Information processing device, information processing system, and computer program

Abstract

An information processing apparatus 10 includes an acquisition unit and a display control unit. An acquisition unit of an information processing apparatus 10 acquires setting information stored in a controller 6 and associated with manipulation of the controller 6. During execution of an application, a display control unit of an information processing apparatus 10 causes a display apparatus 4 to display information corresponding to setting information acquired by an acquisition unit and associated with a manipulation to a controller 6 in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the controller 6.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing system and a computer program. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, such controllers that are capable of storing setting information (hereinafter also referred to as “profiles”) associated with manipulation of the controller and customized by a user have become increasingly widely used. Summary of the invention

[0003] Technical issues

[0004] With the prospect that the number of configuration files storable in a controller will increase in the future, there is a need to develop a mechanism that enables a user to easily check information associated with the configuration files stored in the controller.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a technique that provides assistance to a user to easily check information associated with a configuration file stored in a controller.

[0006] Solution to the problem

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an information processing device according to an aspect of the present invention includes: an acquisition unit, which acquires setting information stored in a manipulation device and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device; and a display control unit, which, during the execution of an application, in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button set on the manipulation device, causes a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired by the acquisition unit and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to an information processing device. The device includes a processor. The processor performs a step of acquiring setting information stored in a manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, and a step of causing a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired in the acquiring step and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button set on the manipulation device during execution of an application.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to an information processing system. The information processing system includes an information processing device and a manipulation device that executes an application. The manipulation device stores setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, and the information processing device includes an acquisition unit and a display control unit, the acquisition unit acquires the setting information stored in the manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, and the display control unit causes a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired by the acquisition unit and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device during execution of the application in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button set on the manipulation device.

[0010] Note that any combination of the constituent elements and expressions of the present invention described above converted into forms such as a method, a computer program, and a recording medium storing the computer program are also effective as modes of the present invention.

[0011] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0012] The present invention provides assistance to a user to easily check information associated with a configuration file stored in a controller. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an information processing system according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating an upper surface of a controller.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a controller.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an information processing device.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating functional blocks of a controller.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating functional blocks of the information processing apparatus.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of profile switching using a function button.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a function menu window.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a change in sound output using a function button.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which both profile switching and sound output change are performed by using a function button.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a feedback setting screen.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating screen transitions associated with the setting of a profile. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] FIG1 illustrates an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. The information processing system 1 includes an information processing device 10, a display device 4, a controller 6, and a headset 8. The information processing device 10 according to the embodiment is a game device, such as a fixed-type game device. The information processing device 10 is wirelessly or wiredly connected to the controller 6 operated by the user. The controller 6 is a manipulation device that receives manipulations input from the user for information processing (a game according to the embodiment) performed by the information processing device 10. The controller 6 sequentially sends manipulation information indicating the manipulations input from the user to the information processing device 10. The controller 6 can also be expressed as a game controller.

[0026] The headphone 8 is a device that includes a sound transmitter (e.g., a speaker) and outputs audible sound corresponding to the electrical signal transmitted from the information processing device 10 from the sound transmitter. Note that the information processing system 1 may include headphones, a speaker of the display device 4, or a speaker built in the controller 6 as a sound output component instead of the headphone 8.

[0027] The display device 4 may be a television set including a display for outputting images and a speaker for outputting sounds, or may be a computer display. The display device 4 may be connected to the information processing device 10 via a cable, or may be wirelessly connected to the information processing device 10. When receiving the manipulation information provided from the controller 6, the information processing device 10 reflects the manipulation information in the processing performed by the system software or the application software, causes the display device 4 to display an image associated with the processing result, and causes the headphone 8 to output the sound associated with the processing result.

[0028] The first to third characteristics of the information processing system 1 will be explained as an outline of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0029] The controller 6 according to the embodiment is capable of storing setting information associated with the manipulation of the controller and customized by the user. The setting information associated with the controller 6 may be information including a setting value predetermined about the manipulation of the controller 6, etc. In addition, the setting information associated with the controller 6 may be setting information associated with generating manipulation information input to the information processing device 10 according to the manipulation input to the controller 6. In addition, the setting information associated with the controller 6 may be setting information associated with a change in an image generation mode provided by the information processing device 10 or an image display mode provided by the display device 4 according to the manipulation input to the controller 6. In addition, the setting information associated with the controller 6 may be setting information associated with a change in an output mode of sound from the information processing device 10, the headset 8, etc. according to the manipulation input to the controller 6. In addition, the setting information associated with the controller 6 may be setting information associated with a change in a chat mode according to the manipulation input to the controller 6.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the setting information associated with the controller will also be referred to as "profile information" or simply "profile". A specific example of the profile information will be described below. The profile information includes an identification (ID) and name of the profile, button assignment information, sensitivity information, dead zone information, and corresponding button information. The button assignment information is information indicating various types of actions, commands, and functions assigned to corresponding buttons of the controller 6 by the user. In other words, the button assignment information is information indicating the assignment of various types of actions, commands, and functions to corresponding buttons. The corresponding button information is identification information associated with the buttons of the controller 6, and the corresponding profile information is associated with each of the buttons of the controller 6, such as information indicating the circular button 72 and the cross button 73 described below.

[0031] The sensitivity information is information indicating a setting value associated with the sensitivity of the analog stick of the controller 6. The sensitivity of the analog stick specifies a manipulation amount corresponding to a manipulation amount (i.e., a tilt amount) actually input to the analog stick by a user, which is recognized by the information processing device 10. The manipulation amount recognized by the information processing device 10 is also regarded as a manipulation amount input to data processing performed by the information processing device 10. The setting value of the sensitivity may be a ratio of the manipulation amount actually input to the analog stick to the manipulation amount recognized by the information processing device 10.

[0032] The dead zone information is information containing a setting value associated with the dead zone of the analog stick of the controller 6. The dead zone of the analog stick is a range in which the manipulation input to each of the analog sticks is unacceptable, that is, a range in which the manipulation input to each of the analog sticks is ignored. The setting value of the dead zone may be a value range corresponding to the tilt amount of the dead zone.

[0033] The problem recognized by the present inventors is that there is a current need to develop a mechanism that enables easy switching to profile information desired by the user and among multiple pieces of profile information stored in the controller, with the prospect that the number of pieces of profile information storable in the controller will increase in the future.

[0034] The first feature of the information processing system 1 based on the above-mentioned problem recognized by the present inventors is intended to facilitate easy switching to profile information desired by the user and among a plurality of pieces of profile information stored in the controller 6. Specifically, according to the first feature, the controller 6 of the information processing system 1 stores profile information associated with the manipulation of the controller 6. In response to the input of the manipulation of the second button together with the manipulation of the first button, the controller 6 switches the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6.

[0035] The first button is regarded as a button for causing the second button to function in association with the profile information and different from the usual function. The first button includes a function button 88 described later. The second button includes a manipulation button 76, a direction button 71, and an option button 82 described later. The controller 6 according to the embodiment can perform various manipulations according to a combination of the function button 88 and other buttons.

[0036] A different problem recognized by the inventors is the need to develop a mechanism that enables a user to easily check information associated with profile information stored in a controller (i.e., profile information selectable by the user) as the number of pieces of profile information storable in a controller will increase in the future.

[0037] The second feature of the information processing system 1 based on the above-mentioned problem recognized by the present inventors is intended to assist the user to easily check the information associated with the profile information stored in the controller 6. Specifically, according to the second feature, the information processing device 10 of the information processing system 1 acquires the profile information stored in the controller 6. In response to detecting a predetermined manipulation input using a button of the controller 6 during the execution of an application, the information processing device 10 causes the display device 4 to display the information associated with the profile information acquired from the controller 6.

[0038] Another problem recognized by the present invention is that in conventional situations, the user recognizes the switching of the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller based on the lighting pattern of the indicator's light or the position of the physical selector switch. Therefore, in some cases, feedback associated with the switching of the profile information is not necessarily provided in a form that is convenient for the user.

[0039] The third feature of the information processing system 1 based on the above-mentioned problem is intended to provide feedback associated with the switching of the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 in a form convenient for the user. Specifically, according to the third feature, the controller 6 of the information processing system 1 stores a plurality of pieces of profile information that are associated with the manipulation of the controller 6 and that are selectable by the user. The notification unit of the information processing system 1 has a plurality of types of feedback systems for presenting to the user the fact that the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 has been switched in response to the switching of the profile information.

[0040] The button configuration of the controller 6 illustrated in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 illustrates the upper surface of the controller 6. The user holds the left grip portion 78b with the left hand and the right grip portion 78a with the right hand to manipulate the controller 6. The direction button 71, the right analog rocker 77a, the left analog rocker 77b and the manipulation button 76, which each constitute an input unit, are arranged on the upper surface of the housing of the controller 6. The direction button 71 is configured to receive input in eight directions (i.e., upward, downward, leftward, rightward and diagonal directions), and includes an upper button 71a, a left button 71b, a lower button 71c and a right button 71d according to the present embodiment. Four types of manipulation buttons 76 are given different colors and different graphics to distinguish these types. The manipulation button 76 includes a circular button 72, a cross button 73, a square button 74 and a triangular button 75.

[0041] Each of the right analog rocker 77a and the left analog rocker 77b is also referred to as a control rocker, a thumb rocker or a joystick, and is tilted to input a direction and an amount of tilt. The amount of tilt is also considered to be the tilt angle of the right analog rocker 77a or the left analog rocker 77b. Each of the right analog rocker 77a and the left analog rocker 77b is also used as a button, which sinks downward by the user's press and returns to the original position by the release of the user's hand. Each of the right analog rocker 77a and the left analog rocker 77b will also be collectively referred to as "analog rocker 77" hereinafter. The manipulation button 76, the direction button 71 and the analog rocker 77 are used to manipulate the application (game according to the embodiment) executed by the information processing device 10.

[0042] The touch pad 79 is provided in a flat area between the direction button 71 and the manipulation button 76 on the upper surface of the housing. In addition to the function of detecting the touch of the user's finger, the touch pad 79 also has a function as a button that sinks downward by the user's pressing and returns to the original position by the release of the user's hand. In addition, a speaker 84 is also provided on the upper surface of the housing.

[0043] A home button 80 is provided between the right analog stick 77a and the left analog stick 77b. The home button 80 is used to turn on the power of the controller 6 and the information processing device 10, and simultaneously activate a communication function for wireless connection with the information processing device 10. After the connection between the controller 6 and the information processing device 10 is established, the home button 80 is also used to cause the information processing device 10 to display a menu screen or a home screen. Each of the menu screen or the home screen is a screen through which a user selects a function or application to be executed by the information processing device 10.

[0044] The share button 81 is provided on the left side of the touch panel 79. The option button 82 is provided on the right side of the touch panel 79. Each of the share button 81 and the option button 82 is used to input an instruction given from a user to an operating system (OS) or system software of the information processing device 10. In other words, each of the share button 81 and the option button 82 is a button for calling (manipulating) a function of the OS or system software of the information processing device 10. Each of the share button 81 and the option button 82 may be constituted by a press-type button.

[0045] The light emitting unit 86 is provided at the lower edge portion of the touch panel 79. The light emitting unit 86 includes a plurality of lamps (five lamps in the example of FIG. 2 ), and displays information associated with the state of the controller 6 in the form of a light emitting pattern of the plurality of lamps (i.e., a combination of a light emitting state and a light extinction state). In a normal state, the light emitting unit 86 is set to a light emitting pattern indicating identification information (information for distinguishing from other controllers) associated with the controller 6. According to an embodiment, in a case where profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 is switched, the light emitting unit 86 is set to a light emitting pattern for a short period of time indicating that the profile information associated with the controller 6 has been switched.

[0046] Each of the right function button 88a and the left function button 88b (hereinafter also collectively referred to as "function button 88") is a button for changing or expanding the function of the other button. According to this embodiment, when the input of the manipulation of the manipulation button 76 and the input of the manipulation of the function button 88 are simultaneously performed, the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 is switched to the profile information corresponding to the type of the manipulation button 76 operated simultaneously with the function button 88. The right function button 88a and the left function button 88b may have exactly the same function. In this case, the same function is provided by the operation of the left button or the right button.

[0047] 2 , the controller 6 includes various types of input units (eg, various buttons and a joystick). The user inputs manipulation to the input unit of the controller 6 while viewing a menu screen or a game screen displayed on the display device 4.

[0048] FIG3 illustrates a hardware configuration associated with the controller 6 according to the present embodiment. In addition to the hardware illustrated in FIG2 , the controller 6 includes a vibrator 90, a storage unit 92, a communication control unit 94, and a processor 96. The processor 96 performs various types of data processing and controls the operation of various types of hardware. The processor 96 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a memory, and a system on chip (SoC).

[0049] The vibrator 90 vibrates according to the control signal received from the processor 96 to provide tactile stimulation to the user. The storage unit 92 stores data referenced or updated by the processor 96. The communication control unit 94 controls communication with external devices. According to an embodiment, the communication control unit 94 communicates wirelessly with the information processing device 10. Alternatively, the communication control unit 94 in the modified example can also communicate with the information processing device 10 by wire.

[0050] 4 illustrates a hardware configuration of the information processing device 10. The information processing device 10 includes a main power button 20, a power-on light emitting diode (LED) 21, a standby LED 22, a system controller 24, a clock 26, a device controller 30, a media drive 32, a universal serial bus (USB) module 34, a flash memory 36, a wireless communication module 38, a wired communication module 40, a subsystem 50, and a main system 60.

[0051] The main system 60 includes a main CPU, a memory and a memory controller constituting a main storage device, a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc. The GPU is mainly used for arithmetic processing of game programs. These functions can constitute an SoC formed on one chip. The main CPU has a function of starting the OS and executing an application program installed in a storage unit (e.g., a flash memory 36 or an auxiliary storage device not shown) in an environment provided by the OS. In addition, the main system 60 has a function of controlling the display content provided by the display device 4.

[0052] The subsystem 50 includes a sub-CPU, a memory and a memory controller constituting a main storage device, etc., but does not include a GPU. The number of circuit gating of the sub-CPU is smaller than the number of circuit gating of the main CPU, and the operating power consumption of the sub-CPU is lower than the operating power consumption of the main CPU. The sub-CPU operates during the standby state of the main CPU and has limited processing functions in order to reduce power consumption. Note that the sub-CPU and the memory can be formed on separate chips.

[0053] A main power button 20 as an input unit to which manipulation is input from a user is provided on the front surface of the housing of the information processing device 10, and is operated to turn on or off the power supply to the main system 60 of the information processing device 10. It is assumed hereinafter that the on state of the main power refers to the active state of the main system 60, and the off state of the main power refers to the standby state of the main system 60. The power-on LED 21 turns on when the main power button 20 is turned on. The standby LED 22 turns on when the main power button 20 is turned off.

[0054] The system controller 24 detects the user's pressing of the main power button 20. When the main power button 20 is pressed in the OFF state of the main power, the system controller 24 obtains the pressing operation as a "turn-on instruction". Conversely, when the main power button 20 is pressed in the ON state of the main power, the system controller 24 obtains the pressing operation as a "turn-off instruction". The system controller 24 can obtain a power ON / OFF instruction similar to the above from the manipulation input from the controller 6.

[0055] The main CPU has a function of executing a game program installed in a predetermined storage unit or a read-only memory (ROM) medium 44, while the sub-CPU does not have this function. However, the sub-CPU has a function of accessing the storage unit and a function of transmitting and receiving data with an external device. The sub-CPU has only limited processing functions as described above, and thus can operate with lower power consumption than the main CPU. These functions of the sub-CPU are executed when the main CPU is in a standby state.

[0056] The clock 26 constituting a real time clock generates current date and time information, and provides the date and time information to the system controller 24 , the subsystem 50 , and the main system 60 .

[0057] The device controller 30 constitutes a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI) (such as a south bridge) for performing information transfer between devices. As illustrated in the figure, devices such as the system controller 24, the media drive 32, the USB module 34, the flash memory 36, the wireless communication module 38, the wired communication module 40, the subsystem 50, and the main system 60 are connected to the device controller 30. The device controller 30 absorbs the difference in electrical characteristics and the difference in data transmission speed between devices to control the data transmission timing.

[0058] The media drive 32 is a drive device that drives a ROM medium 44 attached as a medium recording application software such as games and license information and reads programs, data, etc. from the ROM medium 44. The ROM medium 44 is a read-only recording medium such as an optical disc, a magneto-optical disc, and a Blu-ray disc.

[0059] The USB module 34 is a module connected to an external device via a USB cable. The flash memory 36 is an auxiliary storage device constituting an internal storage. The wireless communication module 38 is a communication protocol such as the Bluetooth (trademark or registered trademark) protocol and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 protocol, and wirelessly communicates with the controller 6 and the headset 8, for example. The wired communication module 40 communicates with an external device by wire, and is connected to the Internet, a server, etc., for example, via an acceleration point not illustrated.

[0060] FIG5 is a block diagram illustrating the functional blocks of the controller 6. The corresponding blocks illustrated in the block diagram of this specification are implemented in hardware by components such as a processor, CPU and memory of a computer as a typical example, an electronic circuit or a mechanical device, or in software by a computer program loaded into the memory, etc. The figure specifically shows the functional blocks implemented by their cooperation. Therefore, it can be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be implemented in various forms according to a combination of hardware and software.

[0061] The controller 6 includes a profile storage unit 100 and a processing unit 102. The profile storage unit 100 is implemented by the storage unit 92 illustrated in Fig. 3. The processing unit 102 performs various types of information processing. The processing unit 102 is implemented by the processor 96 illustrated in Fig. 3.

[0062] The profile storage unit 100 stores profile information associated with the controller 6. The profile storage unit 100 stores a plurality of pieces of profile information in association with corresponding types of mutually different manipulation buttons 76. According to an embodiment, the profile storage unit 100 stores a maximum of four pieces of profile information in association with four manipulation buttons 76 (circular button 72, cross button 73, square button 74, triangle button 75).

[0063] The processing unit 102 includes a manipulation detection unit 104, a manipulation information generation unit 106, a manipulation information transmission unit 108, a change unit 110, a notification unit 112, and a setting update unit 114. A computer program (e.g., firmware) that implements at least some of the above-mentioned multiple functions may be stored in the storage unit 92 of the controller 6. The processor 96 of the controller 6 may retrieve the computer program into the main memory and execute the computer program to exert at least some of the above-mentioned multiple functions.

[0064] The manipulation detection unit 104 detects a manipulation input from the user to the controller 6. The manipulation input from the user includes a manipulation for pressing a button or tilting the analog stick 77, for example.

[0065] The manipulation information generation unit 106 generates user manipulation information transmitted from the controller 6 to the information processing device 10 with reference to the profile information of the manipulation selected by the user and applied to the controller 6 and the manipulation input from the user to the controller 6 and detected by the manipulation detection unit 104. For example, in the case where a manipulation of a first tilt amount is input to the analog stick 77, the manipulation information generation unit 106 may determine a second tilt amount of the analog stick 77 to be input to the information processing device 10 with reference to the sensitivity and the size of the dead zone indicated by the profile information of the manipulation applied to the controller 6. Thereafter, the manipulation information generation unit 106 may generate manipulation information indicating the second tilt amount of the analog stick 77.

[0066] The manipulation information transmitting unit 108 transmits manipulation information, which is generated by the manipulation information generating unit 106 and indicates a manipulation performed by the user, to the information processing device 10 .

[0067] In response to the input of the manipulation of the manipulation button 76 as the second button together with the manipulation of the function button 88 as the first button, the change unit 110 switches the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6. Specifically, in response to the manipulation of the specific manipulation button 76 together with the input of the manipulation of the function button 88, the change unit 110 switches the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 to the profile information among the plurality of pieces of profile information that are associated with the specific function button 88 corresponding to the manipulation target and stored in the profile storage unit 100.

[0068] In the case where the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 is switched, the notification unit 112 provides at least one type of feedback of multiple types to the user. The notification unit 112 has multiple types of feedback systems for presenting to the user the fact that the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 has been switched in response to the switching of the profile information.

[0069] The setting updating unit 114 updates the profile information stored in the profile storage unit 100 with reference to the update data of the profile information transmitted from the information processing device 10 .

[0070] FIG6 is a block diagram illustrating functional blocks of the information processing device 10. The information processing device 10 includes a storage unit 200 and a processing unit 210. The processing unit 210 performs various types of information processing. The processing unit 210 is implemented by a processor of the information processing device 10. For example, the processing unit 210 may be implemented by the main system 60 illustrated in FIG4. The storage unit 200 stores data referenced or updated by the processing unit 210. The storage unit 200 may include the flash memory 36 and the ROM medium 44 illustrated in FIG4.

[0071] The storage unit 200 includes an application storage unit 202 and a configuration file storage unit 204. The application storage unit 202 stores data on an application executable by the information processing device 10 (a game program according to the embodiment).

[0072] The profile storage unit 204 stores profile information associated with the controller 6. At least some of the plurality of pieces of profile information (a maximum of four pieces of profile information) stored in the profile storage unit 204 correspond to the profile information stored in the controller 6.

[0073] The processing unit 210 includes a profile information acquisition unit 212, a manipulation information receiving unit 214, an application execution unit 216, a setting screen forming unit 218, a display control unit 220, an audio processing unit 221, a notification unit 222, and an update instruction unit 224. A computer program that implements at least some of the multiple functions described above may be stored in the storage unit 200 of the information processing device 10. The processor of the information processing device 10 (e.g., the main system 60) may retrieve the computer program into the main memory and execute the computer program to exert at least some of the multiple functions described above.

[0074] From the controller 6 connected to the information processing device 10, the profile information acquisition unit 212 acquires profile information stored in the controller 6 and stores the acquired profile information in the profile storage unit 204. For example, the profile information acquisition unit 212 acquires a plurality of pieces of profile information stored in the controller 6 and selectable by the user.

[0075] The manipulation information receiving unit 214 receives manipulation information which is transmitted from the controller 6 connected to the information processing apparatus 10 and indicates a manipulation performed by a user on the controller 6 .

[0076] The application execution unit 216 executes an application program (a game program according to the embodiment) stored in the application storage unit 202. The application execution unit 216 advances the game according to manipulation information indicating manipulation performed by the user on the controller 6, and sequentially forms images indicating the result of the game progress (hereinafter also referred to as "game screen").

[0077] The setting screen forming unit 218 detects input of a predetermined manipulation using the function button 88 as a first button with reference to manipulation information associated with manipulation performed by the user on the controller 6 during execution of the game (e.g., during display of the game screen). In the event that the input of the predetermined manipulation using the function button 88 is detected, the setting screen forming unit 218 generates information associated with the profile information acquired by the profile information acquiring unit 212 and stored in the profile storage unit 204. As will be described later, the information associated with the profile information includes a function menu window and a profile information setting screen.

[0078] The display control unit 220 outputs data associated with the game screen and generated by the application execution unit 216 to the display device 4 so that the display device 4 displays the game screen. In addition, the display control unit 220 outputs information related to the profile information associated with the controller 6 and generated by the setting screen formation unit 218 to the display device 4 so that the display device 4 displays the information.

[0079] The audio processing unit 221 controls the sound output from the speaker or the like connected to the information processing device 10. For example, the audio processing unit 221 transmits the game audio signal generated by the application execution unit 216 to the headset 8 to output the sound of the game from the headset 8. Alternatively, the audio processing unit 221 transmits the sound of the game to the controller 6 to output the sound from the speaker 84 built in the controller 6. In addition, the audio processing unit 221 transmits a chat sound signal (for example, speech from another user) input from an external device to the information processing device 10 to the headset 8 to output the chat sound from the headset 8. The audio processing unit 221 can output a mixture of the game sound and the chat sound from the headset 8, or output the mixture from the speaker 84 of the controller 6.

[0080] The update instruction unit 224 sends an instruction for updating the profile information to the controller 6 according to the manipulation input from the user to the profile information setting screen. The update instruction unit 224 causes the controller 6 to store the profile information edited on the profile information setting screen, that is, to reflect the edit detailed information input to the profile information setting screen in the profile information stored in the controller 6.

[0081] In the case where the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 is switched, the notification unit 222 provides predetermined feedback to the user. The notification unit 112 of the controller 6 and the notification unit 222 of the information processing device 10 constitute a notification unit of the information processing system 1. The notification unit of the information processing system 1 has various types of feedback systems for presenting to the user the fact that the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 has been switched in response to the switching of the profile information.

[0082] Various types of feedback systems constitute components or mechanisms for providing information perceived by different types of senses of the user, and include hardware and software. The information provided to the user by the feedback system will also be referred to as "feedback". Feedback includes various types of physical phenomena using hardware, and includes physical stimulation to the user.

[0083] The various types of feedback systems include feedback systems for providing visual information as feedback and feedback systems for providing tactile information as feedback. Visual information may also be represented as visual stimulation and corresponds to information perceived by human visual perception (e.g., an image). Hardware that provides visual information as feedback includes either or both of the light emitting unit 86 of the controller 6 and the display device 4 different from the controller 6. Tactile information may also be represented as tactile stimulation and corresponds to information perceived by human tactile perception (e.g., vibration). Hardware that provides tactile information as feedback includes the vibrator 90 of the controller 6.

[0084] The notification unit of the information processing system 1 provides the user with one or more types of feedback selected by the user from a plurality of types of feedback in the case of switching the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6. Specifically, in the case of switching the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6, the notification unit of the information processing system 1 actuates one or more types of feedback systems corresponding to the one or more types of feedback selected by the user from a plurality of types of feedback systems.

[0085] The operation of the information processing system 1 having the aforementioned configuration will be described. When the controller 6 is connected to the information processing device 10, the profile information acquisition unit 212 of the information processing device 10 acquires the profile information stored in the profile storage unit 100 of the controller 6, and stores the acquired information in the profile storage unit 204. It is further assumed in the following description that the application execution unit 216 of the information processing device 10 is executing a game program and the display control unit 220 is displaying a game screen on the display device 4.

[0086] First, the operation associated with profile switching will be described. FIG. 7 illustrates an example of profile switching using the function button 88. As shown in FIG.

[0087] In Case 1, the user holds the controller 6 and presses the triangle button 75 as the second button while pressing the function button 88 as the first button. In this case, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 switches the current profile information to the profile information associated with the triangle button 75 (e.g., the default profile) when detecting the pressing of the triangle button 75 during the detection of the pressing of the function button 88. Although not illustrated, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 switches the current profile information to the profile information associated with the cross button 73 (e.g., the fighting profile 1) in response to the user's pressing of the cross button 73 together with the pressing of the function button 88.

[0088] In case 2, the user inputs a long press operation on the function button 88. According to the embodiment, the long press operation is a pressing operation that lasts for 400 milliseconds or longer. The setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 detects the long press operation of the function button 88, and forms a function menu window (described later). The display control unit 220 displays the function menu window on the game screen in an overlapping manner. When the user continues to press the triangle button 75 while pressing the function button 88 even after the function menu window is displayed, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 detects the pressing of the triangle button 75 during the detection of the pressing of the function button 88. Therefore, the change unit 110 switches the current profile information to the profile information associated with the triangle button 75 (for example, the default profile). When the user stops pressing the function button 88, the display control unit 220 of the information processing device 10 ends the display of the function menu window on the game screen.

[0089] In case 3, the user presses the triangle button 75 before the pressing time of the function button 88 reaches 400 milliseconds (i.e., before the function menu window 302 is displayed), and then the pressing time of the function button 88 reaches 400 milliseconds. In this case, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 detects the pressing of the triangle button 75 during the detection of the pressing of the function button 88. Therefore, the change unit 110 switches the current profile information to the profile information associated with the triangle button 75 (e.g., the default profile). At the same time, the display control unit 220 of the information processing device 10 detects the manipulation of a different button (in this case, the triangle button 75) before the pressing time of the function button 88 reaches 400 milliseconds. Accordingly, the display control unit 220 blocks the display of the function menu window 302.

[0090] In the case where the switching manipulation of the profile information is performed, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 notifies the manipulation information generation unit 106 of this fact. In the case where the switching manipulation is for switching the currently selected profile information, the manipulation information generation unit 106 generates user manipulation information with reference to the profile information selected by the switching manipulation. For example, the manipulation information generation unit 106 generates manipulation information associated with the analog stick 77 with reference to the tilt amount and sensitivity of the analog stick 77 given by the user and the setting value of the dead zone indicated by the currently selected profile information. The application execution unit 216 of the information processing device 10 executes the application (game program) with reference to the manipulation information transmitted from the controller 6 and reflecting the currently selected profile information.

[0091] FIG8 illustrates an example of a function menu window. As already described above, the function menu window 302 is displayed while being superimposed on a screen indicating the execution result of the application (the game screen 300 in the figure). The function menu window 302 includes a list of multiple profile information that the user can select on the controller 6 as information corresponding to the profile information associated with the controller 6. The list of profile information includes information indicating the corresponding buttons of the manipulation buttons 76 associated with the corresponding multiple profile information. The list of profile information may include the ID and name of each profile and the corresponding button information. The function menu window 302 illustrated in FIG8 indicates that the default profile is associated with the triangle button 75 and the fighting profile 1 is associated with the cross button 73.

[0092] The selected profile indicator 304 is an object indicating the profile information currently selected on the controller 6. In the case of switching the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6, the notification unit 112 of the controller 6 notifies the information processing device 10 of the profile information applied after the switching (that is, the currently selected profile information). The setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 adds the selected profile indicator 304 to the currently selected profile information among the pieces of profile information set on the function menu window 302.

[0093] Furthermore, the function menu window 302 presents the customizing function of the profile information in association with the image indicating the option button 82. The customizing function of the profile information using the function button 88 and the option button 82 will be described later in conjunction with FIG.

[0094] In addition, the function menu window 302 includes information indicating the assignment of shortcuts for audio manipulation. For example, the function menu window 302 illustrated in FIG8 indicates that the upper button 71a and the lower button 71c of the controller 6 are used as shortcut keys for adjusting the volume of the headset 8. In addition, the function menu window 302 illustrated in FIG8 indicates that the left button 71b and the right button 71d of the controller 6 are used as shortcut keys for adjusting the balance between the game volume and the chat volume.

[0095] In response to the input of the manipulation of the direction button 71 as the second button together with the manipulation of the function button 88 as the first button, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 also performs a change process associated with the sound output. According to the embodiment, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 sends a change instruction associated with the sound output to the information processing device 10 in response to the input of the manipulation of the direction button 71 together with the manipulation of the function button 88. The audio processing unit 221 of the information processing device 10 changes the output mode of the sound from the sound output device (the headphone 8 or the speaker 84 of the controller 6 according to the embodiment) according to the aforementioned instruction issued from the controller 6.

[0096] Specifically, in response to the input of the manipulation of the upper button 71a or the lower button 71c together with the manipulation of the function button 88, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 sends a signal indicating an instruction for changing the volume of the speaker 84 of the headset 8 or the controller 6 to the information processing device 10. For example, the simultaneous manipulation of the function button 88 and the upper button 71a can be defined as an instruction for increasing the volume, while the simultaneous manipulation of the function button 88 and the lower button 71c can be defined as an instruction for decreasing the volume. The audio processing unit 221 of the information processing device 10 changes the volume of the sound (e.g., game sound or chat sound) output from the speaker 84 of the headset 8 or the controller 6 according to the aforementioned signal received from the controller 6.

[0097] In addition, in response to the input of the manipulation of the left button 71b or the right button 71d together with the manipulation of the function button 88, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 sends a signal indicating an instruction for adjusting the balance between the game volume and the chat volume to the information processing device 10. For example, the simultaneous manipulation of the function button 88 and the left button 71b can be defined as an instruction for reducing the ratio of the chat volume, and the simultaneous operation of the function button 88 and the right button 71d can be defined as an instruction for increasing the ratio of the chat volume. The audio processing unit 221 of the information processing device 10 changes the balance between the game volume and the chat volume output from the headphone 8 or the speaker 84 of the controller 6 according to the aforementioned signal received from the controller 6.

[0098] 9 illustrates an example of sound output change using the function button 88. In Case 1, the user holds the controller 6 and presses the upper button 71a while pressing the function button 88. In this case, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 cooperates with the audio processing unit 221 of the information processing device 10 to increase the volume of the sound output from the headphone 8 by one unit.

[0099] In case 2, the user inputs a long-press manipulation of the function button 88, and also starts pressing the upper button 71a before the pressing time of the function button 88 reaches 400 milliseconds. In this case, during the period of continuing to press the upper button 71a, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 gradually increases the volume of the sound output from the headphone 8 or the speaker 84 of the controller 6. At the same time, the display control unit 220 of the information processing device 10 detects the manipulation of a different button (in this case, the upper button 71a) before the pressing time of the function button 88 reaches 400 milliseconds. Accordingly, the display control unit 220 blocks the display of the function menu window 302.

[0100] Furthermore, in Case 2, the user continues pressing the upper button 71a even after the manipulation of the function button 88 is ended. Even when the pressing of the upper button 71a is detected after the manipulation of the function button 88 is ended, the changing unit 110 of the controller 6 does not increase the volume of the sound output from the headphone 8. Note that the application execution unit 216 of the information processing device 10 may recognize the pressing of the upper button 71a after the manipulation of the function button 88 is ended as the manipulation of the game, and reflect the pressing in the progress of the game.

[0101] In case 3, the user inputs a long press operation on the function button 88, and also presses the upper button 71a multiple times after the pressing time of the function button 88 reaches 400 milliseconds. The setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 detects the long press operation on the function button 88, and forms a function menu window. The display control unit 220 displays the function menu window on the game screen in an overlapping manner. After the long press operation on the function button 88 ends, the display control unit 220 ends the display of the function menu window. The changing unit 110 of the controller 6 gradually increases the volume of the sound output from the headphone 8 during the period in which the pressing of the function button 88 continues according to the number of times the upper button 71a is pressed.

[0102] FIG10 shows an example in which both profile switching and sound output change are performed by using the function button 88. The user presses the upper button 71a before pressing the function button 88, and starts pressing the function button 88 while continuously pressing the upper button 71a. Since the upper button 71a has been pressed before pressing the function button 88, a specific operation (for example, volume increase processing) is not performed at the timing of pressing the function button 88. The application execution unit 216 of the information processing device 10 recognizes the pressing of the upper button 71a before the manipulation of the function button 88 as the manipulation of the game, and reflects the pressing in the progress of the game.

[0103] The user sequentially presses the triangle button 75, the down button 71c, and the cross button 73 during the long press of the function button 88. When the press of the triangle button 75 is detected, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 switches the current profile information to the profile information (e.g., the default profile) associated with the triangle button 75. In the period of both the continued press of the function button 88 and the continued press of the down button 71c, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 gradually reduces the volume of the sound output from the headphone 8. When the press of the cross button 73 is detected together with the press of the function button 88, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 switches the current profile information to the profile information (e.g., the fighting profile 1) associated with the cross button 73.

[0104] As described above, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 performs a change process associated with a setting item of a type determined by one press (i.e., one manipulation) in response to the input of the manipulation of the manipulation button 76 together with the manipulation of the function button 88. The setting item of a type determined by one press is profile information associated with the controller 6 according to the embodiment. However, in a modified example, the setting item may be an application to be executed, or a manipulation target (e.g., a game character) included in the application.

[0105] In addition, the change unit 110 of the controller 6 performs a change process corresponding to the setting item whose value changes successively in response to the input of the manipulation of the direction button 71 together with the manipulation of the function button 88. The setting item whose value changes successively corresponds to the volume and sound balance involved according to the embodiment. However, in a modified example, the setting item may be the luminance, brightness, chroma, etc. of the image of the application, or the moving speed, etc. of the manipulation target (e.g., a game character) included in the application.

[0106] According to the information processing system 1 of the embodiment, the user is allowed to quickly switch the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6. Therefore, the usability of the controller 6 is improved. For example, if the user identifies the manipulation button 76 associated with the desired profile information corresponding to the profile information to be used after switching, the user can switch the current profile information to the desired profile information by one manipulation using the function button 88 and the manipulation button 76 regardless of which profile information is currently selected. In other words, the user is allowed to switch the profile information to be applied to the manipulation of the controller 6 during the execution of the game without taking the eyes off the screen. In addition, according to the information processing system 1 of the embodiment, the necessity of providing hardware dedicated to the profile information switching can be eliminated by using a command method for realizing the profile information switching.

[0107] The operation associated with the notification given to the user about the profile information switching will be described later. In the case where the change unit 110 of the controller 6 switches the profile information to be applied to the manipulation, the notification unit 112 of the controller 6 can control the operation of one or both of the light emitting unit 86 and the vibrator 90 according to the predetermined feedback setting. Specifically, the notification unit 112 can provide feedback to the user using one or both of visual information and tactile information according to one switching of the profile information.

[0108] For example, in the case where the indicator of the controller is selected as the feedback system, the notification unit 112 may send a signal indicating an instruction to emit light for a predetermined period of time in a pattern indicating the switching of the profile information to the light emitting unit 86. In this case, feedback using visual information indicating the profile switching is provided to the user through the light emission from the light emitting unit 86 in the pattern described above. In addition, in the case where the vibration of the controller is selected as the feedback system, the notification unit 112 may send a signal indicating an instruction to vibrate for a predetermined period of time to the vibrator 90. In this case, feedback using tactile information indicating the profile switching is provided to the user through the vibration of the vibrator 90.

[0109] In the case where the change unit 110 of the controller 6 switches the profile information to be applied to the manipulation, the notification unit 112 of the controller 6 also transmits data indicating the switching of the profile information to the information processing device 10 to notify the information processing device 10 of the switching of the profile information. In the case where a notification about the switching of the profile is given from the controller 6 in the case where screen notification is specified as a feedback system in the predetermined feedback setting, the notification unit 222 of the information processing device 10 causes the display device 4 to display information (e.g., an image or a message) indicating that the profile information has been switched. The information associated with the switching of the profile information may be displayed in an overlapping manner on an image associated with an application currently executed and displayed on the display device 4. In this case, feedback using visual information indicating the switching of the profile is provided to the user. Specifically, according to the setting given by the user, the visual information as feedback may be displayed on both the display unit (the light emitting unit 86 according to the embodiment) of the controller 6 and the display device 4 different from the controller 6.

[0110] The setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 generates data about a screen for setting a mode of feedback for profile switching (hereinafter also referred to as a "feedback setting screen") according to the manipulation performed by the user. The display control unit 220 causes the display device 4 to display the feedback setting screen. The feedback setting screen may be one of the screens associated with the system setting of the information processing device 10.

[0111] FIG11 illustrates an example of a feedback setting screen. The feedback setting screen 330 includes information indicating a plurality of types of feedback systems selectable by the user. As already described, the plurality of types of feedback systems use different types of hardware, specifically, including (1) an indicator of the controller (a feedback system using the light emitting unit 86 of the controller 6), (2) vibration of the controller (a feedback system using the vibrator 90 of the controller 6), and (3) screen notification (a feedback system using the display device 4).

[0112] The soft switch 332 is arranged in the area of ​​the corresponding feedback system on the feedback setting screen 330. The user sets the soft switch 332 corresponding to the desired feedback system to ON. According to an embodiment, any feedback mode can be selected from the selection ranging from no feedback (selecting OFF for all three feedback systems) to performing three types of feedback simultaneously (selecting ON for all three feedback systems) on the feedback setting screen 330.

[0113] The notification unit 222 of the information processing device 10 stores information indicating ON / OFF of feedback using screen notification in the setting detailed information on the feedback setting screen 330. In a case where the feedback using screen notification is set to ON, the notification unit 222 notifies the user of the switching of the profile information via the screen of the display device 4. In addition, the notification unit 222 transmits the setting detailed information on the feedback setting screen 330 to the controller 6.

[0114] The notification unit 112 of the controller 6 stores information indicating ON / OFF of feedback given by the indicator of the controller 6 and information indicating ON / OFF of feedback given by the vibration of the controller 6 in the setting detailed information on the feedback setting screen 330. In a case where the feedback using the indicator of the controller 6 is set to ON, the notification unit 112 notifies the user of the switching of the profile information by using the light emitting unit 86. In a case where the feedback using the vibration of the controller 6 is set to ON, the notification unit 112 notifies the user of the switching of the profile information by using the vibrator 90.

[0115] According to the information processing system 1 of the embodiment, feedback can be provided in a user-friendly form when switching profile information to be applied to manipulation of the controller 6. In addition, according to the information processing system 1, the user can be easily notified of the fact that setting information has been switched.

[0116] Next, operations associated with profile setting and editing will be described. FIG. 12 schematically illustrates screen transitions associated with profile setting. During the execution of the application (during the display of the game screen 300 according to the embodiment), the setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 detects the input of the manipulation of the option button 82 as the second button together with the manipulation of the function button 88 as the first button, with reference to the manipulation information associated with the manipulation performed by the user on the controller 6. In the case where the input of the manipulation of the option button 82 is detected together with the input of the manipulation of the function button 88, the setting screen forming unit 218 generates data about the setting screen of the profile information (hereinafter also referred to as the "profile setting screen"). The display control unit 220 of the information processing device 10 causes the display device 4 to display the profile setting screen instead of the game screen 300.

[0117] The profile setting screen includes a profile top screen 310 and a profile editing screen 320. When the option button 82 is manipulated together with the function button 88 during display of the game screen 300 (which may include the function menu window 302), the transition from the game screen 300 to the profile top screen 310 is normally performed.

[0118] The profile top screen 310 is a screen for selecting profile information to be stored in the controller 6 and profile information to be erased (deleted) from the controller 6. The profile top screen 310 includes a profile creation button 312 and profile information stored in the controller 6. The profile creation button 312 is a soft button for creating a new profile. By pressing the profile creation button 312, a transition is made to a profile editing screen 320 described below.

[0119] The profile information to be set on the profile top screen 310 may be any profile information stored in the profile information acquisition unit 212 of the information processing device 10. Each profile information on the profile top screen 310 includes the ID and name of the corresponding profile and the corresponding button information. An image indicating the type of the manipulation button 76 associated with the corresponding profile information is added to each profile information. In addition, a record button 314, a delete button 316, and an edit button 318 are set for each profile information. Any of the profile information described above may be profile information pre-set by the user for the information processing device 10, profile information downloaded and acquired and set by a different user via a network, or the like.

[0120] The record button 314 is a soft button for recording the corresponding profile information in the controller 6. In the case where the user selects the record button 314 corresponding to specific profile information, the update instruction unit 224 of the information processing device 10 sends a signal indicating an instruction for storing the profile information to the controller 6. The setting update unit 114 of the controller 6 stores the profile information specified by the aforementioned signal in the profile storage unit 100.

[0121] The delete button 316 is a soft button for deleting the corresponding profile information from the controller 6. In the case where the user selects the delete button 316 corresponding to specific profile information, the update instruction unit 224 of the information processing device 10 sends a signal indicating an instruction for deleting the profile information to the controller 6. The setting update unit 114 of the controller 6 erases the profile information specified by the aforementioned signal from the profile storage unit 100.

[0122] The edit button 318 is a soft button for editing the corresponding profile information. When the user selects the edit button 318 corresponding to the specific profile information, the setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 generates data about the profile editing screen 320 for which the current setting value determined by the corresponding profile information is set. The display control unit 220 causes the display device 4 to display the profile editing screen 320.

[0123] The profile editing screen 320 is a screen provided for allowing the user to edit detailed information of a new profile or an existing profile (e.g., profile information stored in the controller 6). The profile editing screen 320 includes a screen element for editing function assignments to buttons, a screen element for adjusting the sensitivity of the analog stick 77, and a screen element for adjusting the dead zone of the analog stick 77.

[0124] According to the embodiment, when a specific profile is edited on the profile editing screen 320, the update instruction unit 224 of the information processing device 10 reflects the edit detailed information in the specific profile information stored in the profile storage unit 204 at each timing, and transmits the edit detailed information to the controller 6 at each timing. The setting update unit 114 of the controller 6 reflects the edit detailed information on the profile editing screen 320 in the specific profile information stored in the profile storage unit 100. In a modified example, the edit detailed information on the profile editing screen 320 may be reflected in the profile information stored in each of the information processing device 10 and the controller 6 at the timing of transition from the profile editing screen 320 to a different screen.

[0125] When an input of a predetermined return manipulation by the user is detected during display of the profile edit screen 320, the display control unit 220 of the information processing device 10 ends the display of the profile edit screen 320, and again displays the profile top screen 310. Furthermore, when a manipulation of the option button 82 by the user together with a manipulation of the function button 88 is detected during display of the profile top screen 310, the display control unit 220 ends the display of the profile top screen 310, and again displays the game screen 300.

[0126] According to the embodiment, in some cases, the profile editing screen 320 is displayed during the execution of the application (for example, during the display of the game screen 300). For example, in some cases, a display transition from the game screen 300 to the profile editing screen 320 via the profile top screen 310 is performed. When the user's manipulation of the option button 82 together with the manipulation of the function button 88 is detected during the game execution in the background and the display of the profile editing screen 320 as described above, the display control unit 220 of the information processing device 10 ends the display of the profile editing screen 320 and displays the game screen 300 again. In other words, a direct transition from the profile editing screen 320 to the game screen 300 is achieved.

[0127] Furthermore, in response to detecting the manipulation of the option button 82 by the user together with the manipulation of the function button 88, in a state where the most recently displayed profile setting screen is the profile editing screen 320, during the display of the game screen 300, the display control unit 220 ends the display of the game screen 300 and again displays the same profile editing screen 320. The same profile editing screen 320 is provided to edit the same profile information as that included in the profile editing screen 320, which is the original screen before the transition to the game screen 300.

[0128] Specifically, under the condition that direct transition from the profile editing screen 320 to the game screen 300 has been achieved, the display control unit 220 does not perform transition to the profile top screen 310, but performs direct transition to the profile editing screen 320, which is the original screen before transition to the game screen 300, according to the manipulation of the function button 88 and the option button 82 on the game screen 300. The display control unit 220 determines the screen transition based on the manipulation of the first button and the predetermined second button (the function button 88 and the option button 82) during display of the game screen 300, according to the history of the screen transition.

[0129] In addition, a back button 322 is arranged on the profile editing screen 320. The back button 322 is a soft button for making a transition to the currently executed application screen. In order to display the profile editing screen 320 when the game is currently being played in the background, the display control unit 220 sets the back button 322 as a graphic indicating an active state.

[0130] In the case where the user selects the return button 322 indicating the activation state on the profile editing screen 320, the display control unit 220 ends the display of the profile editing screen 320, and displays the game screen 300 again as when the manipulation of the function button 88 and the option button 82 is input. In other words, a direct transition is made from the profile editing screen 320 to the game screen 300. In the case of a direct transition from the profile editing screen 320 to the game screen 300 by using the return button 322, a direct transition from the game screen 300 to the profile editing screen 320 is similarly achieved by inputting the manipulation of the function button 88 and the option button 82 on the game screen 300.

[0131] According to the information processing system 1 of the embodiment, according to a predetermined manipulation input from the user by using the function button 88 of the controller 6 during the execution of the application, information indicating the profile information associated with the controller 6 is presented to the user. In this way, assistance in the manipulation performed by the user regarding the profile of the controller 6 can be achieved. For example, the information processing system 1 can present a plurality of pieces of profile information selectable by the user to the user, and assist the user in selecting the profile information, wherein the function menu window 302 is displayed when the function button 88 is long pressed.

[0132] Furthermore, in order to set the profile information, the user can easily (1) edit the profile information on the profile editing screen 320, (2) move the screen back to the game screen 300 and check the editing result of the profile information (e.g., check the action of the game character, etc.), and (3) move the screen back to the same profile editing screen 320 as in (1) described above, and edit the profile information again according to the check result in (2) described above. In other words, the information processing device 10 can assist the user in the efficient optimization of the profile information through the trial and error process.

[0133] The present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments. The above embodiments are presented only as examples. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made by combining various constituent elements and various processing processes, and these modifications are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0134] A modification will be described. The various types of feedback systems included in the notification unit of the information processing system 1 (e.g., one or both of the notification unit 112 of the controller 6 and the notification unit 222 of the information processing device 10) may also include a feedback system that provides auditory information as feedback indicating switching of profile information associated with the controller 6. The auditory information may also be expressed as auditory stimulation and corresponds to information perceived by human auditory perception (e.g., an audio signal).

[0135] For example, feedback using sound may be selectable on the feedback setting screen 330 as a feedback system at the time of switching of the profile information. In the case where the profile information is switched in a state where the feedback using sound is selected as the feedback system, the notification unit 112 of the controller 6 may output a predetermined sound indicating the switching of the profile information from a speaker (not shown) of the controller 6. Furthermore, in the case where the profile information is switched in a state where the feedback using sound is selected as the feedback system at the time of profile switching, the notification unit 222 of the information processing device 10 may output a predetermined sound indicating the switching of the profile information from the headphones 8.

[0136] The notification unit of the information processing system 1 according to this modification can provide feedback to the user using at least two of visual information, tactile information, and auditory information at one switching of the profile information. The feedback means convenient for the user may vary according to each user. However, in this modification, by adding feedback using auditory information, feedback of the profile switching can be easily provided in a form convenient for each user. In addition, the user can also easily recognize the fact that the profile information has been switched.

[0137] Different modifications will be described. The setting screen forming unit 218 of the information processing device 10 can form a setting screen (also referred to as a "menu setting screen") through which the user sets the display detailed information of the function menu window 302 according to the user's manipulation. The display control unit 220 can cause the display device 4 to display the menu setting screen. Any mode can be selected from a plurality of modes associated with display detailed information on the menu setting screen. The setting screen forming unit 218 can form the function menu window 302 including detailed information determined by the mode selected on the menu setting screen.

[0138] The multiple modes of displaying detailed information selectable on the menu setting screen may include modes "all functions", "currently assigned profiles", and "currently selected profiles". The mode "all functions" is a mode for displaying a list of all setting change functions using the function button 88 as illustrated in FIG. 8. The mode "currently assigned profiles" is a mode for displaying a list of multiple profile information (default profile, sniper rifle profile, combat profile 1, and combat profile 2 in the example of FIG. 8) currently assigned to the manipulation button 76 of the controller 6. The mode "currently selected profile" is a mode for displaying the profile information currently selected via the controller 6 (combat profile 1 in the example of FIG. 8).

[0139] Any combination of the above-described embodiments and variations is also useful as a mode for implementing the present invention. A new embodiment created by any combination has the advantageous effects of both the embodiments and variations of the combination. In addition, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the functions implemented by the various constituent features described in the claims are implemented by a single unit included in the various constituent elements presented in the embodiments and variations or by the collaborative operation of these.

[0140] The technical ideas described in the embodiments and the above-mentioned modifications can be expressed in the modes described in the corresponding following sections.

[0141] [Section 1-1]

[0142] A manipulation device, the manipulation device comprising:

[0143] First button;

[0144] a second button different from the first button;

[0145] a storage unit storing setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; and

[0146] A changing unit switches setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to input of the manipulation of the second button together with the manipulation of the first button.

[0147] The manipulation device enables a user to quickly switch setting information to be applied for manipulation, thereby improving the usability of the manipulation device.

[0148] [Verses 1-2]

[0149] The manipulation device according to Section 1-1, further comprising:

[0150] A generating unit generates manipulation information with reference to the setting information applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device, the manipulation information being associated with the manipulation performed by the user and transmitted from the manipulation device to an external information processing device.

[0151] The manipulation device may reflect the setting information selected by the user in manipulation information given by the user and transmitted from the manipulation device to the information processing device.

[0152] [Verses 1-3]

[0153] A manipulator according to clause 1-1 or clause 1-2, wherein

[0154] the storage unit stores a plurality of pieces of the setting information in association with corresponding second buttons different from each other, and

[0155] In response to input of manipulation of a specific second button together with manipulation of the first button, the changing unit switches the setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device to setting information associated with the specific second button.

[0156] The manipulation device can quickly and easily switch the setting information to the setting information desired by the user among the plurality of setting information.

[0157] [Verses 1-4]

[0158] The manipulation device according to any one of Sections 1-1 to 1-3, wherein the second button includes a button for manipulating an application and a button for manipulating a system.

[0159] The manipulation device enables a user to quickly issue instructions for executing various processes associated with switching of setting information according to a combination of a first button and a button for manipulating an application or a combination of the first button and a button for manipulating a system.

[0160] [Verses 1-5]

[0161] A manipulation device according to clauses 1-4, wherein

[0162] the storage unit stores the setting information in association with the button for manipulating the application, and

[0163] In response to input of manipulation of the button for manipulating the application together with manipulation of the first button, the changing unit switches the setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulating device to the setting information associated with the button for manipulating the application.

[0164] The manipulation device enables a user to quickly switch setting information by using a button for manipulating an application.

[0165] [Verses 1-6]

[0166] The manipulation device according to Section 1-4 or Section 1-5, wherein the change unit further performs a change process associated with sound output in response to input of manipulation of a button for manipulating the application together with manipulation of the first button.

[0167] The manipulation device also enables the user to change the mode of sound output by using buttons for operating the application.

[0168] [Verses 1-7]

[0169] A manipulation device according to any one of Sections 1-1 to 1-3, wherein

[0170] The second button includes a direction key and a specific button different from the direction key, and

[0171] In response to manipulation of the specific button together with input of manipulation of the first button, the change unit switches setting information to be applied to manipulation of the manipulation device, and in response to manipulation of the direction key together with input of manipulation of the first button, performs change processing associated with setting items whose values ​​are successively changed.

[0172] The manipulation device can implement processing for change to an environment suitable for the type of button corresponding to the manipulation target (such as a specific button and a direction key) (for example, switching of setting information, and change processing associated with setting items whose values ​​are successively changed).

[0173] [Verses 1-8]

[0174] A manipulation device according to any one of Sections 1-1 to 1-3, wherein

[0175] The second button includes multiple types of buttons.

[0176] The changing unit switches setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device or performs a change process associated with sound output, according to the type of the manipulated second button input together with the input of the manipulation of the first button.

[0177] The manipulation device can realize processing for change to an environment suitable for the type of button corresponding to the manipulation target (for example, switching of setting information, and change processing associated with sound output).

[0178] [Verses 1-9]

[0179] A manipulation device, the manipulation device comprising:

[0180] First button;

[0181] a second button different from the first button;

[0182] a storage unit storing setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; and

[0183] processor, where

[0184] In response to input of manipulation of the second button together with manipulation of the first button, the processor switches setting information to be applied to manipulation of the manipulation device.

[0185] The manipulation device enables a user to quickly switch setting information applied to the manipulation, thereby improving the usability of the manipulation device.

[0186] [Verses 1-10]

[0187] Information processing systems, including:

[0188] An information processing device that executes an application; and

[0189] Manipulation equipment, wherein

[0190] The manipulation device comprises

[0191] First button,

[0192] a second button different from the first button,

[0193] a storage unit storing setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device,

[0194] a generating unit that generates manipulation information indicating a manipulation performed by a user with reference to the setting information, and

[0195] a changing unit that switches setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to an input of the manipulation of the second button together with the manipulation of the first button, and

[0196] The information processing device receives the manipulation information transmitted from the manipulation device, and executes an application with reference to the manipulation information.

[0197] The information processing system executes an application with reference to manipulation information in which setting information selected by a user is reflected, and thereby reflects the user's intention and manipulation in the progress of the application in a more preferred manner.

[0198] [Verses 1-11]

[0199] An information processing system as described in Sections 1-10, wherein

[0200] In response to input of manipulation of a button for manipulating the application together with manipulation of the first button, a change unit of the manipulating device transmits a change instruction associated with sound output to the information processing device, and

[0201] The information processing device changes a mode of sound output from a sound output device according to a change instruction associated with sound output.

[0202] The information processing system enables a user to rapidly implement a change associated with sound output in the form of a change in proximity setting information.

[0203] [Verses 1-12]

[0204] A computer program for a manipulation device, the manipulation device comprising a first button, a second button different from the first button, and a storage unit storing setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, the computer program causing the manipulation device to implement:

[0205] In response to input of manipulation of the second button together with manipulation of the first button, a function of setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device is switched.

[0206] The computer program enables a user to quickly switch setting information to be applied to manipulation of a manipulation device, thereby improving the usability of the manipulation device.

[0207] [Section 2-1]

[0208] An information processing device, comprising:

[0209] an acquisition unit that acquires setting information that is stored in a manipulation device and is associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; and

[0210] A display control unit that, during execution of an application, causes a display unit to display information associated with the setting information acquired by the acquisition unit and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device.

[0211] In response to input of a predetermined manipulation from a user via a first button of a manipulation device during execution of an application, the information processing device presents information corresponding to setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device to the user, thereby assisting the user in performing the manipulation associated with the setting information.

[0212] [Section 2-2]

[0213] The information processing device according to Section 2-1, wherein

[0214] The acquisition unit acquires a plurality of pieces of setting information stored in the manipulation device and selectable by a user, and

[0215] The display control unit displays a list of the plurality of pieces of setting information as information corresponding to the setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

[0216] The information processing device can provide the user with information associated with a plurality of pieces of setting information selectable by the user, thereby assisting the user in selecting the setting information.

[0217] [Section 2-3]

[0218] The information processing device according to Section 2-2, wherein the predetermined manipulation is a long-press manipulation of the first button.

[0219] The information processing apparatus can provide the user with information associated with a plurality of pieces of setting information selectable by the user according to easy manipulation of the first button.

[0220] [Verses 2-4]

[0221] An information processing device according to Section 2-2 or Section 2-3, wherein

[0222] The plurality of pieces of setting information acquired by the acquisition unit are respectively associated with different second buttons provided on the manipulation device, and

[0223] The list includes information indicating second buttons respectively associated with the plurality of pieces of setting information.

[0224] The information processing device can assist a user in selecting desired setting information from among a plurality of pieces of setting information.

[0225] [Verses 2-5]

[0226] The information processing apparatus according to any one of Sections 2-2 to 2-4, wherein the list includes information associated with shortcut assignment of sound manipulation in addition to the plurality of pieces of setting information.

[0227] The information processing device can also assist voice manipulation performed by the user.

[0228] [Verses 2-6]

[0229] An information processing device according to any one of Sections 2-1 to 2-5, wherein the display control unit displays a setting screen of the setting information in response to detecting an input of an operation of a second button different from the first button together with an operation of the first button, the setting information being information corresponding to the setting information associated with the operation of the operating device.

[0230] The information processing apparatus can provide a setting screen for setting information to a user according to easy manipulation of the user.

[0231] [Verses 2-7]

[0232] The information processing device according to paragraph 2-6, wherein the setting screen is a screen for selecting setting information to be stored in or erased from the manipulation device.

[0233] The information processing device can assist the user in selecting setting information to be stored in or erased from the manipulation device.

[0234] [Verses 2-8]

[0235] The information processing device according to paragraph 2-6, wherein the setting screen is a screen for editing detailed information of the setting information stored in the manipulation device.

[0236] The information processing device can assist the user in editing setting information.

[0237] [Verses 2-9]

[0238] An information processing device according to Section 2-8, wherein in response to detecting an input of an operation of a second button different from the first button together with an operation of the first button during display of a screen of the application, and in a case where the setting screen of the setting information most recently displayed is a screen for editing detailed information of the setting information, the display control unit displays the same screen for editing detailed information of the setting information.

[0239] An information processing apparatus can assist a user to efficiently edit setting information while checking the results by enabling direct screen transition between a screen of an application and a setting screen of setting information.

[0240] [Verses 2-10]

[0241] The information processing device according to Section 2-8 or Section 2-9, wherein a button for switching to a screen of a currently executed application is arranged on a screen for editing detailed information of the setting information.

[0242] An information processing apparatus can assist a user to efficiently edit setting information while checking the results by enabling direct screen transition between a screen of an application and a setting screen of setting information.

[0243] [Verses 2-11]

[0244] An information processing device according to any one of Sections 2-1 to 2-10, further comprising:

[0245] Update unit, where

[0246] the display control unit displays a setting screen of the setting information as information corresponding to the setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device, and

[0247] The updating unit causes the manipulation device to store the setting information edited on the setting screen.

[0248] The information processing device can reflect the edit detailed information of the setting information given from the user on the setting screen in the manipulation device.

[0249] [Verses 2-12]

[0250] An information processing device, comprising:

[0251] processor,

[0252] The processor executes

[0253] a step of acquiring setting information stored in a manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; and

[0254] During execution of the application, in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device, a step of causing a display unit to display information associated with the setting information acquired in the acquiring step and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

[0255] The information processing device can present information corresponding to setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device to the user in response to input of a predetermined manipulation from the user via a first button of the manipulation device during execution of the application, thereby assisting the user in performing the manipulation associated with the setting information.

[0256] [Verses 2-13]

[0257] An information processing system, comprising:

[0258] An information processing device that executes an application; and

[0259] Manipulation equipment, wherein

[0260] The manipulation device stores setting information associated with operations on the manipulation device, and

[0261] The information processing device comprises:

[0262] an acquisition unit that acquires setting information stored in the manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, and

[0263] A display control unit that, during execution of the application, causes a display unit to display information corresponding to setting information acquired by the acquisition unit and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device.

[0264] During execution of an application, the information processing system can present to the user information corresponding to setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to input of a predetermined manipulation from the user via a first button of the manipulation device, thereby assisting the user in performing the manipulation associated with the setting information.

[0265] [Verses 2-14]

[0266] A computer program for causing an information processing device to:

[0267] a function of acquiring setting information stored in a manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, and

[0268] During execution of an application, in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device, a function is provided to cause a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired by the acquisition function and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

[0269] The computer program may present information corresponding to the setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device to the user in response to an input of a predetermined manipulation via a first button of the manipulation device during execution of the application, thereby helping the user to perform the manipulation associated with the setting information.

[0270] [Section 3-1]

[0271] An information processing system, comprising:

[0272] Operate equipment; and

[0273] Notification unit, where

[0274] the manipulation device stores a plurality of pieces of setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device and selectable by a user, and

[0275] The notification unit has a plurality of types of feedback systems for presenting to a user, in response to the switching of the profile information, the fact that the setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device has been switched.

[0276] The information processing system can provide feedback on the fact that setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device has been switched in a form convenient for the user, and enable the user to easily recognize the switching of the setting information.

[0277] [Section 3-2]

[0278] An information processing system according to Section 3-1, wherein the multiple types of feedback systems provide information perceived by different types of senses.

[0279] The information processing system can provide feedback in a form convenient for the user and can enable the user to easily recognize switching of setting information.

[0280] [Section 3-3]

[0281] An information processing system according to Section 3-1 or Section 3-2, wherein the multiple types of feedback systems include a feedback system that provides visual information.

[0282] The information processing system may use visual information to provide feedback to the user when visual perception is convenient for the user.

[0283] [Verses 3-4]

[0284] The information processing system according to Section 3-3, wherein the visual information is displayed on a display unit of the manipulation device.

[0285] An information processing system enables a user to easily recognize switching of setting information by displaying visual information as feedback on a manipulation device manipulated by the user.

[0286] [Verses 3-5]

[0287] The information processing system according to Section 3-3, wherein the visual information is displayed on a display device different from the manipulation device.

[0288] An information processing system enables a user to easily recognize switching of setting information in a case where the user views a display device different from a manipulation device.

[0289] [Verses 3-6]

[0290] The information processing system according to Section 3-3, wherein the visual information is displayed on both a display unit of the manipulation device and a display device different from the manipulation device.

[0291] The information processing system enables the user to further easily recognize the switching of setting information.

[0292] [Verses 3-7]

[0293] An information processing system according to any one of Sections 3-1 to 3-6, wherein the multiple types of feedback systems include a feedback system that provides tactile information.

[0294] The information processing system can use tactile information to provide feedback to the user when tactile perception is convenient for the user.

[0295] [Verses 3-8]

[0296] An information processing system according to any one of Sections 3-1 to 3-7, wherein the multiple types of feedback systems include a feedback system that provides auditory information.

[0297] The information processing system may use auditory information to provide feedback to the user when auditory perception is convenient for the user.

[0298] [Verses 3-9]

[0299] The information processing system according to Section 3-1 or Section 3-2, wherein the notification unit provides feedback to the user using at least two of visual information, tactile information, and auditory information.

[0300] The information processing system enables the user to further easily recognize the switching of setting information.

[0301] [Verses 3-10]

[0302] The information processing system according to any one of Sections 3-1 to 3-9, wherein the notification unit provides the user with one or more types of the feedback selected by the user from among the plurality of types of feedback.

[0303] The information processing system may provide feedback in a form selected by the user and convenient to the user.

[0304] [Verses 3-11]

[0305] An information processing system, comprising:

[0306] Operate equipment; and

[0307] A processor, wherein:

[0308] the manipulation device stores a plurality of pieces of setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device and selectable by a user, and

[0309] In case of switching setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device, the processor actuates at least one feedback system selected from a plurality of feedback systems for presenting the switching of the setting information to the user.

[0310] The information processing system can provide feedback on the fact that setting information to be applied to the manipulation of the manipulation device has been switched in a form convenient for the user, and enable the user to easily recognize the switching of the setting information.

[0311] Industrial Applicability

[0312] The present invention is applicable to a system including a manipulation device to which a manipulation is input.

[0313] Reference numerals list

[0314] 1: Information Processing System

[0315] 4: Display device

[0316] 6: Controller

[0317] 10: Information processing equipment

[0318] 76: Manipulation Buttons

[0319] 88: Function button

[0320] 100: Configuration file storage unit

[0321] 110: Change unit

[0322] 112: Notification unit

[0323] 212: Configuration file information acquisition unit

[0324] 220: Display control unit

[0325] 222: Notification unit

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires setting information that is stored in a manipulation device and is associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; as well as A display control unit that, during execution of an application, causes a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired by the acquisition unit and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: the acquiring unit acquires a plurality of pieces of setting information stored in the manipulation device and selectable by a user; as well as The display control unit displays a list of the plurality of pieces of setting information as information corresponding to the setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The predetermined operation is a long-press operation of the first button.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of pieces of setting information acquired by the acquisition unit are respectively associated with different second buttons provided on the manipulation device, and The list includes information indicating second buttons respectively associated with the plurality of pieces of setting information.

5. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The list includes information associated with shortcut assignment of voice manipulation in addition to the plurality of pieces of setting information.

6. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The display control unit displays a setting screen of the setting information as information corresponding to the setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to detecting a manipulation of a second button different from the first button together with an input of the manipulation of the first button.

7. The information processing device according to claim 6, wherein: The setting screen is a screen for selecting setting information to be stored in or erased from the manipulation device.

8. The information processing device according to claim 6, wherein: The setting screen is a screen for editing detailed information of the setting information stored in the manipulation device.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein: In response to detecting an input of an operation on a second button different from the first button together with an operation on the first button during display of a screen of the application, and in a case where the settings screen of the settings information most recently displayed is a screen for editing detailed information of the settings information, the display control unit displays the same screen for editing detailed information of the settings information.

10. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein: A button for transitioning to a screen of a currently executed application is arranged on a screen for editing detailed information of the setting information.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising: Update unit, where the display control unit displays a setting screen of the setting information as information corresponding to the setting information associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device, and The updating unit causes the manipulation device to store the setting information edited on the setting screen.

12. An information processing device, comprising: A processor that executes a step of acquiring setting information stored in a manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; as well as During execution of the application, in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device, a step of causing a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired in the acquiring step and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

13. An information processing system comprising: an information processing device that executes an application; as well as Manipulation equipment, wherein The manipulation device stores setting information associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; as well as The information processing device comprises an acquisition unit that acquires setting information stored in the manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device, and A display control unit that, during execution of the application, causes a display unit to display information corresponding to setting information acquired by the acquisition unit and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device.

14. A computer program for causing an information processing device to: a function of acquiring setting information stored in a manipulation device and associated with manipulation of the manipulation device; and During execution of an application, in response to detecting that a predetermined manipulation is input using a first button provided on the manipulation device, a function is provided to cause a display unit to display information corresponding to the setting information acquired by the acquisition function and associated with the manipulation of the manipulation device.

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