JP4659071B2 - Image processing program, image processing apparatus, and image control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing program, and more particularly to an image processing program for processing data for displaying an image on an image display unit. The present invention also relates to an image processing apparatus capable of executing the image processing program, and an image control method controlled by a computer based on the image processing program.

  Conventionally, various display techniques for displaying an image on a monitor in a computer have been proposed. One technique that is frequently used when displaying images on a monitor is zoom.

For example, in a game such as a baseball game, a batter character, a pitcher character, or the like (target character) is expanded when a batter character enters a bat or when a starting pitcher character or a relief pitcher character rises to the mound. And may be displayed on a monitor (see Non-Patent Document 1). Specifically, the batter character, the pitcher character, and the like can be enlarged by moving the virtual camera in the direction of the target character with the line of sight of the virtual camera arranged in the game space directed toward the target character. In this way, by enlarging the target character, it is possible to notify the player of the change of one play or the change of the character due to the change of play.
Professional baseball spirits 3, Konami Digital Entertainment, PS2 version, April 6, 2006

  In the conventional game, there are cases where the target character is enlarged when one play is switched or when the character is changed by switching the play.

  For example, when a starter pitcher character or a relief pitcher character goes up to the mound, the pitcher character (target character) is expanded to direct the appearance or change of the pitcher character. Specifically, by shooting a three-dimensional stadium model or a three-dimensional player character model placed in the three-dimensional game space with a virtual camera moving in the direction of the target character, The appearance and change of production were realized.

  However, the conventional enlargement of the target character, for example, simply reproduces an image based on real-world shooting data on the game space and then enlarges it as it is. For example, before and after the main part of the game There has not been established an enlargement method for producing an effect that attracts the viewer's attention as required for demo images and the like.

  In addition, when a pitcher character appears or changes using a three-dimensional model, a powerful and powerful image can be displayed on the monitor, but the memory capacity for storing the three-dimensional model, The problem is that a large amount of memory is required to execute a process of arranging various models in a three-dimensional game space and shooting these models with a virtual camera, and a relatively large memory is consumed only for production. There was a point.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to enable a zoom effect for an object that attracts the player's attention with low memory consumption. It is in.

An image processing program according to claim 1 is for processing data for displaying an image on an image display unit. In this image processing program, the following functions are realized.
(1) A texture storage function for storing texture image data in the storage unit.
(2) A model storage function for storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in the storage unit.
(3) An object generation function for generating a planar object by causing the control unit to execute a process of projecting image data as a texture onto a planar model.
(4) An object placement function for placing a planar object in a virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object.
(5) A camera placement function for placing the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera.
(6) A shape changing function for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of plane.
(7) An angle-of-view changing function that causes the control unit to execute processing for changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner in accordance with a change in the shape of the planar object.
(8) A zoom image is displayed on the image display unit by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Image display function.

  In this image processing program, texture image data is stored in the storage unit in the texture storage function. In the model storage function, a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons is stored in the storage unit. In the object generation function, a process of projecting image data as a texture onto a planar model is executed by the control unit. Thereby, a planar object is generated. In the object placement function, coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object is recognized by the control unit. Thereby, a planar object is arrange | positioned in virtual space. In the camera arrangement function, coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the virtual camera is recognized by the control unit. Thereby, the virtual camera is arranged in the virtual space. In the shape changing function, the control unit executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of the plane. In the view angle changing function, a process of changing the view angle of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner according to a change in the shape of the planar object is executed by the control unit. In the image display function, a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise is executed by the control unit. Thereby, the zoom image is displayed on the image display unit.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  First, image data (image data for texture) indicating an image viewed from the catcher side is stored in the storage unit. A planar model composed of a plurality of polygons is stored in the storage unit. And the process which projects the image data stored in the memory | storage part on a planar model as a texture is performed by a control part. Thereby, an object obtained by projecting the image of the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side onto the planar model as a texture, that is, a planar object is generated.

  Next, when coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the planar object is recognized by the control unit, the planar object is arranged in the virtual space. When the coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera is recognized by the control unit, the virtual camera is placed in the virtual space.

  Subsequently, a process of deforming the shape of the planar object stepwise out of the plane is executed by the control unit. In addition, a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner according to a change in the shape of the planar object is executed by the control unit. And the process which image | photographs the state in which the shape of a planar object changes in steps with the virtual camera from which an angle of view changes in steps is performed by a control part. Thereby, an image in which the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side is zoomed at an accelerated speed is displayed on the image display unit.

  Thus, in the invention according to claim 1, image data (image data for texture) viewed from the catcher side and a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons are only stored in the storage unit. Thus, the zoom image can be displayed on the image display unit. In other words, since only one piece of still image data is used as basic data, in the present invention, image data for a stereo model (texture data for a stereo model, image data for a texture) is used as in the past. Compared with the case where a three-dimensional model is stored in the storage unit, the memory consumption can be reduced.

  In the present invention, when the planar object is deformed stepwise out of the plane, the angle of view of the virtual camera is also changed stepwise in conjunction with the out-of-plane deformation of the object. At this time, by capturing a planar object being deformed with a virtual camera whose angle of view changes, a zoom image having a three-dimensional visual effect can be displayed without using a three-dimensional object. Can be displayed.

  Furthermore, by photographing in this way, a more powerful zoom image than when a three-dimensional object is used can be displayed on the image display unit without using a three-dimensional object.

  More specifically, the image viewed from the player side is displayed as if the camera is approaching rapidly in an accelerated manner rather than simply approaching (zooming) toward the approximate center of the screen. . That is, the enlargement deformation is larger toward the outside of the peripheral portion of the image as compared with the substantially central portion of the image, and the outermost portion of the peripheral portion of the image is inside due to the expansion deformation of the peripheral portion of the image with time. Compared to the movement of the screen, it quickly disappears beyond the screen frame of the monitor screen, so that the viewpoint is accelerated rapidly toward the center of the image, and the effect is as if the focus is reduced. It is. In addition, the visual effect obtained by the structure of claim 1 is limited to the time during which a single still image is deformed into irregularities, and of course an image such as a moving image over a long time can be obtained. is not. In the case of the display created by the applicant, it takes about 1 second. However, even in such a short time, unlike the conventional zoom, the image peripheral part is rapidly blown out beyond the monitor screen frame, and the focus is focused on the central part. For example, it is effective when creating an image that rapidly zooms in on the face of the player character to be replaced, or an image that rapidly zooms in on the player character who performed fine play. This is useful for creating a demo movie to be played before and after the main part. This is because, in these images, an effect that attracts the player's attention is desired rather than a display that faithfully reproduces the actual movement. In addition to zooming in, for example, zooming out as if a ball on the other side of the screen is flying towards this can be easily produced.

  As described above, in the present invention, a zoom image having a three-dimensional visual effect and force is reproduced with low memory consumption while reproducing real-world data in a virtual space, not based on a virtual image such as an animation. The amount can be displayed on the image display unit.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a zoom image having a three-dimensional visual effect and power can be displayed on the image display unit with low memory consumption.

  In an image processing program according to a second aspect, in the image processing program according to the first aspect, the shape changing function includes a first shape changing function. In the first shape changing function, the control unit executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera. The view angle changing function includes a view angle reduction function. In the angle-of-view reduction function, processing for changing the angle of view of the virtual camera stepwise so that the angle of view of the virtual camera becomes smaller according to the change in the shape of the planar object is executed by the control unit. Here, in the image display function, a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise is executed by the control unit. Thereby, the zoom-in image is displayed on the image display unit.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, the shape of the planar object is deformed step by step into a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera. In addition, the angle of view of the virtual camera is changed stepwise so that the angle of view of the virtual camera becomes smaller according to the change in the shape of the planar object. As a result, when a state in which the shape of a planar object changes in steps is captured by a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes in steps, an image in which the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side is zoomed in is displayed as an image. Displayed in the section.

  As described above, in the invention according to claim 2, a planar object that is deformed in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera is photographed by the virtual camera that changes the angle of view, so that a three-dimensional object is not used. However, a zoom-in image having a three-dimensional visual effect can be displayed on the image display unit. Furthermore, by photographing in this way, a more powerful zoom-in image can be displayed on the image display unit than when a three-dimensional object is used without using a three-dimensional object.

  In particular, in the present invention, as the planar object is deformed in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera, the angle of view of the virtual camera is reduced, thereby zooming in to express the sense that the space is approaching. The image can be displayed on the image display unit.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image processing program according to the second aspect, wherein the image processing program according to the second aspect is separated from the virtual camera from one of a planar shape and a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction approaching the virtual camera. A process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction to be performed is executed by the control unit. This function is realized in the first shape changing function.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, the shape of the planar object changes from one of the planar shape and the shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction close to the virtual camera to the shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera. Is transformed in stages.

  Thus, in the invention according to claim 3, the shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera from one of the planar shape and the shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction close to the virtual camera. By gradually changing the shape of the planar object, a zoom-in image having a three-dimensional visual effect can be effectively displayed on the image display unit.

  The image processing program according to claim 4 is the image processing program according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shape changing function includes a second shape changing function. In the second shape changing function, the control unit executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction close to the virtual camera. Further, the view angle changing function includes a view angle expanding function. In the angle of view enlargement function, the control unit executes a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner so that the angle of view of the virtual camera increases in accordance with a change in the shape of the planar object. Here, in the image display function, a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise is executed by the control unit. Thereby, the zoomed-out image is displayed on the image display unit.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, the shape of the planar object is deformed stepwise into a shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction approaching the virtual camera. In addition, the angle of view of the virtual camera is changed stepwise so that the angle of view of the virtual camera increases in accordance with the change in the shape of the planar object. As a result, when a state in which the shape of a planar object changes in steps is captured by a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes in steps, an image in which the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side is zoomed out is Displayed on the display.

  As described above, in the invention according to claim 4, a planar object that deforms in a convex shape in the direction approaching the virtual camera is photographed by the virtual camera that changes the angle of view, so that a three-dimensional object is not used. However, a zoom-out image having a three-dimensional visual effect can be displayed on the image display unit. Furthermore, by shooting in this way, a more powerful zoom-out image can be displayed on the image display unit than when a three-dimensional object is used without using a three-dimensional object.

  In particular, in the present invention, as the planar object is deformed in a convex shape in the direction of approaching the virtual camera, the angle of view of the virtual camera is reduced so as to express the sense that the target is approaching The out image can be displayed on the image display unit.

  In the image processing program according to claim 5, in the image processing program according to claim 4, the proximity to the virtual camera from one of a planar shape and a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera. A process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction to be performed is executed by the control unit. This function is realized in the second shape changing function.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, the shape of the planar object changes from one of the planar shape and the shape distorted convexly in the direction away from the virtual camera to the shape distorted convexly in the direction close to the virtual camera. Is transformed in stages.

  Thus, in the invention according to claim 5, the shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction of approaching the virtual camera from one of the shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction away from the virtual camera. The zoom-out image having a three-dimensional visual effect can be effectively displayed on the image display unit by deforming the shape of the planar object stepwise.

  The image processing program according to claim 6 is the image processing program according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the shape of the planar object is stepped out of the plane with reference to the barycentric position of the planar object. The deformation process is executed by the control unit. This function is realized in the shape changing function.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, the shape of the planar object is deformed stepwise out of the plane based on the position of the center of gravity of the planar object. As a result, when the main target of zooming is arranged in the center of the planar object, a zoom image expressing a sense that the space covering the target approaches, and a zoom image expressing the sense that the target approaches At least one of the images can be displayed on the image display unit.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image processing program according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein a predetermined position in a direction perpendicular to the planar object is determined with reference to the barycentric position of the planar object. The indicated coordinate data is recognized by the control unit. Thereby, the virtual camera is arranged in the virtual space. This function is realized in the camera placement function.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, the virtual camera is arranged at a predetermined position in a direction perpendicular to the planar object with reference to the barycentric position of the planar object. As a result, when the main target of zooming is arranged in the center of the planar object, a zoom image that expresses the sense that the space covering the target approaches or a zoom image that expresses the sense that the target approaches Can be displayed more effectively on the image display unit.

  An image processing program according to an eighth aspect is the image processing program according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the wide-angle image data is stored in the storage unit as image data for texture. This function is realized in the texture storage function.

  Here, for example, the case where this image processing program is applied to a baseball game and the interior space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side, for example, is zoomed will be described as an example.

  In this case, wide-angle image data is stored in the storage unit as texture image data. For example, image data captured with a wide-angle lens or a fisheye lens is stored in the storage unit as image data for texture. As a result, image data with a wide field of view can be used as image data for the initial texture, so that a three-dimensional visual image can be obtained by photographing a planar object being deformed with a virtual camera whose angle of view changes. A zoom image having an effect can be more effectively displayed on the image display unit. Also, this makes it possible to display a more powerful zoom image on the image display unit than when a three-dimensional object is used.

  An image processing apparatus according to a ninth aspect is an image processing apparatus capable of processing data for displaying an image on an image display unit.

This image processing device
Texture storage means for storing image data for texture in the storage unit;
Model storage means for storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in a storage unit;
Object generation means for generating a planar object by causing the control unit to execute a process of projecting image data as a texture onto a planar model;
Object placement means for placing the planar object in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object;
Camera arrangement means for arranging the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the virtual camera;
Shape changing means for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of plane;
An angle-of-view changing means for causing the control unit to execute a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera stepwise according to a change in the shape of the planar object;
Image display that displays a zoomed image on the image display unit by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes step by step with a virtual camera whose view angle changes stepwise. Means,
It has.

  An image control method according to a tenth aspect is an image control method in which data for displaying an image on an image display unit is controlled by a computer.

This image control method
A texture storage step of storing image data for texture in the storage unit;
A model storing step of storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in a storage unit;
An object generation step for generating a planar object by causing the control unit to execute a process of projecting image data as a texture onto a planar model;
An object placement step of placing the planar object in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object;
A camera placement step for placing the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera;
A shape changing step for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of plane;
An angle-of-view changing step for causing the control unit to execute a process of gradually changing the angle of view of the virtual camera according to a change in the shape of the planar object;
Image display that displays a zoomed image on the image display unit by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes step by step with a virtual camera whose view angle changes stepwise. Steps,
It has.

  In the present invention, the zoom image can be displayed on the image display unit simply by storing the image data for texture and the planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in the storage unit. For this reason, in the present invention, it is possible to reduce the memory consumption as compared with the case where the image data for the three-dimensional model and the three-dimensional model are stored in the storage unit.

  In the present invention, when the planar object is deformed stepwise out of the plane, the angle of view of the virtual camera is also changed stepwise in conjunction with the out-of-plane deformation of the object. At this time, by capturing a planar object being deformed with a virtual camera whose angle of view changes, a zoom image having a three-dimensional visual effect can be displayed without using a three-dimensional object. Can be displayed. Furthermore, by photographing in this way, a more powerful zoom image than when a three-dimensional object is used can be displayed on the image display unit without using a three-dimensional object.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a zoom image having a three-dimensional visual effect and power can be displayed on the image display unit with low memory consumption.

[Configuration and operation of game device]
FIG. 1 shows a basic configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Here, a home video game device will be described as an example of the video game device. The home video game apparatus includes a home game machine body and a home television. The home game machine body can be loaded with a recording medium 10, and game data is read from the recording medium 10 as appropriate to execute the game. The contents of the game executed in this way are displayed on the home television.

  The game system of the home video game apparatus includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, an image display unit 3, an audio output unit 4, and an operation input unit 5, which are connected via a bus 6. Is done. The bus 6 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. Here, the control unit 1, the storage unit 2, the audio output unit 4, and the operation input unit 5 are included in the home game machine body of the home video game apparatus, and the image display unit 3 is included in the home television. It is.

  The control unit 1 is provided mainly for controlling the progress of the entire game based on the game program. The control unit 1 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 7, a signal processor 8, and an image processor 9. The CPU 7, the signal processor 8, and the image processor 9 are connected to each other via the bus 6. The CPU 7 interprets instructions from the game program and performs various data processing and control. For example, the CPU 7 instructs the signal processor 8 to supply image data to the image processor. The signal processor 8 mainly performs calculation in the three-dimensional space, position conversion calculation from the three-dimensional space to the pseudo three-dimensional space, light source calculation processing, and image and audio data generation processing. ing. The image processor 9 mainly performs a process of writing image data to be drawn into the RAM 12 based on the calculation result and the processing result of the signal processor 8.

  The storage unit 2 is provided mainly for storing program data and various data used in the program data. The storage unit 2 includes, for example, a recording medium 10, an interface circuit 11, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12. An interface circuit 11 is connected to the recording medium 10. The interface circuit 11 and the RAM 12 are connected via the bus 6. The recording medium 10 is for recording operation system program data, image data, audio data, game data including various program data, and the like. The recording medium 10 is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) cassette, an optical disk, a flexible disk, or the like, and stores operating system program data, game data, and the like. The recording medium 10 also includes a card type memory, and this card type memory is mainly used for storing various game parameters at the time of interruption when the game is interrupted. The RAM 12 is used for temporarily storing various data read from the recording medium 10 and temporarily recording the processing results from the control unit 1. The RAM 12 stores various data and address data indicating the storage position of the various data, and can be read / written by designating an arbitrary address.

  The image display unit 3 is provided mainly for outputting image data written in the RAM 12 by the image processor 9 or image data read from the recording medium 10 as an image. The image display unit 3 includes, for example, a television monitor 20, an interface circuit 21, and a D / A converter (Digital-To-Analog converter) 22. A D / A converter 22 is connected to the television monitor 20, and an interface circuit 21 is connected to the D / A converter 22. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 21. Here, the image data is supplied to the D / A converter 22 via the interface circuit 21, where it is converted into an analog image signal. The analog image signal is output as an image to the television monitor 20.

  Here, the image data includes, for example, polygon data and texture data. Polygon data is the coordinate data of vertices constituting a polygon. The texture data is for setting a texture on the polygon, and is composed of texture instruction data and texture color data. The texture instruction data is data for associating polygons and textures, and the texture color data is data for designating the texture color. Here, the polygon data and the texture data are associated with the polygon address data indicating the storage position of each data and the texture address data. In such image data, the signal processor 8 coordinates the polygon data in the three-dimensional space indicated by the polygon address data (three-dimensional polygon data) based on the movement amount data and the rotation amount data of the screen itself (viewpoint). Conversion and perspective projection conversion are performed, and the data is replaced with polygon data (two-dimensional polygon data) in a two-dimensional space. Then, a polygon outline is constituted by a plurality of two-dimensional polygon data, and texture data indicated by the texture address data is written in an internal area of the polygon. In this way, an object in which a texture is pasted on each polygon, that is, various characters can be expressed.

  The audio output unit 4 is provided mainly for outputting audio data read from the recording medium 10 as audio. The audio output unit 4 includes, for example, a speaker 13, an amplifier circuit 14, a D / A converter 15, and an interface circuit 16. An amplifier circuit 14 is connected to the speaker 13, a D / A converter 15 is connected to the amplifier circuit 14, and an interface circuit 16 is connected to the D / A converter 15. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 16. Here, the audio data is supplied to the D / A converter 15 via the interface circuit 16, where it is converted into an analog audio signal. The analog audio signal is amplified by the amplifier circuit 14 and output from the speaker 13 as audio. The audio data includes, for example, ADPCM (Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation) data and PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) data. In the case of ADPCM data, sound can be output from the speaker 13 by the same processing method as described above. In the case of PCM data, by converting the PCM data into ADPCM data in the RAM 12, the sound can be output from the speaker 13 by the same processing method as described above.

  The operation input unit 5 mainly includes a controller 17, an operation information interface circuit 18, and an interface circuit 19. An operation information interface circuit 18 is connected to the controller 17, and an interface circuit 19 is connected to the operation information interface circuit 18. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 19.

  The controller 17 is an operation device used by the player to input various operation commands, and sends an operation signal according to the operation of the player to the CPU 7. The controller 17 includes a first button 17a, a second button 17b, a third button 17c, a fourth button 17d, an up key 17U, a down key 17D, a left key 17L, a right key 17R, and an L1 button 17L1, L2. A button 17L2, an R1 button 17R1, an R2 button 17R2, a start button 17e, a select button 17f, a left stick 17SL and a right stick 17SR are provided.

  The up direction key 17U, the down direction key 17D, the left direction key 17L, and the right direction key 17R are used, for example, to give the CPU 7 a command for moving a character or cursor up, down, left, or right on the screen of the television monitor 20. .

  The start button 17e is used when instructing the CPU 7 to load a game program from the recording medium 10.

  The select button 17f is used when instructing the CPU 7 to make various selections for the game program loaded from the recording medium 10.

  The left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR are stick type controllers having substantially the same configuration as a so-called joystick. This stick type controller has an upright stick. The stick is configured to be tiltable from an upright position around the fulcrum in a 360 ° direction including front, rear, left and right. The left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR pass through the operation information interface circuit 18 and the interface circuit 19 with the values of the x-coordinate and the y-coordinate having the upright position as the origin as operation signals according to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the stick. To the CPU 7.

  The first button 17a, the second button 17b, the third button 17c, the fourth button 17d, the L1 button 17L1, the L2 button 17L2, the R1 button 17R1, and the R2 button 17R2 correspond to the game program loaded from the recording medium 10. Various functions are allocated.

  Each button and each key of the controller 17 except for the left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR are turned on when pressed from the neutral position by an external pressing force, and return to the neutral position when the pressing force is released. It is an on / off switch that turns off.

  The schematic operation of the home video game apparatus having the above configuration will be described below. When a power switch (not shown) is turned on and the game system 1 is turned on, the CPU 7 reads image data, audio data, and a program from the recording medium 10 based on the operating system stored in the recording medium 10. Read data. Some or all of the read image data, audio data, and program data are stored in the RAM 12. Then, the CPU 7 issues a command to the image data and sound data stored in the RAM 12 based on the program data stored in the RAM 12.

  In the case of image data, based on a command from the CPU 7, first, the signal processor 8 performs character position calculation and light source calculation in a three-dimensional space. Next, the image processor 9 performs a process of writing image data to be drawn into the RAM 12 based on the calculation result of the signal processor 8. Then, the image data written in the RAM 12 is supplied to the D / A converter 17 via the interface circuit 13. Here, the image data is converted into an analog video signal by the D / A converter 17. The image data is supplied to the television monitor 20 and displayed as an image.

  In the case of audio data, first, the signal processor 8 generates and processes audio data based on a command from the CPU 7. Here, processing such as pitch conversion, noise addition, envelope setting, level setting, and reverb addition is performed on the audio data, for example. Next, the audio data is output from the signal processor 8 and supplied to the D / A converter 15 via the interface circuit 16. Here, the audio data is converted into an analog audio signal. The audio data is output as audio from the speaker 13 via the amplifier circuit 14.

[Description of various processes in game device]
The game executed in this game apparatus is, for example, a baseball game. In the baseball game executed in this game apparatus, various images can be displayed on the television monitor 20 in various forms. For example, in this baseball game, the interior space of the stadium, for example, viewed from the catcher side, can be displayed on the television monitor 20 in various forms. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram for explaining functions that play a major role in the present invention.

  The texture storage means 50 has a function of storing texture image data in the RAM 12. In this means, texture image data is stored in the RAM 12. Specifically, with this means, wide-angle image data is stored in the RAM 12 as texture image data.

  For example, in this means, image data corresponding to an image taken with a wide-angle lens of the stadium internal space viewed from the catcher side is stored in the RAM 12 as image data for texture of the stadium internal space viewed from the catcher side. Is done. The texture image data is loaded and stored from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12 together with the baseball game program when the baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12.

  The model storage unit 51 has a function of storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in the RAM 12. In this means, a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons is stored in the RAM 12.

  For example, in this means, a planar model made up of a plurality of rectangular polygons is stored in the RAM 12. For example, when a baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12, a planar model composed of a plurality of rectangular polygons is loaded and stored from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 together with the baseball game program.

  Here, an example in which a planar model made up of a plurality of rectangular polygons is stored in advance in the recording medium 10 is shown, but the planar model is formed in the game device. Anyway. In this case, in the game device, by causing the CPU 7 to issue a command for arranging a plurality of rectangular polygons in a planar shape, a planar model composed of the plurality of rectangular polygons is formed. The planar model is stored in the RAM 12.

  The object generation means 52 has a function of generating a planar object by causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of projecting image data as a texture onto a planar model. In this means, a planar object is generated by causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of projecting image data as a texture onto a planar model.

  For example, in this means, image data indicating the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side at a wide angle is used as the texture of a planar model composed of a plurality of rectangular polygons. That is, by projecting image data (texture image data) showing the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side at a wide angle onto a planar model composed of a plurality of rectangular polygons (to execute texture mapping) A planar object is generated. Here, the planar object corresponds to a planar model in which an image of the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side at a wide angle is mapped.

  The object placement unit 53 has a function of placing the planar object in the virtual space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object. In this means, the planar object is arranged in the virtual space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize the coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the planar object.

  For example, in this means, the arrangement position of the planar object is defined in advance in the game program. When the baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12, the coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the planar object is loaded from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12 and stored together with the baseball game program.

  The camera placement unit 54 has a function of placing the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera.

  With this means, the virtual camera is arranged in the virtual space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the virtual camera. Specifically, this means allows the CPU 7 to recognize coordinate data indicating a predetermined position in a direction perpendicular to the planar object with reference to the barycentric position of the planar object, so that the virtual camera is placed in the virtual space. Be placed.

  For example, in this means, the placement position of the virtual camera is defined in advance in the game program. Here, the arrangement position of the virtual camera is set to a predetermined position on a straight line passing perpendicularly to the planar object at the center of gravity of the planar object. The coordinate data indicating the predetermined position is loaded and stored from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12 together with the baseball game program when the baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12.

  The shape changing means 55 has a function of causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of the plane. Further, the shape changing means 55 includes a first shape changing means 55a and a second shape changing means 55b.

  In the first shape changing means 55a, the CPU 7 executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera. Specifically, the first shape changing unit 55a uses a virtual shape from one of a planar shape and a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction close to the virtual camera with reference to the center of gravity position of the planar object. The CPU 7 executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the camera.

  In the second shape changing means 55b, the CPU 7 executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction approaching the virtual camera. Specifically, the second shape changing unit 55b uses a virtual shape from one of a planar shape and a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera with reference to the position of the center of gravity of the planar object. The CPU 7 executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction approaching the camera.

  In this means, the CPU 7 executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of the plane.

  For example, a straight line passing perpendicularly to a planar object at the center of gravity of the planar object is used as a reference line, and a virtual shape can be selected from either a planar shape or a shape distorted convexly toward the virtual camera. The CPU 7 executes a process of transforming the shape of the planar object in a stepwise manner according to time into a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the camera.

  In addition, a straight line passing perpendicularly to the planar object at the center of gravity of the planar object is used as a reference line, and either a planar shape or a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera Then, the CPU 7 executes a process of deforming the shape of the planar object in a stepwise manner according to time into a shape distorted convexly toward the virtual camera.

  The angle-of-view changing unit 56 has a function of causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner in accordance with a change in the shape of the planar object. Specifically, the angle-of-view changing means 56 includes an angle-of-view reduction means 56a and an angle-of-view enlargement means 56b.

  In the angle-of-view reduction means 56a, the CPU 7 executes a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner so that the angle of view of the virtual camera becomes smaller according to the change in the shape of the planar object.

  In the angle-of-view enlargement unit 56b, the CPU 7 executes a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera stepwise so that the angle of view of the virtual camera increases in accordance with the change in the shape of the planar object.

  For example, with this means, the process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera so that the angle of view of the virtual camera also decreases stepwise as the planar object deforms stepwise in the direction away from the virtual camera. Is executed by the CPU 7. Further, the CPU 7 performs processing for changing the angle of view of the virtual camera so that the angle of view of the virtual camera increases stepwise as the planar object deforms stepwise in the direction approaching the virtual camera. Executed.

  Specifically, as the planar object is gradually deformed out of the plane in the direction away from the virtual camera from the initial shape, the angle of view of the virtual camera is changed from a predetermined maximum angle of view to a predetermined minimum angle of view. The CPU 7 executes a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera according to time so as to gradually decrease. In addition, as the planar object is deformed stepwise from the initial shape in a direction approaching the virtual camera, the view angle of the virtual camera gradually increases from a predetermined minimum angle of view to a predetermined maximum angle of view. The CPU 7 executes a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera according to time so as to be smaller.

  The image display means 57 causes the CPU 7 to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise, whereby the zoom image is displayed on the television monitor. 20 is provided.

  In this means, the zoom image is displayed on the television monitor 20 by causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Is displayed.

  Specifically, this means causes the CPU 7 to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. One of the out images is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  For example, in this means, when the shape of the planar object starts to be deformed, a shooting start command for the virtual camera is issued from the CPU 7. Then, a command for changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in steps is issued from the CPU 7. Then, the CPU 7 executes a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object is deformed step by step with the virtual camera in which the angle of view of the virtual camera changes stepwise. Then, a zoomed-in image or a zoomed-out image is displayed on the television monitor 20.

[Description of zoom image display system in baseball game]
Next, specific contents of the zoom image display system in the baseball game will be described. The flow shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 will also be described at the same time. FIG. 9 is a flow for explaining the general outline of the baseball game, and FIG. 10 is a flow for explaining the system.

  In the following, the overall outline of the baseball game will be described first, and then the contents of the system will be described.

  First, when the game apparatus is turned on and the game apparatus is activated, a baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 and stored. At this time, various basic game data necessary for executing the baseball game are simultaneously loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 and stored (S1).

  For example, the basic game data includes data related to various images for a three-dimensional game space. The CPU 7 recognizes data related to various images for the three-dimensional game space, such as stadium image data, player character image data, and various object image data. Further, the basic game data includes position coordinate data for arranging data related to various images for the three-dimensional game space in the three-dimensional game space. The basic game data also includes data used in the above system.

  Subsequently, the baseball game program stored in the RAM 12 is executed by the CPU 7 based on the basic game data (S2). Then, the start screen of the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20. Then, various setting screens for executing the baseball game are displayed on the television monitor 20. Here, for example, a mode selection screen for selecting a play mode of the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20 (not shown). In the mode selection screen, the player operates the controller 17 to determine the play mode (S3). The play mode includes, for example, a battle mode in which a favorite team is selected from the 12 teams to enjoy a match, a pennant mode in which a favorite team is selected from the 12 teams and a pennant race is played, and the player is directed A training mode for training the player characters of the team from the standpoint of the player, a growth experience mode for experiencing the baseball game from the standpoint of one player character with the Oyori player, and the like are prepared.

  Subsequently, various events are executed by the CPU 7 in the play mode selected on the mode selection screen (S4). The various events executed here are, for example, events automatically controlled by the CPU 7 based on an AI program (Artificial Intelligence Program), and events manually controlled by the player based on an input signal from the controller 17. There is a special event. The player character is controlled by automatic control for automatically instructing the player character based on the AI program, manual control for directly instructing the player character based on an input signal from the controller 17, or the like. There is. Thus, in this baseball game, an event is controlled or an instruction is instructed to the player character in accordance with an instruction from the controller 17 or an instruction from the AI program.

  Subsequently, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the selected play mode is finished (S5). Specifically, the CPU 7 determines whether or not a command indicating that the play mode has ended is issued. If the CPU 7 determines that an instruction indicating that the play mode has ended has been issued (Yes in S5), the CPU 7 executes a process of storing the game continuation data in the RAM 12. When the game continuation data is stored in the RAM 12, a selection screen for selecting whether or not to end the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S6). When an item indicating the end of the baseball game is selected by operating the controller 17 on the selection screen (Yes in S6), the CPU 7 executes a process for ending the baseball game ( S7). On the other hand, when an item indicating continuation of the baseball game is selected by operating the controller 17 on the selection screen (No in S6), the mode selection screen in Step 3 (S3) is displayed on the television monitor. 20 is displayed again.

  Unless the CPU 7 determines that an instruction for ending the play mode has been issued (No in S5), various events are executed by the CPU 7 in the play mode selected on the mode selection screen (S4).

  Next, details of the zoom image display system will be described.

  In the present embodiment, an example in which the zoom image display system functions when a game event is executed is shown. For example, when a game event is executed, if a player selects a stadium that he / she wants to play, an image inside the selected stadium is zoomed and displayed on the television monitor 20.

  In the following, an example in which zoom display of the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side is realized by a zoom image display system will be shown.

  In the zoom image display system, for example, when a baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 to the RAM 12, image data GT corresponding to an image obtained by photographing the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side with a wide-angle lens, It is stored in the RAM 12 as a texture for the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side (S101). Here, the image which image | photographed the internal space of the stadium with the wide angle lens seen from the catcher side is as showing in FIG. Further, image data GT corresponding to an image photographed with this wide-angle lens is data prepared in advance and stored in the recording medium 10 in advance.

  At this time, a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons is stored in the RAM 12 (S102). For example, planar models MP1 and MP2 made up of a plurality of rectangular polygons as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C are stored in the RAM 12. For reference, FIGS. 4B and 4D show a case where a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons has a planar shape. FIGS. 4A to 4C are side views of a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons as viewed from the side. FIG. 4D is a front view of the planar model MP0 as viewed from the front.

  Here, a surface model MP1 having a shape distorted convexly toward the virtual camera C (first shape) and a surface shape having a shape distorted convexly in a direction away from the virtual camera C (second shape). The model MP2 is stored in the RAM 12. Each of the planar model MP1 having the first shape and the planar model MP2 having the second shape is composed of a plurality of rectangular polygons. Each of the first shape planar model MP1 and the second shape planar model MP2 is most convex at the center of gravity position gm. That is, each of the first-shaped planar model MP1 and the second-shaped planar model MP2 has the maximum curvature at the gravity center position gm.

  In the present embodiment, the second shape model MP2 (including the coordinate data of the vertexes of the polygon) is used in calculations required when deforming the planar object OBJ, as will be described later.

  Here, the planar models MP1 and MP2 composed of a plurality of polygons are data prepared in advance and stored in the recording medium 10 in advance. Here, an example in which the shape of each polygon is rectangular is shown, but the shape of each polygon may be any shape. For example, a planar model may be formed using a plurality of triangular polygons.

  Here, an example in which planar models MP1 and MP2 composed of a plurality of polygons are stored in advance in the recording medium 10 is shown, but the planar model is generated in the game device. Anyway.

  For example, when the surface corresponding to the first shape and the surface corresponding to the second shape are generated by combining the B-spline curve in two directions, each intersection when the B-spline curve is combined in two directions is It becomes the coordinate data of the vertices of the polygon forming each of the first shape and the second shape. A planar model composed of a plurality of polygons can be generated based on the coordinate data of the vertices of the plurality of polygons. In addition, by using a B-spline curve that has a plane-symmetrical relationship with respect to the case where the planar model MP0 has a planar shape, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C, A model MP1 having a first shape and a model MP2 having a second shape can be generated. Note that the equation of the curve used for generating the model is not limited to the B-spline function but may be a multi-order equation.

  Further, coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the planar model MP1 (planar object OBJ described later) and coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the virtual camera C are stored in the RAM 12 (S103, S104). Here, these coordinate data are data prepared in advance and stored in the recording medium 10 in advance.

  The processing from step 101 (S101) to step 104 (S104) is executed in step 1 (S1) described above.

  Subsequently, after a match event is started and information such as the name of the team to be played is displayed on the television monitor 20, a planar model with the image data GT of the internal space of the stadium viewed from the catcher side in a wide angle as a texture. The process of projecting onto MP1 is executed by the CPU 7 (S105). That is, by mapping the texture GT of the stadium internal space viewed from the catcher side at a wide angle to a planar model MP1 made up of a plurality of rectangular polygons, as shown in FIG. 5, the texture GT is viewed from the catcher side at a wide angle. An object OBJ (planar object) in which the internal space of the stadium is expressed two-dimensionally is generated.

  Here, an example in which the planar object OBJ is generated after the match event is started is shown, but before the match event is started, the planar object OBJ is generated in advance. May be.

  Subsequently, by causing the CPU 7 to recognize the coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the planar object OBJ, as shown in FIG. 6A, the planar object OBJ becomes a predetermined one in the three-dimensional game space. It is arranged at the position (S106). Then, by causing the CPU 7 to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera C, the virtual camera C is placed in the three-dimensional game space (S107). Specifically, the coordinate data indicating a predetermined position (predetermined position on the reference line LK) in the direction perpendicular to the planar object OBJ in a planar state with respect to the center of gravity position gm of the planar object is used as the CPU 7. By recognizing the virtual camera C, the virtual camera C is placed in the three-dimensional game space.

  When the planar object OBJ and the virtual camera C are arranged in the three-dimensional game space, a deformation start command for starting the deformation of the planar object OBJ is issued from the CPU 7 (S108). Then, a process for deforming the shape of the planar object OBJ stepwise out of the plane is executed by the CPU 7. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A to 6E, a virtual camera C is defined with a straight line extending in a direction perpendicular to the planar object OBJ at the center of gravity of the planar object OBJ as a reference line LK. The shape of the planar object OBJ is changed according to time from the shape distorted convexly to the side (first shape) to the shape distorted convexly in the direction away from the virtual camera C (second shape). The CPU 7 executes a process that deforms automatically.

  Here, when the planar object OBJ starts to be deformed out of the plane in a direction away from the virtual camera C, a view angle change start command for starting the change of the view angle G of the virtual camera C is issued from the CPU 7. (S109). Then, the angle of view G of the virtual camera C is changed so that the angle of view G of the virtual camera C gradually decreases from the first angle of view Gmx (maximum angle of view) to the second angle of view Gmn (minimum angle of view). Processing to be executed is executed by the CPU 7.

  For example, as the planar object OBJ is deformed stepwise out of the plane from the initial shape (first shape) in a direction away from the virtual camera C, the angle of view G of the virtual camera C becomes a predetermined maximum angle of view Gmx. The CPU 7 executes a process of changing the angle of view G of the virtual camera C according to time so that the angle of view is gradually reduced from a predetermined value to a predetermined minimum angle of view Gmn.

  The processing here will be described in detail. First, the CPU 7 recognizes zoom time data TZ indicating the time from the start of zooming to the end of zooming. The value of the zoom time data is defined in advance in the game program.

  Further, the CPU 7 recognizes the maximum field angle Gmx (first field angle) and the minimum field angle Gmn (second field angle) of the virtual camera C. The maximum field angle Gmx (first field angle) and the minimum field angle Gmn (second field angle) are defined in advance in the game program. The maximum field angle Gmx is composed of a horizontal component and a vertical component. Here, it is described as Gmx (Gmx_x, Gmx_z). Similarly, the minimum angle of view Gmn is also composed of a horizontal component and a vertical component. Here, it is described as Gmn (Gmn_x, Gmn_z).

  In FIG. 6, only the vertical components of the maximum field angle Gmx (first field angle) and the minimum field angle Gmn (second field angle) of the virtual camera C are shown.

  Next, the CPU 7 executes a process (TZ / To) for dividing the zoom time data TZ by the time data To (= 1/60 (sec)) of one frame. This processing result (TZ / To) is the number of steps Ds when the planar object OBJ is deformed.

  Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, in the three-dimensional game space, the vertex (a vertex) of the polygon of the first shape model MP1 (model) and the second shape object OBJ (model) corresponding to this vertex. The CPU 7 executes a process (Lp (n) / Ds) for dividing the distance (Lp (n): n is the vertex number of the polygon) by the number of steps Ds. This process is executed for the vertices of all polygons. The processing result (Lp (n) / Ds) becomes the unit distance Ks when the planar object OBJ is deformed. In FIG. 7, only vertex numbers n from “1” to “n1” are shown, and other vertex numbers n are omitted.

  Further, the CPU 7 executes a process (| Gmx−Gmn | / Ds) for dividing the absolute value (| Gmx−Gmn |) of the difference between the maximum field angle Gmx and the minimum field angle Gmn by the stage number Ds. This processing result (| Gmx−Gmn | / Ds = (| Gmx_x−Gmn_x | / Ds, | Gmx_z−Gmn_z | / Ds)) becomes the unit field angle Gs when the field angle G of the virtual camera C is changed. .

  Subsequently, a process of adding the unit distance Ks (= Lp (n) / Ds) to the coordinate data of the vertexes of each polygon is executed by the CPU 7 for each frame.

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the center of gravity of the planar object OBJ is the origin, the horizontal direction of the three-dimensional game space is the X direction, and the vertical direction of the three-dimensional game space is the Z direction. The direction away from the virtual camera C orthogonal to the X direction and the Z direction is defined as the Y direction.

  Then, the vertex of each polygon constituting the first shape model is directed to the vertex (virtual point) of each polygon constituting the second shape model, and unit distance Ks (= Lp (n) / The process of moving Ds) is executed by the CPU 7. Then, the planar object OBJ is deformed stepwise out of the plane every frame.

  The angle formed by the vertex of each polygon constituting the first shape model and the vertex of each polygon constituting the second shape model is calculated, and the trigonometric function corresponding to this angle is multiplied by the unit distance Ks. Thus, the CPU 7 calculates the component in each direction that moves every frame. Then, by adding the components in each direction to the coordinates of the vertices of the polygons constituting the first shape model for each frame, the planar object OBJ is stepped out of the plane for each frame. Can be transformed into

  At the same time, a process for subtracting the unit angle of view Gs from the maximum angle of view Gmx of the virtual camera C is executed by the CPU 7 for each frame. That is, the CPU 7 executes a process of subtracting each component of the unit angle of view Gs from each component of the maximum field angle Gmx of the virtual camera C for each frame.

  In this way, as the planar object OBJ is deformed from the first shape to the second shape out of plane for each frame, the field angle G of the virtual camera C is also increased from a predetermined maximum field angle Gmx to a predetermined value. The change in the shape of the planar object OBJ and the change in the angle of view G of the virtual camera C can be linked so that the minimum angle of view Gmn becomes smaller every frame.

  Then, a straight line extending in a direction perpendicular to the planar object OBJ at the position of the center of gravity of the planar object OBJ is used as a reference line LK, and a shape distorted convexly in a direction away from the virtual camera C (second shape). Then, the CPU 7 executes a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object OBJ into a shape distorted convexly toward the virtual camera C (first shape).

  Here, when the planar object OBJ is deformed stepwise in the direction approaching the virtual camera C, the field angle G of the virtual camera C is changed from the second field angle Gmn (minimum field angle) to the first field angle Gmx. The CPU 7 executes a process for changing the angle of view G of the virtual camera C so as to increase stepwise to (maximum angle of view).

  Specifically, as the planar object OBJ is deformed stepwise out of the plane from the initial shape (second shape) toward the virtual camera C, the angle of view G of the virtual camera C decreases to a predetermined minimum. The CPU 7 executes a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera C according to time so that the angle of view decreases from the angle of view Gmn to a predetermined maximum angle of view Gmx.

  Note that the process here is the same as the process described above, and is not described in detail, since the process is just opposite in direction to the process described above.

  Subsequently, when a deformation start command for starting the deformation of the planar object OBJ is issued from the CPU 7, the angle of view changes in a stepwise manner in which the shape of the planar object OBJ changes in a stepwise manner. The CPU 7 executes processing for photographing with the virtual camera C (S110). Then, a zoom image is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S111).

  For example, the CPU 7 causes the CPU 7 to execute a process of photographing the state in which the shape of the planar object OBJ changes as described above with the virtual camera C in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Then, as shown in FIGS. 8A to 8E, a zoomed-in image and a zoomed-out image are displayed on the television monitor 20.

  Here, when the images from FIG. 8A to FIG. 8E are continuously reproduced, a zoomed-in image is displayed on the television monitor 20. Here, when the images from FIG. 8E to FIG. 8A are continuously reproduced, the zoomed-out image is displayed on the television monitor 20. 8A to 8E correspond to the above-described drawings from FIG. 6A to FIG. 6E.

  Specifically, when a deformation start command for starting the deformation of the planar object OBJ is issued from the CPU 7 and the planar object OBJ starts to deform from the first shape to the second shape, the virtual camera C A shooting start command is issued from the CPU 7. Then, the CPU 7 issues a command for changing the angle of view of the virtual camera C to be reduced stepwise. Then, the CPU 7 executes processing for photographing the state in which the shape of the planar object OBJ is deformed step by step while reducing the angle of view of the virtual camera C step by step. Then, a zoomed-in image is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  Similarly, when a deformation start command for starting deformation of the planar object OBJ is issued from the CPU 7 and the planar object OBJ starts deformation (recovery) from the second shape to the first shape, the virtual camera A shooting start command for C is issued from the CPU 7. Then, the CPU 7 issues a command for changing the angle of view of the virtual camera C in a stepwise manner. Then, the CPU 7 executes a process of photographing the state in which the shape of the planar object OBJ is deformed step by step while increasing the angle of view of the virtual camera C step by step. Then, a zoom-out image is displayed on the television monitor 20. Here, as a matter of course, images that are enlarged beyond the screen frame of the television monitor 20 are sequentially deviated from vision.

  According to the images of FIGS. 8A to 8C described above (the intermediate images are omitted), the viewpoint viewed from the virtual camera C is simply approaching toward the approximate center of the screen as the image viewed from the player side ( Instead of zooming in, the display appears as if it is rapidly approaching at an accelerated speed. That is, as compared with the substantially central portion of the image, the enlargement deformation is larger toward the outside of the image peripheral portion, and the outermost portion of the image peripheral portion is caused by the expansion deformation of the image peripheral portion with time. Compared to the internal movement, it rapidly disappears beyond the screen frame of the television monitor 20. For this reason, it is possible to obtain an effect as if the viewpoint of the virtual camera C suddenly approaches rapidly in the center of the image and the focus is reduced. Note that the above visual effect is limited to the time during which a single still image is deformed, and naturally, an image like a moving image over a long period of time cannot be obtained.

  When displaying an application created by the applicant, the time required for this display is approximately 1 second. However, even in such a short time, unlike the conventional zoom, the image peripheral part is rapidly blown out beyond the monitor screen frame, and the focus is focused on the central part. Display. For this reason, for example, the present invention is particularly effective when creating an image that rapidly zooms in on the face of a player character to be replaced or an image that rapidly zooms in on a player character that has performed fine play. Another useful method is to use it when creating promotional videos, commercials, and demo movies to be played before and after the main part of the game. The reason for this is that in these images, an effect that draws the attention of the player with a sharpness is desired rather than a display that faithfully reproduces the actual movement.

  In the case of the zoom-out shown in FIGS. 8C to 8E, the movement is opposite to the above, but a video effect is obtained as if the approximate center of the screen suddenly approaches the virtual camera C at an accelerated speed. . In this embodiment, the substantially central portion of the screen is the pitcher mound, but it can be applied to an effect as if the ball suddenly approaches the virtual camera C at an accelerated speed, for example.

  Here, an example in which zoom-in and zoom-out are performed at the same time has been shown, but only one of zoom-in and zoom-out may be performed. For example, when only zoom-out is executed, it is necessary to execute a process of projecting the image data GT of the stadium internal space viewed from the catcher side onto the planar model MP2 as a texture in step 105 (S105). is there.

  In this case, the initial shape is a shape distorted in a convex shape toward the virtual camera C (first shape) or a shape distorted in a convex shape in the direction away from the virtual camera C (second shape). Although an example is shown, the initial shape may be a planar shape. Note that the initial shape is a curved shape such as the first shape or the second shape described above, which has a more three-dimensional visual effect than the planar shape, and a more powerful zoom image is displayed on the television monitor 20. Can be displayed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the planar object OBJ is deformed stepwise out of the plane, and the angle of view G of the virtual camera C is also changed stepwise in conjunction with the out-of-plane deformation of the object OBJ. It is done. At this time, by capturing the planar object OBJ being deformed by the virtual camera C with the angle of view G changing, a zoom image having a stereoscopic visual effect can be obtained without using a stereoscopic object. It can be displayed on the television monitor 20. Further, by shooting in this way, a more powerful zoom image can be displayed on the television monitor 20 without using a three-dimensional object.

[Other Embodiments]
(A) In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a home video game apparatus as an example of a computer to which a game program can be applied has been described. However, the game apparatus is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and a monitor is separately provided. The present invention can be similarly applied to a game device configured in a body, a game device in which a monitor is integrated, a personal computer functioning as a game device by executing a game program, a workstation, and the like.

  (B) The present invention includes a program for executing the game as described above and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded. Examples of the recording medium include a computer-readable flexible disk, a semiconductor memory, a CD-ROM, a DVD, an MO, a ROM cassette, and the like in addition to the cartridge.

1 is a basic configuration diagram of a video game apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The functional block diagram as an example of the said video game device. The figure which shows the image data for textures. The figure which shows a planar model. The figure which shows a planar object. The figure which shows a response | compatibility with a deformation | transformation of an object, and the change of a view angle. The figure which shows a response | compatibility with the vertex of the polygon of a 1st shape model, and the vertex of the polygon of a 2nd shape model. The figure which shows the one display form of a zoom-in image, and the one display form of a zoom-out image (the 1). The figure which shows the one display form of a zoom-in image, and the one display form of a zoom-out image (the 2). The figure which shows the one display form of a zoom-in image, and the one display form of a zoom-out image (the 3). The figure which shows the one display form of a zoom-in image, and the one display form of a zoom-out image (the 4). The figure which shows the one display form of a zoom-in image, and the one display form of a zoom-out image (the 5). Flow showing the overall outline of the baseball game. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a zoom image display system.

Explanation of symbols

1 control unit 3 image display unit 7 CPU
12 RAM
17 controller 20 television monitor 50 texture storage means 51 model storage means 52 object generation means 53 object placement means 54 camera placement means 55 shape change means 55a first shape change means 55b second shape change means 56 view angle change means 56a angle of view Reduction means 56b Angle of view enlargement means 57 Image display means GT Image data for texture MP1, MP2, MP0 Planar model OBJ Planar object C Virtual camera G Field angle of virtual camera gm Center of gravity position of plane object

Claims (10)

To a computer capable of processing data for displaying an image on the image display unit,
A texture storage function for storing image data for texture in the storage unit;
A model storage function for storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in a storage unit;
An object generation function for generating a planar object by causing the control unit to execute a process of projecting the image data as a texture onto the planar model;
An object placement function for placing the planar object in a virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object;
A camera placement function for placing the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera;
A shape changing function for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of plane;
An angle-of-view changing function for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in accordance with a change in the shape of the planar object;
An image in which a zoom image is displayed on the image display unit by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing the state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Display function,
An image processing program for realizing The shape changing function includes a first shape changing function that causes the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape that is convexly distorted in a direction away from the virtual camera,
The angle-of-view changing function causes the control unit to execute a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner so that the angle of view of the virtual camera becomes smaller according to a change in the shape of the planar object. Including reduction function,
In the image display function, a zoomed-in image is obtained by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Displayed on the display,
The image processing program according to claim 1. In the first shape changing function, from one of a planar shape and a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction close to the virtual camera to a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera, The process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object is executed by the control unit.
The image processing program according to claim 2. The shape change function includes a second shape change function that causes the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object into a shape that is convexly distorted in a direction approaching the virtual camera,
The angle of view change function causes the control unit to execute a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera in a stepwise manner so that the angle of view of the virtual camera increases in accordance with a change in the shape of the planar object. Including zoom function,
In the image display function, the zoomed-out image is obtained by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing a state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Displayed on the image display,
The image processing program according to claim 1. In the second shape changing function, from one of a planar shape and a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction away from the virtual camera, to a shape distorted in a convex shape in a direction close to the virtual camera, The process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object is executed by the control unit.
The image processing program according to claim 4. In the shape change function, a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of the plane based on the position of the center of gravity of the planar object is executed by the control unit.
The image processing program according to claim 1. In the camera arrangement function, the virtual camera is configured to recognize virtual data in a virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data indicating a predetermined position in a direction perpendicular to the planar object on the basis of the barycentric position of the planar object. Placed in the
The image processing program according to claim 1. In the texture storage function, wide-angle image data is stored in the storage unit as image data for texture.
The image processing program according to claim 1. An image processing apparatus capable of processing data for displaying an image on an image display unit,
Texture storage means for storing image data for texture in the storage unit;
Model storage means for storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in a storage unit;
Object generation means for generating a planar object by causing the control unit to execute a process of projecting the image data as a texture onto the planar model;
Object placement means for placing the planar object in a virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object;
Camera arrangement means for arranging the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the arrangement position of the virtual camera;
Shape changing means for causing the control unit to execute processing for stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of plane;
An angle-of-view changing means for causing the control unit to execute a process of changing the angle of view of the virtual camera stepwise according to a change in the shape of the planar object;
An image in which a zoom image is displayed on the image display unit by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing the state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. Display means;
An image processing apparatus comprising: An image control method for controlling data for displaying an image on an image display unit by a computer,
A texture storage step of storing image data for texture in the storage unit;
A model storing step of storing a planar model composed of a plurality of polygons in a storage unit;
An object generation step of generating a planar object by causing the control unit to execute a process of projecting the image data as a texture onto the planar model;
An object placement step of placing the planar object in a virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the planar object;
A camera placement step for placing the virtual camera in the virtual space by causing the control unit to recognize coordinate data for defining the placement position of the virtual camera;
A shape changing step for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise deforming the shape of the planar object out of plane;
An angle-of-view changing step for causing the control unit to execute a process of stepwise changing the angle of view of the virtual camera according to a change in the shape of the planar object;
An image in which a zoom image is displayed on the image display unit by causing the control unit to execute a process of photographing the state in which the shape of the planar object changes stepwise with a virtual camera in which the angle of view changes stepwise. A display step;
An image control method comprising:

Images