can operate a game device. The peripheral device includes a sensor for detecting a user input, a processing part, and a transmission part. The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established. In the first mode, the processing part generates a command to cause the game controller to execute a prescribed operation on the basis of peripheral device data corresponding to a user input detected by the sensor, and the transmission part transmits the command to the game controller. In the second mode, the transmission part transmits the peripheral device data to the game controller.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

The present invention relates to a game controller or a peripheral device connectable to the game controller.

Conventionally, there is a peripheral device that can be connected to a game controller (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-227804

It is conceivable to increase the types of peripheral devices that can be connected to the game controller and to connect various peripheral devices to the game controller to exert various functions. Here, when the types of peripheral devices that can be connected to the game controller are newly increased, it may be necessary to change the game controller in order to support the new peripheral devices. There is room for improvement in conventional game controllers and peripheral devices from the viewpoint of making such changes as small as possible and making the game controller compatible with peripheral devices.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a peripheral device, a game controller, an information processing system, and an information processing method capable of making the game controller compatible with peripheral devices and having versatility. is there.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has adopted the following configurations (1) to (21).

(1)
An example of the present invention is a peripheral device capable of communicating with a game controller capable of operating a game device, including a sensor for detecting user input, a processing unit, and a transmitting unit. The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including the first mode and the second mode when communication with the game controller is established. In the first mode, the processing unit generates a command for causing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on the peripheral device data according to the user input detected by the sensor, and the transmitting unit transmits the command to the game controller. .. In the second mode, the transmitter transmits peripheral device data to the game controller.

According to the configuration of (1) above, in the first mode, the game controller can operate in response to a command from the peripheral device, so that the processing of the game controller in the first mode is versatile with respect to the peripheral device. It will be something with. As a result, the game controller can be made versatile and easily compatible with peripheral devices.

(2)
Another example of the present invention is a peripheral device capable of communicating with a game controller capable of operating the game device and including a processing unit and a transmitting unit. The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including the first mode and the second mode when communication with the game controller is established. In the first mode, the transmission unit transmits a predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller. Further, in the first mode, the processing unit executes processing based on the controller data transmitted from the game controller in response to the transmission request signal received by the game controller and in response to the user input to the game controller. .. In the second mode, the transmission unit transmits the peripheral device data acquired or generated by the peripheral device to the game controller in response to the transmission request signal from the game controller.

According to the configuration of (2) above, in the first mode, the processing based on the input to the game controller can be executed on the peripheral device side that has received the controller data. As a result, the game controller can be made versatile and easily compatible with peripheral devices.

(3)
In the first mode, processing based on user input to the game controller and / or peripheral device may be executed by the peripheral device and the game controller without the game device. In the second mode, data based on peripheral device data may be transmitted from the game controller to the game device, and processing based on the transmitted data may be executed by the game device.

According to the configuration of (3) above, the game controller and the peripheral device can execute the process even during the period when the application is not executed in the game device by operating in the first mode. Therefore, the user can use the game controller and peripheral devices even during the period when the application is not executed on the game device.

(4)
In the first mode, the peripheral device may receive controller data from the game controller in response to user input to the game controller.

According to the configuration of (4) above, processing based on user input to the game controller can be executed on the peripheral device side.

(5)
In the first mode, the processing unit may generate a command for causing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on the controller data, and the transmitting unit may transmit the command to the game controller.

According to the configuration of (5) above, the process for causing the game controller to execute the operation can be executed on the peripheral device side.

(6)
Peripheral devices may receive controller data for all operable buttons of the game controller from the game controller.

(7)
The transmission unit may transmit a command to the game controller based on a part of the controller data and not based on other data of the controller data.

According to the configuration of (6) or (7) above, the peripheral device can execute the process based on the input to each of the operable buttons of the game controller. Further, even if there are a plurality of types of peripheral devices corresponding to the game controller, the content of the controller data transmitted by the game controller to the peripheral devices can be shared for each peripheral device, so that the game controller can be used. The processing can be made versatile.

(8)
The game controller may include a wake button. When the game controller detects an operation on the wakeup button when communication between the game controller and the peripheral device is not established in a state different from the state in which the game controller operates at least in the first mode, a command from the peripheral device is used. It may be configured to transmit a signal for releasing the sleep state of the game device to the game device without being based on the above. In the first mode, when the peripheral device receives the controller data corresponding to the operation on the sleep release button, the processing unit instructs the game device to send a signal for releasing the sleep state of the game device. The transmission unit may send the command to the game controller.

According to the configuration of (8) above, in two modes in which the processing flows of the game controller and the peripheral device are different, the behavior according to the operation of the wakeup button can be the same.

(9)
The peripheral device can be electrically connected to the game controller, and may be configured to operate by the electric power supplied from the game controller in a state of being electrically connected to the peripheral device. When the peripheral device is activated based on the power supplied from the game controller, the peripheral device is in a standby state waiting to receive mode information indicating the mode to be operated among the plurality of modes from the game controller. You may. The peripheral device may operate in the mode indicated by the mode information received from the game controller in the standby state.

According to the configuration of (9) above, the peripheral device can be operated in an appropriate mode after the power supply from the game controller is started.

(10)
The peripheral device may include an electronic component having a predetermined resistance value. The electronic component constitutes a part of a circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device.

According to the configuration of (10) above, the game controller can determine the information (for example, type) of the peripheral device by detecting the resistance value of the circuit.

(11)
When the peripheral device receives the controller data corresponding to the predetermined operation on the game controller in the first mode, the transmission unit may transmit the end signal indicating the end of the first mode to the game controller. Good.

According to the configuration of (11) above, the peripheral device can end the independent operation mode at an appropriate timing after the processing in the peripheral device is completed, so that the processing in the peripheral device is in the middle at the end of the independent operation mode. The possibility of being interrupted can be reduced.

(12)
The peripheral device may further include a storage unit that stores the number of user inputs detected by the sensor in the first mode.

According to the configuration of (12) above, the number of user inputs made during the first mode can be saved.

(13)
Another example of the present invention is a game controller that can operate a game device, can communicate with peripheral devices, and includes an operation unit and a transmission unit. The game controller can operate in any of a plurality of modes including the first mode and the second mode when communication with the peripheral device is established. In the first mode, the transmission unit transmits the controller data corresponding to the user input to the operation unit to the peripheral device. In the second mode, the transmission unit transmits the controller data corresponding to the user input to the operation unit to the game device.

According to the configuration of (13) above, in the first mode, the processing based on the user input to the game controller can be executed on the peripheral device side. According to this, the processing of the game controller in the first mode becomes versatile with respect to the peripheral device. As a result, the game controller can be made versatile and easily compatible with peripheral devices.

(14)
In the first mode, processing based on user input to the game controller and / or peripheral device may be executed by the peripheral device and the game controller without the game device. In the second mode, processing based on the controller data transmitted to the game device may be executed by the game device.

According to the configuration of the above (14), the game controller and the peripheral device can execute the process even during the period when the application is not executed in the game device, as in the configuration of the above (3).

(15)
In the first mode, the game controller may receive a command corresponding to the controller data transmitted to the peripheral device from the peripheral device and operate in response to the command. In the second mode, the game controller may receive a command corresponding to the controller data transmitted to the game device from the game device, or may operate in response to the command.

According to the configuration of (15) above, since the game controller operates in response to commands from other devices in both the first and second modes, the processing in the game controller can be simplified.

(16)
The operation unit may include a button. The transmission unit may transmit controller data related to all the buttons that can be operated among the buttons provided in the game controller to the peripheral device.

According to the configuration of (16) above, as in the configuration of (6) above, the peripheral device can execute the processing based on the input to each of the operable buttons of the game controller, and the processing in the game controller can be performed. It can be versatile.

(17)
The game controller may include a wake button. When the operation for the wakeup button is detected when the communication between the game controller and the peripheral device is not established in a state different from the state in which the game controller operates in the first mode, the game controller issues a command from the peripheral device. A signal for returning the game device from the sleep state may be transmitted to the game device without being based on the above. The game controller may transmit the controller data corresponding to the pressing of the wakeup button to the peripheral device by pressing the wakeup button in the first mode, and the game controller may issue a command corresponding to the controller data. A signal for returning the game device from the sleep state may be transmitted to the game device in response to the reception from the peripheral device.

According to the configuration of (17) above, as in the configuration of (8) above, in two modes in which the processing flows of the game controller and peripheral devices are different, the behavior according to the operation of the wakeup button is the same. can do.

(18)
The game controller can operate in the first mode and in the second mode when the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within the first range. It may be operational. The game controller can operate in the second mode when the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within the second range different from the first range. Therefore, it does not have to operate in the first mode.

According to the configuration (18) above, it is possible to prevent an error that the game controller operates in the first mode when the peripheral device that does not correspond to the first mode and the game controller are electrically connected. ..

(19)
The game controller is electrically connected to the peripheral device, and in a state where the wireless connection with the game device is not established, the game controller is connected to the game controller in response to detecting a predetermined operation on the game controller. The operation may be performed in the first mode, at least on condition that the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the peripheral device is within the first range.

According to the configuration of (19) above, the game controller can start the first mode at a timing corresponding to the operation of the user.

(20)
The game controller uses the circuit of the peripheral device, at least on condition that the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within the first range. Power may be supplied to a part different from the part to be formed.

According to the configuration (20) above, it is possible to prevent an error in which the game controller supplies power to a peripheral device that does not require power supply.

(21)
When the game controller operates in the first mode, the processing unit may generate mode information indicating that the game controller operates in the first mode, and the transmitting unit may transmit the mode information to the peripheral device.

According to the configuration of (21) above, the game controller can operate the peripheral device in an appropriate mode according to the mode in which the game controller operates.

Another example of the present invention may be an information processing system including the peripheral devices and the game controller according to the above (1) to (21). Further, another example of the present invention may be an information processing method executed in the above information processing system. Further, another example of the present invention may be an information processing program executed by the peripheral device or the game controller.

According to the peripheral device, the game controller, the information processing system, and the information processing method, the game controller can be made versatile and easy to correspond to the peripheral device.

The figure which shows an example of each device included in a game system The figure which shows an example of the state which the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are attached to the main body device 2. The figure which shows an example of the state which the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are removed from the main body device 2, respectively. Six views showing an example of the main unit 2 Six views showing an example of the right controller 4 Block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main unit 2 A block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main unit 2 and the left controller 3 and the right controller 4. The figure which shows an example of the ring type expansion apparatus 5. Block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the ring type expansion device 5 The figure which shows an example of a state in which a user uses a ring type expansion device 5. The figure which shows an example of the basic flow of data between devices in a main body operation mode. The figure which shows an example of the basic flow of processing and data in an independent operation mode. The figure which shows an example of the flow of processing executed when the right controller 4 is attached to a ring type expansion apparatus 5. A flowchart showing an example of controller processing executed by the right controller 4. A flowchart showing an example of peripheral device processing executed by the ring-type expansion device 5. Sub-flow chart showing an example of a detailed flow of the independent operation mode processing of step S53 shown in FIG.

[1. Game system configuration]
Hereinafter, a game system according to an example of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of each device included in the game system. As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 includes a main body device 2, a left controller 3, a right controller 4, and a ring-type expansion device 5.

The main body device 2 is an example of an information processing device, and functions as a game machine main body in the present embodiment. The left controller 3 and the right controller 4 can be attached to and detached from the main body device 2, respectively (see FIGS. 1 and 3). That is, the user can attach the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 to the main body device 2 and use them as an integrated device (see FIG. 2). The user can also use the main unit 2 and the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 as separate bodies (see FIG. 3). In the following, the main body device 2 and the controllers 3 and 4 may be collectively referred to as a “game device”.

The ring type expansion device 5 is an example of the expansion device used for the right controller 4. The ring-type expansion device 5 is used with the right controller 4 mounted on the ring-type expansion device 5. As described above, in the present embodiment, the user can also use the right controller 4 in a state of being attached to the ring type expansion device 5 (see FIG. 10). The ring-type expansion device 5 is not limited to the right controller 4, and the left controller 3 may be attached to itself.

[1-1. Game device configuration]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are attached to the main body device 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are mounted on the main body device 2 and integrated with each other. The main body device 2 is a device that executes various processes (for example, game processes) in the game system 1. The main body device 2 includes a display 12. The left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are devices including an operation unit for inputting by the user.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are removed from the main body device 2. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are detachable from the main body device 2. In the following, the term "controller" may be used as a general term for the left controller 3 and the right controller 4.

FIG. 4 is a six-view view showing an example of the main body device 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the main body device 2 includes a substantially plate-shaped housing 11. In the present embodiment, the main surface of the housing 11 (in other words, the front surface, that is, the surface on which the display 12 is provided) has a substantially rectangular shape.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main body device 2 includes a display 12 provided on the main surface of the housing 11. The display 12 displays an image generated by the main body device 2. In the present embodiment, the display 12 is a liquid crystal display (LCD). However, the display 12 may be any kind of display device. The main unit 2 can also output an image to an external monitor.

The main body device 2 includes a speaker inside the housing 11. As shown in FIG. 4, speaker holes 11a and 11b are formed on the main surface of the housing 11. Then, the output sound of the speaker is output from these speaker holes 11a and 11b, respectively.

Further, the main body device 2 includes a left terminal 17 which is a terminal for the main body device 2 to perform wired communication with the left controller 3, and a right terminal 21 for the main body device 2 to perform wired communication with the right controller 4.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main body device 2 includes a slot 23. The slot 23 is provided on the upper side surface of the housing 11. The slot 23 has a shape in which a predetermined type of storage medium can be mounted. The predetermined type of storage medium is, for example, a storage medium (for example, a dedicated memory card) dedicated to the game system 1 and an information processing device of the same type. A predetermined type of storage medium stores, for example, data used in the main unit 2 (for example, save data of an application) and / or a program executed in the main unit 2 (for example, an application program). Used to do. Further, the main body device 2 includes a power button 28.

FIG. 5 is a six-view view showing an example of the right controller 4. As shown in FIG. 5, the right controller 4 includes a housing 51. In the present embodiment, the housing 51 has a vertically long shape, that is, a shape that is long in the vertical direction (that is, the y-axis direction shown in FIG. 5). The right controller 4 can also be gripped in a vertically elongated direction when it is removed from the main body device 2. The housing 51 has a shape and size that can be gripped with one hand, particularly with the right hand, when gripped in a vertically elongated direction. Further, the right controller 4 can be gripped in a horizontally long direction. When the right controller 4 is gripped in a horizontally long direction, it may be gripped with both hands.

The right controller 4 includes an analog stick 52 as a direction input unit. As shown in FIG. 5, the analog stick 52 is provided on the main surface of the housing 51. By tilting the analog stick 52, the user can input a direction according to the tilting direction (and input a size corresponding to the tilted angle). Further, the right controller 4 may be provided with a cross key, a slide stick capable of slide input, or the like instead of the analog stick. Further, in the present embodiment, it is possible to input by pressing the analog stick 52.

Further, the right controller 4 includes various operation buttons. The right controller 4 includes four operation buttons 53 to 56 (specifically, A button 53, B button 54, X button 55, and Y button 56) on the main surface of the housing 51. Further, the right controller 4 includes a + (plus) button 57 and a home button 58. Further, the right controller 4 includes a first R button 60 and a ZR button 61 on the upper right side of the side surface of the housing 51. Further, the right controller 4 includes a second L button 65 and a second R button 66 on the side surface of the housing 51 on the side to be mounted when mounted on the main body device 2. These operation buttons are used to give instructions according to various programs (for example, OS programs and application programs) executed by the main unit 2.

Further, the right controller 4 includes a terminal 64 for the right controller 4 to perform wired communication with the main body device 2.

As shown in FIG. 5, the right controller 4 includes a notification LED 67. The notification LED 67 is a notification unit for notifying the user of predetermined information. The notification LED 67 is provided on the slider 62, and specifically, is provided on the mounting surface of the slider 62 (that is, the surface facing the x-axis positive direction side shown in FIG. 5). In the present embodiment, the right controller 4 includes four LEDs as notification LEDs 67. The predetermined information is, for example, information regarding a number assigned to the right controller 4 by the main body device 2 and the remaining battery level of the right controller 4.

Like the right controller 4, the left controller 3 includes an analog stick and a plurality of operation buttons. Further, the left controller 3 is provided with a terminal for performing wired communication with the main body device 2 like the right controller 4.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main body device 2. In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 4, the main unit 2 includes the components 81 to 91, 97, and 98 shown in FIG. Some of these components 81-91, 97, and 98 may be mounted as electronic components on an electronic circuit board and housed in a housing 11.

The main body device 2 includes a processor 81. The processor 81 is an information processing unit that executes various types of information processing executed in the main unit 2, and may be composed of only a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a CPU function, and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). ) It may be composed of a SoC (System-on-a-chip) including a plurality of functions such as a function. The processor 81 executes an information processing program (for example, a game program) stored in a storage unit (specifically, an internal storage medium such as a flash memory 84 or an external storage medium installed in slot 23). By doing so, various types of information processing are executed.

The main unit 2 includes a flash memory 84 and a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) 85 as an example of an internal storage medium built therein. The flash memory 84 and the DRAM 85 are connected to the processor 81. The flash memory 84 is a memory mainly used for storing various data (which may be a program) stored in the main unit 2. The DRAM 85 is a memory used for temporarily storing various types of data used in information processing.

The main unit 2 includes a slot interface (hereinafter, abbreviated as “I / F”) 91. Slots I / F91 are connected to the processor 81. The slot I / F 91 is connected to the slot 23, and reads and writes data to a predetermined type of storage medium (for example, a dedicated memory card) mounted in the slot 23 according to the instruction of the processor 81.

The processor 81 executes the above-mentioned information processing by appropriately reading and writing data between the flash memory 84 and the DRAM 85 and each of the above-mentioned storage media.

The main body device 2 includes a controller communication unit 83. The controller communication unit 83 is connected to the processor 81. The controller communication unit 83 wirelessly communicates with the left controller 3 and / or the right controller 4. The communication method between the main unit 2 and the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 is arbitrary, but in the present embodiment, the controller communication unit 83 has Bluetooth (between the left controller 3 and the right controller 4). Communicate in accordance with the standard of (registered trademark).

Further, the display 12 is connected to the processor 81. The processor 81 displays the image generated (for example, by executing the above-mentioned information processing) and / or the image acquired from the outside on the display 12.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main body device 2, the left controller 3, and the right controller 4. The details of the internal configuration of the main body device 2 are shown in FIG. 6 and are omitted in FIG. 7.

The right controller 4 includes a communication control unit 111 that communicates with the main body device 2. As shown in FIG. 7, the communication control unit 111 is connected to each component including the terminal 64. In the present embodiment, the communication control unit 111 can communicate with the main body device 2 by both wired communication via the terminal 64 and wireless communication not via the terminal 64. The communication control unit 111 controls the communication method performed by the right controller 4 with respect to the main unit device 2. That is, when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2, the communication control unit 111 communicates with the main body device 2 via the terminal 64. When the right controller 4 is removed from the main body device 2, the communication control unit 111 performs wireless communication with the main body device 2 (specifically, the controller communication unit 83). Wireless communication between the controller communication unit 83 and the communication control unit 111 is performed according to, for example, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard.

Further, the right controller 4 includes a memory 112 such as a flash memory. The communication control unit 111 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer (also referred to as a microprocessor), and executes various processes by executing firmware stored in the memory 112.

The right controller 4 includes each button 113 (specifically, buttons 53-58, 60, 61, 65, and 66). Further, the right controller 4 includes an analog stick (described as “stick” in FIG. 7) 52. Each button 113 and the analog stick 52 repeatedly output information about the operation performed to itself to the communication control unit 111 at an appropriate timing.

The right controller 4 includes an inertial sensor. Specifically, the right controller 4 includes an acceleration sensor 114. Further, the right controller 4 includes an angular velocity sensor 115. In the present embodiment, the acceleration sensor 114 detects the magnitude of acceleration along predetermined three axes (for example, the xyz axis shown in FIG. 5). The acceleration sensor 114 may detect acceleration in the uniaxial direction or the biaxial direction. In the present embodiment, the angular velocity sensor 115 detects the angular velocity around three predetermined axes (for example, the xyz axis shown in FIG. 5). The angular velocity sensor 115 may detect the angular velocity around one axis or two axes. The acceleration sensor 114 and the angular velocity sensor 115 are connected to the communication control unit 111, respectively. Then, the detection results of the acceleration sensor 114 and the angular velocity sensor 115 are repeatedly output to the communication control unit 111 at appropriate timings.

The communication control unit 111 receives information related to input (specifically, information related to operation or detection result by the sensor) from each input unit (specifically, each button 113, analog stick 52, each sensor 114 and 115). To get. The communication control unit 111 transmits operation data including the acquired information (or information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the acquired information) to the main unit 2. The operation data is repeatedly transmitted once at a predetermined time. The interval at which the information regarding the input is transmitted to the main body device 2 may or may not be the same for each input unit.

By transmitting the operation data to the main body device 2, the main body device 2 can obtain the input made to the right controller 4. That is, the main body device 2 can determine the operation of each button 113 and the analog stick 52 based on the operation data. Further, the main body device 2 can calculate information regarding the movement and / or posture of the right controller 4 based on the operation data (specifically, the detection results of the acceleration sensor 114 and the angular velocity sensor 115).

The right controller 4 includes an oscillator 117 for notifying the user by vibration. In the present embodiment, the oscillator 117 is controlled by a command from the main body device 2. That is, when the communication control unit 111 receives the above command from the main body device 2, the communication control unit 111 drives the vibrator 117 in accordance with the command. Here, the right controller 4 includes a codec unit 116. When the communication control unit 111 receives the command, the communication control unit 111 outputs a control signal corresponding to the command to the codec unit 116. The codec unit 116 generates a drive signal for driving the oscillator 117 from the control signal from the communication control unit 111 and gives it to the oscillator 117. As a result, the oscillator 117 operates. In the present embodiment, the oscillator 117 is a voice coil motor. That is, the vibrator 117 can generate vibration in response to a signal input to itself, and can also generate sound in response to the signal. For example, when a signal having a frequency in the audible range is input to the vibrator 117, the vibrating unit 271 generates vibration and a sound (that is, an audible sound).

The right controller 4 includes a power supply unit 118. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 118 includes a battery and a power control circuit. Although not shown, the power control circuit is connected to the battery and is also connected to each part of the right controller 4 (specifically, each part that receives power from the battery).

Although not shown, the left controller 3 has the same configuration as that of the right controller 4 shown in FIG. 7.

[1-2. Ring-type expansion device configuration]
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a ring type expansion device. Note that FIG. 8 shows a ring-type expansion device 5 in a state where the right controller 4 is mounted. In the present embodiment, the ring type expansion device 5 is an expansion device to which the right controller 4 can be mounted. Although the details will be described later, in the present embodiment, the user performs a novel operation of applying a force to the ring-type expansion device 5 to deform it. The user can operate the ring-type expansion device 5 by performing a fitness operation using the ring-type expansion device 5 as if exercising, for example.

As shown in FIG. 8, the ring type expansion device 5 includes an annular portion 201 and a main body portion 202. The annular portion 201 has an annular shape. In the present embodiment, the annular portion 201 is formed in an annular shape by the elastic member and the pedestal portion described later. In the present embodiment, the annular portion 201 is an annular portion. In another embodiment, the shape of the annular portion 201 is arbitrary, and may be, for example, an elliptical annular shape.

The main body portion 202 is provided on the annular portion 201. The main body portion 202 has a rail portion (not shown). The rail portion is an example of a mounting portion on which the right controller 4 can be mounted. In this embodiment, the rail portion slidably engages with the slider 62 (see FIG. 5) of the right controller 4. By inserting the slider 62 in a predetermined linear direction (that is, in the sliding direction) with respect to the rail member, the rail member and the slider 62 can slide in the linear direction with respect to the rail member. Engage. The rail portion is similar to the rail portion of the main body device 2 in that it can be slidably engaged with the slider of the controller. Therefore, the rail portion may have the same configuration as the rail portion of the main body device 2.

In the present embodiment, the direction parallel to the direction in which the ring formed by the annular portion 201 is viewed from the front (referred to as the "front view direction") is the front-rear direction of the ring-type expansion device 5 (that is, Z shown in FIG. 8). Axial direction). The "front view direction (of the ring)" is, for example, the direction in which the area of the shape represented by the outer edge of the ring appears to be the largest. When the ring is a ring, the "front view direction" can also be said to be the direction in which the ring looks circular.

Further, the rail portion is provided on one side in the front-rear direction with respect to the annular portion 201 with reference to the annular portion 201. In the present embodiment, one side thereof is the front side of the ring type expansion device 5 (in other words, the front side of the front side), and the opposite side is the rear side of the ring type expansion device 5 (in other words, the back side). ).

In this embodiment, the right controller 4 has a locking portion 63 (see FIG. 5). The locking portion 63 is provided so as to project laterally (that is, in the z-axis positive direction shown in FIG. 5) from the slider 62. The locking portion 63 is movable toward the inside of the slider 62 and is urged in a direction (for example, by a spring) so as to project laterally. Further, the rail portion is provided with a notch. In a state where the slider 62 is inserted all the way into the rail portion, the locking portion 63 is locked in the notch. The right controller 4 is attached to the main body 202 by locking the locking portion 63 in the notch while the slider 62 is engaged with the rail portion.

The right controller 4 includes a release button 69 that can be pressed (see FIG. 5). The locking portion 63 moves toward the inside of the slider 62 in response to the release button 69 being pressed, and is in a state of not projecting (or hardly projecting) with respect to the slider 62. Therefore, when the release button 69 is pressed while the right controller 4 is attached to the main body 202 of the ring-type expansion device 5, the locking portion 63 is not locked (or almost locked) in the notch. Will disappear). From the above, in the state where the right controller 4 is attached to the main body 202 of the ring type expansion device 5, the user can easily remove the right controller 4 from the ring type expansion device 5 by pressing the release button 69. ..

As shown in FIG. 8, the ring type expansion device 5 has grip covers 203 and 204. The grip covers 203 and 204 are parts for the user to grip. In the present embodiment, by providing the grip covers 203 and 204, the user can easily grip the ring type expansion device 5. The details of the grip covers 203 and 204 will be described below.

As shown in FIG. 8, in the present embodiment, the annular portion 201 is provided with two grip covers 203 and 204. Here, in the present embodiment, the grip covers 203 and 204 are removable with respect to the annular portion 201. The grip covers 203 and 204 are attached to the grip portion of the annular portion 201. Here, the gripping portion is a portion of the annular portion 201 for the user to grip. In the present embodiment, the portion near the right end of the annular portion 201 and the portion near the left end of the annular portion 201 are gripping portions. That is, assuming that the main body portion 202 is located at a central angle of 0 degrees with respect to the center of the annular portion 201, it can be said that the gripping portions are provided at the positions near +90 degrees and the positions near −90 degrees. Hereinafter, the grip portion near the right end of the annular portion 201 is referred to as a right grip portion, and the grip portion near the left end of the annular portion 201 is referred to as a left grip portion. Although not shown, the grip portion is provided with a configuration for attaching the grip cover 203 or 204. When the grip cover 203 or 204 is removable with respect to the annular portion 201 as in the present embodiment, it can be said that the portion provided with the configuration for attaching the grip cover 203 or 204 is the grip portion.

The gripped portion may have an arbitrary configuration that can be distinguished and recognized from other portions other than the gripped portion in the annular portion 201. For example, when a part of the annular portion 201 (specifically, a portion near the left end and the right end of the annular portion 201) has a color and / or a pattern different from that of the other portion, the part is (the one). It can be said to be a gripped portion (because it has a function of making the user recognize that the portion is gripped and operated). Further, when a part of the annular portion 201 (specifically, a portion near the left end and a portion near the right end of the annular portion 201) is formed thicker than the other portion, the portion (specifically, grips the portion). It can be said to be a grip portion (because it has a function of making the user recognize that the operation is performed). For example, when a member similar to the grip cover is non-removably fixed to the annular portion 201, the member can be said to be a grip portion. As described above, the ring-type expansion device 5 can be operated by the user while gripping an appropriate place by the gripping portion.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an electrical connection relationship of the components included in the ring type expansion device 5. As shown in FIG. 9, the ring type expansion device 5 includes a strain detection unit 211. The strain detection unit 211 is an example of a detection unit that detects that the annular portion 201 is deformed. In the present embodiment, the strain detection unit 211 includes a strain gauge. The strain detection unit 211 outputs a signal indicating the strain of the pedestal portion according to the deformation of the elastic member described later (in other words, a signal indicating the magnitude of the deformation of the elastic member and the direction of the deformation).

Here, in the present embodiment, the annular portion 201 has an elastic portion that can be elastically deformed and a pedestal portion. The pedestal portion holds both ends of the elastic member so that a ring is formed by the pedestal portion and the elastic member. Since the pedestal portion is provided inside the main body portion 202, it is not shown in FIG. The pedestal portion is made of a material having higher rigidity than the elastic member. For example, the elastic member is made of resin (specifically, FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastics)), and the pedestal portion is made of metal. The strain gauge is provided on the pedestal portion and detects the strain of the pedestal portion. When the annular portion 201 is deformed from the steady state, the pedestal portion is distorted due to the deformation, so that the strain of the pedestal portion is detected by the strain gauge. Based on the detected strain, the direction in which the annular portion 201 is deformed (that is, the direction in which the two grip covers 203 and 204 approach or separate from each other) and the amount of deformation can be calculated.

In another embodiment, the strain detecting unit 211 may include an arbitrary sensor capable of detecting that the annular portion 201 is deformed from the steady state instead of the strain gauge. For example, the detection unit 211 may include a pressure-sensitive sensor that detects the pressure applied when the annular portion 201 is deformed, or may include a bending sensor that detects the amount of bending of the annular portion 201.

The ring type expansion device 5 includes a signal conversion unit 212. In the present embodiment, the signal conversion unit 212 includes an amplifier and an AD converter. The signal conversion unit 212 is electrically connected to the distortion detection unit 211, amplifies the output signal of the distortion detection unit 211 by an amplifier, and performs AD conversion by an AD converter. The signal conversion unit 212 outputs a digital signal indicating the distortion value detected by the distortion detection unit 211. In another embodiment, the signal conversion unit 212 does not include the AD converter, and the control unit 213 described later may include the AD converter.

The ring type expansion device 5 includes a control unit 213. The control unit 213 is a processing circuit including a processor and a memory, and is, for example, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The control unit 213 is electrically connected to the signal conversion unit 212, and the output signal of the signal conversion unit 212 is input to the control unit 213. Further, the ring type expansion device 5 includes terminals 214. The terminal 214 is electrically connected to the control unit 213. When the right controller 4 is mounted on the ring-type expansion device 5, the control unit 213 provides information indicating the distortion value indicated by the output signal of the signal conversion unit 212 (in other words, ring operation data described later) to the terminal 214. Is transmitted to the right controller 4 via.

The ring type expansion device 5 includes a power conversion unit 215. The power conversion unit 215 is electrically connected to each of the above units 211 to 214. The power conversion unit 215 supplies electric power supplied from the outside (that is, the right controller 4) to each of the above units 211 to 214 via the terminal 214. The power conversion unit 215 may adjust the voltage or the like of the supplied electric power and supply it to each of the above units 211 to 214.

The "data related to the detection result of the distortion detection unit" transmitted by the ring type expansion device 5 to another device is the detection result (in the present embodiment, the output signal of the distortion detection unit 211 indicating the distortion of the pedestal unit). ) Itself, or data obtained by performing some processing (for example, data format conversion and / or calculation processing on the distortion value) on the detection result. May be good. For example, the control unit 213 may perform a process of calculating the deformation amount of the elastic member based on the strain value which is the detection result. At this time, the “data regarding the detection result of the strain detection unit” is the deformation amount. It may be the data which shows.

In another embodiment, the ring type expansion device 5 may include a battery and operate by the electric power of the battery. Further, the battery included in the ring type expansion device 5 may be a rechargeable battery that can be charged by the electric power supplied from the right controller 4.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of how the user uses the ring type expansion device 5. As shown in FIG. 10, the user can play a game by using the ring type expansion device 5 in addition to the game device (that is, the main body device 2 and the respective controllers 3 and 4).

For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the user holds the ring-type expansion device 5 equipped with the right controller 4 with both hands. At this time, the user can play the game by operating the ring-type expansion device 5 (for example, an operation of deforming the ring-type expansion device 5 and an operation of moving the ring-type expansion device 5).

Note that FIG. 10 illustrates a state in which the user grips the grip covers 203 and 204 and pushes the ring-type expansion device 5 to deform the grip covers 203 and 204. By this movement, the user can perform a fitness movement for training both arms as a game operation. The user can operate the game by various operations on the ring type expansion device 5. For example, the user can perform an operation of deforming the ring type expansion device 5 while holding one grip cover with both hands and touching the other grip cover to the abdomen. With this movement, the user can perform a fitness movement for training the arms and abdominal muscles as a game operation. In addition, the user can also perform an operation of deforming the ring-type expansion device 5 in a state where the grip covers 203 and 204 are applied to the inner thighs of both feet and the ring-type expansion device 5 is sandwiched between the legs. By this movement, the user can perform a fitness movement for training the muscles of the foot as a game operation. As described above, according to the present embodiment, the user can perform many kinds of fitness movements by using the ring-shaped expansion device 5 which is an annular shape.

[2. Outline of operation in right controller 4 and ring type expansion device 5]
The operation of the right controller 4 and the ring-type expansion device 5 to which the right controller 4 is mounted will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13. In the present embodiment, the right controller 4 and the ring type expansion device 5 can operate in two types of modes, a main body operation mode and an independent operation mode. The main body operation mode is a mode in which the right controller 4 and the ring type expansion device 5 operate together with the main body device 2, and the processing based on the user's input to the right controller 4 and / or the ring type expansion device 5 (for example, the main body device 2 This is a mode in which the main unit 2 executes (processing in the running application). Further, the independent operation mode is a mode in which the right controller 4 and the ring type expansion device 5 execute processing independently of the main body device 2. In the independent operation mode, the processing based on the user's input to the right controller 4 and / or the ring type expansion device 5 is executed by the right controller 4 and the ring type expansion device 5 without the main body device 2.

[2-1. Process flow in main unit operation mode]
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a basic flow of data between devices in the main body operation mode. In the main body operation mode, in the relationship between the right controller 4 and the ring type expansion device 5, the right controller 4 becomes the parent and the ring type expansion device 5 becomes the child for communication. That is, in the main body operation mode, the right controller 4 requests the ring-type expansion device 5 to transmit data, and the ring-type expansion device 5 transmits data to the right controller 4 in response to this request. Will be done.

First, the main body device 2 transmits a transmission request signal to the ring type expansion device 5 (step S1). The transmission request signal is a signal that requests the transmission destination of the signal to transmit data. The transmission request signal may or may not include the operation of the transmission destination device or the content of the data to be transmitted. For example, the transmission request signal may be a signal representing a command indicating an instruction to the transmission destination device. Further, for example, when the communication protocol stipulates that a predetermined data is transmitted in response to the reception of the transmission request signal, the transmission request signal does not need to include the instruction content to the transmission destination device, and the transmission is concerned. It may have any content that can be distinguished from other signals different from the requested signal. In the present embodiment, the transmission request signal to the right controller 4 is transmitted at a transmission timing that arrives once at a predetermined time.

Further, when transmitting the transmission request signal, the main body device 2 transmits to the right controller 4 a command for causing the right controller 4 to execute a predetermined operation, if necessary. The command is, for example, an output command indicating an instruction to output sound and vibration to the right controller 4, and / or a light emitting command indicating an instruction to emit light of the notification LED 67.

The right controller 4 that has received the transmission request signal first acquires data from the ring-type expansion device 5. Specifically, the right controller 4 transmits a transmission request signal to the ring-type expansion device 5 (step S2). The ring-type expansion device 5 transmits the ring operation data to the right controller 4 in response to receiving the transmission request signal from the right controller 4 (step S3). As a result, the right controller 4 acquires the ring operation data from the ring type expansion device 5. The ring operation data is data indicating an operation on the ring type expansion device 5. In the present embodiment, the ring operation data includes information indicating the above distortion value. Specifically, the control unit 213 of the ring type expansion device 5 transmits the ring operation data to the right controller 4 via the terminal 214.

The main unit device 2 may specify the content of the data acquired by the right controller 4 from the ring type expansion device 5. For example, the transmission request signal transmitted from the main body device 2 to the right controller 4 may include information (for example, information indicating ring operation data) that specifies data acquired from the ring type expansion device 5.

Next, the right controller 4 wirelessly transmits the ring operation data received from the ring type expansion device 5 and the controller data to the main body device 2 (step S4). The controller data is data indicating an operation on the right controller 4. In the present embodiment, the controller data includes information acquired from each input unit (specifically, each button 113, each analog stick 52, each sensor 114 and 115) included in the right controller 4. The communication control unit 111 of the right controller 4 may collectively transmit the controller data and the ring operation data to the main unit 2, or may separately transmit the controller data and the ring operation data to the main unit 2. Further, the communication control unit 111 may transmit data based on the ring operation data to the main unit device 2. The "data based on the ring operation data" may be, for example, the ring operation data itself, or some processing (for example, data format conversion and / or calculation processing for the distortion value, etc.) on the ring operation data. ) May be performed. In the main body operation mode, unlike the independent operation mode described later, the right controller 4 does not transmit the controller data to the peripheral device, and the peripheral device does not receive the controller data from the right controller 4.

Further, when a command is received from the main body device 2 together with the transmission request signal, the right controller 4 performs an operation according to the command (step S5). For example, the right controller 4 vibrates the oscillator 117 in response to receiving the output command. Further, the right controller 4 causes the notification LED 67 to emit light in response to receiving the above light emission command.

In the present embodiment, the right controller 4 executes the processes of steps S2, S4, and S5 in response to the reception of the transmission request signal (and command) from the main body device 2. In another embodiment, the right controller 4 executes the process of step S2 at a timing different from the reception of the transmission request signal (and command) from the main unit 2, and performs the processes of steps S4 and S5. It may be executed according to the reception. Further, in another embodiment, the right controller 4 replaces the timing corresponding to the transmission request signal from the main body device 2 with a timing determined by itself (for example, a timing that arrives once at a predetermined time). May execute the transmission process to the main body device 2.

The main unit device 2 receives data from the right controller 4 and executes processing based on the received data (step S6). Specifically, the main unit 2 executes processing in the running application based on the received data. The content of this process is arbitrary. For example, when a game application is being executed, the main unit device 2 executes a game process (for example, a process of controlling the operation of a player character or affecting an object in the game space) based on the received data. .. In the main body operation mode, the series of processes of steps S1 to S6 are repeatedly executed.

In the present embodiment, the right controller 4 can operate even in a single state in which the right controller 4 is not attached to the ring type expansion device 5. At this time, the main body device 2 and the right controller 4 execute the processes excluding the processes of S2 and S3 in the series of processes of steps S1 to S6 shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the operation mode in which the processes of steps S1 and S4-S6 are executed by the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 that are not mounted on the ring type expansion device 5 is also referred to as a main body operation mode.

[2-2. Process flow in independent operation mode]
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the basic flow of processing and data in the independent operation mode. In the independent operation mode, unlike the main body operation mode, the ring type expansion device 5 becomes the parent and the right controller 4 becomes the child for communication. That is, in the independent operation mode, the ring-type expansion device 5 requests the right controller 4 to transmit data, and the right controller 4 transmits data to the ring-type expansion device 5 in response to this request. Will be done.

Specifically, the ring-type expansion device 5 transmits a transmission request signal to the right controller 4 (step S11). In the present embodiment, the transmission request signal to the right controller 4 is transmitted at a transmission timing that arrives once at a predetermined time (for example, 10 [ms]). In the present embodiment, each time the transmission timing arrives, the ring-type expansion device 5 transmits a transmission request signal to the right controller 4.

Further, at the above transmission timing, the ring type expansion device 5 transmits to the right controller 4 a command for causing the right controller 4 to execute a predetermined operation, if necessary, in addition to the transmission request signal. The command is, for example, an output command indicating an instruction to output sound and vibration to the right controller 4, and / or a light emitting command indicating an instruction to emit light of the notification LED 67. If it is not necessary to cause the right controller 4 to execute any operation at the above transmission timing, the command is not transmitted and only the transmission request signal is transmitted.

The right controller 4 transmits the controller data in response to receiving the transmission request signal from the ring type expansion device 5 (step S12). Here, in the present embodiment, the controller data transmitted from the right controller 4 to the main body device 2 and the controller data transmitted from the right controller 4 to the ring type expansion device 5 have the same contents. However, in other embodiments, the two may have different contents. Here, the process executed by the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5) to which the right controller 4 is mounted in the independent operation mode is simpler than the process executed by the main unit 2 in the main unit operation mode. It is considered to be a process. Therefore, the right controller 4 may use a part of the controller data to be transmitted to the main body device 2 as the controller data to be transmitted to the ring type expansion device 5. As a result, the amount of controller data transmitted to the ring-type expansion device 5 can be reduced. For example, the right controller 4 may include a camera, and the right controller 4 may transmit the data of the image captured by the camera to the main body device 2. At this time, the right controller 4 rings the data of the image. It may not be transmitted to the type expansion device 5.

In the independent operation mode, unlike the main body operation mode, the right controller 4 does not transmit the controller data to the main body device 2 (see FIG. 12). In the independent operation mode, the main unit 2 does not communicate with the right controller 4, but does not need to be in the sleep state, and may wake up from the sleep state and execute some processing.

Further, when a command is received from the ring type expansion device 5, the right controller 4 performs an operation according to the command (step S13). For example, the right controller 4 vibrates the oscillator 117 in response to receiving the output command. Further, the right controller 4 causes the notification LED 67 to emit light in response to receiving the above light emission command.

The ring-type expansion device 5 receives the controller data from the right controller 4 and executes processing based on the received controller data (step S14). Further, the ring type expansion device 5 executes processing based on the distortion value detected by its own distortion detection unit 211. Details will be described later, but in the present embodiment, the ring-type expansion device 5 performs a process of causing the right controller 4 to output sound and vibration in response to an operation of deforming the ring-type expansion device 5, and a process for the right controller 4. The process of switching the sound and vibration outputs on / off according to the input is executed.

In the process of step S14, the ring type expansion device 5 generates a command for the right controller 4 as needed. In the independent operation mode, the series of processes of steps S11 to S14 are repeatedly executed. Therefore, the command generated in step S14 is transmitted to the right controller 4 in the process of step S11 to be executed next.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the right controller 4 and the ring-type expansion device 5 not only execute the processing in the main body operation mode in which the main body device 2 executes the processing, but also independently execute the processing independently of the main body device 2. It is possible to operate in the operation mode. Therefore, the user can use the right controller 4 and the ring-type expansion device 5 that operate in the independent operation mode during the period when the application is not executed in the main device 2. For example, the user can perform a fitness operation using the ring-type expansion device 5 even during a period in which the application is not being executed in the main device 2.

Further, in the present embodiment, when data showing a record of fitness movements performed during the independent operation mode is saved and then an application using the ring type expansion device 5 is executed in the main body device 2, the main body is executed. The device 2 executes the game process based on the data. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the result of the fitness operation performed by the user during the period when the application is not executed can be reflected in the application.

The right controller 4 and the ring-type expansion device 5 may be capable of operating in a mode different from the main body operation mode and the independent operation mode described above. For example, the right controller 4 can be operated in the main body mounting mode described later in the state of being mounted on the main body device 2. Further, the right controller 4 can be put into a sleep state separately from the state of operating in any of these modes. In the sleep state, the right controller 4 does not perform data communication with other devices (except for exchanging signals for starting wireless communication), and its own operation unit (that is, each button 113 and analog). Accepts input to stick 52). When an input to the operation unit is detected in the sleep state, the right controller 4 wakes up from the sleep state.

Further, as described above, in the present embodiment, the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5) responds to the user input detected by the sensor (here, the distortion detection unit 211) in the independent operation mode. Based on the peripheral device data (here, ring operation data), a command for causing the right controller 4 to execute a predetermined operation is generated, and the command is transmitted to the right controller 4. According to the above configuration, in the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 operates in response to a command from the peripheral device, so that the processing of the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode can be made versatile. , The game controller can be easily adapted to different types of peripheral devices. Further, since the processing in the right controller 4 can be simplified, the amount of data of the program and data for executing the processing can be reduced, and the amount of data in the right controller 4 can be reduced.

Here, consider a case where the right controller 4 can be attached to a plurality of types of peripheral devices, and in the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 and the peripheral devices perform different operations depending on the peripheral devices. In this case, if the right controller 4 executes a process different for each peripheral device (for example, a process for performing a different output for each peripheral device from the right controller 4 according to a user input to the peripheral device), it is for each process. Since the right controller 4 stores the program and data of the above, the amount of data in the right controller 4 becomes large, which may put pressure on the storage area of the right controller 4. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, even if the processing in the independent operation mode is different for each peripheral device, the processing in the right controller 4 can be shared. For example, regarding the process of causing the right controller 4 to output an output in response to a user input to the peripheral device, a command for outputting the output is generated on the peripheral device side, and the right controller 4 is made to execute an operation according to the command. The processing in the right controller 4 is common regardless of the type of peripheral device. According to this, the right controller 4 can be used for general purposes, and it becomes easy to correspond to peripheral devices. Further, by improving the versatility of the processing of the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode, the amount of data stored for the processing of the right controller 4 can be reduced.

Further, in the present embodiment, the peripheral device transmits a transmission request signal to the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode, and is transmitted from the right controller 4 in response to the transmission request signal being received by the right controller 4. It is a configuration that executes processing based on controller data. According to this, for example, the process based on the input to the right controller 4 (for example, the process of switching the sound and vibration output of the right controller 4 on / off according to the input to the button of the right controller 4) is performed by the controller data. Can be executed on the peripheral device side that received the. As a result, processing that differs for each peripheral device is executed on the peripheral device side, and processing common to a plurality of peripheral devices can be easily executed on the right controller 4 side. Therefore, even with this configuration, the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode It can be said that the processing of can be made versatile. That is, the right controller 4 can be used for general purposes even with the above configuration. Further, with the above configuration, it is possible to suppress an increase in the processing executed by the right controller 4, and it is possible to reduce the amount of data in the right controller 4 by reducing the programs and data for the processing.

In the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 receives a command corresponding to the controller data transmitted to the peripheral device from the peripheral device, and operates in response to the command. Further, in the main body operation mode, the right controller 4 receives a command corresponding to the controller data transmitted to the main body device 2 from the main body device 2 and operates in response to the command. In this way, by making the right controller 4 operate in response to commands from other devices in any mode, the processing in the right controller 4 can be simplified, and the program for the processing and the program for the processing and the processing for the processing can be simplified. The amount of data can be reduced.

Further, in the present embodiment, in the independent operation mode, the peripheral device receives the controller data corresponding to the user input to the right controller 4 from the right controller 4. As a result, processing based on user input to the right controller 4 can be executed on the peripheral device side. Further, the peripheral device generates a command for causing the right controller 4 to execute a predetermined operation based on the controller data, and transmits the command to the right controller. As a result, the process for causing the right controller 4 to perform the operation can be executed on the peripheral device side. For example, when the operation (for example, vibration output) of the right controller 4 executed in response to a specific button input of the right controller 4 is made different for each peripheral device, the button input and operation for each of the plurality of peripheral devices may be used. If the right controller 4 stores the correspondence, the storage capacity required by the right controller 4 may increase. On the other hand, by using the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress an increase in the storage capacity required for the right controller 4.

In the present embodiment, the peripheral device displays controller data related to all operable buttons (specifically, buttons 53 to 58, 60, and 61) among the buttons included in the right controller 4. Received from controller 4. Since the second L button 65 and the second R button 66 cannot be operated when the right controller 4 is attached to the peripheral device, the right controller 4 does not transmit data relating to these buttons 65 and 66. May be good. According to the above, the peripheral device can execute the process based on the input to each of the operable buttons of the right controller 4. Further, since the content of the controller data transmitted by the right controller 4 to the peripheral device can be made common to each peripheral device, the processing of the right controller 4 can be made versatile. At this time, the peripheral device may transmit a command to the right controller 4 based on a part of the controller data and not based on the other data of the controller data. Specifically, the peripheral device may generate a command based on a part of the controller data and not based on other data of the controller data, or all the data of the controller data. Generates a plurality of commands based on the above, and sends some commands among the plurality of commands (and commands generated without being based on some data of the controller data) to the right controller 4. You may. As described above, the peripheral device does not need to execute the process using all the data related to each button included in the controller data. Further, in another embodiment, the peripheral device may receive controller data for all the operation units (that is, each button and the analog stick) included in the right controller 4 from the right controller 4.

[2-3. Processing until the operation in each mode starts]
Next, the processing until each of the above modes is started will be described. In the present embodiment, after returning from the sleep state, the right controller 4 starts the operation in the mode in which the condition is satisfied, in response to the condition in each mode being satisfied. Further, although the details will be described later, when the right controller 4 is attached to the peripheral device, information indicating a mode to be operated (mode information described later) is transmitted from the right controller 4 to the peripheral device. The peripheral device also operates in the same mode as the right controller 4.

Independent operation mode is for peripheral devices that support the independent operation mode (that is, peripheral devices that can operate in the independent operation mode) while the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main unit 2 is not established. It is started on condition that a predetermined start operation for the right controller 4 is detected while the right controller 4 is mounted. Here, the state in which the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 is established is a state in which data can be transmitted / received by wireless communication between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2. The state in which the wireless connection is not established does not mean only the state in which the radio wave from one device to the other device cannot be received. Even when the wireless connection is not established, the right controller 4 and the main unit 2 can execute the communication process for establishing the wireless connection. The right controller 4 in the sleep state is in a state in which a wireless connection with the main body device 2 has not been established.

In the present embodiment, the start operation is an operation of pressing the analog stick 52. However, the start operation may be an arbitrary operation on the right controller 4. Further, the start operation may be an operation performed while the right controller 4 is in the sleep state. That is, when the right controller 4 in the sleep state is attached to the peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode and the start operation is performed on the right controller 4, the right controller 4 returns from the sleep state. Then, the operation in the independent operation mode is started.

On the other hand, the main body operation mode is started on condition that the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 is established after the right controller 4 wakes up from the sleep state. Here, when the input to the operation unit of the right controller 4 is detected in a state where the wireless connection with the main unit 2 is not established (however, the independent operation mode is started in response to the above start operation). In this case and when operating in the independent operation mode), the communication process for establishing the wireless connection between the own unit and the main unit 2 is executed. When a wireless connection is established between the two by this communication process, the right controller 4 operates in the main body operation mode. In the above communication process, the wireless connection is not established when the main unit 2 is in the sleep state or when the radio wave from the right controller 4 is not received by the main unit 2. In this case, the main body operation mode is not started, and the state in which the operation mode of the right controller 4 is undecided is maintained. The operation performed on the right controller 4 in order to execute the communication process is arbitrary, and a predetermined operation on the right controller 4 (for example, an operation on the first R button 60 or an operation on the first R button 60 and ZR). It may be an operation on the button 61).

Further, when the input to the home button 58 is detected in a state where the wireless connection with the main body device 2 is not established, the right controller 4 transmits a return signal for returning the main body device 2 from the sleep state to the main body device 2. After that, the above communication process is executed. That is, when the user wants to establish a wireless connection between the main unit 2 in the sleep state and the right controller 4, the user may press the home button 58 of the right controller 4. The behavior of the main unit 2 is arbitrary when the input to the home button 58 of the right controller 4 is detected in the state after the main unit 2 has returned from the sleep state. For example, when the input to the home button 58 is detected during the execution of the application, the main body device 2 may suspend the running application and display the menu image in the main body device 2. Further, when the input to the home button 58 is detected during the display of the menu image, the main body device 2 may shift to the sleep state.

From the above, the user can operate the right controller 4 in the main body operation mode by, for example, the following method.
-The operation unit of the right controller 4 in the sleep state is operated while the right controller 4 is not attached to the peripheral device. Further, at this time, the user can operate the right controller 4 and the peripheral device in the main body operation mode by attaching the right controller 4 which is the main body operation mode to the peripheral device (for example, the ring type expansion device 5).
-The right controller 4, which is in the sleep state and is attached to the peripheral device, is returned from the sleep state by an operation different from the above start operation.
When the right controller 4 is attached to the ring type expansion device 5 in the application executed by the main body device 2, the user wirelessly connects the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 before or after the execution of the application. Is established, and the right controller 4 is operated in the main body operation mode. At this time, the user may operate both of them in the main body operation mode by operating the right controller 4 in the main body operation mode and then mounting the right controller 4 on the ring type expansion device 5, or the right controller 4 may be operated in the main body operation mode. Both may be operated in the main body operation mode by mounting the right controller 4 on the ring type expansion device 5 and then operating the right controller 4 in the main body operation mode.

When the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2, the right controller 4 operates in the main body mounting mode. Here, the main body mounting mode is a mode in which the main body device 2 executes a process based on the user's input to the right controller 4. In the main body mounting mode, communication is performed in a flow in which the main body device 2 requests the right controller 4 to transmit data, and the right controller 4 transmits data to the main body device 2 in response to this request. The processing performed by the right controller 4 in the main body mounting mode is that the right controller 4 operates in response to a command from the device on which the right controller 4 is mounted (here, the main body device 2 or the ring type expansion device 5). , It is the same as the processing performed by the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the right controller 4 can use the program for processing in the main body mounting mode as the program for processing in the independent operation mode. As a result, the amount of data stored in the right controller 4 can be reduced.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow executed when the right controller 4 is attached to the ring type expansion device 5. The process shown in FIG. 13 corresponds to the fact that the right controller 4 mounted on the ring-type expansion device 5 is mounted on the ring-type expansion device 5 after returning from the sleep state, or the right controller 4 mounted on the ring-type expansion device 5 is in the sleep state. It is started according to the return from.

First, the right controller 4 executes a confirmation process for the device on which it is mounted (step S21). The confirmation process is a process for confirming the type of device to which the right controller 4 is mounted. Here, the peripheral device (and the main body device 2) that can be attached to the right controller 4 is provided with a confirmation electronic component, and the ring type expansion device 5 is also provided with a confirmation electronic component 216 (see FIG. 9). The confirmation electronic component is an electronic component for the right controller 4 to confirm the type of the peripheral device (and the main body device 2), and is an electrical configuration (for example, distortion detection) operated by the electric power supplied from the right controller 4. It is an electronic component different from the unit 211, the signal conversion unit 212, and the control unit 213). The confirmation electronic component may be any electronic component having a resistance value. As shown in FIG. 9, the confirmation electronic component 216 is not connected to the power conversion unit 215, and power may not be supplied via the power conversion unit 215. In the present embodiment, the confirmation electronic component has a resistance value according to the type of peripheral device. As shown in FIG. 9, the confirmation electronic component is electrically connected to the terminal of the peripheral device, and when the right controller 4 is attached to the peripheral device, the terminal 64 of the right controller 4 becomes the confirmation electronic component. It is electrically connected. As a result, a circuit (referred to as a “confirmation circuit”) is formed by the electrical configuration on the right controller 4 side and the confirmation electronic component on the peripheral device side. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the peripheral device (for example, the ring type expansion device 5) corresponding to the independent operation mode includes a confirmation electronic component having a predetermined resistance value. Therefore, the right controller 4 has a type of peripheral device (here, at least a peripheral of a type corresponding to an independent operation mode) based on the resistance value of the confirmation circuit formed by being mounted on the peripheral device. Whether it is a device) can be determined.

In the confirmation process, the right controller 4 detects the resistance value of the confirmation circuit. Then, the right controller 4 determines whether or not the detected resistance value is within the determination range including the predetermined value. This determination is a process of determining whether or not the peripheral device to which the right controller 4 is mounted is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode. In this embodiment, the above determination range is used for the above determination in consideration of the possibility that an error may occur in the detected resistance value. The width of this predetermined range may be set as appropriate.

In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the main body device 2 includes a confirmation electronic component having a resistance value outside the above determination range and having a resistance value different from that of the confirmation electronic component of the peripheral device. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the right controller 4 can also determine whether or not the device to which the right controller 4 is mounted is the main body device 2 based on the detected resistance value. When it is determined in step S21 that the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2, the right controller 4 ends the process shown in FIG. 13 and starts the operation in the main body mounting mode.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the peripheral device to which the player is mounted is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 starts supplying power to the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5) (in this case, the ring type expansion device 5). Step S22). Although not shown, if it is not determined that the peripheral device on which the controller is mounted is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 does not start supplying power to the peripheral device, and the process shown in FIG. 13 is performed. Exits and goes to sleep.

In another embodiment, there may be a peripheral device capable of receiving power from the right controller 4, although it does not correspond to the independent operation mode. Such a peripheral device has a resistance different from that of the peripheral device confirmation electronic component corresponding to the independent operation mode and different from the peripheral device confirmation electronic component that cannot receive power from the right controller 4. A confirmation electronic component having a value is provided. At this time, the right controller 4 does not determine that the peripheral device to which it is mounted is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode, but may supply power. In this case, the right controller 4 does not operate in the independent operation mode, and operates in the main body operation mode on condition that a wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 is established, for example.

The ring-type expansion device 5 is activated in response to the start of power supply from the right controller 4. After activation, the ring-type expansion device 5 is in a standby state waiting for mode information, which will be described later, to be transmitted from the right controller 4 (step S23). At this point, the mode in which the ring-type expansion device 5 operates has not been determined.

On the other hand, if the condition for starting the main body operation mode or the independent operation mode is satisfied after starting the power supply, the right controller 4 transmits the mode information to the ring type expansion device 5 (step S24). The mode information indicates the mode in which the right controller 4 and the peripheral devices mounted on the right controller 4 should operate.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the condition for starting the main body operation mode is that the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 is established. For example, when the process shown in FIG. 13 is started by returning the right controller 4 from the sleep state in response to an operation different from the start operation performed on the right controller 4 in the sleep state. After step S22, the right controller 4 executes the process of step S24 in response to the establishment of the wireless connection with the main body device 2. When the condition for starting the main body operation mode is satisfied, in the process of step S24, the right controller 4 transmits the mode information indicating the main body operation mode to the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5). Further, when the right controller 4 is operating in the main body operation mode when the process shown in FIG. 13 is started (that is, the right controller 4 operating in the main body operation mode is attached to the ring type expansion device 5). In the case), the right controller 4 executes the process of the step S24 following the step S22.

Further, the condition for starting the independent operation mode is that, as described above, the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main unit 2 is not established, and the right controller 4 is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode. This means that the above start operation was performed while the device was mounted. For example, FIG. 13 shows that the right controller 4 has returned from the sleep state in response to the start operation being performed on the right controller 4 which is in the sleep state and is mounted on the ring type expansion device 5. When the process shown in (1) is started, the right controller 4 executes the process of step S24 after the step S22. When the condition for starting the independent operation mode is satisfied, in the process of step S24, the right controller 4 transmits the mode information indicating the independent operation mode to the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5).

Upon receiving the mode information from the right controller 4, the ring-type expansion device 5 makes a reply for confirming that the mode information has been received (step S25). Then, the ring type expansion device 5 starts the operation in the mode indicated by the mode information (step S26).

On the other hand, the right controller 4 starts the operation in the mode indicated by the mode information in response to receiving the reply from the ring type expansion device 5 (step S27). As a result, both the right controller 4 and the ring-type expansion device 5 start operating in the same mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5) operates by the electric power supplied from the right controller 4 in a state of being electrically connected to the peripheral device. When the peripheral device is activated based on the power supplied from the right controller 4, the peripheral device is in a standby state waiting to receive mode information indicating the mode to be operated among the plurality of modes from the right controller 4. Become. At this time, the right controller 4 generates the mode information and transmits the mode information to the peripheral device. Then, the peripheral device operates in the mode indicated by the mode information received from the right controller 4 in the standby state. The peripheral device cannot determine in which mode it should operate at the time of startup, but according to the above, after the peripheral device is started, the peripheral device is operated in an appropriate mode according to the right controller 4. Can be done.

Further, in the present embodiment, the peripheral device constitutes a part of a circuit formed by electrically connecting the right controller and the peripheral device, and is a confirmation electronic component having a predetermined resistance value. Be prepared. According to this, the right controller 4 can determine the information (for example, type) of the peripheral device by detecting the resistance value of the circuit.

Further, in the present embodiment, the resistance value of the confirmation circuit formed by electrically connecting the peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode and the right controller 4 is the first value, and the independent operation mode The resistance value of the confirmation circuit formed by electrically connecting the peripheral device and the right controller 4 that do not correspond to the first value is a second value different from the first value. Then, the right controller 4 operates independently on condition that the resistance value of the confirmation circuit is within a predetermined range (that is, the above-mentioned determination range) including the first value and not including the second value. Mode information indicating the mode is transmitted to the device. According to this, it is possible to prevent the mode information indicating the independent operation mode from being transmitted to the peripheral device that does not correspond to the independent operation mode. Therefore, when the right controller 4 is attached, the right controller 4 is installed. It is possible to prevent an error that operates in the independent operation mode.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the resistance value of the confirmation circuit is within the first range (that is, the above-mentioned determination range), the right controller 4 can operate in the independent operation mode and operate in the main body operation mode. It is possible. On the other hand, when the resistance value of the confirmation circuit is within the second range different from the first range, the right controller 4 can operate in the main body operation mode and prohibits the operation in the independent operation mode (that is,). , Does not work in independent mode of operation). Even with such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an error that the right controller 4 operates in the independent operation mode when the right controller 4 is attached to a peripheral device that does not correspond to the independent operation mode.

In the present embodiment, the right controller 4 detects the resistance value and determines whether or not the detected resistance value is within the first range. Here, the method for determining "when the resistance value is within the first range" and "when the resistance value is within the second range different from the first range" is arbitrary. For example, whether or not the right controller 4 is the above case based on a parameter correlating with the resistance value (in other words, a parameter capable of calculating the resistance value, for example, voltage or power) instead of the resistance value. May be determined.

Further, the right controller 4 corresponds to the detection of a predetermined operation (that is, start operation) for the right controller 4 in a state where the right controller 4 is attached to a peripheral device and communication with the main body device 2 is not established. The operation is performed in the independent operation mode, at least on condition that the resistance value of the confirmation circuit formed by electrically connecting the right controller 4 and the peripheral device is within the above determination range. According to this, the user can start the independent operation mode on the right controller 4 at a desired timing, and when the right controller 4 is attached to a peripheral device that does not correspond to the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 can be started. It is possible to prevent an error that operates in the independent operation mode.

Further, the right controller 4 is provided with at least a condition that the resistance value of the confirmation circuit is within the above determination range (more specifically, depending on the detection of the resistance value within the above determination range). Power is supplied to other parts of the peripheral device (specifically, the distortion detection unit 211, the signal conversion unit 212, and the control unit 213) that are different from the parts that form the confirmation circuit. The right controller 4 does not supply power to the peripheral device when the resistance value of the confirmation circuit is not within the determination range. According to this, it is possible to prevent an error that the right controller 4 supplies power to a peripheral device that does not require power supply. Further, when the right controller 4 is attached to a non-regular peripheral device (for example, a device having the same function as the ring type expansion device 5, but the resistance value of the confirmation circuit is outside the determination range), the relevant peripheral device 4 is attached. It is possible to prevent the peripheral device from operating.

[2-4. Specific example of processing in independent operation mode]
Next, a specific example of processing in the ring-type expansion device 5 in the independent operation mode will be described. In the independent operation mode, the ring-type expansion device 5 detects an operation in which the user deforms the ring-type expansion device 5, counts and stores the number of times the operation is performed. Hereinafter, each process executed in the independent operation mode will be described.

The ring-type expansion device 5 detects a pushing operation and a pulling operation with respect to the own machine. The pushing operation is an operation of deforming the annular portion 201 in a direction in which the two gripped portions of the ring-type expansion device 5 approach each other (referred to as a “pushing direction”). Further, the pulling operation is an operation of deforming the annular portion 201 in a direction in which the two gripped portions are separated from each other (referred to as a "pulling direction"). The amount of deformation of the ring-type expansion device 5 can be calculated based on the strain value output from the strain detection unit 211, and the pushing operation or the pulling operation can be detected based on the amount of deformation. Specifically, when the deformation amount in the pushing direction becomes larger than the predetermined pushing threshold value, the ring type expansion device 5 detects the pushing operation, and the deformation amount in the pulling direction becomes larger than the predetermined pulling threshold value. If the pulling operation is detected. The ring-type expansion device 5 counts so as to increase the number of operations by 1 each time a pushing operation or a pulling operation is detected. Further, the ring type expansion device 5 stores the counted number of operations in the memory provided in the control unit 213. In the present embodiment, the memory is a non-volatile memory, and data is stored even when the power supply to the peripheral device is stopped. In the main body operation mode, the ring type expansion device 5 does not count the number of operations and does not store the number of operations.

In the present embodiment, the ring type expansion device 5 counts the total number of operations performed by both the pushing operation and the pulling operation without distinguishing between the pushing operation and the pulling operation, but in other embodiments, the pushing operation is performed. The number of operations of the above and the number of operations of the pulling operation may be counted separately.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the independent operation mode, the peripheral device includes a memory for storing the number of user inputs detected by the sensor (that is, the distortion detection unit 211). Specifically, the peripheral device determines whether or not the value detected by the sensor is larger than a predetermined threshold value, and if it is determined that the detected value is larger than the threshold value, counts the number of times of the user input. To do. According to this, the game system 1 can execute a process (for example, a process in an application executed in the main unit 2) after the end of the independent operation mode by using the input made by the user during the independent operation mode. it can.

Further, the ring type expansion device 5 outputs sound and vibration from the right controller 4 in response to the pushing operation and the pulling operation. In the present embodiment, the ring-type expansion device 5 outputs sound and vibration from the right controller 4 at a timing corresponding to the detection of the pushing operation and a timing corresponding to the detection of the pulling operation. ..

The ring-type expansion device 5 may output sound and vibration from the right controller 4 at an arbitrary timing according to the operation. For example, the ring-type expansion device 5 may output sound and vibration from the right controller 4 at the timing when the deformation amount crosses the pushing threshold value and at the timing when the deformation amount crosses the pulling threshold value. The timing at which the amount of deformation crosses the threshold is the timing at which the amount of deformation increases and exceeds the threshold (that is, becomes larger than the threshold) and the amount of deformation decreases and falls below the threshold (that is, the threshold). It means to include both the timing (which became smaller than). According to this, the sound and vibration in the right controller 4 are the timing when the pushing operation or the pulling operation by the user is detected and the timing when the ring type expansion device 5 is in the process of returning to the steady state after the pushing operation or the pulling operation. Will be output.

Further, the ring type expansion device 5 outputs sound and vibration from the right controller 4 according to a predetermined number of divisions (for example, a number of multiples of 100) of the counted number of operations. Further, the ring type expansion device 5 makes a sound and vibration according to the number of operations counted reaches the upper limit number of times (for example, 500 times) set in the control unit 213 of the ring type expansion device 5. Output from the right controller 4. The mode of output sound and vibration (for example, frequency, magnitude, output length, number of times, etc.) may be output in response to one operation, or the number of operations reaches the above-mentioned number of divisions. It may be different depending on whether it is output according to the operation or when the number of operations reaches the upper limit.

When the sound and vibration are output from the right controller 4, the ring type expansion device 5 generates an output command indicating an instruction to output the sound and vibration and transmits the output command to the right controller 4. In this embodiment, the right controller 4 outputs both sound and vibration from the vibrator 117. Therefore, the ring-type expansion device 5 generates an output command including data that specifies the waveforms of sound and vibration input to the vibrator 117. The data for designating the waveform may be data indicating the waveform itself, data indicating information for specifying the waveform (for example, information on frequency and amplitude), or input to the vibrator 117. It may be data indicating information (for example, a number assigned to the waveform pattern) that specifies the waveform pattern to be formed.

In the independent operation mode, the ring type expansion device 5 changes the setting related to outputting sound and vibration from the right controller 4 according to the operation by the user. Specifically, the ring-type expansion device 5 switches the sound output on / off according to the sound switching operation by the user, and switches the vibration output on / off according to the vibration switching operation by the user. In the present embodiment, these operations are operations for the right controller 4. Specifically, the ring-type expansion device 5 switches the sound output on / off according to the pressing operation on the A button 53 of the right controller 4, and vibrates in response to the pressing operation on the B button 54 of the right controller 4. Turn the output on / off.

When the output settings related to sound and vibration are switched by the above operation, the ring type expansion device 5 generates the above output command according to the settings after the switching. For example, when the sound output is set to off and the vibration output is set to on, the ring-type expansion device 5 includes waveforms that are output only as vibration (eg, include only frequencies outside the human audible band). Generates an output command to include data that specifies (waveforms that do not include frequencies within the human audible band). Further, for example, when the sound output is set to on and the vibration output is set to off, the ring type expansion device 5 outputs only the waveform output as sound (for example, only the frequency within the human audible band). Generate an output command to include data that specifies (waveforms that include and do not include frequencies outside the human audible band). Further, for example, when both the sound output and the vibration output are set to off, the ring type expansion device 5 generates an output command so as to include data that specifies a waveform whose output is 0. In this case, the ring type expansion device 5 may not generate an output command.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the process of creating an output command based on the setting changed according to the controller data indicating that the sound switching operation or the vibration switching operation has been performed is performed from the right controller 4. This is a specific example of the process of creating a command based on controller data. Here, in another embodiment, the ring type expansion device 5 may execute another process as a process of creating a command based on the controller data from the right controller 4. For example, the ring type expansion device 5 may generate the output command so that the sound and / or the vibration is output in response to the sound switching operation or the vibration switching operation for the right controller 4.

In the independent operation mode, the ring type expansion device 5 causes the notification LED 67 of the right controller 4 to emit light. In the present embodiment, the ring-type expansion device 5 causes the notification LED 67 to emit light in a manner distinguishable from modes other than the independent operation mode (for example, all four notification LEDs 67 are turned on). This makes it possible to notify the user that the right controller 4 is operating in the independent operation mode. Specifically, the ring-type expansion device 5 generates a light emitting command indicating an instruction to light the notification LED 67 and transmits it to the right controller 4. The light emitting command includes data indicating a mode in which the four notification LEDs 67 are made to emit light. In the present embodiment, the ring-type expansion device 5 causes the notification LED 67 of the right controller 4 to emit light in the above-described manner during the period of operation in the independent operation mode. Therefore, when the independent operation mode is started, the ring type expansion device 5 generates a light emitting command indicating an instruction to make the four notification LEDs 67 emit light in the above embodiment and transmits the light emitting command to the right controller 4. Then, when the independent operation mode is terminated, the ring-type expansion device 5 generates a light emission command indicating an instruction to stop the light emission of the four notification LEDs 67 and transmits the light emission command to the right controller 4.

In the independent operation mode, the ring type expansion device 5 executes a process of terminating the independent operation mode (hereinafter, referred to as "end processing") when the end condition described later is satisfied. Specifically, when the independent operation mode is terminated, the ring-type expansion device 5 first causes the right controller 4 to output a notification sound notifying the termination of the independent operation mode. That is, the ring type expansion device 5 generates an output command indicating an instruction to output the notification sound and transmits it to the right controller 4. Next, the ring-type expansion device 5 ends indicating the end of the independent operation mode after it is in a state where it can end the independent operation mode (for example, after the data rewriting process for the memory is completed). The signal is transmitted to the right controller 4. The end signal may be in the form of a command as in the transmission request signal, or may have any content that can be distinguished from other signals. The right controller 4 outputs the notification sound in response to receiving the output command from the ring-type expansion device 5, and further terminates the independent operation mode in response to receiving the end signal. On the other hand, the ring-type expansion device 5 that has transmitted the end signal ends the independent operation mode. When the independent operation mode is terminated, the right controller 4 goes to sleep. Therefore, the power supply from the right controller 4 to the ring type expansion device 5 is stopped according to the end of the independent operation mode.

In the present embodiment, the termination conditions are the following three conditions.
(Condition A) A predetermined end operation has been performed (Condition B) An operation on the home button 58 of the right controller 4 has been detected (Condition C) An operation on the ring type expansion device 5 has been performed for a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute). ) Is not continuously detected. If any of the above conditions A to C is satisfied, the ring type expansion device 5 executes the termination process.

Regarding the above condition A, the ring type expansion device 5 executes the above-mentioned end-time process in accordance with a predetermined end operation. In the present embodiment, the end operation is the same operation as the above-mentioned start operation, in which the analog stick 52 is pressed. However, in other embodiments, the termination operation may be an arbitrary operation. When the above termination operation is detected, the right controller 4 does not terminate the independent operation mode at this point, but indicates that the termination operation has been performed in response to the transmission request signal from the ring type expansion device 5. Send the indicated controller data. Then, the ring-type expansion device 5 that has received the controller data indicating that the end operation has been performed executes the process of terminating the independent operation mode, so that the end signal is transmitted from the right controller 4 to the right controller 4. To. The right controller 4 ends the independent operation mode in response to receiving this end signal.

Further, regarding the above condition B, the ring type expansion device 5 executes the above-mentioned end-time processing in response to an operation on the home button 58 of the right controller 4. Here, when an operation on the home button 58 is detected in a state other than the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 transmits a return signal for returning the main unit 2 from the sleep state to the main unit 2 as described above. After that, the above communication process is executed. On the other hand, when the operation for the home button 58 is detected in the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 performs the operation for the home button 58 in response to the transmission request signal from the ring type expansion device 5. It sends controller data indicating that. Then, the ring-type expansion device 5 that has received the controller data indicating that the operation for the home button 58 has been performed executes the end-time processing. At this time, in the end processing, the ring type expansion device 5 transmits a return instruction command instructing the main unit device 2 to transmit the return signal together with the end signal to the right controller 4. Upon receiving the return instruction command, the right controller 4 terminates the independent operation mode in response to the end signal, and then transmits the return signal to the main unit 2. According to this, even when the operation for the wakeup button is performed in the independent operation mode, the right controller 4 performs the same operation as when the operation for the wakeup button is performed in the state other than the independent operation mode. it can.

In another embodiment, the right controller 4 may end the independent operation mode after transmitting the return signal to the main body device 2. At this time, there may be a scene where wireless communication between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 is performed in the independent operation mode. When the right controller 4 transmits the return signal to the main unit 2, the ring-type expansion device 5 has already completed the processing in the independent operation mode, and the operation in the independent operation mode is substantially completed. Therefore, it is considered that there is no problem even if the main unit 2 and the right controller 4 communicate with each other in the independent operation mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the independent operation mode, the controller data corresponding to the operation for the sleep release button (that is, the home button 58) is stored in the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5). ) Is received, the peripheral device generates a command instructing the main body device 2 to send a signal for returning the main body device 2 from the sleep state, and sends the command to the right controller 4. The right controller 4 transmits a signal for returning the main unit 2 from the sleep state to the main unit 2 in response to receiving the above command from the peripheral device. According to the above, the right controller 4 does not perform any special processing different from the normal processing in the independent operation mode (that is, the right controller 4 performs the processing according to the command from the peripheral device), and the independent operation mode It is possible to perform substantially the same operation in the state of being and the state other than that. According to the above, since the right controller 4 does not have to execute a special process in the independent operation mode, the process of the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode can be simplified.

Further, regarding the above condition C, if the operation on the ring type expansion device 5 is not continuously detected for a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute), the ring type expansion device 5 executes the end processing. Here, when the operation on the ring type expansion device 5 is not continuously detected for a predetermined time, the amount of deformation of the ring type expansion device 5 is maintained near 0 (note that it does not have to be exactly 0) for a predetermined time. If it is done. In such a case, it is considered that the user does not intend to perform the fitness operation using the ring type expansion device 5, so that the ring type expansion device 5 ends the independent operation mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the independent operation mode, the controller data corresponding to the predetermined operation (the above-mentioned end operation or the operation for the home button 58) for the right controller 4 is used as the peripheral device (the peripheral device). Here, when the ring-type expansion device 5) receives it, the peripheral device transmits an end signal indicating the end of the independent operation mode to the right controller 4.

Here, if the right controller 4 transmits the end signal to the ring-type expansion device 5, the end signal may be transmitted from the right controller 4 at the timing when some processing is being executed in the peripheral device. .. At this time, since the right controller 4 stops the power supply to the peripheral device after the independent operation mode is finished, it is possible that the power supply from the right controller 4 is stopped at the timing when some processing is being executed in the peripheral device. Be done. In such a case, since the processing in the peripheral device is not normally completed, there is a possibility that the processing in the independent operation mode may be inadequate. For example, if the power supply from the right controller 4 is stopped while the writing process to the memory is being executed in the peripheral device, the data stored in the memory may be erased.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the ring type expansion device 5 transmits the end signal to the right controller 4, the peripheral device transmits the end signal at an appropriate timing after the processing by itself is completed. , Can exit the independent operation mode. At this time, the power supply from the right controller 4 is stopped after the above processing is completed. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the processing in the peripheral device is interrupted at the end of the independent operation mode, and it is possible to safely end the independent operation mode.

[3. Specific examples of information processing in game systems]
Next, a specific example of the processing executed by the right controller 4 and the ring-type expansion device 5 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of controller processing executed by the right controller 4. The series of controller processes shown in FIG. 14 is a process for determining a mode to be operated, and is started when the right controller 4 wakes up from the sleep state.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that the processor of the communication control unit 111 of the right controller 4 executes the processing of each step shown in FIG. 14 by executing the firmware stored in the memory 112. However, in another embodiment, a processor (for example, a dedicated circuit or the like) different from the processor of the communication control unit 111 may execute a part of the processes of each of the above steps. Further, the processing of each step shown in FIG. 14 is merely an example, and if the same result can be obtained, the processing order of each step may be changed, or in addition to (or instead of) the processing of each step. Another process may be executed.

Further, the communication control unit 111 executes the processing of each step shown in FIG. 14 using the memory 112. That is, the communication control unit 111 stores the information (in other words, data) obtained by each processing step in the memory 112, and when the information is used in the subsequent processing steps, reads the information from the memory 112. To use.

When the controller process is started, first, in step S30, the processor determines whether or not the right controller 4 is mounted on another device (peripheral device or main body device 2). If the determination result in step S30 is affirmative, the process in step S31 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S30 is negative, the process of step S38, which will be described later, is executed.

In another embodiment, the determination process in step S30 may be performed by the above-mentioned confirmation process. That is, if the confirmation electronic component is not detected as a result of executing the confirmation process, the processor may determine that the right controller 4 is not mounted on another device. In the above modification, the confirmation process in step S32, which will be described later, may be omitted.

In step S31, the processor determines whether or not it is newly detected that the right controller 4 is mounted on another device. That is, in step S31, if the right controller 4 has already been attached to another device, the determination result is negative. If the determination result in step S31 is affirmative, the process in step S32 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S31 is negative, the process of step S35, which will be described later, is executed.

In step S32, the processor executes the above-mentioned confirmation process (step S21 shown in FIG. 13). By the confirmation process, the processor can determine the type of the device to which the right controller 4 is mounted (specifically, whether it is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode or the main device 2). it can. After step S32, the process of step S33 is executed. In another embodiment, the processor is a peripheral device that does not support the independent operation mode or a peripheral device that supports another mode as the type of the device to which the right controller 4 is mounted. May be determined.

In step S33, the processor determines whether or not the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2 based on the result of the confirmation process. If the determination result in step S33 is affirmative, the process in step S34 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S33 is negative (that is, when it is mounted on a peripheral device), the process of step S35 described later is executed.

In step S34, the processor starts the operation in the main body mounting mode. In the main body mounting mode, the processor executes processing according to various signals (specifically, transmission request signal, end signal, etc.) or commands received from the main body device 2 via the terminal 64. When the operation in the main body mounting mode is completed, the processor ends the controller processing shown in FIG. 14, and puts the right controller 4 into a sleep state. For example, when the main body device 2 goes to sleep according to the user's instruction, the main body device 2 transmits the end signal to the right controller 4 as in the main body operation mode. When the above end signal is received, the processor ends the operation in the main body mounting mode, and the right controller 4 goes into the sleep state.

On the other hand, in step S35, the processor determines whether or not the start operation has been performed. That is, the processor determines whether or not the operation of pressing the analog stick 52 is detected. In the process of step S35, which is executed as a result of the determination result of step S30 being affirmative immediately after the right controller 4 wakes up from the sleep state, the processor has detected the operation of pressing the analog stick 52. Accordingly, it is determined whether or not the right controller 4 has returned from the sleep state. If the determination result in step S35 is affirmative, the process in step S36 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S35 is negative, the process of step S38, which will be described later, is executed.

In step S36, the processor determines whether the peripheral device to which the right controller 4 is mounted can operate in the independent operation mode. That is, based on the result of the above confirmation process, the processor determines whether or not the peripheral device to which the right controller 4 is mounted is a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode. Then, in the case of a peripheral device corresponding to the independent operation mode, power supply to the peripheral device is started (step S22 shown in FIG. 13), and mode information indicating the independent operation mode is transmitted to the peripheral device (FIG. 13). Step S24) shown in. Further, when a reply corresponding to the mode information is received from the peripheral device, the processor determines that the peripheral device equipped with the right controller 4 can operate in the independent operation mode. On the other hand, if the peripheral device equipped with the right controller 4 does not support the independent operation mode, or if the above reply is not received from the peripheral device, the processor is set in the peripheral device equipped with the right controller 4 in the independent operation mode. Judge that it is not operational. If the determination result in step S36 is affirmative, the process in step S37 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S36 is negative, the process of step S38, which will be described later, is executed.

In step S37, the processor starts operating in the independent operation mode. In the independent operation mode, the processor executes processing according to various signals or commands received from the peripheral device (here, the ring type expansion device 5) via the terminal 64 (see FIG. 12). When the operation in the independent operation mode is completed, the processor ends the controller process shown in FIG. 14 and goes into a sleep state. When the independent operation mode ends, the end signal is transmitted from the ring type expansion device 5 to the right controller as described above. When the end signal is received, the processor ends the operation in the independent operation mode, and the right controller 4 goes to sleep.

On the other hand, in step S38, the processor determines whether or not to start the wireless connection with the main body device 2. That is, the processor determines whether or not an operation on the operation unit of the right controller 4 (that is, each button 113 and the analog stick 52) has been detected. In the present embodiment, the right controller 4 wakes up from the sleep state in response to an operation on the operation unit. Therefore, immediately after the right controller 4 wakes up from the sleep state, if the determination process in step S30 is denied and the process in step S38 is executed, the processor determines that the operation has been detected. If the determination result in step S38 is affirmative, the process in step S39 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S38 is negative, the process in step S30 is executed again.

In step S39, the processor executes the above-mentioned communication process for establishing a wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2. After step S39, the process of step S40 is executed.

In step S40, the processor determines whether or not the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main body device 2 has been established. If the determination result in step S40 is affirmative, the process in step S41 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S40 is negative, the process in step S30 is executed again. In this case, while the right controller 4 is not attached to another device, the processes of steps S30, S35, S38 to S40 are repeatedly executed, and the wireless connection between the right controller 4 and the main device 2 is established. The determination result in step S40 becomes affirmative, and the process in step S41 is executed.

In step S41, the processor starts the operation in the main body operation mode. In the main unit operation mode, the processor executes the process shown in FIG. 11 to generate various signals and / or commands, and sends signals and / or commands to peripheral devices via the terminal 64, and controller data and / or commands. Ring operation data is wirelessly transmitted to the main unit 2. Although not shown, when the right controller 4 is attached to the ring type expansion device 5 during the process of step S41 (that is, the right controller 4 operating in the main body operation mode is attached to the ring type expansion device 5). In the case), a series of processes of steps S21, S22, and S24 are executed during the process of step S41. When the operation in the main body operation mode is completed, the processor ends the controller process shown in FIG. 14 and goes into a sleep state. For example, when the main body device 2 goes to sleep according to the user's instruction, the main body device 2 transmits an end signal to the right controller 4 to end the operation of the main body operation mode to the right controller 4. When the above end signal is received, the processor ends the operation in the main body operation mode, and the right controller 4 goes into the sleep state.

If the right controller 4 is not operated for a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) during the execution of the controller process shown in FIG. 14, the right controller 4 ends the controller process and goes to sleep. You may do it.

15 and 16 are flowcharts showing an example of peripheral device processing executed by the ring-type expansion device 5. The series of peripheral device processing shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 is started, for example, in response to the start of the ring-type expansion device 5 due to the start of power supply from the right controller 4.

In the present embodiment, the processor of the control unit 213 of the ring-type expansion device 5 executes the processing of each step shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 by executing the program stored in the memory included in the control unit 213. Explain as what to do. However, in another embodiment, a processor (for example, a dedicated circuit or the like) different from the processor of the control unit 213 may execute a part of the processes of each of the above steps. Further, the processing of each step shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 is merely an example, and if the same result can be obtained, the processing order of each step may be changed, or in addition to the processing of each step. Another process may (or instead) be performed.

Further, the control unit 213 executes the processing of each step shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 by using the memory. That is, the control unit 213 stores the information (in other words, data) obtained by each processing step in the memory, and when the information is used in the subsequent processing steps, the information is read from the memory and used. ..

When the peripheral device processing is started, first, in step S51, the processor goes into the above-mentioned standby state. After that, the process of step S52 is executed according to the mode information received from the right controller 4 in the ring type expansion device 5.

In step S52, the processor determines whether or not to operate in the independent operation mode. That is, it is determined whether or not the mode information received from the right controller 4 indicates an independent operation mode. If the determination result in step S52 is affirmative, the process in step S53 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S52 is negative, the process of step S54, which will be described later, is executed.

In step S53, the processor executes the independent operation mode processing, which is the processing in the independent operation mode. The independent operation mode processing will be described later (see FIG. 16). After the independent operation mode processing is completed, the processor ends the peripheral device processing. After that, the power supply from the right controller 4 to the ring type expansion device 5 is stopped.

On the other hand, in step S54, the processor starts the operation in the main body operation mode. That is, the processor executes processing according to the signal or command received from the right controller 4 via the terminal 214 (see FIG. 11). After the main body operation mode processing is completed, the processor ends the peripheral device processing. After that, the power supply from the right controller 4 to the ring type expansion device 5 is stopped.

FIG. 16 is a sub-flow chart showing an example of a detailed flow of the independent operation mode processing in step S53 shown in FIG. In the independent operation mode processing, first, in step S61, the processor acquires the distortion value detected by the distortion detection unit 211. After step S61, the process of step S62 is executed.

In step S62, the processor determines whether to exit the independent operation mode. That is, the processor determines whether or not any of the termination conditions described in the above "[2-4. Specific example of processing in the independent operation mode]" is satisfied. Specifically, when the controller data indicating that the end operation has been performed is received in step S68 described later, it is determined that the above condition A is satisfied in step S62 executed thereafter. Further, when the controller data indicating that the operation for the home button 58 has been performed is received in step S68 described later, it is determined that the above condition B is satisfied in step S62 executed thereafter. Further, when each strain value acquired in the repeatedly executed step S61 indicates that the operation on the ring type expansion device 5 is not continuously detected for a predetermined time, in the subsequent step S62, the operation is not continuously detected. It is determined that the condition C is satisfied. If the determination result in step S62 is affirmative, the process in step S63 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S62 is negative, the process of step S64 described later is executed.

In step S63, the processor executes the above-mentioned termination process. After that, the processor ends the independent operation mode processing.

On the other hand, in step S64, the processor determines whether or not a pushing operation or a pulling operation related to the ring type expansion device 5 has been detected. The pushing operation or the pulling operation is detected according to the method described in "[2-4. Specific example of processing in the independent operation mode]" based on the strain value acquired in step S61. If the determination result in step S64 is affirmative, the process in step S65 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S64 is negative, the processes in steps S65 and S66 are skipped, and the process in step S67, which will be described later, is executed.

In step S65, the processor counts the number of operations performed on the ring-type expansion device 5. Specifically, the processor updates the value stored in the memory as the number of operations so as to increase by one. After step S65, the process of step S66 is executed.

In step S66, the processor produces sound and vibration waveforms. That is, the processor generates data that specifies the waveforms of sound and vibration input to the oscillator 117 of the right controller 4. As described above, when the setting is switched to turn off the sound output, or when the setting is switched to turn off the vibration output, the processor sets these settings. Avoid producing sound and / or vibration waveforms accordingly. After step S66, the process of step S67 is executed.

In step S67, the processor sends signals and commands to the right controller 4. Specifically, the processor generates an end signal, an output command, a light emission command, and a return instruction command as necessary, in addition to the transmission request signal described above. Then, the processor transmits the generated signals and commands to the right controller 4 via the terminal 214. After step S67, the process of step S68 is executed.

In step S68, the processor receives controller data from the right controller 4. When the transmission request signal is transmitted to the right controller 4 by the process of step S67, the controller data is transmitted from the right controller 4 in response to the reception of the transmission request signal, so that the processor transmits the controller data via the terminal 214. To receive. After step S68, the process of step S69 is executed.

In step S69, the processor executes processing based on the controller data received in step S68. Specifically, as described in the above "[2-4. Specific example of processing in the independent operation mode]", when the controller data indicating that the sound switching operation or the vibration switching operation has been performed is received. Change the settings related to sound and vibration. The information indicating the above settings is stored in the memory of the control unit 213. After step S69, the process of step S61 is executed again. After that, the processing loops of steps S61, S62, S64 to S69 are repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S62 that the independent operation mode is terminated.

In this embodiment, the processor repeatedly executes the processing loop once at a predetermined time. That is, the ring type expansion device 5 periodically transmits the transmission request signal to the right controller 4 at the above ratio. In another embodiment, the ring type expansion device 5 does not need to periodically transmit the transmission request signal. For example, the ring-type expansion device 5 may skip the process of step S67 when it is not necessary to transmit the transmission request signal in the processing loop. Further, for example, the ring type expansion device 5 periodically transmits a command to the right controller 4, and also transmits a command to the right controller 4 indicating that nothing operates if there is no content to be instructed to the right controller 4. You may try to do it.

[4. Action effect and modification example of this embodiment]
In the above embodiment, the peripheral device (specifically, the ring-type expansion device 5) is a game controller (specifically, the right controller 4) capable of operating the game device (specifically, the main body device 2). Can communicate with. Peripheral devices include a sensor that detects user input (specifically, distortion detection unit 211), a processing unit (for example, a control unit 213 that executes a process for generating a command), and a transmission unit (for example, a command transmission unit). It is provided with a control unit 213). When communication with the game controller is established, the peripheral device includes a plurality of modes including a first mode (specifically, an independent operation mode) and a second mode (specifically, a main body operation mode). It can operate in any of the modes. In the first mode, the processing unit causes the game controller to execute a predetermined operation (for example, an output command) based on peripheral device data (for example, data indicating a distortion value) according to the user input detected by the sensor. Is generated, and the transmitter transmits the command to the game controller. In the second mode, the transmitter transmits peripheral device data to the game controller.

According to the above configuration, in the first mode, the game controller can operate in response to a command from the peripheral device. Therefore, the processing of the game controller in the first mode can be made versatile, and the game controller can be easily made compatible with different types of peripheral devices. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it becomes easy to make the game controller compatible with more types of peripheral devices. Further, since the processing of the game controller in the first mode can be simplified, the amount of data of the program and data stored in the right controller 4 for executing the processing can be reduced.

Further, in the above embodiment, the game controller can operate the game device and can communicate with the peripheral device. Further, the game controller includes an operation unit (specifically, each button 113 and an analog stick 52) and a transmission unit (specifically, a communication control unit). The game controller can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with a peripheral device is connected. In the first mode, the transmission unit transmits the controller data corresponding to the user input to the operation unit to the peripheral device. In the second mode, the transmission unit transmits the controller data corresponding to the user input to the operation unit to the game device.

According to the above configuration, in the first mode, the game controller transmits the controller data to the peripheral device. According to this, since the processing based on the user input to the game controller can be executed on the peripheral device side, the game controller only needs to transmit the controller data for the above processing, so that the game controller in the first mode The processing can be made versatile. In addition, the processing of the game controller in the first mode can be simplified.

(Modification example of connection between game controller and peripheral device)
In the above embodiment, the game controller (specifically, the right controller 4) and the peripheral device (specifically, the ring-type expansion device 5) are electrically connected by mounting one on the other, and both are electrically connected. Was configured to enable communication. Here, in another embodiment, the game controller and the peripheral device do not have to be configured so that one can be attached to the other. For example, in another embodiment, the game controller and peripheral devices may be configured to communicate by being electrically connected by a cable. Further, in another embodiment, the game controller and the peripheral device may be configured to communicate by wireless communication. Note that the state in which communication between the game controller and peripheral devices is established refers to a state in which both are electrically connected in the case of wired communication, and in the case of wireless communication, the wireless connection between the two is established. Refers to the state of being.

(Modification example of peripheral device configuration)
In the above embodiment, the ring-type expansion device 5, which is an example of the peripheral device, has a configuration including a sensor (specifically, a distortion detection unit 211) that outputs data according to user input. Here, in another embodiment, the peripheral device may be any device capable of communicating with the game controller, and may have a configuration that does not include the sensor. For example, the peripheral device may be a device that does not include a sensor but includes an operation button and / or an analog stick. Further, for example, the peripheral device may be a device that does not include an operation unit but includes a processing unit and a storage unit for executing processing in the independent operation mode.

In the main body operation mode, the peripheral device may transmit the peripheral device data acquired or generated by the peripheral device to the game controller in response to a request from the game controller. The peripheral device data may be data acquired in the peripheral device (for example, data acquired from a sensor or an operation unit included in the peripheral device) like the ring operation data in the above embodiment, or in the peripheral device. It may be generated data (for example, data generated by a process executed in a peripheral device).

In the above embodiment, the case where the right controller 4 is mounted on the peripheral device has been described as an example, but the left controller 3 also has the same modes as the right controller 4 (that is, the main body operation mode, the independent operation mode, and It is possible to operate in the main body mounting mode). In another embodiment, the peripheral device may be a device to which the left controller 3 is mounted.

The above embodiment can be used as a peripheral device capable of communicating with the game controller, for example, for the purpose of reducing changes to the game controller in order to correspond to the peripheral device.

1 Game system 2 Main unit 4 Right controller 5 Ring type expansion device 111 Communication control unit 112 Memory 211 Distortion detection unit 213 Control unit

Claims (25)

A peripheral device that can communicate with a game controller that can operate a game device and includes a sensor that detects user input, a processing unit, and a transmitting unit.
The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established.
In the first mode
The processing unit generates a command for causing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on peripheral device data according to the user input detected by the sensor.
The transmitter transmits the command to the game controller,
In the second mode
The transmission unit is a peripheral device that transmits the peripheral device data to the game controller. A peripheral device that can communicate with a game controller that can operate a game device and has a processing unit and a transmitting unit.
The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established.
In the first mode
The transmission unit transmits a predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller, and the transmission unit transmits the predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller.
The processing unit executes processing based on controller data in response to user input to the game controller, which is transmitted from the game controller in response to the transmission request signal being received in the game controller.
In the second mode
The transmission unit is a peripheral device that transmits peripheral device data acquired or generated by the peripheral device to the game controller in response to a transmission request signal from the game controller. In the first mode, processing based on user input to the game controller and / or the peripheral device is executed by the peripheral device and the game controller without being performed by the game device.
In the second mode, data based on the peripheral device data is transmitted from the game controller to the game device, and processing based on the transmitted data is executed by the game device, according to claim 1 or 2. Peripheral devices described in. The peripheral device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the first mode, the peripheral device receives controller data corresponding to a user input to the game controller from the game controller. In the first mode
The processing unit generates a command for causing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on the controller data.
The peripheral device according to claim 4, wherein the transmission unit transmits the command to the game controller. The peripheral device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the peripheral device receives controller data related to all operable buttons among the buttons included in the game controller from the game controller. Claims 4 to 6 transmit the command to the game controller based on a part of the controller data and not based on other data of the controller data. The peripheral device according to any one of the above. The game controller has a wakeup button
When the operation with respect to the sleep release button is detected when the communication between the game controller and the peripheral device is not established, the game controller is at least in a state different from the state of operating in the first mode. It is configured to transmit a signal to wake up the game device from the sleep state to the game device without being based on a command from a peripheral device.
When the peripheral device receives the controller data corresponding to the operation of the sleep release button in the first mode, the processing unit sends a signal for releasing the sleep state of the game device to the game device. The peripheral device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a command for instructing transmission to the game controller is generated, and the transmission unit transmits the command to the game controller. The peripheral device is
It is electrically connectable to the game controller and is configured to operate on the power supplied by the game controller in a state of being electrically connected to the peripheral device.
When the peripheral device is activated based on the power supplied from the game controller, it becomes a standby state waiting for receiving mode information indicating a mode to be operated among the plurality of modes from the game controller.
The peripheral device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which operates in the mode indicated by the mode information received from the game controller in the standby state. The peripheral device according to claim 9, wherein the peripheral device constitutes a part of a circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device, and includes an electronic component having a predetermined resistance value. Peripheral device. When the peripheral device receives controller data corresponding to a predetermined operation on the game controller in the first mode, the transmission unit sends an end signal indicating the end of the first mode to the game. The peripheral device according to claim 9 or 10, which is transmitted to the controller. The peripheral device according to claim 1, further comprising a storage unit that stores the number of user inputs detected by the sensor in the first mode. A game controller that can operate a game device, can communicate with peripheral devices, and has an operation unit and a transmission unit.
The game controller can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the peripheral device is established.
In the first mode, the transmission unit transmits controller data in response to user input to the operation unit to the peripheral device.
In the second mode, the transmission unit is a game controller that transmits controller data in response to user input to the operation unit to the game device. In the first mode, processing based on user input to the game controller and / or the peripheral device is executed by the peripheral device and the game controller without being performed by the game device.
The game controller according to claim 13, wherein in the second mode, processing based on the controller data transmitted to the game device is executed by the game device. The game controller
In the first mode, a command corresponding to the controller data transmitted to the peripheral device is received from the peripheral device, and the operation is performed in response to the command.
The game controller according to claim 13 or 14, wherein in the second mode, a command corresponding to the controller data transmitted to the game device is received from the game device and operates in response to the command. The operation unit includes a button
The game controller according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the transmission unit transmits controller data relating to all operable buttons among the buttons included in the game controller to the peripheral device. The game controller has a wakeup button
The game controller
When an operation on the wakeup button is detected when communication between the game controller and the peripheral device is not established in a state different from the state in which the game controller operates in the first mode, a command from the peripheral device is issued. A signal to wake up the game device from the sleep state is transmitted to the game device without being based on it.
When the wakeup button is pressed in the first mode, the controller data corresponding to the press of the wakeup button is transmitted to the peripheral device, and a command corresponding to the controller data is issued from the peripheral device. The game controller according to any one of claims 13 to 16, which transmits a signal for returning the game device from the sleep state to the game device in response to the reception. The game controller
When the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within the first range, it is possible to operate in the first mode and operate in the second mode. It is possible and
When the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within a second range different from the first range, it is possible to operate in the second mode. The game controller according to any one of claims 13 to 17, which is present and does not operate in the first mode. The game controller is electrically connected to the peripheral device, and in a state where a wireless connection with the game device is not established, the game controller is said to have detected a predetermined operation with respect to the game controller. 18. The first mode operates on the condition that the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within the first range. The game controller described in. The game controller is one of the peripheral devices, provided that the resistance value of the circuit formed by electrically connecting the game controller and the peripheral device is within the first range. The game controller according to claim 18 or 19, wherein power is supplied to a portion different from the portion forming the circuit. When the game controller operates in the first mode, the game controller generates mode information indicating that the game controller operates in the first mode, and the transmission unit transmits the mode information to the peripheral device. The game controller according to any one of claims 13 to 20. An information processing system including a game controller capable of operating a game device, a sensor for detecting user input, a processing unit, and a peripheral device including a transmitting unit.
The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established.
In the first mode
The processing unit generates a command for causing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on peripheral device data according to the user input detected by the sensor.
The transmitter transmits the command to the game controller,
The game controller operates in response to the command received from the peripheral device, and operates.
In the second mode
The transmitter transmits the peripheral device data to the game controller,
The game controller is an information processing system that receives the peripheral device data from the peripheral device. An information processing method executed in an information processing system including a game controller capable of operating a game device, a sensor for detecting user input, a processing unit, and a peripheral device including a transmitting unit.
The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established.
In the first mode
The processing unit generates a command for causing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on peripheral device data according to the user input detected by the sensor.
The transmitter transmits the command to the game controller,
The game controller operates in response to the command received from the peripheral device, and operates.
In the second mode
The transmitter transmits the peripheral device data to the game controller,
An information processing method in which the game controller receives the peripheral device data from the peripheral device. An information processing system including a game controller capable of operating a game device and a peripheral device including a processing unit and a transmitting unit.
The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established.
In the first mode
The transmission unit transmits a predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller, and the transmission unit transmits the predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller.
In response to receiving the transmission request signal from the peripheral device, the game controller transmits controller data in response to user input to the game controller to the peripheral device.
The processing unit executes processing based on the controller data received from the game controller, and executes the processing.
In the second mode
The transmission unit transmits the peripheral device data acquired or generated by the peripheral device to the game controller in response to the transmission request signal from the game controller.
The game controller is an information processing system that receives the peripheral device data from the peripheral device. An information processing method executed in an information processing system including a game controller capable of operating a game device and a peripheral device including a processing unit and a transmitting unit.
The peripheral device can operate in any of a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode when communication with the game controller is established.
In the first mode
The transmission unit transmits a predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller, and the transmission unit transmits the predetermined transmission request signal to the game controller.
In response to receiving the transmission request signal from the peripheral device, the game controller transmits controller data in response to user input to the game controller to the peripheral device.
The processing unit executes processing based on the controller data received from the game controller, and executes the processing.
In the second mode
The transmission unit transmits the peripheral device data acquired or generated by the peripheral device to the game controller in response to the transmission request signal from the game controller.
An information processing method in which the game controller receives the peripheral device data from the peripheral device.

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