JP2001009159A - Spot light position detection system, simulator, information storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: A spot light position detection system, a simulator, and an information storage medium capable of detecting a position of a spot light formed by each of a plurality of light sources while identifying the spot light. SOLUTION: A plurality of light emitting means 20a, 20b for projecting a spot light in a spot light forming area, a light emitting control means for controlling light emission of the light emitting means 20a, 20b by a light emission permission signal, and light emission from the light emission control means. An imaging unit 40 that identifies the light emitting unit that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which of the light emitting units 20a and 20b the permission signal has been input, and that captures an image of the spot light forming region 12.
And a means for detecting the position of the spot light based on the output from the imaging means 40. The light emission control means switches the light emission priority of the plurality of light emission means 20a, 20b at predetermined time intervals, When the light emission request signal is input from the plurality of light emission means 20a and 20b to the light emission control means at substantially the same time, the light emission permission signal is preferentially input to the light emission means having the higher light emission priority.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a spot light position detecting system, a simulator, and an information storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a shooting game apparatus in which a shooting video image in which a predetermined target appears is projected on a screen using a projector, and the player shoots the shot video image using a light gun (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Sho. 50-72515, JP-A-60-179079, JP-A-4-5
1987).

[0003] Each of these prior arts is configured so that a shot position of a light gun is shot by a video camera, and a hit / miss is determined based on a video signal output from the video camera.

[0004]

In order to enhance the playability of the shooting game, it is preferable that a plurality of players can simultaneously play on the same screen to compete for the shooting skill.

[0005] However, in the above conventional technique, when a plurality of light guns are used at the same time, it is difficult to detect the landing position while identifying the light beams emitted from each of the plurality of light guns.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has as its object to identify a spot light formed by each of a plurality of light sources and to detect a position of the spot light while detecting the position thereof. To provide an information storage medium.

[0007]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a spot light position detecting system according to the present invention emits light based on a light emission permission signal to emit a spot light to an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. A plurality of light emitting means for projecting,
A light emission control means for inputting a light emission permission signal to the light emission means in accordance with a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal for light emission permission is input from the light emission means; an imaging means for imaging a spot light forming area; Means for identifying the light emitting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which light emitting means the light emitting permission signal has been input from the means, and detecting the position of the spot light based on the output from the imaging means; The light emission control means switches the light emission priority of the plurality of light emission means at predetermined time intervals, and when receiving the light emission request signals from the plurality of light emission means at substantially the same time, inputs the light emission request signal. A light emission permission signal is preferentially input to a light emission unit having a higher light emission priority among a plurality of light emission units serving as a source.

The simulator according to the present invention comprises a plurality of shooting means for emitting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; A light emission control unit that inputs a light emission permission signal to a shooting unit according to a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal requesting light emission is input, an imaging unit that captures an image of a spotlight forming area, The shooting means that has projected the spotlight is identified based on the information indicating which shooting means was input to the shooting means, and the position of the spotlight was detected based on the output from the imaging means to determine whether the target was hit. Means for making a determination, wherein the light emission control means sets the light emission priority of the plurality of shooting means at a predetermined time. Each time, when a light emission request signal is received from a plurality of shooting means at substantially the same time, a light emission permission signal is sent to a shooting means having a high light emission priority among a plurality of shooting means that have become the input source of the light emission request signal. It is characterized in that it is preferentially input.

Further, the information storage medium of the present invention employs a plurality of shooting means for projecting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. Information for executing the shooting game is stored, and in the information storage medium usable for the computer, when a light emission request signal requesting light emission permission is input from the shooting means, the light emission permission signal is transmitted to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition. The light emission control means to be input, and the light emission means that has projected the spot light based on the information indicating which light emission means the light emission permission signal has been input from the light emission control means,
Means for detecting the position of the spot light based on the output from the imaging means for imaging the spot light formation area, and information for realizing the light emission control means, The light emission priority is switched at predetermined time intervals, and when a light emission request signal is received from a plurality of shooting means at substantially the same time, a shooting operation having a high light emission priority among the plurality of shooting means that has become the input source of the light emission request signal It is characterized by including information for preferentially inputting the light emission permission signal to the means.

According to the present invention, when a light emission request signal is input from a plurality of light emission means or shooting means (hereinafter, "light emission means or the like") to the light emission control means at substantially the same time, a light emission request signal is issued. Since the light emission permission signal is preferentially input to the light emission means having a higher light emission priority among the light emission means which have issued the signal, the light emission means having the higher light emission priority emits light or light. As a result, a deviation occurs in the timing of spot light formation, so that the timing at which an image including each spot light is captured is compared with information indicating to which light emitting means or the like the light emission permission signal has been output. Accordingly, it is possible to accurately specify a light emitting unit or the like corresponding to the detected spot light. Therefore, even when a plurality of light emitting units are used, it is possible to detect the spot light forming position while identifying the light emitting unit that formed the spot light.

The spot light position detecting system according to the present invention comprises a plurality of light emitting means for emitting light based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; A light emission control means for inputting a light emission permission signal to the light emitting means according to a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal for light emission permission is input from the means, an imaging means for imaging a spot light forming area, and a light emission control means. Means for identifying the light emitting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which light emitting means the light emission permission signal has been input, and means for detecting the position of the spot light based on the output from the imaging means. The light emission control means switches the light emission priority of the plurality of light emission means at predetermined time intervals, and inputs a light emission permission signal only to the light emission means having the highest light emission priority. Rukoto may be characterized.

Similarly, the simulator according to the present invention includes a plurality of shooting means for emitting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; A light emission control means for inputting a light emission permission signal to a shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal for requesting light emission is input from the camera; an imaging means for imaging a spot light forming area; Identifies the shooting means that projected the spotlight based on information indicating which shooting means the signal was input to, and whether the target was hit by detecting the position of the spotlight based on the output from the imaging means And a means for determining the light emission of the plurality of light emitting means. It switches the previously ranking every predetermined time, only to enter the light-emission enable signals to the highest shooting means emitting priorities can be characterized.

Further, the information storage medium of the present invention employs a plurality of shooting means for projecting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. Information for executing the shooting game is stored, and in the information storage medium usable for the computer, when a light emission request signal requesting light emission permission is input from the shooting means, the light emission permission signal is transmitted to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition. The light emission control means to be input, and the light emission means that has projected the spot light based on the information indicating which light emission means the light emission permission signal has been input from the light emission control means,
Means for detecting the position of the spot light based on the output from the imaging means for imaging the spot light formation area, and information for realizing the light emission control means, It is possible to switch the light emission priority every predetermined time and include information for inputting a light emission permission signal only to the shooting means having the highest light emission priority.

According to such a configuration, the light emission request signal is issued from the light emission means having the highest light emission priority, so that only these light emission means can emit light or light. Since other light emitting means cannot emit light until the light emission priority is switched, it is possible to easily identify which light emitting means etc. the detected spot light corresponds to.

In the spotlight position detecting system according to the present invention, when a light emission permission signal is input, a predetermined operation is performed by a user to emit light so that an arbitrary position in the spotlight forming area is emitted. A plurality of light emitting means for projecting a spot light to the light emitting means, a light emitting control means for inputting a light emission permission signal to the light emitting means in accordance with predetermined conditions, an image pickup means for imaging a spot light forming area, and a light emitting permission Means for identifying the light emitting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which light emitting means the signal has been input, and detecting the position of the spot light based on the output from the imaging means. The light emission control means switches the light emission priority of the plurality of light emission means at predetermined time intervals, and automatically inputs a light emission permission signal to the light emission means having the highest light emission priority. It may also be characterized Rukoto.

Similarly, in the simulator according to the present invention, when a light emission permission signal is input, an operation of pulling a trigger is performed by a user to emit a light beam toward a target, thereby enabling an arbitrary light beam within a spot light forming area. A plurality of shooting means for projecting a spot light at the position, a light emission control means for inputting a light emission permission signal to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition, an imaging means for imaging the spot light forming area, and a light emission permission means from the light emission control means. Identifies the shooting means that projected the spotlight based on information indicating which shooting means the signal was input to, and whether the target was hit by detecting the position of the spotlight based on the output from the imaging means Means for making a determination of
The light emission control means switches the light emission priorities of the plurality of shooting means at predetermined time intervals, and automatically inputs a light emission permission signal to the shooting means having the highest light emission priority.

Similarly, in the information storage medium of the present invention, when a light emission permission signal is input, an operation of pulling a trigger is performed by a user to emit a light beam toward a target so that the light is emitted from the spot light forming area. The information for executing the shooting game using a plurality of shooting means for projecting a spotlight at an arbitrary position of the camera is stored, and in the information storage medium usable for the computer, a light emission request signal for requesting light emission is issued from the shooting means. A light emission control means for inputting a light emission permission signal to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition when input, and a spotlight is projected based on information indicating which shooting means the light emission permission signal was input from the light emission control means. Identify the shooting means and spot light based on the output from the imaging means Position detection to the includes information for implementing means for judging whether or not hit the target, and
The information for realizing the light emission control means includes a program for switching the light emission priority of the plurality of shooting means at predetermined time intervals and automatically inputting a light emission permission signal to the shooting means having the highest light emission priority. It is characterized by the following.

With such a configuration, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the above inventions. Further, since the light emission request signal does not need to be input to the light emission control means prior to the input of the light emission permission signal to the light emission means and the like,
The configuration of the light emitting means and the like can be simplified. Therefore, the weight of the light emitting means and the like can be reduced, and the installation and maintenance can be facilitated.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the light emission control unit switches the light emission priority in accordance with the image capturing speed of the image pickup means.

Similarly, in the information storage medium of the present invention,
The information for implementing the light emission control means preferably includes a program for switching the light emission priority in accordance with the image capturing speed of the imaging means.

According to these arrangements, the light emission priority is switched each time one image is captured by the image pickup means, so that a chance of light emission or the like is frequently given to each light emitting means. Further, since the operation of switching the light emission priority may be performed simply by dividing by time, the program for inputting the light emission permission signal can be simplified. For this reason, the program development cost and the like can be kept low. Therefore, the simultaneous use of a plurality of light emitting means and the like and the suppression of the occurrence of the time lag until the light emission in each light emitting means and the like to the minimum can be realized at a relatively low cost.

Further, in the spot light position detecting system or simulator according to the present invention, the light emission control means controls the switching of the light emission priorities so that the light emission priorities of the plurality of light emitting means and the like become the highest in order. Is preferred.

Similarly, in the information storage medium of the present invention,
The information for realizing the light emission control means preferably includes a program for switching control of the light emission priority so that the light emission priority of each of the plurality of shooting means is sequentially highest.

This prevents unequal light emission priorities among a plurality of light emitting means and the like.

When the present invention is a spot light detection system, it is preferable to have an image display means for displaying a predetermined image. Further, when the present invention is a simulator, it is preferable to have an image display means for displaying a target image.

Here, the function of the image display means can be realized by a projection display device for projecting and displaying an image on a screen, a CRT, a liquid crystal display device, or the like. Also, C
When using an image display unit having a display screen, such as an RT or a liquid crystal display device, the display screen may be directly directed to a light emitting unit, a shooting unit, or the like,
The display screen may be indirectly directed toward a light emitting unit or the like via a mirror or the like.

In each of these cases, the area where the image is displayed on the image display means (for example, the projected area of the image on the screen, the display screen of a CRT or the like, the surface of a mirror that reflects the display screen, etc.) is a spot. It may coincide with the light forming region or may be spatially separated.

With such a configuration, an arbitrary image can be indicated by light from a light emitting unit or the like. Particularly, in the simulator, it is possible to irradiate the target appearing at an arbitrary position at an arbitrary timing with light of the shooting means. Therefore, presentations, games, etc.
It is possible to obtain a spot light detection system simulator that is easy to use for various applications.

When the image display means is used in the present invention, particularly, the image of the image display means is displayed in the direction of the light emitting means or the shooting means, and the light emitted from the light emitting means and the like is spot light. It is preferable to have a separation means for leading to the formation region.

According to such a configuration, since the predetermined image and the like and the spot light are spatially separated, it is possible to prevent the imaging means from erroneously capturing the predetermined image and the like. Therefore, more accurate spot light position detection, hit determination, and the like can be performed.

The structure of the separating means used in the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, the separating means can be formed to include a translucent mirror set at a predetermined angle with respect to the direction of the light emitting means or the shooting means. In this case, the spot light forming area is arranged in one of a direction in which the translucent mirror reflects and a direction in which the light emitted from the light emitting means or the like is transmitted. It is installed in the other of the direction to reflect the light emitted from etc. and the direction to transmit,
It is formed so that an image is transmitted or reflected through a semi-transparent mirror and displayed in the direction of the light emitting means or the like. This makes it possible to implement a spot light detection system or simulator that can prevent erroneous detection based on erroneous imaging with a relatively simple configuration.

Alternatively, the separating means can be realized by a member having both a function as a liquid crystal display device and a function as a liquid crystal optical shutter. In this case,
Since the function of the separation unit and the function of the image display unit can be realized by one member, it is possible to reduce the size and cost of the entire system.

The simulator according to the present invention can be used for various purposes. For example, it can be used for impact simulation in military training and weapons development. It can also be used for games. For example,
Preferably, the shooting game is formed to be executable. In this case, simultaneous play by a plurality of players can be realized with a relatively simple configuration and low cost.
Therefore, it is possible to realize a shooting game having a high game property in which a plurality of players can compete at the same time.

[0034]

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first embodiment of a simulator to which the present invention is applied.

In FIG. 1, a simulator 10 is for playing a shooting game, and includes a screen 12, two light guns 20a and 20b, a projector 30 for projecting a shooting game image, and one video camera. It has a camera 40 and a game device main body 50.

Here, the screen 12 corresponds to a spot light forming area imaged by the video camera 40. The screen 12 is connected to the projector 30
Coincides with the projected area of the shooting game image. And in the shooting game image,
Various images such as a target image, a background image, and a hit effect image are included.

The two light guns 20a and 20b correspond to light emitting means or shooting means, and have the same configuration. The light guns 20a and 20b are connected to the game device main body 50 as shown in the figure, and light emission is controlled by the game device main body 50. That is, each light gun 20
When the triggers a and 20b are pulled, a trigger signal is input to the game device main body 50 via a cable. The trigger signal corresponds to a light emission request signal for requesting the game device body 50 to permit light emission. When the light emitting permission signal is input by the game apparatus main body 50 to the light gun that has become the input source of the trigger signal, the light gun that has received the light emitting permission signal emits a light beam.

The video camera 40 corresponds to an imaging means.
By imaging the projection area of the image on the screen 12,
An image signal including a scanning line signal and a vertical synchronization signal is output. The video camera 40 of the present embodiment is set so as to capture an image every 1/60 second, but the image capturing speed is not limited to this, and can be set arbitrarily.

The game device main body 50 includes the simulator 10
Control of each part and predetermined processing. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration for realizing the function of the game device main body 50.

In FIG. 2, the game apparatus main body 50 includes a processing unit 100, a storage unit 140, and an information storage medium 150.
, An image generation unit 160, a sound generation unit 170, a sound output unit 180, and I / F units 174, 176, 177, and 178.

More specifically, the processing section 100 performs various processes such as control of the entire apparatus, instruction of instructions to each block in the apparatus, game calculation, and the like.
PU (CISC type, RISC type), DSP, ASIC
(A gate array or the like) or a given program (game program).

The storage section 140 serves as a work area for the processing section 100, the image generation section 160, the sound generation section 170, the I / F section 176, and the like, and its functions can be realized by hardware such as a RAM.

An information storage medium (a storage medium from which information can be read by a computer) 150 stores information such as programs and data. In the present embodiment, information for performing a shooting game using a plurality of ray guns that emits a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projects a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. Is stored in the information storage medium 150. The information for performing the shooting game includes at least a light emission control unit that inputs a light emission permission signal to the light gun according to a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal for requesting light emission is input from the light gun, The light gun on which the spot light is projected is specified based on information indicating to which light gun the light emission permission signal is input from the means, and the position of the spot light is detected based on the output from the imaging means (video camera 40). And means for determining whether or not a target has been hit. In particular, the information for implementing the light emission control means includes at least the light emission priority of the plurality of light guns at predetermined time intervals, and the light emission request signal when the light emission request signals are received from the plurality of light guns substantially simultaneously. A program for preferentially inputting a light emission permission signal to a light gun having a high light emission priority among a plurality of light guns serving as input sources, and for switching a light emission priority in accordance with an image capturing speed of an imaging unit. Programs are included. In addition, shooting game image data, shooting game audio data, shooting game execution program, spot light position detection program, hit determination program, effect program, and the like are also stored in the information storage medium 150 as information for performing the shooting game. I have.

The function of the information storage medium 150 is as follows.
Optical disk (CD, DVD), magneto-optical disk (M
O), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, a semiconductor memory (ROM), or other hardware. The processing unit 100 performs various processes based on information such as programs and data stored in the information storage medium 150.

Note that part or all of the information stored in the information storage medium 150 is stored in the storage unit 1 when the apparatus is powered on or the like.
40.

The image generating section 160 generates various images in accordance with an instruction from the processing section 100 and outputs the images to the display section 12.
It can be realized by hardware such as C, CPU, and DSP, a given program (image generation program), and image data. The image generated by the image generation unit 160 is an I / F
The data is output from the projector 30 via the unit 174.

The sound generation section 170 generates various sounds in accordance with instructions from the processing section 100 and outputs the generated sounds to the sound output section 14. The function of the sound generation section 170 is as follows.
It can be realized by hardware such as a PU and a DSP, a given program (sound generation program), and audio data (waveform data and the like). The sound generated by the sound generation unit 170 is output by the sound output unit 180.

I / F sections 174, 176, 177, 178
Is an interface for exchanging information among the projector 30, the video camera 40, and the light guns 20a and 20b in accordance with an instruction from the processing unit 100 and the like, and its function is controlled by a command from the CPU. Data read / write controller IC. The I / F units 174, 176, 17
The functions 7 and 178 can also be realized by hardware such as a semiconductor laser and an infrared sensor.

Here, the processing unit 100 includes the game operation unit 11
0 and the light emission control unit 112.

Of these units, the light emission control unit 112
In accordance with a program stored in the information storage medium 150, the light emission priority of the light guns 20a, 20b connected via the I / F units 177, 178 is controlled to be switched at predetermined time intervals, and the light guns 20a, 20b Ray guns 20a and 20b that become input sources when a trigger signal is input from the
Input a light emission permission signal. As described above, since the information storage medium 150 stores the program for switching the light emission priority according to the image capturing speed of the video camera 40, the light emission control unit 112 sets the light gun 20a every 1/60 second. , 20b. In this embodiment, since only two light guns are provided, the light guns 20a and 20b are alternately set to the first emission priority every 1/60 second. Further, when a trigger signal is input from a plurality of light guns at substantially the same time, a program for inputting a light emission permission signal preferentially to a light emission priority order is stored in the information storage medium 150. When a trigger signal is input from both of the light emitting devices 20a and 20b substantially simultaneously, a light emission permission signal is input to a light gun having a high light emission priority.

The light emission control unit 112 also performs a process of inputting information indicating to which light gun the light emission permission signal has been input to the game calculation unit 110.

Once a light emission permission signal is input to any of the light guns, the input state is maintained until the light emission priority is switched. When the light emission priority is switched, the input state of the light emission permission signal is changed to the light emission control unit 1.
Stop control is performed by the control unit 12.

Here, an example of characteristic processing executed by the light emission control unit 112 is shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In FIG. 3, “start” indicates the start of the shooting game. When the shooting game starts, the light emission control unit 112 first switches the light emission priorities of the light guns 20a and 20b (S1). Suppose the light gun 20
a is switched to the first position, and the light gun 20b is switched to the second position. Next, it is determined whether or not a trigger signal has been input from a plurality of light guns, that is, in this embodiment, both of the two light guns 20a and 20b (S2). Here, when it is determined that the trigger signal is input from both (S2:
YES), the light emission control unit 112 preferentially inputs the light emission permission signal to the light gun 20a having the higher light emission priority (S3). Thus, the light gun 20a starts emitting light. If there are three or more light guns and the trigger signals are input almost simultaneously from the second and third light emission priority light guns, the light emission control unit 1
Reference numeral 12 indicates that a light emission permission signal is input to the light gun having the second highest light emission priority.

Thereafter, the light emission control section 112 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the execution of the light emission priority switching process (S1) (S4). Here, the predetermined time is set to 1/60 seconds corresponding to the image capturing speed of the video camera 40. When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (S
4: YES), it is determined whether or not the game is over (S
5) If the game is over (S5: YES), the process is terminated, and if the game is not over (S5: NO), S1 is executed.
And the light emission priorities of the light guns 20a and 20b are switched again. At the same time, the input state of the light emission permission signal to the light gun 20a is stopped and controlled. Thereby, the light gun 20a
The light beam from stops. After the light emission priority is switched again (S1), since the ray gun 20b becomes the first light emission priority, if YES is determined in S2,
This time, a light emission permission signal is input to the light gun 20b,
A light beam will be emitted from the light gun 20b.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S2 that no trigger signal has been input from a plurality of light guns (S2:
NO), the light emission control unit 112 determines whether or not a trigger signal has been input from one light gun (S6). As a result, when it is determined that a trigger signal has been input from one ray gun (for example, the ray gun 20b having the second highest priority in light emission) (S6: YES), the ray gun (input source of the trigger signal) ( A light emission permission signal is input to the light gun 20b) (S7), and the process proceeds to S4. If it is determined in S6 that no trigger signal has been input from one of the light guns (S6:
NO), the process proceeds to S4 without inputting the light emission permission signal to any of the light guns.

Since such a process is performed by the light emission control unit 112, even if the triggers of the two light guns 20a and 20b are pulled substantially simultaneously, each of the light guns 20a and 20b can be used.
From 0b, light rays are emitted alternately every 1/60 second. Since the video camera 40 is formed so as to capture one image every 1/60 second, a plurality of spot lights A and B are formed substantially simultaneously as shown in FIG. 1 by a human. Even if it looks like this, there is always only one spot light in each of the images captured by the video camera 40.

Even if the light gun has a low light emission priority, if no trigger signal is input to the light emission control unit 112 from a light gun with a higher light emission priority, the light gun with a higher light emission priority is inserted and the light is emitted. Can be injected. For this reason, it is possible to minimize a time lag until light emission that may occur with the setting of the light emission priority, and to realize a comfortable playing environment.

Returning to FIG. 2, the game calculation section 110 performs a coin (price) receiving process, a game mode setting process,
Game progress processing, arithmetic processing for synthesizing images, processing for determining the movement of a target image or character image, staging processing, processing for displaying characters, processing for calculating game results (game results, scores), or Various game calculation processes such as a game over process are performed by using image signals from the video camera 40, trigger signals from the light guns 20a and 20b,
The determination is performed based on information from the light emission control unit 112, a game program stored in the information storage medium 150, and the like.

The game calculation section 110 further includes a spot light detection section 114 and a hit determination section 116.

The spot light detecting section 114 detects the light guns 20a and 20b based on the image signal from the video camera 40.
Light A, B formed by light rays emitted from
Detect the position of. In this embodiment, the positions of the spot lights A and B are defined as the origin (0, 0) at the upper left corner of the screen 12 in FIG. 1, the X axis in the horizontal direction, and the Y axis in the vertical direction.
It is detected as (X, Y) coordinates. Further, the position detection processing of the spot lights A and B is performed by any of the light guns 20a and 20b.
The operation is individually performed based on information from the light emission control unit 112 indicating whether a light emission permission signal has been input to the camera and image signals from the respective video cameras 40. That is, based on the information from the light emission control unit 112, the ray gun that has projected the spot light is specified, the image signal to be subjected to the spot light detection processing is determined, and the spot light position detection processing is performed based on the image signal. Done. As described above, since only one spotlight exists in each image captured by the video camera 40, the position of the spotlight in each image can be easily detected while accurately identifying each of the ray guns 20a and 20b. It is possible to do.

The hit judging section 116 includes the spot light detecting section 1
The (X, Y) coordinates of the spotlights input from 14 and the display coordinate area of the target image calculated and output at the time of image synthesis are collated to determine whether the spotlights A and B hit. That is, when it is determined that the (X, Y) coordinates of the spot light are included in the predetermined display area of the target image, it is determined that the spot lights A and B have hit the target. This hit determination is also performed for each of the spot lights A and B.

The game calculation section 110 calculates and executes a predetermined game effect based on the hit determination result. Specifically, when the spot lights A and B deviate from the target,
The image generation unit 160 and the projector 30 project and display the landing image. On the other hand, when the spot lights A and B hit the target, the image generation unit 160 and the projector 30 project and display the target shot image.

The game calculation section 110 performs calculation processing of the game result based on the hit determination results of the spot lights A and B.

With this configuration, according to this embodiment, even when a plurality of light guns are used, each spot light is accurately identified by each light gun while each spot light is formed. A hit determination can be made by detecting the position of the light.

Further, since a special configuration is not required for the light guns 20a and 20b, the video camera 40, and the like, it is possible to realize a simulator that can be played by a plurality of players at low cost by using existing equipment. Become.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a characteristic processing example of the second embodiment of the simulator according to the present invention. The procedure shown in this flowchart can be realized by a simulator having a configuration substantially similar to that of the first embodiment described above. However, in the information storage medium 150 of FIG. 2, in addition to the program stored in the information storage medium 150 in the first embodiment, a program for inputting a light emission permission signal only to the light gun having the highest light emission priority is provided. It is necessary to store it.

In FIG. 4, “start” indicates the start of the shooting game. When the shooting game starts, the light emission control unit 112 firstly activates the light guns 20a and 20b.
Are switched (S10). For example, it is assumed that the light gun 20a is switched to the first light emission priority and the light gun 20b is switched to the second light emission priority. Next, the light emission control unit 112 determines whether or not a trigger signal has been input from the light gun 20a with the highest light emission priority (S11), and only when there is an input from the light gun 20a (S11: YE
S), a light emission permission signal is input only to the light gun 20a (S)
12). Thereby, a light beam is emitted from the light gun 20a.

Thereafter, the light emission control unit 112 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the execution of the light emission priority switching process (S10) (S13). Here, the predetermined time is 1/6 corresponding to the image capturing speed of the video camera 340.
It is set to 0 seconds. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (S13: YES), it is determined whether or not the game is over (S14), and if the game is over (S14: YE).
S) The process ends, and if the game is not over (S1)
4: NO) Returning to S10, the light guns 320a, 320 again
The light emission priority of b is switched. In addition, the light gun 320
The input state of the light emission permission signal for a is stopped and controlled. Thereby, the light beam from the light gun 320a stops. After the light emission priority is switched again (S10), since the light gun 320b becomes the first light emission priority, S11
If the answer is YES, a light emission permission signal is input to the light gun 20b, and a light beam is emitted from the light gun 20b.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S11 that a trigger signal has not been input from the light gun with the highest light emission priority (S11: NO), the light emission control unit 112 sends a light emission permission signal to any of the light guns. Proceeds to the processing of S13 without inputting.

By performing such processing, the present embodiment can achieve the same effects as those of the above-described first embodiment. Further, since the light emission permission signal is always input only to the light gun having the highest light emission priority, the control program can be simplified. For this reason, the program development cost can be reduced, and a simulator that can be played by a plurality of players at lower cost than in the first embodiment can be realized.

Note that the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the above-described example, and various modifications are possible.

For example, in the first and second embodiments, the light emission permission signal is automatically input to the light gun having the highest light emission priority regardless of the input of the trigger signal from the light gun. It may be formed as follows. In this case, only the light gun can emit light by triggering the light gun to which the light emission permission signal is input. With such a configuration, it is also possible to achieve the same effects as those of the above-described first and second embodiments. Further, according to such a configuration, it is not necessary to input a trigger signal to the game apparatus main body, so that the response from when the trigger is pulled to when the light beam is emitted is smaller than in the first and second embodiments. Can be accelerated. Further, since the configuration of the light gun can be simplified, it becomes possible to make the light gun cordless and to facilitate the installation and maintenance work of the light gun.

Alternatively, in the first and second embodiments, a configuration as shown in FIG. 5 may be employed instead of the configuration shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram showing still another example of the simulator according to the present invention. 5, a simulator 350 is a simulator for performing a shooting game similarly to the simulator 10 of FIG. 1, and includes two light guns 320a and 320b and a game apparatus main body 350.

Here, the two light guns 320a and 320b
Are the light guns 20a, 20a in the first and second embodiments.
0b.

The game device main body 350 includes a housing 351,
A display 316 formed on the surface of the housing 351 on the side of the light guns 320a and 320b, a spot light forming area 312 formed inside the housing 351 at a position corresponding to the display 316, and a spot light forming area A translucent mirror 314 disposed between the translucent mirror 312 and the display 316; and a spot light forming area 3 disposed between the translucent mirror 314 and the spot light forming area 312.
Camera 340 for taking an image of the camera 12 and a translucent mirror 314
CR installed with the display screen facing upward below
It has T330. In addition, a circuit board (not shown) is incorporated inside the game apparatus main body 350, and is configured to realize the same function as the function shown in the block diagram of FIG.

The display 316 is formed of a transparent member such as a glass plate or a plastic plate.
The image projected on the image 14 can be viewed from the outside.

The translucent mirror 314 transmits a part of the incident light and reflects the other, and corresponds to a separating means. This translucent mirror 314 is, as shown in FIG.
It is installed at a predetermined angle (about 45 ° in this embodiment) with respect to the directions of a and 320b. The spot light forming area 312 is formed in a direction in which light incident from the directions of the light guns 320a and 320b is transmitted through the semitransparent mirror 314, and
The RT 330 is installed in a direction in which the translucent mirror 314 reflects light incident from the light guns 320a and 320b. As a result, the image of the CRT 330 installed below is reflected and displayed in the direction of the display 316, and the light gun 3
It is possible to show an image to a player (not shown) holding the hands 20a and 320b. Also, the light guns 320a, 3
A part of the polarized light beam emitted from 20b is transmitted, and a spot light can be formed in the spot light forming region 312 formed at a position away from the semitransparent mirror 314.

The video camera 340 has the same configuration and functions as the video camera 40 in the first and second embodiments. That is, one image is captured every 1/60 second, and each image is converted into an image signal including a scanning line signal and a vertical synchronization signal and output. The spot light position detection process and the hit determination process are also performed based on the image signal and the like from the video camera 340 in the same manner as in the first and second embodiments.

With such a configuration, the first and second
The same operation and effect as those of the embodiment can be achieved.
Further, in the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 5, since the spot light forming area and the spot light are spatially separated from the image display area and the display image, the display image may be erroneously captured by the video camera 340. There is no. Therefore, more accurate spotlight position detection processing and hit determination processing can be performed.

The positional relationship between the spot light forming area 312 and the CRT 330 with respect to the translucent mirror 314 can be reversed from that shown in FIG.

Further, the present invention can be formed as a simple spot light position detecting system. The spot light position detection system of the present invention can be used, for example, as a light pointing device that irradiates a predetermined image displayed on a screen with light and clicks the image.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first embodiment of a simulator to which the present invention is applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration for realizing the functions of the game device main body.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a characteristic process executed by a light emission control unit.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a characteristic processing example of a simulator according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram showing still another example of the simulator according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Simulator 12 Screen (spot light formation area) 20a, 20b, 320a, 320b Ray gun (shooting means, light emitting means) 30 Projector (image display means) 40, 340 Video camera (imaging means) 50, 350 Game device body 100 Processing unit 110 Game operation unit 112 Light emission control unit 114 Spot light detection unit 116 Hit determination unit 150 Information storage medium 312 Spot light formation area 314 Translucent mirror 330 CRT (image display means)

Claims (21)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of light emitting means for emitting light based on a light emission permission signal to project a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; and a light emission request signal for requesting light emission from the light emitting means. Is input, the light emission permitting signal is input to the light emitting means in accordance with a predetermined condition according to a predetermined condition; an image pickup means for imaging the spot light forming region; A means for identifying the light emitting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating which light emitting means has been input, and for detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means, The light emission control means switches the light emission priority order of the plurality of light emission means at predetermined time intervals, and the light emission request from the plurality of light emission means substantially simultaneously. If you received the items,
Wherein the light emission permission signal is preferentially input to the light emission means having a higher light emission priority among the plurality of light emission means serving as an input source of the light emission request signal. . 2. A plurality of light emitting means for emitting light based on a light emission permission signal to project a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; and a light emission request signal for requesting light emission from the light emitting means. Is input, the light emission permitting signal is input to the light emitting means in accordance with a predetermined condition according to a predetermined condition; an image pickup means for imaging the spot light forming region; A means for identifying the light emitting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating which light emitting means has been input, and for detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means, The light emission control means switches the light emission priority of the plurality of light emission means at predetermined time intervals, and controls the light emission means having the highest light emission priority. Spot light position detection system, characterized by inputting the light-emission enable signal. 3. A plurality of light emitting devices that emit light and project a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area by performing a predetermined operation by a user when a light emission permission signal is input. Means, light emission control means for inputting the light emission permission signal to the light emitting means in accordance with predetermined conditions, imaging means for imaging the spot light forming area, and which light the light emission permission signal is transmitted from the light emission control means. Means for identifying the light emitting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating whether the light has been input to the emitting means, and detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means. The light emission control means switches the light emission priority of the plurality of light emission means at predetermined time intervals, and changes the light emission permission signal to the light emission of the highest light emission priority. Spot light position detection system, characterized by automatically entered in the unit. 4. The spot light position detection system according to claim 1, wherein the light emission control unit switches the light emission priority in accordance with an image capturing speed of the image pickup unit. . 5. The light emission control unit according to claim 1, wherein the light emission control unit sets the light emission priority such that the light emission priority of each of the plurality of light emission units is sequentially highest. A spot light position detection system which performs switching control. 6. An image display device according to claim 1, wherein said image display device displays a predetermined image, and said image display device displays said image in a direction of said light emitting device. And a separating unit for guiding the light emitted from the light emitting unit to the spot light forming area. 7. The spot light forming area according to claim 6, wherein the separating means includes a semi-transparent mirror provided at a predetermined angle with respect to a direction of the light emitting means. The image display means is arranged in one of a direction in which light emitted from the light emitting means is reflected and a direction in which light is transmitted, and the image display means is arranged in a direction in which the translucent mirror reflects the light emitted from the light emitting means and a direction in which the light is transmitted. A spot light position detection system installed on the other side, wherein the image is transmitted or reflected through the translucent mirror and displayed toward the light emitting unit. 8. A plurality of shooting means for emitting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; A light emission control unit that inputs the light emission permission signal to the shooting unit according to a predetermined condition when a request signal is input; an imaging unit that captures an image of the spotlight forming region; and the light emission permission signal from the light emission control unit. Identifying the shooting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating which shooting means is input to the shooting means, and detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means to the target. Means for determining whether or not a hit has occurred, wherein the light emission control means includes a plurality of shooters. The light emission priority of the lighting means is switched at predetermined time intervals, and when the light emission request signals are received from the plurality of shooting means at substantially the same time, among the plurality of shooting means serving as the input source of the light emission request signal, A simulator, wherein the light emission permission signal is preferentially input to the shooting means having the higher light emission priority. 9. A plurality of shooting means for emitting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area; A light emission control unit that inputs the light emission permission signal to the shooting unit according to a predetermined condition when a request signal is input; an imaging unit that captures an image of the spotlight forming region; and the light emission permission signal from the light emission control unit. Identifying the shooting means that has projected the spot light based on information indicating which shooting means is input to the shooting means, and detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means to the target. Means for determining whether or not a hit has occurred, wherein the light emission control means comprises a plurality of the light emission means Simulator, characterized in that switches the light emitting priority for each predetermined time, and inputs the light emission permission signal only to the highest it said shooting unit of the light emitting priority. 10. When a trigger is operated by a user when a light emission permission signal is input, a light beam is emitted toward a target and a spot light is projected at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. A plurality of shooting means, a light emission control means for inputting the light emission permission signal to the shooting means in accordance with predetermined conditions, an imaging means for imaging the spot light forming area, and a light emission permission signal from the light emission control means. The shooting unit that has projected the spot light is specified based on information indicating which shooting unit is input, and the position of the spot light is detected based on an output from the imaging unit to hit the target. Means for determining whether the shooting has been performed, and wherein the light emission control means includes a plurality of the shooting means. Switches the emission priority every predetermined time, characterized in that it automatically enters the light-emission enable signal to the highest said shooting unit of said light emitting priority simulator. 11. The simulator according to claim 8, wherein the light emission control unit switches the light emission priority in accordance with an image capturing speed of the image pickup unit. 12. The light emission control unit according to claim 8, wherein the light emission control unit switches the light emission priority so that the light emission priority of each of the plurality of shooting units becomes highest in order. A simulator characterized by controlling. 13. The simulator according to claim 8, further comprising: an image display unit for displaying a target image as the target. 14. The separating means according to claim 13, further comprising: displaying an image of the image display means in a direction of the shooting means, and guiding light emitted from the shooting means to the spot light forming area. A simulator comprising: 15. The shooting means according to claim 14, wherein said separating means includes a semi-transparent mirror installed at a predetermined angle with respect to a direction of said shooting means. The image display unit is disposed in one of a direction in which the semi-transparent mirror reflects the light emitted from the shooting unit and a direction in which the light is transmitted. A simulator that transmits or reflects an image through the translucent mirror and displays the image toward the shooting means. 16. A simulator according to claim 8, wherein a shooting game can be executed. 17. Information for executing a shooting game using a plurality of shooting means for projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area by emitting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal. Is stored in a computer-usable information storage medium, wherein a light emission control signal inputting the light emission permission signal to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal requesting light emission is input from the shooting means. And identifying the light emitting unit that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which light emitting unit the light emitting permission signal has been input from the light emission control unit, and imaging the spot light forming area. Means for detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means. The information for realizing the light emission control means includes switching the light emission priority order of the plurality of shooting means at predetermined time intervals, and receiving the light emission request signals from the plurality of shooting means at substantially the same time. In this case, the information includes information for preferentially inputting the light emission permission signal to the shooting means having a high light emission priority among the plurality of shooting means that have become the input source of the light emission request signal. Information storage medium. 18. Information for executing a shooting game using a plurality of shooting means for emitting a light beam toward a target based on a light emission permission signal and projecting a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. A light emission control means for inputting the light emission permission signal to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition when a light emission request signal requesting light emission permission is input from the shooting means. And identifying the light emitting unit that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which light emitting unit the light emission permission signal has been input from the light emission control unit, and imaging the spot light forming area. Means for detecting the position of the spot light based on an output from the imaging means. The information for implementing the light emission control means includes switching the light emission priorities of the plurality of shooting means at predetermined time intervals, and permitting the light emission only to the shooting means having the highest light emission priority. An information storage medium including information for inputting a signal. 19. When a light emission permission signal is input, an operation of pulling a trigger is performed by a user to emit a light beam toward a target and project a spot light at an arbitrary position in a spot light forming area. Information for executing a shooting game using a plurality of shooting means, and an information storage medium usable for a computer, wherein a light emission control means for inputting the light emission permission signal to the shooting means in accordance with a predetermined condition; Identifying the shooting unit that has projected the spot light based on information indicating to which shooting unit the light emission permission signal has been input from the light emission control unit, and determining the spot based on an output from the imaging unit. Means for detecting the position of light to determine whether or not hit the target, The information for realizing the light emission control means includes switching the light emission priorities of the plurality of shooting means at predetermined time intervals, and changing the light emission permission signal to the highest light emission priority. An information storage medium comprising a program for automatically inputting to the shooting means. 20. The information according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the information for realizing the light emission control means includes a program for switching the light emission priority according to an image capturing speed of the imaging means. An information storage medium characterized by including. 21. The information according to claim 17, wherein the information for realizing the light emission control means is such that the light emission priority of each of a plurality of shooting means is the highest in order. An information storage medium comprising a program for controlling switching of the light emission priority.