Game controller

Abstract

This invention provides a game controller. The game controller is detachable from a device having a device-side mounting mechanism. The game controller includes: a direction input section disposed on a front surface for directional operation by a user; a first input section disposed on an upper surface connected to the front surface in the vertical direction, also operated by the user; a mounting mechanism disposed on a side connected to the front surface in the horizontal direction, detachable from the device-side mounting mechanism; and a second and a third input section disposed on the mounting mechanism in a position not exposed when the mounting mechanism is mounted on the device-side mounting mechanism. The second and third input sections are operated by the user, wherein the third input section is located lower than the second input section in the vertical direction.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on June 10, 2016, with application number 201680002061.9, entitled "Information Processing System, Information Processing Apparatus, Operating Apparatus and Auxiliary Equipment" (application number 202210134332.3, entitled "Game Controller and Information Processing System"). Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing device, an operating device, and auxiliary equipment. Background Technology

[0003] Previously, there was a portable information processing device that included a display unit and an operation unit (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-108256 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0006] The goal is to utilize information processing devices in multiple ways.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus that can be used in multiple ways. Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel information processing apparatus.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem

[0009] To solve the above problems, the present invention adopts the following structure.

[0010] This invention is an information processing system comprising a main unit, a first operating device, and a second operating device. The main unit includes a display unit. The first operating device is detachable from the main unit, and regardless of whether it is installed on the main unit, it sends first operation data indicating an operation to the main unit. The second operating device is detachable from the main unit, and regardless of whether it is installed on the main unit, it sends second operation data indicating an operation to the main unit. The main unit displays the execution result of a predetermined information processing based on the first operation data sent from the first operating device and the second operation data sent from the second operating device on the display unit.

[0011] The first operating device may also include a first input section and a second input section. The second operating device may also include a third input section of the same type as the first input section and a fourth input section of the same type as the second input section.

[0012] The input mechanism of the first input section can be substantially the same as the input mechanism of the third input section. The input mechanism of the second input section can also be substantially the same as the input mechanism of the fourth input section.

[0013] The shape of the first input section can be substantially the same as the shape of the third input section. The shape of the second input section can also be substantially the same as the shape of the fourth input section.

[0014] Alternatively, when the first and second operating devices are detached from the main unit, the positional relationship between the first input unit and the second input unit when the first operating device is facing a certain direction is the same as the positional relationship between the third input unit and the fourth input unit when the second operating device is facing a certain direction.

[0015] Alternatively, with the first and second operating devices installed in the main unit, the positional relationship between the first input unit and the second input unit is the opposite of the positional relationship between the third input unit and the fourth input unit.

[0016] The first input section and the third input section can also be directional input sections for receiving directional inputs.

[0017] The direction input unit may also have an operating component that can tilt or slide in a specified direction.

[0018] The second and fourth input sections can also be pressable buttons.

[0019] The first operating device can also be integrally installed on the main body with its own housing facing the specified surface of the main body.

[0020] The first operating device can also be integrally mounted to the main body device, facing one of the left and right sides of the main body device. The second operating device can also be mounted to the main body device, facing the other of the left and right sides of the main body device.

[0021] The first operating device may also include a light-emitting part disposed on a specified surface for informing the user of specified information.

[0022] The first operating device may also have an operating section disposed on a specified surface.

[0023] The connection between the first side and the adjacent side of the four sides of the first operating device can also be formed with a larger rounded corner than the connection between the second side and the adjacent side, where the second side is the side opposite to the first side. Similarly, the connection between the third side and the adjacent side of the four sides of the second operating device can also be formed with a larger rounded corner than the connection between the fourth side and the adjacent side, where the fourth side is the side opposite to the third side.

[0024] The first operating device can also be mounted on the main body with its second side facing the fifth side of the four sides of the main body. The second operating device can also be mounted on the main body with its fourth side facing the sixth side, which is opposite to the fifth side of the main body.

[0025] The second operating device may also include an input unit having the first function, while the first operating device does not have the first function.

[0026] The second operating device may also include a camera device as an input unit with the first function.

[0027] The second operating device may also have buttons as inputs for the first function.

[0028] The first operating device may also include an input unit having a second function different from the first function. The second operating device may also include an input unit having the second function.

[0029] The first operating device may also include one or more input units having a predetermined number of different types of functions. The second operating device may also include one or more input units having a different number of different types of functions than the predetermined number.

[0030] Alternatively, when the first operating device is installed on the main unit, the communication between the main unit and the first operating device is conducted using a first communication method; when the first operating device is detached from the main unit, the communication between the main unit and the first operating device is conducted using a second communication method different from the first communication method.

[0031] Alternatively, when the first operating device is detached from the main unit, the communication between the main unit and the first operating device can be wireless.

[0032] Alternatively, when the first operating device is installed on the main unit, the communication between the main unit and the first operating device is wired communication.

[0033] Wired communication between the main device and the first operating device can also be conducted via a wired communication path formed by electrically connecting the first terminal of the main device and the second terminal of the first operating device.

[0034] Alternatively, when the first operating device is installed on the main body device, the first terminal of the main body device is electrically connected to the second terminal of the first operating device, and communication between the main body device and the first operating device and power supply from the main body device to the first operating device are performed via the first terminal and the second terminal.

[0035] The information processing system may also include: a first detection unit that detects whether a first operating device is installed on the main unit; and a second detection unit that detects whether a second operating device is installed on the main unit. The main unit may also set up a group of the first and second operating devices based on the detection results of the first and second detection units.

[0036] The main device can also be configured to have both a first operating device and a second operating device installed, with the first operating device and the second operating device in the installed state set to the same group.

[0037] Alternatively, when the first and second operating devices are detached from the main unit and receive operating data from the first and second operating devices, which are set to the same group, the main unit will treat the two received operating data as a group and perform the prescribed information processing.

[0038] The main device may also have a housing having a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion. When the first operating device is installed, the first engaging portion engages with the housing of the first operating device, and when the second operating device is installed, the second engaging portion engages with the housing of the second operating device.

[0039] The first operating device may also have a housing with a third engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion of the main body device. The second operating device may also have a housing with a fourth engaging portion that engages with the second engaging portion of the main body device.

[0040] The main unit can also selectively output the results of information processing to either the display unit or a display device independent of the main unit.

[0041] Alternatively, another embodiment of the present invention may be an information processing device comprising a first loading / unloading mechanism, a second loading / unloading mechanism, and a display unit. A first operating device is capable of loading / unloading relative to the first loading / unloading mechanism. A second operating device is capable of loading / unloading relative to the second loading / unloading mechanism. Regardless of whether the first and second operating devices are mounted on the information processing device, the information processing device displays the result of predetermined information processing based on the operating data sent from the first and second operating devices on the display unit.

[0042] Another example of the present invention is an information processing system including a main device and a first operating device.

[0043] The main device includes: a display unit; and a housing having a main body-side engaging portion that engages with the housing of the first operating device. The first operating device is engaged with the main body-side engaging portion in a detachable manner.

[0044] The first operating device may also have a housing having an operating device-side engaging portion that engages with the main body-side engaging portion.

[0045] The main body side engaging portion can also be a first sliding member provided along the surface of the housing of the main body device. The first operating device can also include a second sliding member, which engages with the first sliding member in a manner that allows it to slide relative to and be detached from the first sliding member. A sliding mechanism can also be formed by the first sliding member and the second sliding member.

[0046] The first sliding member can also be configured to engage the second sliding member in a manner that allows it to slide in a predetermined direction, and the second sliding member can be inserted into and disengaged from one end in that predetermined direction.

[0047] The first sliding member can also be arranged along the vertical direction of the main body, forming a structure that allows the second sliding member to be inserted into and disengaged from its upper end.

[0048] The first sliding member can also be arranged on the surface of the main body housing, roughly covering the entire specified direction.

[0049] The first sliding member can also have a concave cross-sectional shape. The second sliding member can also have a convex cross-sectional shape.

[0050] The first operating device may also have terminals for communicating with the main unit. The main unit may also have terminals in the housing at a location where it can connect to the terminals of the first operating device when the first operating device is installed.

[0051] The first operating device may also include an input section located on a specified surface.

[0052] Another example of the present invention is an information processing system comprising a main body device and an operating device capable of being attached to and detached from the main body device. The main body device includes a display unit. When the operating device is mounted on the main body device, communication between the main body device and the operating device is conducted using a first communication method; when the operating device is detached from the main body device, communication between the main body device and the operating device is conducted using a second communication method different from the first communication method.

[0053] The main unit and the operating unit can also communicate via wired connection as the primary communication method.

[0054] Alternatively, when the operating device is installed on the main unit, the first terminal of the main unit and the second terminal of the operating device are electrically connected by abutting each other.

[0055] The main device and the operating device can also communicate wirelessly as a second communication method.

[0056] Another example of the present invention is an information processing system comprising a main unit, a first operating device, a second operating device, and auxiliary equipment. The first operating device is detachable from the main unit and also from the auxiliary equipment. The second operating device is detachable from both the main unit and the auxiliary equipment. The main unit includes a display unit on which the execution result of prescribed information processing based on the operations of the first and second operating devices is displayed. The auxiliary equipment can simultaneously house both the first and second operating devices.

[0057] The auxiliary equipment may also have a charging unit that uses the power supplied to the auxiliary equipment to charge the first operating device and / or the second operating device installed on the auxiliary equipment.

[0058] The first operating device can also be installed on the auxiliary equipment, slightly to the left of the center. The second operating device can also be installed on the auxiliary equipment, slightly to the right of the center.

[0059] The auxiliary equipment may also have a first gripping part located on the left and a second gripping part located on the right.

[0060] The first grip may also be positioned to the left of the portion where the first operating device is mounted. The second grip may also be positioned to the right of the portion where the second operating device is mounted.

[0061] When the first operating device is installed on the auxiliary device, the communication between the main device and the first operating device can also be wireless. When the second operating device is installed on the auxiliary device, the communication between the main device and the second operating device can also be wireless.

[0062] The first operating device can also be mounted on the auxiliary equipment in a state of tilting towards the first direction relative to a predetermined reference posture. The second operating device can also be mounted on the auxiliary equipment in a state of tilting towards the opposite direction relative to the predetermined reference posture.

[0063] Alternatively, if at least one of the first and second operating devices is installed on the auxiliary equipment, the main device performs the prescribed information processing by correcting the operating data from the installed operating device and / or the information obtained from the operating data.

[0064] The main unit can also correct the data from the direction input section in the operation data.

[0065] Another example of the invention is an auxiliary device, wherein the first operating device and the second operating device are capable of loading and unloading relative to the auxiliary device.

[0066] The first operating device can be attached to and detached from the main unit, which is independent of the auxiliary equipment. The second operating device can be attached to and detached from the main unit. The main unit includes a display unit that displays the execution result of a predetermined information processing based on the operation of the first and second operating devices. The auxiliary equipment includes: a first engaging part that engages the first operating device in a detachable manner; and a second engaging part that engages the second operating device in a detachable manner.

[0067] Another example of the present invention is a game system including a main unit, a first operating device, and a second operating device. The main unit includes a display unit. The first operating device is detachable from the main unit. The second operating device is detachable from the main unit. At least when the first and second operating devices are detached from the main unit, the first and second operating devices respectively transmit operation data indicating operations on the first and second operating devices to the main unit wirelessly.

[0068] Another example of the present invention is a handheld information processing device. The information processing device includes a main body having a display unit, a first operation unit, and a second operation unit, and performs predetermined information processing based on operations performed on either the first or second operation unit. The first operation unit is detachable from the main body. The second operation unit is also detachable from the main body. When the first and second operation units are detached from the main body, the main device performs predetermined information processing based at least on operation data indicating operations performed on either the first or second operation unit, and displays the result of the information processing on the display unit.

[0069] Alternatively, the first and second operating units can be configured such that, when the first and second operating units are mounted on the main body, the user can operate the first operating unit with one hand and the second operating unit with the other hand.

[0070] Alternatively, another example of the present invention may be an information processing apparatus, operating device, or auxiliary device in the aforementioned information processing system. Another example of the present invention may also be a method executed in the aforementioned information processing system. Furthermore, another example of the present invention may be an information processing program that causes a computer to execute several processes among those executed in the aforementioned information processing system or information processing apparatus (in other words, that causes the computer to function as several units among those units in the information processing system or information processing apparatus).

[0071] The effects of the invention

[0072] According to the present invention, information processing devices and / or information processing systems can be utilized in multiple ways. Attached Figure Description

[0073] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the information processing apparatus in this embodiment.

[0074] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the state after the controllers have been removed from the main unit.

[0075] Figure 3 This is a six-view diagram showing an example of the main assembly.

[0076] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of a situation where the main assembly is erected and placed upright.

[0077] Figure 5 This is a six-view diagram representing an example of the left controller.

[0078] Figure 6 This is a six-view diagram representing an example of a right controller.

[0079] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the engagement between the left track component and the slider.

[0080] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the situation before and after the slider is fixed to the left track component.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a left-side view of an example of the main device in the second structural example.

[0082] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing an example of the left side portion of the main device in the second structural example.

[0083] Figure 11 It is a schematic representation Figure 9 A diagram showing an example of the cross-section of the left track member on section A-A'.

[0084] Figure 12 It is a schematic representation Figure 9 A diagram showing an example of the cross-section of the left track member on section B-B'.

[0085] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing an example of a terminal provided on the main body device.

[0086] Figure 14 This is a six-view diagram representing an example of the left controller in the second structural example.

[0087] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section near the lower end of the slider in the second structural example.

[0088] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing an example of the protrusion of the slider in the second structural example.

[0089] Figure 17 This is an exploded view showing an example of a reinforcing member and an insulating sheet provided on the slider.

[0090] Figure 18 This diagram illustrates an example of inserting the hook into a slit.

[0091] Figure 19 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the configuration of the internal structural elements of the left controller 3.

[0092] Figure 20 This diagram illustrates an example of a connection between a terminal and a ground connection in an electronic circuit.

[0093] Figure 21 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the positional relationship between the slider and the locking member in the second structural example.

[0094] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the positional relationship between the slider and the locking member in other embodiments.

[0095] Figure 23 This is a perspective view schematically representing an example of a locking component and a release button.

[0096] Figure 24 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the structure of the slider near the second L button in the second structural example.

[0097] Figure 25 This is a six-view diagram representing an example of the right controller in the second structural example.

[0098] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a slider being installed near the left-side terminals before and after the left track member.

[0099] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a slider being installed near a locking member before and after the left track member.

[0100] Figure 28 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of an example of the information processing system in this embodiment.

[0101] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing the external structure of an example of a bracket.

[0102] Figure 30 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of the main device.

[0103] Figure 31 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of an information processing device.

[0104] Figure 32 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of a bracket.

[0105] Figure 33 This diagram illustrates an example of using an information processing device with each controller installed in the main unit.

[0106] Figure 34 This diagram illustrates an example of a scenario where one user controls two controllers to utilize an information processing device in an offline state.

[0107] Figure 35 This diagram illustrates an example of a scenario where two users each control one controller to utilize the information processing device in a disconnected state.

[0108] Figure 36 This diagram illustrates an example of how to hold the right controller with one hand.

[0109] Figure 37 This diagram illustrates an example of how to utilize a system with three or more controllers.

[0110] Figure 38 This diagram illustrates an example of how an image is displayed on a television.

[0111] Figure 39 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the process of displaying an image on a television.

[0112] Figure 40 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the registration process performed in the main device.

[0113] Figure 41 This is a diagram representing an example of registration information.

[0114] Figure 42 This is a diagram representing an example of group information.

[0115] Figure 43 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the wireless setup process performed in the main device.

[0116] Figure 44 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the mode setting process performed in the main unit.

[0117] Figure 45This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the information processing flow performed within the main unit.

[0118] Figure 46 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the information processing flow performed within the main unit.

[0119] Figure 47 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the information processing flow performed within the main unit.

[0120] Figure 48 This is a diagram showing other examples of the left controller.

[0121] Figure 49 This is a diagram showing other examples of the left controller.

[0122] Figure 50 This indicates that it is installed with Figure 1 A diagram illustrating an example of an information processing device for a different right controller.

[0123] Figure 51 This is a diagram illustrating another example of a left controller.

[0124] Figure 52 This diagram illustrates an example of an accessory device that can be fitted with a controller.

[0125] Figure 53 This is a diagram showing another example of auxiliary equipment.

[0126] Figure 54 This is a six-view diagram showing another example of an extended gripper.

[0127] Figure 55 It means Figure 54 A perspective view of an example of the extended grip shown.

[0128] Figure 56 It means to Figure 54 The diagram shows an example of an extended gripper with two controllers mounted.

[0129] Figure 57 It means Figure 54 A block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of the extended gripper.

[0130] Figure 58 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an extended gripper that allows the main body to move.

[0131] Figure 59 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an extended gripper where the distance between the grip and the controller is variable.

[0132] Figure 60 This diagram shows an example of an auxiliary device that can be installed on the main unit.

[0133] Figure 61 This is a diagram showing another example of a sliding member installed in the main body assembly.

[0134] Figure 62 This is another example of a sliding member located on the right controller.

[0135] Figure 63 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the terminal configuration in other embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0136] The following describes an example of an information processing system, information processing device, operating device, and auxiliary equipment involved in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the information processing system includes an information processing device 1 and a cradle 5 (see reference 1). Figure 28 In the information processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the main unit 2 and the controllers 3 and 4 are detachable, allowing the controllers 3 and 4 to be used independently of the main unit 2 (see reference). Figure 2 Furthermore, the information processing device 1 can have two usage methods: displaying an image on the main device 2 and displaying an image on other display devices such as a television. In the former method, the information processing device 1 is used as a portable device (e.g., a portable game console), and in the latter method, the information processing device 1 is used as a fixed device (e.g., a fixed game console).

[0137] [1. System appearance and structure]

[0138] [1-1. Structure of an Information Processing Device]

[0139] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the information processing apparatus 1 in this embodiment. (As shown...) Figure 1 As shown, the information processing device 1 includes a main unit 2, a left controller 3, and a right controller 4. The main unit 2 is a device equipped with a display 12 and performs various processes in the information processing device 1. Furthermore, the controllers 3 and 4 are devices equipped with operation units for user input.

[0140] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example of the state after the controllers 3 and 4 have been removed from the main unit 2. (See diagram for example.) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, each controller 3 and 4 can be mounted and detached relative to the main unit 2. The left controller 3 can be mounted on the left side of the main unit 2. Figure 1 (shown on the positive x-axis side). The right controller 4 can be mounted on the right side of the main unit 2 (as shown). Figure 1(The negative x-axis side is shown). Furthermore, below, it is sometimes referred to as "controller" as a general term for the left and right controllers. Below, an example illustrating the specific structure of the main unit 2 and each of the controllers 3 and 4 will be described.

[0141] [1-1-1. Structure of the main device]

[0142] Figure 3 This is a six-view diagram showing an example of the main assembly. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the main body device 2 includes a generally plate-shaped housing 11. In this embodiment, the main surface of the housing 11 (in other words, the front side, i.e., the surface where the display 12 is mounted) is generally rectangular. In this embodiment, the housing 11 is elongated horizontally. That is, in this embodiment, the long side of the main surface of the housing 11 (i.e., Figure 1 The x-axis direction shown is set as the horizontal direction (also known as the left-right direction), and the short side direction of the main face (i.e., Figure 1 The y-axis direction shown is set as the vertical direction (also known as the up-down direction), and the direction perpendicular to the main plane (i.e., Figure 1 The z-axis direction shown is set as the depth direction (also known as the front-to-back direction). Furthermore, the main body device 2 can be used either with its long side facing laterally or with its long side facing longitudinally.

[0143] Furthermore, the shape and size of the housing 11 are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, the housing 11 may also have protrusions or grips for easy handling by the user.

[0144] (Structure located on the main surface of housing 11)

[0145] like Figure 3 As shown, the main body device 2 includes a display 12 disposed on the main surface of the housing 11. The display 12 displays images (which can be still images or moving images) acquired or generated by the main body device 2. In this embodiment, the display 12 is assumed to be a liquid crystal display (LCD), but the display 12 can be any type of display device.

[0146] Additionally, the main unit 2 includes a touch panel 13 on the display screen 12. The touch panel 13 can also detect touch position, touch pressure, and / or other characteristics related to touch input. In this embodiment, the touch panel 13 is a multi-touch input type (e.g., capacitive type). However, the touch panel 13 can be any type of touch panel; for example, it can also be a single-touch input type (e.g., resistive film type).

[0147] The main unit 2 has a speaker inside the housing 11 (i.e., Figure 30 The speaker 88 shown. Figure 3 As shown, speaker holes 11a and 11b are formed on the main surface of the housing 11. The output sound of the speaker 88 is output from these speaker holes 11a and 11b. In this embodiment, the main body device 2 has two speakers, and speaker holes are provided at the respective positions of the left and right speakers. The speaker hole 11a for the left speaker is formed on the left side of the display 12. The speaker hole 11b for the right speaker is formed on the right side of the display 12.

[0148] In addition, the main unit 2 has an ambient light sensor inside the housing 11 (i.e., Figure 30 The ambient light sensor 94 shown is an example. Figure 3 As shown, a window 14 is provided on the main surface of the housing 11 for inputting light from outside the housing 11 into the ambient light sensor 94. The window 14 is formed, for example, by a transparent member that allows light to pass through or a filter member that allows light of a predetermined wavelength that can be detected by the ambient light sensor 94 to pass through.

[0149] Furthermore, the position, shape, and number of speaker holes 11a and 11b and window portion 14 are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, each speaker hole 11a and 11b may also be formed on the side or back of the housing 11. In addition, the window portion 14 is provided in this embodiment at a position lower to the left of the display 12, but it may also be provided at other positions on the main surface of the housing 11, or it may be provided on the side of the housing 11.

[0150] (Structure located on the left side of housing 11)

[0151] like Figure 3As shown, the main body 2 has a left track member 15 on the left side of the housing 11. The left track member 15 is a component for detachably mounting the left controller 3 to the main body 2. The user can easily connect the left controller 3 to the main body 2 mechanically and electrically, allowing the left controller 3 and the main body 2 to function as a single device. Furthermore, the user can easily detach the left controller 3 from the main body 2, allowing operation of both the left controller 3 and the main body 2 while they are mechanically separated. The left track member 15 is configured to extend vertically along the left side of the housing 11. The left track member 15 has a slider (i.e.,...) that can connect with the left controller 3. Figure 5 The slider 40 shown is engaged in the following shape. A sliding mechanism is formed by the left track member 15 and the slider 40, as detailed later. Through this sliding mechanism, the left controller 3 can be mounted to the main body 2 in a way that allows it to slide relative to the main body 2 and can be detached.

[0152] In this embodiment, the left track member 15 has a groove shape. In other words, the cross-section of the left track member 15 (specifically, the cross-section perpendicular to the vertical direction) has a concave shape. More specifically, the cross-section of the left track member 15 is shaped such that the ends of the cross-section face from the outside towards the center. Therefore, the slider 40 engaging with the left track member 15 is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (in other words, the direction in which the left track member 15 extends) and will not disengage (see below). Figure 7 ).

[0153] like Figure 3 As shown, a locking hole 16 is formed on the left track member 15. The locking hole 16 is positioned facing the protrusion 41 provided on the slider 40 when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main body device 2. The specific position of the locking hole 16 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, the locking hole 16 is provided on the bottom surface of the left track member 15 (in other words, the bottom surface of the groove provided by the left track member 15). Furthermore, the locking hole 16 is formed to allow the aforementioned protrusion (i.e., Figure 5 The protrusion 41 shown is in the shape of engaging. When the left controller 3 is mounted on the main body 2, the protrusion 41 is inserted into the engaging hole 16 to engage with it, thereby fixing the left controller 3 to the main body 2, as detailed later. Alternatively, in other embodiments, a protrusion may be provided at the left track member 15, and an engaging hole may be provided at the slider 40.

[0154] Additionally, the main unit 2 includes a left-side terminal 17. The left-side terminal 17 is used for wired communication between the main unit 2 and the left controller 3. That is, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2, the left controller 3 and the main unit 2 can communicate via the left-side terminal 17. The left-side terminal 17 is provided to connect to the terminal of the left controller 3 when the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2. Figure 5 The contact position of terminal 42) shown. The specific position of the left terminal 17 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the left terminal 17 is disposed on the bottom surface of the left track member 15. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left terminal 17 is disposed near the lower end of the bottom surface of the left track member 15. The left terminal 17 is disposed at a position lower than the aforementioned engaging hole 16 (in other words, at a deeper level relative to the direction in which the slider 40 is inserted into the left track member 15).

[0155] A stopper 18 is provided on the left side of the housing 11. For example... Figure 3 As shown, a stop 18 is provided near the end of the left track member 15 (near the lower end in this embodiment). The stop 18 is provided inside a groove in the left track member 15. The stop 18 is provided to stop the sliding movement of the slider 40 engaged with the left track member 15, as detailed later.

[0156] (Structure located on the right side of housing 11)

[0157] like Figure 3 As shown, the same structure as that provided on the left side is provided on the right side of the housing 11. That is, the main body 2 has a right track member 19 on the right side of the housing 11. The right track member 19 is provided to extend vertically along the right side of the housing 11. The right track member 19 has a slider that can connect with the right controller 4 (i.e., Figure 6 The slider 62 shown is engaged in the shape shown. A sliding mechanism is formed by the right track member 19 and the slider 62, as detailed later. Through this sliding mechanism, the right controller 4 can be mounted to the main unit 2 in a way that allows it to slide relative to the main unit 2 and can be detached.

[0158] In this embodiment, the right track member 19 has the same shape as the left track member 15. That is, the right track member 19 has a shape with a groove forming the same cross-sectional shape as the left track member 15. However, the right track member 19 does not have to be exactly the same shape as the left track member 15. For example, in other embodiments, the groove of the left track member 15 may be different in size and / or shape from the groove of the right track member 19, such that the slider 62 of the right controller 4 cannot engage with the left track member 15 (and / or the slider 40 of the left controller 3 cannot engage with the right track member 19).

[0159] like Figure 3 As shown, a locking hole 20 is formed at the right track member 19. The locking hole 20 is positioned facing the protrusion 63 provided on the slider 62 when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2. The specific position of the locking hole 20 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, the locking hole 20 is provided on the bottom surface of the right track member 19 (in other words, the bottom surface of the groove provided by the right track member 19). The locking hole 20 is formed to engage the aforementioned protrusion (i.e., Figure 6 The protrusion 63 shown is in the shape of engaging. When the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body 2, the protrusion 63 is inserted into the engaging hole 20 to engage with it, thereby fixing the right controller 4 to the main body 2, as detailed later. Alternatively, in other embodiments, a protrusion may be provided at the right track member 19, and an engaging hole may be provided at the slider 62.

[0160] Additionally, the main unit 2 includes a right-side terminal 21. The right-side terminal 21 is used for wired communication between the main unit 2 and the right controller 4. The right-side terminal 21 is provided so that, when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main unit 2, it connects to the terminal of the right controller 4. Figure 6 The contact position of terminal 64 shown. The specific position of the right terminal 21 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the right-side terminal 21 is disposed on the bottom surface of the right track member 19. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the right-side terminal 21 is disposed near the lower end of the bottom surface of the right track member 19. The right-side terminal 21 is disposed at a position lower than the aforementioned engaging hole 20 (in other words, at a depth relative to the direction in which the slider 62 is inserted into the right track member 19).

[0161] A stop 22 is provided on the right side of the housing 11. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the stop 22 is provided near the end of the right track member 19 (near the lower end in this embodiment). The stop 22 is provided inside the groove of the right track member 19. The stop 22 is provided to stop the sliding movement of the slider 62 engaged with the right track member 19, as detailed later.

[0162] As described above, in this embodiment, a left track member 15 and a right track member 19 are provided on the housing 11 of the main body device 2. Thus, the housing 11 is a structure designed for mounting the controllers. Furthermore, the position, shape, and size of each track member 15 and 19 are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, each track member 15 and 19 may be provided at the left and right ends of the main surface and / or back surface of the housing 11, respectively. Additionally, the mechanism for mounting the main body device 2 to each controller 3 and 4 in a detachable manner is arbitrary; a sliding mechanism different from the sliding mechanism in this embodiment may be used, or a mechanism different from the sliding mechanism may be used.

[0163] (Structure located on the upper side of housing 11)

[0164] like Figure 3 As shown, the main body device 2 includes a first slot 23. The first slot 23 is provided on the upper side of the housing 11. The first slot 23 has a shape suitable for storing a first type of storage medium. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an openable and closable cover is provided at the opening of the first slot 23, allowing the first type of storage medium to be inserted into the first slot 23 when the cover is open. The first type of storage medium is, for example, a storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) specifically used by the information processing device 1 and similar information processing devices. The first type of storage medium is used, for example, to store data used in the main body device 2 (e.g., application save data, etc.) and / or programs executed in the main body device 2 (e.g., application programs, etc.).

[0165] In addition, the main unit 2 is equipped with a power button 28. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the power button 28 is located on the upper side of the housing 11. The power button 28 is used to switch the power of the main device 2 on / off. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power button 28 allows switching between an on mode and a sleep mode. Here, the on mode is, for example, a mode where the display 12 is showing its screen, and the sleep mode is, for example, a mode where the display 12 is not showing its screen. Additionally, in sleep mode, the scheduled processing in an application (e.g., game processing in a game application) may be stopped while the display 12 is not showing its screen (or instead). When the power button 28 is pressed for a long time (specifically, when the power button 28 is pressed for a specified duration or longer), the main device 2 performs the process of switching the power of the main device 2 on / off. On the other hand, when the power button 28 is pressed briefly (specifically, when the power button 28 is pressed for a shorter time than the specified duration), the main device 2 performs the process of switching between the on mode and the sleep mode.

[0166] As described above, in this embodiment, the power button 28 can switch between power on / off and between on / off mode and sleep mode. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the main unit 2 may also include a button that only has the function of switching between power on / off or only has the function of switching between on / off mode and sleep mode.

[0167] The main unit 2 has an audio input / output terminal (specifically, an earphone jack) 25. That is, the main unit 2 can accommodate a microphone or headphones at the audio input / output terminal 25. Figure 3 As shown, the audio input / output terminals 25 are located on the upper side of the housing 11.

[0168] The main unit 2 is equipped with volume buttons 26a and 26b. For example... Figure 3 As shown, volume buttons 26a and 26b are located on the upper side of the housing 11. Volume buttons 26a and 26b are buttons used to adjust the volume output by the main unit 2. That is, volume button 26a is used to decrease the volume, and volume button 26b is used to increase the volume.

[0169] Additionally, an vent 11c is formed at the housing 11. For example... Figure 3 As shown, an exhaust port 11c is formed on the upper side of the housing 11. The exhaust port 11c is formed to discharge (in other words, release) the heat generated inside the housing 11 to the outside of the housing 11.

[0170] (Structure located on the lower side of housing 11)

[0171] The main body device 2 has a lower terminal 27. The lower terminal 27 is used for communication between the main body device 2 and the bracket 5 described later. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the lower terminal 27 is located on the lower side of the housing 11. When the main body 2 is mounted on the bracket 5, the lower terminal 27 and the terminal of the bracket 5 ( Figure 29 The main body terminal 73 shown is connected, as detailed later. In this embodiment, the lower terminal 27 is a USB connector (more specifically, a concave-side connector).

[0172] Additionally, the main body device 2 includes a second slot 24. In this embodiment, the second slot 24 is located on the lower side of the housing 11. However, in other embodiments, the second slot 24 may be located on the same surface as the first slot 23. The second slot 24 has a shape suitable for storing a second type of storage medium, different from the first type. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an openable and closable cover is provided at the opening of the second slot 24, allowing the second type of storage medium to be inserted into the second slot 24 when the cover is open. The second type of storage medium can be, for example, a general-purpose storage medium or, for example, an SD card. The second type of storage medium, like the first type of storage medium, is used to store data used in the main body device 2 (e.g., application save data, etc.) and / or programs executed in the main body device 2 (e.g., application programs, etc.).

[0173] Additionally, an air intake hole 11d is formed at the housing 11. Figure 3 As shown, an air intake 11d is formed on the lower side of the housing 11. The air intake 11d is formed to draw (in other words, introduce) air from outside the housing 11 into the interior of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the air intake 11d is formed on the side opposite to the side where the exhaust 11c is formed, thus enabling efficient heat dissipation from the interior of the housing 11.

[0174] Additionally, the main body assembly 2 includes a support member 29 for erecting and supporting the housing. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the support member 29 is disposed on the lower side of the housing 11. The support member 29 is rotatably connected to the housing 11 via a shaft 29a. Figure 3 In the middle, the support component 29 is housed in the shell 11.

[0175] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of the main unit 2 being erected and mounted. Furthermore, in... Figure 4 In order to facilitate the observation of the key structural parts described in this figure, several other structures in the main body device 2 are omitted. Here, the rod-shaped portion of the support member 29 is rotated about the shaft 29a to protrude from the housing 11. Therefore, by making the support member 29 protrude from the housing 11, it is possible to achieve the following: Figure 4 The main body device 2 is erected and mounted as shown. Furthermore, the mechanism used to erect and mount the main body device 2 is arbitrary and not limited to any particular type. Figure 3 The support component 29 is shown.

[0176] The shape, quantity, and placement of the structural elements (specifically, buttons, slots, terminals, etc.) provided on the housing 11 described above are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, the power button 28 and several of the slots 23 and 24 may be located on other sides or the back of the housing 11. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the main body device 2 may be a structure that does not possess several of the aforementioned structural elements.

[0177] [1-1-2. Structure of the left controller]

[0178] Figure 5 This is a six-view diagram representing an example of the left controller 3. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the left controller 3 has a generally plate-shaped housing 31. In this embodiment, the main surface of the housing 31 (in other words, the front side surface, i.e.) Figure 1 The surface shown on the negative z-axis side is approximately rectangular in shape. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the housing 31 is longitudinally elongated, meaning that in the vertical direction (i.e.,...), Figure 1 The shape is elongated along the y-axis (as shown). Furthermore, when the left controller 3 is detached from the main body 2, it is possible to hold the left controller 3 with its long side facing longitudinally (see reference). Figure 38 It can also hold the left controller 3 so that its long side faces laterally (see reference). Figure 35 Furthermore, the shape of the housing 31 is arbitrary; in other embodiments, the housing 31 may not be substantially plate-shaped. Additionally, the housing 31 may not be rectangular; for example, it may be semi-circular. Furthermore, the housing 31 may not be elongated.

[0179] The vertical length of the housing 31 is approximately the same as the vertical length of the housing 11 of the main body device 2. Furthermore, the thickness of the housing 31 (i.e., its length in the front-to-back direction, in other words...) Figure 1 The length along the z-axis (as shown) is approximately the same as the thickness of the housing 11 of the main unit 2. Therefore, when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2 (refer to...), Figure 1 The user can hold the main unit 2 and the left controller 3 as if they were a single unit.

[0180] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, the main surface of the housing 31 has the following shape: the left corner has a larger rounded corner than the right corner. That is, the connection between the upper side and the left side of the housing 31, and the connection between the lower side and the left side of the housing 31, are more rounded than the connection between the upper side and the right side of the housing 31, and the connection between the lower side and the right side of the housing 31 (in other words, the radius of the chamfer is larger). Therefore, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body device 2 (refer to...), Figure 1 The left side of the information processing device 1 is rounded, making it easy for the user to hold.

[0181] The left controller 3 has an analog stick 32. For example... Figure 5 As shown, an analog joystick 32 is provided on the main surface of the housing 31. The analog joystick 32 is an example of a direction input unit capable of inputting a direction. The analog joystick 32 has a joystick member that can tilt in all directions parallel to the main surface of the housing 31 (i.e., 360° directions including up, down, left, right, and diagonal directions). The user can input the direction corresponding to the tilting direction (and the magnitude corresponding to the tilting angle) by tilting the joystick member. Alternatively, the direction input unit can be a crosshair or a sliding joystick, etc. A sliding joystick is an input unit with a joystick member that can slide in all directions parallel to the main surface of the housing 31; the user can input the direction corresponding to the sliding direction (and the magnitude corresponding to the sliding amount) by sliding the joystick member. Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is possible to input by pressing the joystick member (in a direction perpendicular to the housing 31). That is, the analog joystick 32 is an input unit capable of inputting the direction and magnitude corresponding to the tilting direction and tilting amount of the joystick member, as well as inputting by pressing the joystick member.

[0182] The left controller 3 has four operation buttons 33-36 (specifically, a right-direction button 33, a down-direction button 34, an up-direction button 35, and a left-direction button 36). For example... Figure 5 As shown, the four operation buttons 33-36 are located on the main surface of the housing 31 below the analog joystick 32. Furthermore, in this embodiment, four operation buttons are provided on the main surface of the left controller 3, but the number of operation buttons is arbitrary. These operation buttons 33-36 are used to provide instructions corresponding to various programs (e.g., OS programs, application programs) executed in the main unit 2. In addition, in this embodiment, each operation button 33-36 can also be used for direction input; therefore, each operation button 33-36 is referred to as the right direction button 33, the down direction button 34, the up direction button 35, and the left direction button 36. However, each operation button 33-36 can also be used for instructions other than direction input.

[0183] Additionally, the left controller 3 has a recording button 37. For example... Figure 5As shown, the recording button 37 is located on the main surface of the housing 31, more specifically, in the lower right area of ​​the main surface. The recording button 37 is a button used to indicate whether to save an image displayed on the display 12 of the main unit 2. For example, when a game image is displayed on the display 12, the user can save the game image displayed at the time of the press to the storage unit of the main unit 2 by pressing the recording button 37.

[0184] Additionally, the left controller 3 has a negative button 47. Figure 5 As shown, button 47 is located on the main surface of housing 31, more specifically, in the upper right area of ​​the main surface. Button 47 is used to provide instructions corresponding to various programs (e.g., OS programs, applications) executed in the main unit 2. Button 47 is used, for example, as a selection button (e.g., a button for switching selected items) in a game application.

[0185] When the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2, the operating parts (specifically, the analog joystick 32 and the aforementioned buttons 33-37, 47) provided on the main surface of the left controller 3 are operated by, for example, the thumb of the user holding the information processing device 1 (see reference). Figure 33 Furthermore, when the left controller 3 is used detached from the main unit 2, the aforementioned operating units are operated by the user's thumbs, for example, the left or right hands, while holding the left controller 3 (see [reference]). Figure 34 Specifically, in this case, the analog joystick 32 is operated by the user's left thumb, and the operation buttons 33-36 are operated by the user's right thumb.

[0186] The left controller 3 has a first L button 38. Additionally, the left controller 3 has a ZL button 39. These operation buttons 38 and 39, like the operation buttons 33-36 described above, are used to give instructions corresponding to various programs executed in the main unit 2. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the first L button 38 is located on the upper left portion of the side of the housing 31. Additionally, the ZL button 39 is located on the upper left portion extending from the side to the back of the housing 31 (strictly speaking, the upper left portion when viewing the housing 31 from the front). That is, the ZL button 39 is located behind the first L button 38. Figure 1 (shown on the positive z-axis side). In this embodiment, the upper left portion of the housing 31 has a rounded corner shape, so the first L button 38 and the ZL button 39 have rounded corner shapes corresponding to the rounded corners of the upper left portion of the housing 31.

[0187] With the left controller 3 installed on the main unit 2, the first L button 38 and the ZL button 39 are located on the upper left part of the information processing unit 1 (see reference). Figure 1 Therefore, the user holding the information processing device 1 can operate the first L button 38 and the ZL button 39 with the index and middle fingers of their left hand (see reference). Figure 33 ).

[0188] like Figure 5 As shown, the portion of the back of the housing 31 where the ZL button 39 is located (more specifically, at least a portion around the ZL button 39) protrudes more than the rest of the housing 31. Furthermore, the ZL button 39 is configured to protrude relative to this other portion of the back of the housing 31. Therefore, when the main body 2, on which the left controller 3 is mounted, is placed on a mounting surface with the back of the left controller 3 facing the horizontal mounting surface, the protruding portion of the housing 31 abuts against the mounting surface. As a result, the information processing device 1 is mounted such that the upper side of the main body 2 is slightly higher than the lower side. With the information processing device 1 mounted as described above, it is easier for the user to view the display 12.

[0189] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the ZL button 39 may abut against the mounting surface when the main body device 2, on which the left controller 3 is mounted, is placed with the back of the left controller 3 facing the horizontal mounting surface. In this embodiment, the ZL button 39 is primarily pressable in the vertical direction (y-axis direction). That is, the ZL button 39 is supported on the housing 31 in a manner that allows it to move primarily in the vertical direction. Therefore, even when the information processing device 1 is mounted in the manner described above, with the ZL button 39 abutting against the mounting surface, the ZL button 39 is not easily pressed because the force is primarily applied to the ZL button 39 in the front-back direction (z-axis direction). In other words, even when the information processing device 1 is mounted as described above, the possibility of accidentally pressing the ZL button 39 is small.

[0190] In other embodiments, the ZL button 39 may also be formed so that it does not protrude from the back of the housing 31. For example, the ZL button 39 may also be provided on the side of the housing 31. Alternatively, for example, the portion on the back of the housing 31 where the ZL button 39 is provided may be formed to be concave (i.e., thinner than other portions), thereby forming the ZL button 39 so that it does not protrude from the other portions.

[0191] The left controller 3 has the aforementioned slider 40. For example... Figure 5As shown, slider 40 is configured to extend vertically along the right side of housing 31. Slider 40 has a shape capable of engaging with the left track member 15 (more specifically, the groove of the left track member 15) of the main body 2. Specifically, the cross-section of slider 40 (specifically, the cross-section perpendicular to the vertical direction) has a convex shape. More specifically, the cross-section of slider 40 has a T-shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the left track member 15 (see reference). Figure 7 Therefore, the slider 40, which engages with the left track member 15, is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (in other words, the direction in which the left track member 15 extends) and will not disengage (see below). Figure 7 ).

[0192] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, a protrusion 41 is provided at the slider 40. The protrusion 41 is positioned to be inserted into the engagement hole 16 when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main body device 2. The specific position of the protrusion 41 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, the protrusion 41 is provided on the mounting surface of the slider 40. Furthermore, the mounting surface of the slider 40 refers to the surface facing the bottom surface of the left track member 15 when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main body device 2. In addition, the protrusion 41 is formed in a shape that can engage with the engagement hole 16 of the left track member 15.

[0193] In this embodiment, the protrusion 41 is subjected to a force from the inside to the outside of the slider 40. Therefore, by applying a force from the outside to the inside of the slider 40 to the protrusion 41, the protrusion 41 moves toward the inside of the slider 40 (i.e., retracts toward the inside of the slider 40). The structure for applying force to the protrusion 41 as described above is arbitrary. For example, in this embodiment, the protrusion 41 is connected to an elastomer inside the slider 40, such that a portion of the protrusion 41 protrudes from the hole formed in the slider 40 relative to the mounting surface of the slider 40. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the protrusion 41 may also be configured to be fixed relative to the slider 40.

[0194] Additionally, the left controller 3 includes a terminal 42 for wired communication between the left controller 3 and the main unit 2. The terminal 42 is positioned to connect with the left terminal 17 of the main unit 2 when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2. Figure 3 The contact position. The specific position of terminal 42 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown, terminal 42 is provided on the mounting surface of slider 40. Furthermore, in this embodiment, terminal 42 is provided near the lower end of the mounting surface of slider 40. Terminal 42 is located lower than the aforementioned protrusion 41 (in other words, at the top end when slider 40 is inserted into the left track member 15).

[0195] Additionally, the left controller 3 includes a second L button 43 and a second R button 44. These buttons 43 and 44, like the other operation buttons 33-36, are used to provide instructions corresponding to various programs executed in the main unit 2. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the second L button 43 and the second R button 44 are disposed on the mounting surface of the slider 40. The second L button 43 is disposed on the mounting surface of the slider 40 at a position greater than that in the vertical direction ( Figure 1 The second R button 44 is located slightly above the center on the y-axis direction (as shown). The second R button 44 is positioned slightly below the center on the mounting surface of the slider 40. The second L button 43 and the second R button 44 are positioned so that they cannot be pressed when the left controller 3 is attached to the main unit 2. In other words, the second L button 43 and the second R button 44 are buttons used when the left controller 3 is detached from the main unit 2. The second L button 43 and the second R button 44 are operated, for example, by the index or middle fingers of the left or right hand of a user holding the left controller 3 detached from the main unit 2 (see reference). Figure 35 ).

[0196] The left controller 3 includes a notification LED 45. The notification LED 45 is a notification unit used to notify the user of specified information. The information notified via the notification LED 45 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, when the main unit 2 communicates with multiple controllers, the notification LED 45 displays information identifying each controller to the user. Specifically, the left controller 3 includes LEDs representing the number (in this case, four) of the left controllers that the main unit 2 can communicate with simultaneously as notification LEDs 45. Furthermore, the LED corresponding to the number associated with that controller is illuminated. Therefore, the aforementioned number can be notified to the user via the notification LED 45.

[0197] In other embodiments, the notification LED 45 can also notify the user of the status related to the communication between the left controller 3 and the main unit 2. For example, the notification LED 45 can be lit when communication with the main unit 2 has been established. In this embodiment, the number of LEDs (in other words, light-emitting parts) that function as the notification LED 45 is set to four, but the number of LEDs is arbitrary.

[0198] In this embodiment, the notification is provided by LED 45, such as Figure 5 The LED 45 is positioned on the mounting surface of the slider 40 as shown. This allows the notification LED 45 to be positioned out of sight when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2. In other words, the notification LED 45 is used when the left controller 3 is detached from the main unit 2.

[0199] The left controller 3 has a pairing button 46. In this embodiment, the pairing button 46 is used to indicate setting (also called pairing) processes related to wireless communication between the left controller 3 and the main device 2, and to indicate a reset process for the left controller 3. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the pairing button 46 may only have one of the functions described above: setting or resetting.

[0200] That is, when the pairing button 46 is pressed briefly (specifically, when the pairing button 46 is pressed for a shorter time than the specified time), the left controller 3 performs the above-mentioned setting process. Furthermore, details of the above-mentioned setting process will be described later.

[0201] Furthermore, when the pairing button 46 is pressed and held (specifically, when the pairing button 46 is pressed for a period of time or longer as specified above), the left controller 3 performs a reset process. The reset process is a process that resets the state of the left controller 3, and is a process that should be performed, for example, in the event that the left controller 3 has frozen (e.g., when the main device 2 cannot obtain data from the left controller 3). The specific content of the reset process is arbitrary; for example, it could be a process of temporarily turning off and then on the power to the left controller 3, a process of temporarily cutting off and then restarting communication with the main device 2, a process of re-executing the process executed at the start of communication, and / or the aforementioned setting process. Through the pairing button 46, in this embodiment, even if the left controller 3 freezes for some reason, it can be reset to a usable state.

[0202] In this embodiment, the pairing button 46 is as follows: Figure 5 The pairing button 46 is positioned on the mounting surface of the slider 40 as shown. Thus, the pairing button 46 is located in a position that is not visible when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2. In other words, the pairing button 46 is used when the left controller 3 is detached from the main unit 2. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the probability of pressing the pairing button 46 when the left controller 3 is detached from the main unit 2 is low, and that the probability of pressing the pairing button 46 when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2 is low. Therefore, the pairing button 46 is positioned as described above to suppress accidental operation of the pairing button 46 when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2.

[0203] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the buttons (specifically, the second L button 43, the second R button 44, and the mating button 46) provided on the mounting surface of the slider 40 are configured not to protrude relative to the mounting surface. That is, the upper surface (in other words, the lower surface) of the aforementioned buttons is disposed on the same surface as the mounting surface of the slider 40, or disposed in a position recessed from the mounting surface. Accordingly, when the slider 40 is mounted on the left track member 15 of the main body device 2, the slider 40 can slide smoothly relative to the left track member 15.

[0204] [1-1-3. Structure of the right controller]

[0205] Figure 6 This is a six-view diagram representing an example of the right controller 4. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the right controller 4 has a generally plate-shaped housing 51. In this embodiment, the main surface of the housing 51 (in other words, the front side surface, i.e.) Figure 1 The surface shown on the negative z-axis direction is approximately rectangular in shape. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the housing 51 is longitudinally elongated, meaning it is longer in the vertical direction. Additionally, when the right controller 4 is detached from the main body 2, the right controller 4 can be held with its long side facing longitudinally (see reference 2). Figure 38 It can also hold the right controller 4 with its long side facing laterally (see reference). Figure 35 ).

[0206] The housing 51 of the right controller 4, like the housing 31 of the left controller 3, has a vertical length approximately the same as the vertical length of the housing 11 of the main body device 2, and a thickness approximately the same as the thickness of the housing 11 of the main body device 2. Therefore, when the right controller 4 is installed in the main body device 2 (refer to...), Figure 1 The user can hold the main unit 2 and the right controller 4 as if they were a single unit.

[0207] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, the main surface of housing 51 has the following shape: the right corner has a larger rounded corner than the left corner. That is, the connection between the upper and right sides of housing 51 and the connection between the lower and right sides of housing 51 are more rounded than the connection between the upper and left sides of housing 51 and the connection between the lower and left sides of housing 51 (in other words, the radius of the chamfer is larger). Therefore, when the right controller 4 is installed in the main body device 2 (refer to...), Figure 1 The right side of the information processing device 1 is rounded, making it easy for the user to hold.

[0208] Like the left controller 3, the right controller 4 includes an analog joystick 52 as a direction input. In this embodiment, the analog joystick 52 has the same structure as the analog joystick 32 of the left controller 3. Furthermore, like the left controller 3, the right controller 4 includes four operation buttons 53-56 (specifically, button A 53, button B 54, button X 55, and button Y 56). In this embodiment, these four operation buttons 53-56 have the same mechanism as the four operation buttons 33-36 of the left controller 3. Figure 6 As shown, these analog joysticks 52 and operation buttons 53-56 are provided on the main surface of the housing 51. Furthermore, in this embodiment, four operation buttons are provided on the main surface of the right controller 4, but the number of operation buttons is arbitrary.

[0209] In this embodiment, the positional relationship of the two operation units (analog joystick and operation buttons) in the right controller 4 is the opposite of that in the left controller 3. That is, in the right controller 4, the analog joystick 52 is positioned below each of the operation buttons 53-56, while in the left controller 3, the analog joystick 32 is positioned above each of the operation buttons 33-36. With this configuration, when the left and right controllers 3 and 4 are used detached from the main unit 2, they can be used with a similar operating feel, as will be described later.

[0210] Additionally, the right controller 4 has a + (positive) button 57. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the + button 57 is located on the main surface of the housing 51, more specifically, in the upper left area of ​​the main surface. Like the other operation buttons 53-56, the + button 57 is used to indicate various programs (e.g., OS programs, applications) executed in the main unit 2. For example, in a game application, the + button 57 is used as a start button (e.g., a button indicating the start of a game).

[0211] The right controller 4 has a Home button 58. For example... Figure 6As shown, the Home button 58 is located on the main surface of the housing 51, more specifically, in the lower left area of ​​the main surface. The Home button 58 is a button used to display a predetermined menu screen on the display 12 of the main device 2. The menu screen is, for example, a screen that allows the user to launch an application selected from one or more applications that can be executed on the main device 2. The menu screen may also be displayed when the main device 2 is started. In this embodiment, when the Home button 58 is pressed while an application is being executed on the main device 2 (i.e., the image of the application is displayed on the display 12), a predetermined operation screen may be displayed on the display 12 (at this time, a menu screen may also be displayed instead of an operation screen). Furthermore, the operation screen may be, for example, a screen that allows the display 12 to display a menu screen after the application is terminated, or an instruction to restart the application.

[0212] When the right controller 4 is installed on the main unit 2, the operating parts (specifically, the analog joystick 52 and the aforementioned buttons 53-59) provided on the main surface of the right controller 4 are operated by, for example, the thumb of the user holding the information processing device 1 (see reference). Figure 33 Furthermore, when the right controller 4 is used detached from the main unit 2, the aforementioned operating units are operated by the user's thumbs, for example, the left or right hands, while holding the right controller 4 (see [reference]). Figure 34 Specifically, in this case, the analog joystick 52 is operated by the user's left thumb, and the operation buttons 53-56 are operated by the user's right thumb.

[0213] The right controller 4 has a first R button 60. Additionally, the right controller 4 has a ZR button 61. (As...) Figure 6 As shown, the first R button 60 is located on the upper right portion of the side of the housing 51. Additionally, the ZR button 61 is located on the upper right portion extending from the side to the back of the housing 51 (strictly speaking, the upper right portion when viewing the housing 51 from the front). That is, the ZR button 61 is located behind the first R button 60. Figure 1 (shown on the positive z-axis side). In this embodiment, the upper right portion of the housing 51 has a rounded corner shape, so the first R button 60 and the ZR button 61 have rounded corner shapes corresponding to the rounded corners of the upper right portion of the housing 31.

[0214] With the right controller 4 installed on the main unit 2, the first R button 60 and the ZR button 61 are located on the upper right side of the information processing unit 1 (see reference). Figure 1 Therefore, the user holding the information processing device 1 can operate the first R button 60 and the ZR button 61 with the index and middle fingers of their right hand (see reference). Figure 34 ).

[0215] like Figure 6 As shown, the ZR button 61 in the right controller 4, like the ZL button 39 in the left controller 3, is configured to protrude from the housing 51. That is, the portion of the back of the housing 51 where the ZR button 61 is located (more specifically, at least a portion around the ZR button 61) protrudes more than the rest of the housing 51. Furthermore, the ZR button 61 is configured to protrude relative to this other portion of the back of the housing 51. Therefore, when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main unit 2, similarly to when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main unit 2, when the main unit 2 is placed on the mounting surface with the back of the right controller 4 facing the horizontal mounting surface, the protruding portion of the housing 51 abuts against the mounting surface. As a result, the main unit 2 is mounted with the upper side slightly higher than the lower side, making it easier for the user to view the display 12.

[0216] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ZR button 61 in the right controller 4, like the ZL button 39 in the left controller 3, can primarily be pressed in the vertical direction (y-axis direction). Therefore, even when the information processing device 1 is mounted such that the ZR button 61 abuts against the mounting surface, like the ZL button 39, the ZR button 61 is not easily pressed, and the possibility of accidental pressing is small. In other embodiments, the housing 51 may be formed such that its back surface protrudes beyond the ZR button 61. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the ZR button 61 may be formed such that, like the ZL button 39 in the left controller 3, it does not protrude from the back surface of the housing 51.

[0217] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the shape of the first L button 38 is not symmetrical to the shape of the first R button 60, and the shape of the ZL button 39 is not symmetrical to the shape of the ZR button 61. However, in other embodiments, the shape of the first L button 38 and the shape of the first R button 60 can also be symmetrical to each other, and the shape of the ZL button 39 and the shape of the ZR button 61 can also be symmetrical to each other.

[0218] The right controller 4 has the same slider mechanism as the left controller 3. That is, the right controller 4 has the slider 62 described above. Figure 6 As shown, slider 62 is configured to extend vertically along the left side of housing 51. Slider 62 has a shape capable of engaging with the right track member 19 (more specifically, the groove of the right track member 19) of the main body 2. Specifically, the cross-section of slider 62 (specifically, the cross-section perpendicular to the vertical direction) has a convex shape. More specifically, the cross-section of slider 62 has a T-shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the right track member 19 (see reference). Figure 7Therefore, the slider 62, which engages with the right track member 19, is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (in other words, the direction in which the right track member 19 extends) and will not disengage (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0219] Additionally, a protrusion 63 is provided at the slider 62. The protrusion 63 is positioned to be inserted into the engagement hole 20 when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2. The specific position of the protrusion 63 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, the protrusion 63 is provided on the mounting surface of the slider 62. Furthermore, the mounting surface of the slider 62 refers to the surface facing the bottom surface of the right track member 19 when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main body device 2. Furthermore, the protrusion 63 is shaped to engage with the engagement hole 20 of the right track member 19.

[0220] In this embodiment, the protrusion 63 of the right controller 4, like the protrusion 41 of the left controller 3, is subjected to a force from the inside to the outside of the slider 62. Therefore, by applying a force from the outside to the inside of the slider 62 to the protrusion 63, the protrusion 63 moves toward the inside of the slider 62 (i.e., retracts toward the inside of the slider 62). Furthermore, the structure used to apply force to the protrusion 63 as described above is arbitrary and can be the same as the structure of the protrusion 41 of the left controller 3.

[0221] Additionally, the right controller 4 includes a terminal 64 for wired communication between the right controller 4 and the main unit 2. Terminal 64 is provided at the junction of the right controller 4 and the right side terminal 21 of the main unit 2 when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main unit 2. Figure 3 The contact position. The specific position of terminal 64 is arbitrary. In this embodiment, as... Figure 6 As shown, terminal 64 is provided on the mounting surface of slider 62. In this embodiment, terminal 64 is provided near the lower end of the mounting surface of slider 62. Terminal 64 is provided at a position lower than the protrusion 63 (in other words, at the top end when slider 62 is inserted into right track member 19).

[0222] In addition, the right controller 4, like the left controller 3, has a second L button 65 and a second R button 66. These buttons 65 and 66, like the other operation buttons 53-56, are used to give instructions corresponding to various programs executed in the main unit 2. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the second L button 65 and the second R button 66 are disposed on the mounting surface of the slider 62. The second L button 65 is disposed on the mounting surface of the slider 62 at a position greater than that in the vertical direction ( Figure 1The second R button 66 is located slightly below the center in the y-axis direction (as shown). The second R button 66 is positioned slightly above the center in the vertical direction on the mounting surface of the slider 62. Similar to the second L button 43 and second R button 44 of the left controller 3, the second L button 65 and second R button 66 are positioned in a position where they cannot be pressed when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main unit 2, and are used when the right controller 4 is detached from the main unit 2. The second L button 65 and second R button 66 are operated, for example, by the index or middle finger of the left or right hand of the user holding the right controller 4 detached from the main unit 2 (see reference). Figure 35 ).

[0223] The right controller 4 includes a notification LED 67. Similar to the notification LED 45 of the left controller 3, the notification LED 67 is a notification unit used to notify the user of specified information. Furthermore, like the left controller 3, the right controller 4 includes four LEDs as the notification LED 67, with the LED corresponding to the number on the right controller 4 being illuminated. In this embodiment, the notification LED 67, like the notification LED 45, is located on the mounting surface of the slider 62. Figure 6 Thus, the notification LED 67 is positioned in a location that is not visible when the right controller 4 is installed in the main unit 2, and is used when the right controller 4 is detached from the main unit 2.

[0224] The right controller 4 has a pairing button 69. Similar to the pairing button 46 of the left controller 3, the pairing button 69 is used to indicate setting (also called pairing) processes related to wireless communication between the right controller 4 and the main unit 2, and to indicate reset processes for the right controller 4. The setting and reset processes described above are the same as those in the left controller 3, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pairing button 69 is as follows... Figure 6 It is mounted on the mounting surface of slider 62 as shown. That is, the pairing button 69 is positioned in a location that is not visible when the right controller 4 is mounted on the main unit 2, for the same reason as the pairing button 46 of the left controller 3.

[0225] Furthermore, similarly to the left controller 3, the buttons (specifically, the second L button 65, the second R button 66, and the mating button 69) located on the mounting surface of the slider 62 in the right controller 4 are configured not to protrude relative to the mounting surface. Therefore, with the slider 62 mounted on the right track member 19 of the main body device 2, the slider 62 can slide smoothly relative to the right track member 19.

[0226] Additionally, a window 68 is provided on the lower side of the housing 51. The right controller 4 is equipped with an infrared camera unit. Figure 31The infrared camera unit 123 shown detects the user's hand movements and / or gestures, as detailed later. The window 68 is provided to allow the camera of the infrared camera unit 123, housed inside the housing 51, to capture images of the area around the right controller 4. The window 68, used to protect the lens of the camera of the infrared camera unit 123, is made of a material that allows light of the wavelength detected by the camera to pass through (e.g., a transparent material). Alternatively, the window 68 may be a hole formed in the housing 51. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the infrared camera unit 123 itself has a filter member that suppresses the transmission of light of wavelengths other than the light detected by the camera (infrared light in this embodiment). However, in other embodiments, the window may also have a filtering function.

[0227] Furthermore, in the aforementioned controllers 3 and 4, the shape, quantity, and placement of the structural elements (specifically, sliders, joysticks, buttons, and LEDs, etc.) provided on the housing 31 or 51 are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, each controller 3 and 4 may also have a directional input section of a different type than that of an analog joystick. Additionally, the slider 40 or 62 may be positioned corresponding to the position of the track member 15 or 19 provided on the main body device 2, for example, it may be positioned on the main surface or back surface of the housing 31 or 51. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the controllers 3 and 4 may also be structures that do not possess some of the aforementioned structural elements.

[0228] [1-1-4: Installation Actions]

[0229] Next, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The operation of attaching and detaching the controller relative to the main unit 2 will be explained below. Furthermore, the operation of attaching and detaching the left controller 3 relative to the main unit 2 will be explained as an example below, but the operation of attaching and detaching the right controller 4 relative to the main unit 2 can also be performed in the same way as the operation of attaching and detaching the left controller 3.

[0230] When installing the left controller 3 onto the main unit 2, the user first inserts the lower end of the slider 40 of the left controller 3 into the slot of the left track member 15 from the upper end of the left track member 15 of the main unit 2. Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of the engagement between the left track member 15 and the slider 40. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In order to make the accompanying drawings easier to observe, the structure of the main device 2 is shown with dotted lines. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the slider 40 is inserted into the left track member 15 in such a way that the convex cross section of the slider 40 engages (also known as fitting) with the concave cross section (in other words, the groove of the left track member 15).

[0231] After inserting the lower end of slider 40 into the slot of left track member 15, the user inserts slider 40 further into the slot of left track member 15. That is, the user slides left controller 3 downward relative to main body device 2. Then, when left controller 3 is slid downward until the lower end of slider 40 reaches the stop member 18 of main body device 2, left controller 3 is fixed to main body device 2.

[0232] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of the situation before and after the slider 40 is fixed to the left track member 15. Furthermore, in Figure 8 The image shows a cross-section of the left track member 15 perpendicular to the front-rear direction (z-axis direction). Additionally, in... Figure 8 In order to make the structural elements that are the subject of explanation easier to observe, relative to Figure 3 The methods for changing the positional relationships and sizes of structural elements are shown.

[0233] like Figure 8 As shown in (a), when the left controller 3 is not fully installed in the main body device 2 (i.e., the lower end of the slider 40 has not reached the stop member 18 of the main body device 2), the protrusion 41 of the slider 40 is in contact with the bottom surface of the track member 15 and is housed inside the slider 40.

[0234] When in Figure 8 After the state shown in (a) is reached, when the slider 40 slides to the deeper side of the left track member 15, the lower end of the slider 40 reaches the position of the stop member 18 of the main body device 2 (see reference). Figure 8 (b)). At this time, such as Figure 8 As shown in (b), the protrusion 41 of the slider 40 is positioned opposite the engagement hole 16 of the left track member 15. Therefore, the protrusion 41 protrudes from the mounting surface of the slider 40 and is inserted into the engagement hole 16. Thus, the protrusion 41 engages with the engagement hole 16, and the left controller 3 is fixed to the main body 2 to a degree that it will not disengage even when a certain amount of force is applied (in other words, the slider 40 is fixed to the left track member 15).

[0235] Additionally, with the left controller 3 fixed to the main body device 2, such as Figure 8 As shown in (b), terminal 42 of slider 40 is located opposite to left terminal 17 of left track member 15. Therefore, terminal 42 is connected to left terminal 17. This enables wired communication between left controller 3 and main unit 2 (in other words, communication through physical connection between terminals). Furthermore, power can be supplied from main unit 2 to left controller 3.

[0236] Furthermore, either or both of the terminal on the controller side (i.e., terminal 42) and the terminal on the main body device side (i.e., left-side terminal 17) are configured to protrude (slightly) from the surface where the terminal is located. In this embodiment, as... Figure 8 As shown in (a), the left-side terminal 17 on the main body device side is configured to protrude slightly from the surface where the left-side terminal 17 is located (i.e., the bottom surface of the left track member 15). Furthermore, the metal portion 17a of the contact point of the protruding terminal can deform in a direction approaching the surface where the terminal is located. Therefore, in the case of contact between the terminals, as... Figure 8 As shown in (b), one terminal is subjected to a compressive force from another terminal, applied in a protruding direction. As a result, reliable contact is achieved between the terminals.

[0237] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2 is located below the engagement hole 16. Additionally, the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 is located below the protrusion 41. Therefore, when the slider 40 is inserted into the left track member 15, the protrusion 41 will not contact the left terminal 17, reducing the possibility of damage to the left terminal 17 from the protrusion 41.

[0238] To remove the left controller 3 from the main unit 2, the user slides the left controller 3 upwards towards the main unit 2. Furthermore, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2, it is secured to the main unit 2 by the protrusion 41 and the engaging hole 16. However, by applying a force greater than a certain magnitude to slide the left controller 3 upwards, the protrusion 41 deviates from the position of the engaging hole 16, and as a result, the securing state is released. Therefore, after the securing state is released, the left controller 3 can be removed from the main unit 2 by further sliding it upwards.

[0239] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the left controller 3 may also include a mechanism capable of retracting the protrusion 41 into the inside of the slider 40. For example, the left controller 3 may have a mechanism in which the protrusion 41 is retracted into the inside of the slider 40 when a user presses a designated button on the left controller 3. Accordingly, the user can easily release the left controller 3 from the state where it is fixed to the main body device 2 by the protrusion 41 by performing the above operation.

[0240] As described above, in this embodiment, the controllers 3 and 4 can be detachably mounted to the main unit 2 using a sliding mechanism of the track member and the slider. According to the sliding mechanism, the controllers 3 and 4 can be relatively firmly fixed to the main unit 2 in directions other than the sliding direction. Therefore, when the user holds the information processing device 1 with the controllers 3 and 4 mounted on the main unit 2, the controllers 3 and 4 wobble less, providing an information processing device 1 that is easy to hold. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the structure of the protrusion and the engaging hole can also fix the controllers 3 and 4 to a certain extent in the sliding direction. This also reduces the wobble of the controllers 3 and 4 mounted on the main unit 2, thereby providing an information processing device 1 that is easy to hold.

[0241] [1-2. Other structural examples related to information processing devices]

[0242] Furthermore, the structure related to the installation of the controller on the main unit 2 can also be the second structural example described below, instead of the structural example shown in "[1-1. Structure of the Information Processing Device]" (hereinafter referred to as the "first structural example"). The second structural example relating to the main unit 2 and each of the controllers 3 and 4 will now be described, focusing on the differences from the first structural example.

[0243] [1-2-1. Example of a second structure related to the main device]

[0244] Figure 9 This is a left-side view showing an example of the main assembly in the second structural example. Additionally, Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing an example of the left side portion of the main body assembly in the second structural example. In the second structural example, the main body assembly 2 has a left track member 300 on the left side of the housing 11. Figure 9 As shown, the left track component 300 is configured to move along the vertical direction ( Figure 9 Extending in the y-axis direction shown. The left track member 300, like the left track member 15 in the first structural example, is a member for mounting the left controller 3 to the main body device 2 in a slidable and detachable manner relative to the main body device 2. In the second structural example, the left track member 300 can engage with the slider 311 of the left controller 3 (described later), and the left track member 300 and the slider 311 constitute a sliding mechanism. The structure of the left track member 300 in the second structural example will now be described, focusing on the differences from the first structural example.

[0245] Figure 11 It is a schematic representation Figure 9 A diagram showing an example of the cross-section of the left track member on section A-A'. Furthermore, in this specification, "schematic representation" means: for the purpose of illustrating structural elements (e.g., in...) Figure 11 The left track component in the middle is easy to observe, so that the size and shape of this structural element and the positional relationship between structural elements are represented in a way that is different from other figures.

[0246] like Figures 9-11 As shown, the left track member 300 has a bottom portion 301, side portions 302a and 302b, and top portions 303a and 303b. Furthermore, below, the side portions 302a and 302b are sometimes referred to as "side portion 302" collectively. Additionally, the top portions 303a and 303b are sometimes referred to as "top portion 303". In the second structural example, each portion 301 to 303 is a generally plate-shaped member.

[0247] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the bottom portion 301 is arranged substantially parallel to the left side of the housing 11. Furthermore, in this specification, "substantially (becoming a certain state)" includes both the case of strictly becoming that state and the case of substantially becoming that state. For example, "substantially parallel" means either that it can be a state of strictly being parallel, or a state that is not strictly parallel but is substantially parallel.

[0248] The bottom surface 301 has the bottom surface 3011 of the left track member 300. Additionally, as... Figure 11 As shown, the side portion 302 has side portions 3021 (specifically, side portions 3021a and 3021b) that are substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface 3011. The side portions 302 extend substantially perpendicularly to the bottom surface 301 from both ends in the front-rear direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). Specifically, side portion 302a extends from the rear end side (i.e., the positive z-axis side) of the bottom surface 301, and side portion 302b extends from the front end side (i.e., the negative z-axis side) of the bottom surface 301. Figure 11 As shown, a groove is formed by the bottom part 301 and the side part 302.

[0249] like Figure 11As shown, the top surface 303 has a top surface 3031 (specifically, top surfaces 3031a and 3031b) that are substantially parallel to the bottom surface 3011. The top surface 303 extends from the side portion 302 opposite to the side connecting to the bottom surface 301 (i.e., the positive x-axis side) in a direction substantially parallel to the bottom surface 3011. Specifically, the top surface 303a extends from the end of the side portion 302a on the positive x-axis side, and the top surface 303b extends from the end of the side portion 302b on the positive x-axis side. The top surface 303a and the top surface 303b extend from the side portion 302 in a direction that approaches each other. The top surface 303 is configured to face the bottom surface 301. In the second structural example, the top surface 303 and the bottom surface 301 are configured substantially parallel to each other. Top portions 303a and 303b are configured to protrude from the side portion 302 toward the inside of the left track member 300 (in other words, protruding toward each other). Furthermore, the top portions 303a and 303b are spaced apart from each other, allowing the slider 311 of the left controller 3 to be inserted into the groove formed by the bottom portion 301 and the side portion 302. Figures 9-11 ).

[0250] Based on the above, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body device 2, similarly to the first structural example, the slider 311 of the left controller 3 is inserted into the aforementioned slot, and the left track member 300 engages with the slider 311 (refer to the first structural example). Figure 7 At this time, the slider 311, which engages with the left track member 300 through the top surface 303, is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (in other words, the direction in which the left track member 300 extends) and will not disengage.

[0251] As described above, the sliding mechanism in the second structural example (in other words, the mechanism for mounting the controllers 3 and 4 to the main body device 2 in a sliding manner) is substantially the same as that in the first structural example.

[0252] In the second structural example, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a notch C1 is formed in a portion of the upper part of the top surface 303. The notch C1 is formed so that the locking member 319 of the left controller 3 can be locked with the notch C1 (strictly speaking, the top surface 303 around the notch C1) when the left controller 3 is installed in the main body device 2, as detailed later.

[0253] Here, "the controller being installed in the main body device 2" refers to the following state: a portion of the controller (e.g., a portion of the slider, more specifically, the lower top of the slider) that has been inserted into the track member of the main body device 2 and is moving downwards comes into contact with a portion of the main body device 2 (e.g., a portion of the track member) and cannot move further. Hereinafter, the state in which the controller is completely installed in the main body device 2 is sometimes referred to as the "installation state." The installation state described above can also be referred to as the state in which the controller is connected to the main body device 2 (i.e., the connection state). In the case where the main body device 2 and the controller have terminals as in this embodiment, the installation state can also be referred to as the "terminal connection state."

[0254] As described above, in the second structural example, the portion forming the notch C1 in the top surface 303 (in other words, the portion around the notch C1) functions as a locked portion for locking by the locking member. In the second structural example, instead of the engaging hole 16 and protrusion 41 in the first structural example, the sliding movement of the left controller 3 mounted on the main body device 2 is locked (also called locked) by the locked portion and the locking member 319, as detailed later. Furthermore, the state of locking (in other words, locking) the sliding movement is as follows: the locking member 319 is locked in the locked portion, thereby hindering the sliding movement. Alternatively, "locking" can be achieved as long as it can hinder sliding movement under a force less than a certain magnitude, and when a force greater than a certain magnitude is applied, (as a result of the locking member 319 releasing the locking of the locked portion) the sliding movement occurs.

[0255] In the second structural example, the locking part is located near the upper end of the left track member 300 (i.e., the end on the positive y-axis side). Figure 9 Furthermore, in other embodiments, the locking part can be provided at any position. For example, the locking part can be provided near the center in the vertical direction (i.e., the y-axis direction) of the left track member 300, or it can be provided near the lower end. Alternatively, a notch may not be formed in the top part 303, and the upper part of the top part 303 may function as the locking part. That is, in the installed state, the locking member 319 of the left controller 3 may be locked to the upper part of the top part 303.

[0256] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the left track member 300 may also be a structure without a locking part. Furthermore, even with this structure, a force can be applied to prevent the sliding movement of the left controller 3 mounted on the main body device 2 by contact between the terminals described later and / or by pressing with the leaf spring 305, thereby making it difficult for the left controller 3 to detach from the main body device 2.

[0257] In the second structural example, the locking parts are respectively disposed on the two top surfaces 303a and 303b. Figure 9 The locking portion provided on the top surface 303a and the locking portion provided on the top surface 303b are positioned substantially at the same location in the vertical direction. Thus, in the second structural example, the left track member 300 has a substantially bilaterally symmetrical shape. Figure 9 Accordingly, components of the same shape can be used as the track members provided on the left side and the right side of the main body device 2. This simplifies and reduces the cost of manufacturing the main body device 2.

[0258] Furthermore, when locking portions are provided on both sides of the top portion 303, the left controller 3 only needs to have a locking member that locks with either of the two locking portions. Therefore, according to the second structural example, the main body device 2 can support more types of controllers. In addition, according to the second structural example, the structural freedom of the controller that can be mounted on the main body device 2 can be increased. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the locking portions may also be provided on either of the two top portions 303a and 303b.

[0259] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the left track member 300 has an opposing portion 304. In the second structural example, the opposing portion 304 functions as the stop member 18 in the first structural example (i.e., it stops the sliding movement of the slider 311 of the left controller 3). That is, the opposing portion 304 stops the sliding movement of the slider 311 by abutting against the slider 311 inserted from the upper side in the sliding direction. In addition, in the second structural example, the left terminal 17 is provided in the opposing portion 304. Furthermore, in other embodiments, instead of the opposing portion 304 abutting against the slider 311 (or simultaneously), the top end of the slider 311 (specifically, the top end of the protrusion 321 described later) abuts against the wall surface 306 provided deep in the opposing portion 304, thereby stopping the sliding movement of the slider 311.

[0260] Figure 12 It is a schematic representation Figure 9 A diagram showing an example of the cross-section of the left track member at section B-B'. (See diagram below.) Figure 12As shown, the opposing portion 304 is positioned opposite a portion of the bottom surface 301 (specifically, the portion near the lower end of the bottom surface 301) at a distance from the bottom surface 301. That is, the opposing portion 304 has an opposing surface 304a facing the bottom surface 301. The opposing surface 304a is the surface facing the housing 11 of the main body device 2. In the second structural example, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body device 2, the slider 311 (the top portion) of the left controller 3 is inserted into the space between the bottom surface 301 and the opposing portion 304.

[0261] like Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, the left terminal 17 is disposed on the aforementioned facing surface 304a. Therefore, the left terminal 17 is arranged with its side facing the bottom surface 301 exposed. Thus, in the second structural example, in the member (i.e., the facing portion 304) arranged at a distance from the side of the main body device 2 (i.e., the bottom surface 301), the left terminal 17 is disposed on the inner side of that member (i.e., the side facing the bottom surface 301). Accordingly, the possibility of the left terminal 17 coming into contact with the user's hand or other objects can be reduced, thereby protecting the left terminal 17. According to the second structural example, for example, the possibility of the user accidentally touching the left terminal 17 or the left terminal 17 being damaged can be reduced.

[0262] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing an example of a terminal provided on the main body device 2. For example... Figure 13 As shown, in the second structural example, the opposing portion 304 has a base portion 307 disposed on the opposing surface 304a. The left terminal 17 is disposed on the base portion 307. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the base portion 307 is configured to be movable (at least in the direction perpendicular to the sliding direction) to the extent that its position can be slightly moved relative to the opposing surface 304a. This is to facilitate the adjustment of the position of the left terminal 17 when aligning the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2 with the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 (details of the alignment will be described later). Furthermore, in other embodiments, the base portion 307 (in other words, the left terminal 17) may not be configured to be movable relative to the opposing surface 340 (i.e., it may be configured to be fixed relative to the opposing surface 340). Even in this case, the alignment is performed by at least one of the following methods.

[0263] • The deformation of the component is achieved by utilizing the elasticity of any one of the components in the left track component 300 of the main body device 2 (e.g., the left track component 300 itself, the base portion 307, and the left terminal 17, etc.).

[0264] • The deformation of the component is achieved by utilizing the elasticity of any one of the components in the slider 311 of the left controller 3 (e.g., the slider 311 itself, the protrusion 321 described later, and the terminal 42, etc.).

[0265] • When a slight gap occurs between the engaged left track member 300 and the slider 311, the positional relationship between the left track member 300 and the slider 311 changes.

[0266] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the base portion 307 may be replaced (or at the same time) by making the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 movable to adjust the position during alignment.

[0267] like Figure 13 As shown, the same number of slits 307a as the number of left-side terminals 17 (10 in this case) are formed at the base portion 307. The slits 307a are formed to extend along the sliding direction (i.e., the y-axis direction). In addition, each slit 307a is formed side by side in a direction parallel to the opposing surface 304a and substantially perpendicular to the sliding direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). Therefore, it can be said that the opposing portion 304 (specifically, the base portion 307) has a wall portion 307b between the adjacent slits 307a.

[0268] Each left-side terminal 17 is disposed within the aforementioned slit 307a. For example... Figure 13 As shown, the left terminal 17 is located inside the slit 307a, i.e., it is configured not to protrude outside the slit 307a. Taking the direction perpendicular to the opposing surface 304a (i.e., the x-axis direction) as the height direction, the left terminal 17 is positioned lower than the wall portion 307b (in other words, closer to the opposing surface 304a). Here, in the aforementioned installation state, with the left terminal 17 connected to the terminal 42 of the left controller 3, a portion of the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 enters the slit 307a. That is, a portion of the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 is located between the two wall portions 307b. Furthermore, portions of the terminals 42 corresponding to the left terminals 17 in each slit 307a enter the inner side of each slit 307a. This reduces the possibility of the left controller 3's terminal 42 shifting in the parallel direction (i.e., the z-axis direction) of the left terminals 17 of the main body device 2. That is, it can reduce the possibility that the following situations may occur: as a result of the left controller 3's terminal 42 making contact with the main body device 2's other left terminals 17 besides the correct left terminal 17, an error may occur in the communication between the main body device 2 and the left controller 3, or an unexpected current may flow between the incorrectly contacted terminals, leading to an electrical fault. In addition, by providing the left terminal 17 within the slit 307a, the possibility of damage to the left terminal 17 can be further reduced.

[0269] Furthermore, there is a concern that short circuits may occur when conductive foreign matter adheres between the terminals. In this embodiment, a wall portion 307b is provided between each left-side terminal 17, thereby reducing the possibility of conductive foreign matter adhering across the terminals and thus reducing the likelihood of short circuits.

[0270] Additionally, in the second structural example, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the top surface 303 and the opposing portion 304 are integrally formed. In other words, the upper surface of the opposing portion 304 (i.e., the surface facing the positive x-axis direction) is configured to be continuous with the upper surface of the top surface 303 (i.e., the surface facing the positive x-axis direction). Accordingly, the shape of the left track member 300 can be simplified, and the manufacture of the track member can be made easier.

[0271] Furthermore, in the second structural example, the left track member 300, which has the aforementioned parts 301 to 304, is made of metal. This increases the strength of the track member. Moreover, by increasing the strength of the track member, the strength of the main body assembly 2 on which the track member is mounted can also be improved.

[0272] As described above, in this embodiment, the opposing part 304 serves to stop the sliding movement of the slider 311 of the left controller 3. Here, in the second structural example, as... Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the opposing portion 304 has a first portion disposed on one side of the axis (i.e., the y-axis) along the sliding direction and a second portion disposed on the other side. In this embodiment, the first portion and the second portion are disposed at a distance. The distance between the first portion and the second portion is a narrow distance to the point that the slider 311 cannot be inserted. Therefore, when the slider 311 is inserted into the left track member 300, the sliding movement of the slider 311 will stop at the position where the portion near the top of the slider 311 (specifically, the top of the shaft portion 325 described later) abuts against the opposing portion 304 (details will be described later). Furthermore, in other embodiments, the distance between the first portion and the second portion may not exist. That is, the first portion and the second portion may also be integrally formed.

[0273] Additionally, in the second structural example, such as Figure 9As shown, the left terminal 17 and the locking portion (in other words, the notch C1) are arranged on opposite sides of each other in the sliding direction of the left track member 300. That is, the left terminal 17 is provided on one side of the left track member 300 in the sliding direction (i.e., the part on the negative y-axis side), and the locking portion is provided on the other side of the left track member 300 in the sliding direction (i.e., the part on the positive y-axis side). Here, in the installed state, the sliding movement of the left controller 3 is hindered by the locking member 319 and the locking portion, and the sliding movement is also hindered by the contact between the terminals, as detailed later. Therefore, in the second structural example, the sliding movement can be hindered on both sides of the left track member 300 in the sliding direction, so the force for hindering the sliding movement can be applied in a good balance. That is, the force applied to the left track member 300 can be dispersed, thereby reducing the possibility of damage to the left track member 300. In addition, similar to the left track member 300, the force applied to the slider 311 of the left controller can also be dispersed, thus reducing the possibility of slider 311 breaking.

[0274] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the left track member 300 has a leaf spring 305. The leaf spring 305 is provided on the bottom part 301 of the left track member 300. The leaf spring 305 is an example of an elastic member that applies a force to the left controller 3 in a direction away from the main body device 2 (positive x-axis direction) when the left controller 3 is mounted on the main body device 2. In other embodiments, an elastic member such as rubber may be used instead of a leaf spring.

[0275] In the installed state, the leaf spring 305 abuts against the slider 311 of the left controller 3, pressing (in other words, applying force) the left controller 3 in a direction away from the main body 2 (i.e., the positive x-axis direction), as detailed later. This reduces the wobbling between the main body 2 and the left controller 3. Consequently, the main body 2 and the left controller 3 can be connected more securely. Furthermore, it reduces the sound (so-called vibrating sound) generated when the left controller 3 vibrates due to the oscillator 107 described later.

[0276] In addition, such as Figure 9As shown, in the second structural example, two of the four leaf springs 305 are positioned above the center of the bottom portion 301 (i.e., on the positive y-axis side), and the remaining two leaf springs 305 are positioned below the center of the bottom portion 301 (i.e., on the negative y-axis side). Furthermore, two of the aforementioned four leaf springs 305 are positioned forward of the center of the bottom portion 301 (i.e., on the positive z-axis side), and the remaining two leaf springs 305 are positioned backward of the center of the bottom portion 301 (i.e., on the negative z-axis side). Thus, a plurality of (here, four) leaf springs 305 are arranged on both sides of the center of the left track member 300 in the vertical direction (y-axis direction) and / or the front-back direction (z-axis direction). Accordingly, the left controller 3 mounted on the main body device 2 can be applied force in a good balance by means of each leaf spring 305, thus more effectively reducing the shaking of the main body device 2 and the left controller 3 and / or the aforementioned vibration noise.

[0277] Furthermore, in the second structural example, there are four leaf springs 305, but in other embodiments, the number of leaf springs can be arbitrary. Additionally, in other embodiments, the arrangement of the leaf springs 305 is arbitrary and not limited to any particular configuration. Figure 9 The position shown. Furthermore, in the second structural example, the leaf spring 305 is configured in the installed state to be in contact with the upper surface 311d of the slider 311 of the left controller 3 (see reference). Figure 24 (The position of the object is adjacent to the position of the object.)

[0278] Additionally, although not illustrated, the main body 2 has a right track member on the right side of the housing 11. The right track member engages with the slider 331 of the right controller 4 (described later), forming a sliding mechanism. In the second structural example, the right track member is similar to the right track member 19 in the first structural example, allowing the right controller 4 to be slidably mounted and detachable relative to the main body 2; it can be called a sliding member. In the second structural example, the mechanism on the right side of the main body 2 (including the right track member) is symmetrical to the mechanism on the left side, including the left track member 300 (although the functions assigned to the terminals are not symmetrical).

[0279] In the second structural example, the right track member (including the base portion and the right-side terminal provided on the right track member) has the same structure as the left track member 300 described above. As mentioned above, in the second structural example, the left track member 300 has a symmetrical shape about an axis perpendicular to the front-rear direction (i.e., the y-axis), so the same component can be used in both the right and left track members. That is, in the second structural example, a right track member with the same shape as the left track member 300 is provided on the right side of the main body device 2. Accordingly, the manufacturing of the main body device 2 can be simplified and the cost reduced.

[0280] Furthermore, in the second structural example, the structure of the main body device 2 other than the structure described above (e.g., the structure disposed on the main surface, back surface, upper surface and lower surface of the housing) can be the same as in the first structural example.

[0281] [1-2-2. Example of a second structure related to the left controller]

[0282] Figure 14 This is a six-view diagram showing an example of the left controller in the second structural example. In the second structural example, the left controller 3 differs from the first structural example in the structure of the slider 311 and the various parts provided on the slider 311. The structure of the left controller 3 in the second structural example will now be described, focusing on the differences from the first structural example. Figure 14 In China, for the sake of Figure 5 Structures shown are identical, labeled with the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in Figure 14 In the middle, several operating parts (e.g., recording button 37, - button 47, etc.) have the same... Figure 5 Different shapes, but these operating parts have the same function as the operating parts in the first structural example that are labeled with the same reference mark as the operating part.

[0283] like Figure 14 As shown, in the second structural example, the left controller 3 includes a main body 310 and a slider 311. The main body 310 has the same function as the housing 31 in the first structural example, and may also be the same as the housing 31. The slider 311, like the slider 40 in the first structural example, is a component for mounting the left controller 3 to the main body 2 in a way that allows it to slide relative to the main body 2 and can be detached.

[0284] like Figure 14 As shown, slider 311 is configured to extend vertically (i.e., in the y-axis direction) on the right side (i.e., the side facing the negative x-axis direction) of the main body 310 of the left controller 3. Slider 311 has a shape capable of engaging with the left track member 300 (more specifically, portions 301-303 of the left track member 300) of the main body 2. Specifically, the cross-section of slider 311 (specifically, the cross-section perpendicular to the vertical direction) is similar to that of the first structural example, having a shape protruding from the main body 310, and specifically, having a T-shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the left track member 300 (see reference). Figure 14 (See the enlarged image shown).

[0285] like Figure 14As shown in the enlarged view, the slider 311 has a shaft portion 325 and a top portion 326. The shaft portion 325 is configured to protrude from the main body portion 310. The top portion 326 is located on the side of the shaft portion 325 opposite to the main body portion 310 (i.e., the negative x-axis side). As described above, the cross-section of the slider 311 perpendicular to the y-axis direction is T-shaped. That is, the width of the top portion 326 (i.e., the length in the z-axis direction) is wider than the width of the shaft portion 325. In addition, the end of the top portion 326 in the z-axis direction is positioned at a position that protrudes beyond the end of the shaft portion 325 in the z-axis direction (in other words, the outer position).

[0286] Thus, the cross-sectional shape of slider 311 on a section perpendicular to the sliding direction is such that the width of the first portion (shaft portion 325) protruding from the right side of the main body 310 (in other words, adjacent to the right side) is shorter than the width of the second portion (top portion 326) located further away from the right side of the main body 310 than the first portion. Therefore, slider 311, inserted into the slot of the left track member 300, is similar to the slider in the first structural example... Figure 7 Similarly, the locking state shown engages with the left track member 300. Thus, the slider 311, which engages with the left track member 300, is fixed relative to the left track member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (in other words, the direction in which the left track member 300 extends) and will not disengage.

[0287] (Structure related to terminals)

[0288] like Figure 14 As shown, in the second structural example, similarly to the first structural example, the terminal 42 is provided at the lower end of the slider 311. That is, the terminal 42 is provided at the end of the slider 311 that can be inserted relative to the main body device 2 (in other words, the top portion, i.e., the lower end, in the insertion direction in which the slider 311 can be inserted relative to the left track member 300 of the main body device 2). Accordingly, as the slider 311 is inserted deeper into the left track member 300 (i.e., in the negative y-axis direction), the terminal 42 moves toward the left terminal 17 of the left track member 300. Therefore, the terminal 42 can be guided toward the left terminal 17 where it should be connected, thereby facilitating easy connection between the terminals. Furthermore, when the slider 311 is inserted to the very end (or approximately the very end) relative to the left track member 300 of the main body device 2, the terminal 42 of the slider 311 will come into contact with the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2. Accordingly, when the user installs the left controller 3 onto the main unit 2, the slider 311 is inserted to the end relative to the left track member 300 of the main unit 2 in order to connect the terminals, so that the left controller 3 can be installed onto the main unit 2 in the correct installation method.

[0289] In this second structural example, the arrangement of terminal 42 differs from that in the first structural example. Details of the terminal 42 arrangement in the second structural example will be explained below.

[0290] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section near the lower end of the slider 311 in the second structural example. Figure 15 It is a schematic representation Figure 14 A diagram showing an example of a partial cross-section of slider 311 on section C-C'. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, slider 311 has a protrusion 321 at its lower end. The protrusion 321 is configured to protrude in the sliding direction (more specifically, the downward direction, i.e., the negative y-axis direction) at the lower end of slider 311. The protrusion 321 is located on the side of slider 311 furthest from the main body 310 (i.e., the negative x-axis direction side). In other words, the protrusion 321 is spaced apart from the right side of the main body 310. The protrusion 321 has an opposing surface 321a facing the main body 310 side of the left controller 3. The opposing surface 321a faces the designated surface (specifically, the right side) of the left controller 3.

[0291] Furthermore, in the second structural example, the aforementioned protrusion 321 is not provided at the upper end of the slider 311 (i.e., the end on the positive y-axis side) (see reference). Figure 14 Consider the following scenario: when inserting slider 311 into the left track member 300 of the main body device 2, the user mistakenly inserts slider 311 from its upper end into the left track member 300. Even in this case, according to the second structural example, the upper end of slider 311 will not reach the left terminal 17 of the left track member 300, thus reducing the possibility of the upper end of slider 311 damaging the left terminal 17.

[0292] Terminal 42 is disposed on the facing surface 321a of the protrusion 321. Therefore, terminal 42 is arranged with its side exposed towards the main body 310. Thus, in the second structural example, terminal 42 is disposed on the back side of the mounting surface of the slider 311 (specifically, the protrusion 321). As described above, terminal 42 is configured to be exposed towards the main body 310, thereby reducing the possibility of terminal 42 coming into contact with the user's hand or other objects, and thus protecting terminal 42. According to the second structural example, for example, the possibility of the user accidentally touching terminal 42 or damage to terminal 42 can be reduced. Furthermore, in other embodiments, terminal 42 may also be disposed on the inclined surface 323a of the top portion 323 (described later). Figure 15 The inclined surface 323a, like the opposing surface 321a, faces the main body 310, thus providing protection for the terminal 42.

[0293] like Figure 15 As shown, terminal 42 is spaced apart from the right side of the main body 310. When the left controller 3 is installed on the main body 2, the aforementioned opposing portion 304 of the main body 2 is inserted into the space between terminal 42 (in other words, protrusion 321) and the right side of the main body 310. Figure 26 Details will be described later. By arranging the terminal 42 and the main body 310 in this way to form the space described above, the result of inserting the opposing part 304 into the space is that, when the left controller 3 is installed in the main body 2, the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 can contact the left terminal 17 of the main body 2.

[0294] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing an example of the protrusion 321 of the slider 311 in the second structural example. Figure 16 This is a view showing the protrusion 321 from the inside (i.e., from the side facing the opposite surface 321a). For example... Figure 16 As shown in the enlarged view, a hole 311a is formed on the surface of the shaft portion 325 of the slider 311 where the protrusion 321 is located (i.e., the end face on the negative y-axis side). The terminal 42 is configured to protrude from the inside of the slider 311 through the hole 311a. Furthermore, the same number of slits 321b as the number of terminals 42 (here, 10) are formed on the opposing surface 321a of the protrusion 321. The slits 321b are connected to the aforementioned hole 311a. The slits 321b are formed to extend along the sliding direction (i.e., the y-axis direction). Additionally, as... Figure 16 As shown, each slit 321b is formed side by side in a direction that is parallel to the opposing surface 321a and perpendicular to the sliding direction (i.e., the z-axis direction).

[0295] like Figure 16 As shown, terminals 42 are disposed along slits 321b on opposing surfaces 321a. Similarly, each terminal 42 and each slit 321b are arranged side-by-side in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). In the second structural example, a portion (e.g., the top portion) of the terminal 42 is disposed within the slit 321b, and another portion of the terminal 42 is disposed outside the slit 321b. Figure 15 and Figure 16With the left controller 3 connected to the left terminal 17 of the main body 2 in the installed state, the terminal 42 is pressed and deformed by the left terminal 17, moving towards the direction of the slit 321b (i.e., the negative x-axis direction), as detailed later. That is, each terminal 42 bends such that at least a portion of each terminal 42 enters the interior of the slit 321b provided in the opposing surface 321a. It can be said that the slit 321b is provided to allow the deformed terminal 42 to retract so that the terminal 42 does not contact the opposing surface 321a during deformation. Thus, in the second structural example, the terminal 42 is positioned at a position that, although not in contact with the opposing surface 321a, corresponds to the slit 321b provided in the opposing surface 321a, and at a position that would contact the opposing surface 321a if the slit 321b were not present. In this sense, in the second structural example, it can be said that the terminal 42 is provided in the opposing surface 321a. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the slit 321b may not be provided on the facing surface 321a, and the terminal 42 may be configured to contact the facing surface 321a. Additionally, as... Figure 16 As shown, terminal 42 extends along the opposing surface 321a.

[0296] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, terminal 42 is configured to protrude beyond the facing surface 321a (specifically, protruding towards the positive x-axis direction). Here, as described above, in the installed state, with terminal 42 of the left controller 3 connected to the left terminal 17 of the main body 2, a portion of terminal 42 enters the slit 307a on the side of the main body 2 (see reference). Figure 13 The terminal 42 is positioned inside the slit 307a (in other words, between the two wall portions 307b). The terminal 42 is configured to protrude beyond the facing surface 321a to avoid the facing surface 321a from abutting against the wall portion 307b and becoming an obstruction when the terminal 42 enters the slit 307a in this way.

[0297] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, terminal 42 has a mountain-shaped form that curves away from the opposing surface 321a (i.e., towards the positive x-axis direction). This shape allows the apex of the mountain to easily contact the left-side terminal 17 of the main body device 2. In other words, the surface of terminal 42 that contacts the left-side terminal 17 of the main body device 2 (i.e., the surface facing the main body 310) can be visually identified from the sliding direction, thus it can be said that the lower end side of the slider 311 (i.e., the negative y-axis side) is exposed. Therefore, terminal 42 easily contacts the left-side terminal 17 of the main body device 2.

[0298] In the second structural example, the protrusion 321 has a wall portion 322 (see reference). Figure 16The wall portion 322 is provided on both sides of the opposing surface 321a, in a direction parallel to the opposing surface 321a and substantially perpendicular to the sliding direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). The wall portion 322 further reduces the possibility of the terminal 42 coming into contact with the user's hand or other objects, thus providing more reliable protection for the terminal 42. Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, the wall portion 322 extends to the top of the protrusion 321. That is, the wall portion 322 extends closer to the top of the protrusion 321 than the terminal 42. This provides more reliable protection for the terminal 42. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the wall portion 322 may not extend to the top of the protrusion 321.

[0299] Furthermore, as described above, the terminal 42 is configured to protrude from the opposing surface 321a. Here, the wall portion 322 is formed to be higher than the height at which the terminal 42 protrudes from the opposing surface 321a (see reference). Figure 15 Therefore, the protection of terminal 42 by wall portion 322 can be made more reliable. Furthermore, in other embodiments, wall portion 322 may be formed to the same height as or lower than the height at which terminal 42 protrudes from opposing surface 321a. Additionally, wall portion 322 may be provided only on one side of terminal 42 in the front-rear direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). Even in these cases, wall portion 322 still provides some protection for terminal 42. Furthermore, in other embodiments, protrusion 321 may be a structure without wall portion 322.

[0300] Furthermore, in the second structural example, at the top end of the protrusion 321 (in other words, the lower end of the slider 311, i.e., the end on the negative y-axis side), the gap between the two inner walls 322a of the wall portion 322 is formed to gradually widen towards the top end of the protrusion 321. Figure 16 Therefore, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body 2, the left terminal 17 of the main body 2 is guided to the correct position relative to the terminal 42 of the left controller 3. That is, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body 2, if the position of the left terminal 17 is slightly offset relative to the terminal 42 (in the z-axis direction), the position of the left terminal 17 is corrected by the abutment of the base portion 307 of the left terminal 17 against the inner wall of the wall portion 322. Thus, the left terminal 17 is guided to the correct position relative to the terminal 42, thereby achieving position alignment. In this way, the wall portion 322 has the function of aligning the left terminal 17 with the terminal 42. Furthermore, the inclined surface 323a can also be a curved surface, and the boundary between the opposing surface 321a and the inclined surface 323a can also have rounded corners (in other words, it can also be chamfered).

[0301] like Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, the protrusion 321 has a tip portion 323. The tip portion 323 is located in the sliding direction (i.e., the y-axis direction) of the slider 311, at a position closer to the tip of the terminal 42 (i.e., the negative y-axis direction side). Accordingly, the terminal 42 is configured to be slightly inward of the tip of the slider 311 (specifically, the tip on the negative y-axis direction side). Therefore, even if, for example, the tip of the slider 311 comes into contact with another object when the controller 3 is mounted on the main body device 2, the possibility of the terminal 42 coming into contact with that object can be reduced. In this way, the tip portion 323 can protect the terminal 42.

[0302] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown, the top portion 323 has a shape that thins towards the top (specifically, the top of the lower end side of the slider 311). More specifically, the top portion 323 has an inclined surface 323a that slopes from the facing surface 321a of the terminal 42 toward the surface approaching the back side of the facing surface 321a (in other words, toward the right side away from the main body 310). Figure 15 Accordingly, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body 2, the left terminal 17 (in other words, the opposing portion 304) of the main body 2 is guided to the correct position relative to the terminal 42 (in other words, the protrusion 321) of the left controller 3. That is, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body 2, if the position of the left terminal 17 is slightly offset relative to the terminal 42 (in the x-axis direction), the position of the left terminal 17 is corrected by the base portion 307 or the opposing portion 304 of the left terminal 17 abutting against the inclined surface 323a. Thus, it is guided to the correct position relative to the terminal 42, thereby achieving position alignment. In this way, the inclined surface 323a of the top portion 323 has the function of aligning the left terminal 17 with the terminal 42.

[0303] like Figure 14 As shown, the slider 311 has a reinforcing member 312. The reinforcing member 312 is disposed on the mounting surface of the slider 311. Specifically, the reinforcing member 312 is disposed at least in the portion of the mounting surface corresponding to the facing surface 321a of the terminal 42 (in other words, the portion on the back side of the facing surface 321a) (see reference). Figure 17In other words, the reinforcing member 312 is provided at least at the location of the protrusion 321. That is, a portion of the protrusion 321 is constituted by the reinforcing member 312. Here, in the second structural example, the parts of the components forming the surface of the slider 311, except for the reinforcing member 312, are made of resin. On the other hand, the reinforcing member 312 is made of metal. Therefore, the strength of the portion of the slider 311 where the terminal 42 is provided (i.e., the protrusion 321) can be enhanced by the reinforcing member 312. In addition, the reinforcing member 312 can suppress the following situation: when the slider 311 is inserted into the left track member 300 of the main body device 2, the slider 311 wears out due to friction with the left track member 300. Furthermore, in the second structural example, in order to make the sliding mechanism thin to achieve miniaturization of the device, the protrusion 321 is made thin. Although the protrusion 321 is made thin like this, the strength of the protrusion 321 can be maintained by constituting the protrusion 321 with the reinforcing member 312. Furthermore, when the protrusion 321 is formed thin using resin, there is a concern that molding the protrusion 321 may be difficult. In contrast, according to the second structural example, the protrusion 321 including the aforementioned portion can be easily manufactured.

[0304] Figure 17 This is an exploded view showing an example of the reinforcing member and insulating sheet provided on the slider. For example... Figure 17 As shown, a recess 311b is formed near the lower end of the mounting surface of the slider 311 (i.e., the end on the negative y-axis side), recessed relative to the mounting surface. A reinforcing member 312 is mounted in this recess 311b. In the second structural example, an insulating sheet 316 is first inserted into the recess 311b, and then the reinforcing member 312 is mounted on the outside of the insulating sheet 316, thereby mounting the reinforcing member 312 to the slider 311 (more precisely, the portion of the slider 311 excluding the reinforcing member 312). Furthermore, the recess 311b is formed not only at the location of the protrusion 321, but also up to the portion of the slider 311 that is not the protrusion 321. Therefore, in the second structural example, the reinforcing member 312 is provided at the protrusion 321 and the portion of the slider 311 continuous with the protrusion 321. Accordingly, the protrusion 321 can be reinforced, reducing the possibility that the protrusion 321 may break off and fall off from the main body of the slider 311 (i.e., the part other than the protrusion 321).

[0305] like Figure 17As shown, the aforementioned slit 321b is formed on the bottom surface of the recess 311b. That is, the slit 321b provided on the opposing surface 321a extends to the bottom surface of the recess 311b on the back side of the opposing surface 321a. Furthermore, the terminal 42 extends not only to the position of the protrusion 321 but also to the interior of the slider 311. The slit 321b on the bottom surface side of the recess 311b is formed along the terminal 42. That is, the slit 321b on the bottom surface side of the recess 311b is formed to extend not only to the inner side of the protrusion 321 but also to the main body of the slider 311. Accordingly, when the terminal 42 is pressed and deformed by the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2 in the installed state, the terminal 42 contacts the bottom surface of the recess 311b (more precisely, the bottom surface if the slit 321b is not provided in the recess 311b but is provided at the position of the slit 321b), which can reduce the possibility of applying a large force to the terminal 42.

[0306] like Figure 17 As shown, the reinforcing member 312 has a top portion 312a, a side portion 312b, a hook portion 312c, and a ground connection portion 312d. Furthermore, in the second structural example, the reinforcing member 312 having the aforementioned portions 312a to 312d can be manufactured by bending a single metal sheet, thereby making the reinforcing member 312 easy to manufacture.

[0307] The top portion 312a is the part having a top surface, which becomes part of the mounting surface of the slider 311 when the reinforcing member 312 is mounted on the slider 311. In the second structural example, the top portion 312a is generally rectangular in shape. The reinforcing member 312 has four side portions 312b, each side portion 312b extending substantially perpendicularly to the top surface from the four sides of the top portion 312a. When the reinforcing member 312 is mounted on the recess 311b of the slider 311, the side portions 312b abut against the sides of the recess 311b.

[0308] The hook portion 312c is configured to protrude from the side portion 312b. In the second structural example, hook portions 312c are provided on three of the four side portions 312b: the two side portions 312b extending from the long side of the top portion 312a, and the side portion 312b on which the ground connection portion 312d is provided. Furthermore, as... Figure 17As shown in the enlarged view, the ground connection portion 312d is configured to protrude from the hook portion 312c. Furthermore, the number of hook portions 312c is arbitrary; they can be provided on two side portions 312b or four side portions 312b. Here, the bottom surface of the recessed portion 311b is a rectangular shape substantially the same as the top portion 312a, and slits 311c are formed on the four sides of the bottom surface corresponding to the sides of the side portions 312b where the hook portions 312c are located. That is, in the second structural example, slits 311c are formed on three sides of the bottom surface of the recessed portion 311b. When the reinforcing member 312 is installed on the slider 311, each hook portion 312c is inserted into each slit 311c, thereby installing the reinforcing member 312 on the slider 311.

[0309] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing an example of inserting the hook 312c into the slit 311c. Figure 18 (a) represents an example of the state before the hook 312c is inserted into the slit 311c. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the hook portion 312c has claw portions 312e on both sides in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (i.e., the positive x-axis direction) into which the hook portion 312c is inserted into the slit 311c. The first end portion of the claw portion 312e in the insertion direction is formed such that the width of the hook portion 312c narrows as it approaches the tip of the insertion direction. Furthermore, the second end portion of the claw portion 312e on the opposite side of the insertion direction is formed to have an edge substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction. In other embodiments, the edge of the second end portion may also be formed in a direction that approaches the inner side of the hook portion 312c as it approaches the tip of the insertion direction (see reference). Figure 18 (as shown in (a)). Thus, the claw portion 312e has the following shape: the hook portion 312c is relatively easy to move in the aforementioned insertion direction, and in the opposite direction of the insertion direction, the second end hooks onto the slit 311c, thereby making the hook portion 312c relatively difficult to move.

[0310] Figure 18 (b) represents an example of the state after the hook 312c is inserted into the slit 311c. For example... Figure 18 As shown in (b), in the above-described state, the claw 312e hooks onto the side portion of the slit 311c. Additionally, in Figure 18 In (b), the claw portion 312e becomes part of the slider 311 (specifically, the side portion of the slit 311c formed in the slider 311). With the hook portion 312c inserted into the slit 311c, the aforementioned second end of the claw portion 312e hooks onto the side portion of the slit 311c, making it difficult for the hook portion 312c to exit from the slit 311c. In other words, the reinforcing member 312 is not easily detached from the slider 311.

[0311] As described above, in the second structural example, terminal 42 is positioned relatively close to the reinforcing member 312, which is a metal component. Here, if terminal 42 is positioned close to the metal component, there is a possibility that terminal 42 may be affected by electrical interference due to accidental contact with the metal component, resulting in errors in communication between the left controller 3 and the main unit 2 via terminal 42, or the generation of unexpected current, etc. For example, as described above, in the installed state, terminal 42 may be deformed by being pressed by the left terminal 17 of the main unit 2, thereby moving into the slit 321b. In this case, if terminal 42 comes into contact with the reinforcing member 312, which is a metal component, there is a possibility that errors in communication between the left controller 3 and the main unit 2 via terminal 42, or the generation of unexpected current, etc.

[0312] To reduce the possibility described above, in the second structural example, an insulating sheet 316 is provided between the terminal 42 and the reinforcing member 312. Figure 17 That is, in the second structural example, after the insulating sheet 316 is inserted into the recess 311b, the reinforcing member 312 is installed onto the slider 311. Accordingly, the possibility of the terminal 42 being adversely affected by the reinforcing member 312 can be reduced, and as a result, the accuracy of communication between the left controller 3 and the main unit 2 can be improved.

[0313] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the insulating sheet 316 also serves a waterproof function. Specifically, the insulating sheet 316 can suppress water entering the slit 321b from the junction of the reinforcing member 312 and the slider 311, thereby reducing the possibility of water entering the slit 321b and adhering to the terminal 42. Thus, the insulating sheet 316 has a waterproof function and can therefore also be called a waterproof sheet. Furthermore, the insulating sheet 316 can be made of either a water-absorbing material or a waterproof material. When the insulating sheet 316 is made of a water-absorbing material, the possibility of water adhering to the terminal 42 can be reduced by absorbing moisture using the insulating sheet 316. When the insulating sheet 316 is made of a waterproof material, the possibility of water entering the slit 321b can be reduced by blocking the slit 321b using the insulating sheet 316.

[0314] Furthermore, consider the following: even in a structure where terminal 42 is not in contact with the reinforcing member 312 (via insulating sheet 316), which is a metal component, the reinforcing member 312 can become charged due to current flowing through terminal 42, static electricity from the outside, etc. When the reinforcing member 312 becomes charged in this way, there is a possibility that terminal 42 may be adversely affected by the reinforcing member 312. Therefore, in the second structural example, the ground connection portion 312d described above is used to make the reinforcing member 312 a reference potential (ground).

[0315] Figure 19 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the internal structural elements of the left controller 3. (As shown...) Figure 19 As shown, the left controller 3 internally includes an electronic circuit 318. The electronic circuit 318 may be a printed circuit board, or a flexible printed circuit board made of a thin-film substrate. Terminal 42 and ground connection 312d are connected to the electronic circuit 318.

[0316] Figure 20 This diagram illustrates an example of the connection between terminal 42 and ground connection portion 312d on electronic circuit 318. Furthermore, in Figure 20 In the section on electronic circuit 318, only the through hole and the connecting pad formed around it are shown, omitting printed wiring, etc. Figure 20 As shown, the electronic circuit 318 has a terminal connection plate 318a for connecting the terminal 42. The terminal 42 is inserted into the through hole of the terminal connection plate 318a and is electrically connected to the terminal connection plate 318a by soldering or the like. Furthermore, in Figure 20 The diagram shows a state where one terminal 42 is connected to a single terminal connection plate 318a. However, in reality, ten terminals 42 are connected to ten terminal connection plates 318a in such a way that one terminal is connected to each terminal connection plate.

[0317] Additionally, the electronic circuit 318 includes a ground connection plate 318b for connecting the ground connection portion 312d. The ground connection portion 312d is inserted into a through hole in the ground connection plate 318b and is electrically connected to the ground connection plate 318b by soldering or the like. Here, the ground connection plate 318b is a ground portion connected to a reference potential (in other words, having a reference potential). Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, in the electronic circuit 318, the terminal connection plate 318a, which connects to the ground terminal among the 10 terminals 42, is electrically connected to the ground connection plate 318b via printed wiring. That is, the ground terminal is electrically connected to the ground connection plate 318b.

[0318] As described above, in the second structural example, the reinforcing member 312 is electrically connected to ground, thus reducing the possibility of the reinforcing member 312 becoming energized. Accordingly, the possibility of the terminal 42 being adversely affected by the reinforcing member 312 can be reduced, and as a result, the accuracy of communication between the left controller 3 and the main unit 2 can be improved.

[0319] (Structures related to locking components)

[0320] like Figure 14As shown, in the second structural example, the left controller 3 includes a locking member 319. The locking member 319 is a member used to lock the sliding movement of the slider 311 of the left controller 3 relative to the main body device 2 in the above-described installation state. That is, in the second structural example, instead of the protrusion 41 in the first structural example, the sliding movement of the slider 311 is locked (in other words, locked) by the locking member 319.

[0321] like Figure 14 As shown, the locking member 319 is positioned slightly above the center (i.e., on the positive y-axis side) in the sliding direction of the slider 311. More specifically, the locking member 319 is positioned at the upper end of the slider 311. Furthermore, the position of the locking member 319 on the slider 311 is determined based on the position of the locked portion on the left track member 300 of the main body device 2. That is, the position of the locking member 319 is determined such that it is positioned in the notch C1 of the top surface 303 of the left track member 300 in the installed state. Figure 27 Additionally, the locking member 319 is disposed near the upper end of the slider 311 rather than near the lower end in the sliding direction of the slider 311. Furthermore, for example, if the locking part is disposed at the upper end of the left track member 300, the locking member 319 may also be disposed at the upper end of the slider 311.

[0322] When the locking member 319 is positioned on the upper part of the slider 311, as in the second structural example, the period during which the locking member 319 contacts the left track member 300 when the slider 311 is inserted into the left track member 300 can be shortened. This allows the user to smoothly slide the slider 311. Furthermore, the position of the locking member 319 is arbitrary; in other embodiments, it may be positioned on the lower part of the slider 311.

[0323] Figure 21 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the positional relationship between the slider 311 and the locking member 319 in the second structural example. (See diagram for example.) Figure 21 As shown in (a), the locking member 319 is configured to protrude from the slider 311 (specifically, the side portion of the slider 311). Furthermore, the locking member 319 is also configured to protrude from the right side of the main body 310. Thus, in the second structural example, the locking member 319 is configured to protrude from both the side portion of the slider 311 and the right side of the main body 310.

[0324] As described above, the slider 311 has a shaft portion 325 and a top portion 326 that is wider than the shaft portion 325. In the second structural example, the locking member 319 is configured such that at least a portion of it extends from a hole 325a formed on the side of the shaft portion 325 (see reference). Figure 23The locking member 319 is configured such that at least a portion protrudes from a hole (not shown) formed on the right side of the main body 310.

[0325] Furthermore, the locking member 319 can be positioned at any location that allows it to be locked to the locking portion of the left track member 300 in the installed state. Therefore, the locking member 319 can also be configured to protrude from a location other than the side portion of the left controller 3, instead of protruding from the side portion of the shaft portion 325. For example, the locking member 319 can also be configured to protrude from the recess H (see reference) formed by the main body portion 310 and the slider 311 of the left controller 3. Figure 21 The surface of the slider 311 protrudes. In addition, the concave portion H is a concave portion of the cross section of the slider 311 perpendicular to the sliding direction, formed by one or both of the main body 310 of the left controller 3 and the slider 311.

[0326] In other embodiments, the locking member 319 may also be provided, for example, at... Figure 22 The location shown. Figure 22 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the positional relationship between the slider 311 and the locking member 319 in other embodiments. For example... Figure 22 As shown, the locking member 319 may also be configured to protrude (only) from the main body 310. Additionally, although not shown, the locking member 319 may also be configured to protrude (only) from the side of the slider 311. Furthermore, the locking member 319 may also be configured to protrude from the top portion 326 forming the aforementioned recess H (more specifically, from the hole provided in the top portion 326). The locking member 319 may also be configured to protrude from the side of the main body 310, the side of the shaft portion 325, and the top portion 326. For example, in... Figure 21 In the case shown in (a), the locking member 319 may also be configured to enter the inner side of the top part 326 in addition to entering the side of the main body 310 and the side of the shaft part 325.

[0327] As described above, according to the second structural example, the locking member 319 is configured to protrude from the surface forming the recess, thereby reducing the possibility of the locking member 319 being damaged by contact with other objects. Thus, according to the second structural example, the recess can protect the locking member 319.

[0328] Furthermore, the locking member 319 is configured not to exit from the space within the aforementioned recess ( Figure 21 The area enclosed by the dotted and diagonal lines in (a) protrudes into the space outside the left controller 3. Accordingly, the possibility of the locking member 319 coming into contact with other objects and being damaged can be further reduced, thereby enabling more reliable protection of the locking member 319.

[0329] In the second structural example, the locking member 319 is movable, such as... Figure 21 As shown in (b), it can be housed inside the left controller 3 (specifically, inside the slider 311 or the main body 310). That is, the locking member 319 can take the following positions. Figure 21 The salient state shown in (a) and Figure 21 The two states are shown in (b). In the installed state, the locking member 319 is released from its locked state with the locked part of the left track member 300 by entering the locked state (that is, it is no longer locked with the locked part), as detailed later. As a result, the locking (of the sliding movement of the slider 311) performed by the locking member 319 is released.

[0330] In the second structural example, the locking member 319 can be as follows: Figure 21 As shown, it moves in a direction parallel to the right side of the left controller 3 (i.e., the z-axis direction). Specifically, the locking member 319 is brought into a retracted state by moving towards the interior of the slider 311 (i.e., the negative z-axis direction). Furthermore, the direction in which the locking member 319 can move can be any direction perpendicular to the sliding direction. For example, in other embodiments, such as... Figure 22 As shown, the locking member 319 can also move in a direction perpendicular to the right side of the left controller 3 (i.e., the x-axis direction). At this time, the locking member 319 is in a retracted state by moving towards the interior of the main body 310 (i.e., the positive x-axis direction).

[0331] Furthermore, in the second structural example, the locking member 319 can be moved until it is entirely housed inside the left controller 3. That is, in the housed state, the entire locking member 319 is housed inside the left controller 3. However, in other embodiments, the locking member 319 may not necessarily be entirely housed inside the left controller 3 in the housed state. That is, the locking member 319 may be able to move between a first position protruding from the surface forming the recess and a second position closer to the interior of the left controller 3 than the first position (the second position may also be a position where a portion of the locking member 319 protrudes from the left controller 3). Additionally, the locking member 319 may be a member that is provided in a state protruding from the surface forming the recess and deforms itself when subjected to forces from elsewhere.

[0332] Figure 23 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a locking component and a release button. Furthermore, in Figure 23In order to make the structural elements to be described (i.e., locking member 319, release button 313, slider 311, and spring 327) easier to observe, a portion of the structure (main body 310, etc.) is shown omitted. Similarly, for the same purpose, a portion of the top surface 326 of the slider 311 is shown omitted.

[0333] A force is applied to the locking member 319 by an elastic member (specifically, spring 327) to make the locking member 319 into the aforementioned protruding state. Specifically, the left controller 3 has a spring 327 inside it. The spring 327 is located inside the slider 311, closer to the locking member 319. The spring 327 abuts against the locking member 319 and applies a force to the locking member 319 in a direction outward from the slider 311.

[0334] In the second structural example, the left controller 3 has a release button 313. Figure 14 and Figure 23 The user can release the locking member 319 by pressing the release button 313 to return it to the retracted state. Details of the structure used to return the locking member 319 to the retracted state are described below.

[0335] like Figure 23 As shown, the release button 313 is configured to abut against the locking member 319. That is, the release button 313 is connected to the locking member 319. The release button 313 and the locking member 319 move in a paired manner. Alternatively, the locking member 319 and the release button 313 can be formed as a single unit. Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, a groove (in other words, a space) is provided inside the main body 310 and the slider 311, allowing the locking member 319 and the release button 313 to move therein. The locking member 319 and the release button 313 are configured to move along the groove in the front-back direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). Therefore, when the release button 313 is pressed (i.e., when moving in the negative z-axis direction), the locking member 319 also moves in the pressing direction along with the release button 313. Additionally, as described above, the spring 327 applies a force to the locking member 319 in the rearward direction (i.e., the positive z-axis direction). Therefore, when no force other than spring 327 is applied (e.g., when release button 313 is not pressed), locking member 319 is in the aforementioned protruding state, and release button 313 is in a state where it is pushed up from the back of main body 310 (specifically, it is pushed up in a direction from the inside to the outside of main body 310 in a way that protrudes from the back of main body 310. This is called the "push-up state"). In other words, release button 313, like locking member 319, is subjected to a rearward force by spring 327.

[0336] The user can press the release button 313 in the raised state. Upon pressing the release button 313, both the release button 313 and the locking member 319 move inward toward the left side of the controller 3. As a result, the release button 313 is in a pressed state compared to the raised state (referred to as the "pressed state"). Furthermore, the locking member 319, after passing through the hole 325a and moving into the slider 311, becomes in the retracted state. As described above, the user can retract the locking member 319 by pressing the release button 313, thus releasing the lock established by the locking member 319.

[0337] Furthermore, in the second structural example, the locking member 319 has an inclined surface 319a at its lower end (i.e., the end on the negative y-axis side). Figure 23 In other words, the locking member 319 has a shape that thins at its lower end as it moves toward the top. Specifically, the inclined surface 319a is inclined in such a way that it approaches the direction in which the locking member 319 can move as it moves toward the top (in other words, the direction in which it moves from the protruding state to the retracted state, i.e., the negative z-axis direction). The inclined surface 319a is provided to prevent the locking member 319 from getting stuck on the top surface 303 of the left track member 300 when the slider 311 is inserted into the left track member 300 of the main body device 2, as detailed later.

[0338] Furthermore, an end face substantially perpendicular to the sliding direction is provided at the upper end of the locking member 319 (i.e., the end on the positive y-axis side). Figure 23 In other words, the upper end does not have the same inclined surface as the lower end, and is a shape that is not inclined compared to the lower end. Therefore, the upper end is shaped to more easily engage with the top surface 303 of the left track member 300 compared to the lower end.

[0339] In the second structural example, similarly to the first structural example, a ZL button 39 protruding from the back of the main body 310 is provided. Additionally, the left controller 3 has a protruding portion 314 near the ZL button 39, protruding relative to other parts of the back of the main body 310. Figure 14 ).like Figure 14 As shown, the release button 313 is located near the ZL button 39 on the back of the main body 310 (in other words, near the protrusion 314). Furthermore, according to the second structural example, based on the aforementioned "other parts of the back", the ZL button 39 and the protrusion 314 are positioned higher than the release button 313. Therefore, when viewing the left controller 3 from a predetermined direction parallel to the back (for example, in...), Figure 14 As in (b), viewed from the left, such as Figure 14In the case of (d) viewed from above, at least a portion of the release button 313 is not visible. Therefore, in the second structural example, the possibility of the user accidentally pressing the release button 313 or the release button 313 being accidentally pressed due to contact with another object can be reduced. Thus, the ZL button 39 and / or the protrusion 314 function as a protrusion to protect the release button 313. By providing the protrusion, the possibility of the release button 313 being accidentally operated and the lock being released, resulting in the left controller 3 disengaging from the main body device 2, can be reduced. Furthermore, in other embodiments, based on the other parts of the back side described above, the ZL button 39 and / or the protrusion 314 can also be set lower than the release button 313. Even in this case, as long as it is set to protrude from the back of the main body 310, it can effectively protect the release button 313.

[0340] In the second structural example, the release button 313 is located on the back of the main body 310. Figure 14 Therefore, when the user holds the information processing device 1 (on which the left controller 3 is mounted) by operating the various operating parts 32-36 on the main surface (i.e., the front side) with their thumb (see reference...), Figure 33 The release button 313 can be easily operated with the index finger. In other words, according to the second structural example, an information processing device with high convenience can be provided that allows easy operation of the release button 313 while holding the information processing device 1.

[0341] Furthermore, the placement of the release button 313 is arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, the release button 313 may also be located on the main surface of the main body 310. Accordingly, the user can visually identify the release button 313 while holding the information processing device 1, thus providing a controller with an easy-to-operate release button 313.

[0342] In other embodiments, the release button 313 may also be provided on both the front and back surfaces of the main body 310. In this case, the mechanism for moving the locking member 319 to a retracted state based on the pressing of the release button 313 can be either (a) a mechanism where the locking member 319 moves to a retracted state based on the pressing of either of the two release buttons 313, or (b) a mechanism where the locking member 319 moves to a retracted state based on the pressing of both release buttons 313. According to the structure described in (a), the user only needs to operate the release button 313 that is easier to operate, thus improving the convenience of the information processing device. Furthermore, according to the structure described in (b), even if either of the two release buttons 313 is accidentally operated, the lock will not be released, thus reducing the possibility of accidental lock release.

[0343] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the left controller 3 may not have a release button 313. In this case, the user can release the lock provided by the locking member 319 by applying a force greater than a certain magnitude to the left controller 3 to slide it upwards, thereby disengaging the left controller 3 from the main unit 2.

[0344] (Structure at the mounting surface of slider 311)

[0345] like Figure 14 As shown, in the second structural example, similarly to the first structural example, a second L button 43, a second R button 44, a notification LED 45, and a pairing button 46 are provided on the mounting surface of the slider 311. In the second structural example, two recesses are formed on the mounting surface of the slider 311, and the second L button 43 and the second R button 44 are respectively provided in the recesses.

[0346] Figure 24 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the structure of the slider 311 near the second L button in the second structural example. Figure 24 This is a view of slider 311 from the front side (i.e., from the positive z-axis direction towards the negative z-axis direction). Furthermore, in Figure 24 The diagram shows the structure of slider 311 near the second L button 43, and the structure of slider 311 near the second R button 44 is also similar. Figure 24 The structures shown are the same.

[0347] like Figure 24 As shown, the mounting surface of the slider 311 has an upper surface 311d, an inclined surface 311e, and a lower surface 311f. The upper surface 311d is located relatively (i.e., compared to the other surfaces 311e and 311f) away from the main body 310 of the left controller 3. The lower surface 311f is located relatively (i.e., compared to the upper surface 311d) closer to the main body 310 of the left controller 3. In other words, the lower surface 311f is formed at a lower position than the upper surface 311d. The inclined surface 311e is the surface that connects the upper surface 311d and the lower surface 311f. In the second structural example, the inclination angle of the inclined surface 311e is set to be less than 90° (e.g., less than 45°).

[0348] like Figure 24As shown, the second L button 43 is disposed on the lower surface 311f. Furthermore, in the second structural example (different from the first structural example), the lower surface 311f and the inclined surface 311e are formed from one end to the other in the width direction (i.e., the z-axis direction) of the slider 311. In other words, the recess formed by the lower surface 311f and the inclined surface 311e is formed from one end of the slider 311 in the width direction to the other. Thus, in the second structural example, the second L button 43 can be visually identified when viewing the slider 311 from the aforementioned width direction.

[0349] Furthermore, in the second structural example, the recess formed by the lower surface 311f and the inclined surface 311e is located at a position different from the end of the slider 311 in the sliding direction. In other embodiments, the recess may also be located at the end of the slider 311 in the sliding direction. That is, the end of the mounting surface in the sliding direction may also be formed by the lower surface.

[0350] Furthermore, in the second structural example, similarly to the first structural example, the second L button 43 is configured not to protrude beyond the aforementioned upper layer 311d. Figure 24 In other words, the distance from the right side of the main body 310 to the second L button 43 (specifically, the distance in the x-axis direction) is greater than the distance from the right side to the lower layer 311f and less than the distance from the right side to the upper layer 311d. Therefore, the possibility of the second L button 43 contacting the bottom surface of the left track member 300 when the slider 311 is mounted on the left track member 300 of the main body device 2 can be reduced. This allows the slider 311 to slide smoothly relative to the left track member 300.

[0351] As described above, in the second structural example, inclined surfaces are provided on both sides of the operating section (second L button 43 and second R button 44), making it easier to press the operating section. Furthermore, the user's finger, when pressing the operating section, contacts the inclined surfaces, thus reducing the discomfort felt by the user due to the finger contacting the step between the lower and upper surfaces. Therefore, according to the second structural example, the operability of the left controller 3 can be improved.

[0352] Furthermore, the inclined plane 311e can be as follows: Figure 24 The plane shown can also be a curved surface with varying inclination angles. Furthermore, the inclination at the boundary between the lower surface 311f and the inclined surface 311e, and at the boundary between the upper surface 311d and the inclined surface 311e, can also vary smoothly. This further reduces the aforementioned sense of disharmony felt by the user.

[0353] Furthermore, as described above, in the second structural example, regarding the second L button 43 and the second R button 44, the lower layer constituting the recess where these buttons are disposed is formed to extend around the mounting surface. Figure 24In contrast, the pairing button 46 is constructed in the same manner as in the first structural example in the second structural example. That is, instead of forming a lower layer that extends around the mounting surface, an upper layer is formed around the entire circumference of the pairing button 46. Furthermore, in the second structural example, as in the first structural example, the pairing button 46 is configured not to protrude beyond the upper layer. Here, the pairing button 46 is a button used to indicate the pairing process described above, and it is expected that the pairing button 46 will not be pressed frequently during the use of the information processing device 1 (e.g., during game operation). Therefore, in the second structural example, in order to reduce the possibility of accidental operation of the pairing button 46 during the use of the information processing device 1, it is configured to be more difficult to press than the second L button 43 and the second R button 44, as described above.

[0354] [1-2-3. Example of a second structure related to the right controller]

[0355] Figure 25 This is a six-view diagram showing an example of the right controller 4 in the second structural example. In the second structural example, the right controller 4 differs from the first structural example in the structure of the slider and the various parts disposed on the slider. The structure of the right controller 4 in the second structural example will now be described, focusing on the differences from the first structural example. Figure 25 In China, for the sake of Figure 6 Structures shown are identical, labeled with the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in Figure 25 In the middle, several operating parts (e.g., + button 57, etc.) have the same Figure 6 Different shapes, but these operating parts have the same function as the operating parts in the first structural example that are labeled with the same reference mark as the operating part.

[0356] In the second structural example, the right controller 4 includes a main body 330. The main body 330 has the same function as the housing 51 in the first structural example, and may also be identical to the housing 51. As a structure for mounting on the main body device 2, the right controller 4 has the same structure as the left controller 3. Figure 25 As shown, the right controller 4 includes a slider 331. Similar to the slider 62 in the first structural example, the slider 331 is a component for mounting the right controller 4 to the main body 2 in a manner that allows it to slide relative to the main body 2 and to be detached.

[0357] The slider 331 is configured to extend vertically (i.e., in the y-axis direction) on the left side (i.e., the side facing the positive x-axis direction) of the main body 330 of the right controller 4. In the second structural example, the structure of the slider 331 of the right controller 4 (including the shape of the slider 331 and the various components provided on the slider 331) is the same as that of the slider 311 of the left controller 3, except for the position of the hole formed for locking the components. In the slider 311 of the left controller 3, a hole 325a is formed on one side of the shaft portion 325, and in contrast, in the slider 331 of the right controller 4, a hole is formed on the other side of the shaft portion. Thus, in both controllers 3 and 4, the hole is formed on the back side of the controller (i.e., the side facing the positive z-axis direction).

[0358] Furthermore, the slider 311 used in the left controller 3 and the slider 331 used in the right controller 4 may not be exactly the same. For example, the position of the operating part of the slider (e.g., the second L button and the second R button, etc.) may also be different in the left controller 3 and the right controller 4.

[0359] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the slider 311 used in the left controller 3 and the slider 331 used in the right controller 4 can be the same. Therefore, the slider used in the left controller 3 and the slider used in the right controller 4 can be shared, thus enabling efficient controller manufacturing.

[0360] like Figure 25 As shown, the right controller 4, like the left controller 3, includes a locking member 339 and a release button 333. The shapes of the locking member 339 and the release button 333 of the right controller 4 are identical to those of the locking member 319 and the release button 313 of the left controller 3, except that they are reversed left to right (see reference). Figure 23 The locking member 339 of the right controller 4 is located in the same position as the locking member 319 of the left controller 3. That is, the locking member 339 is located above the center (i.e., in the positive y-axis direction) in the sliding direction of the slider 331. In addition, the locking member 339 is configured to protrude from the surface forming the recess formed by the main body 330 of the right controller 4 (specifically, the left side of the main body 330) and the slider 331, and is configured not to protrude from the space within the recess into the space outside the right controller 4.

[0361] Furthermore, the release button 333 in the right controller 4 is located in the same position as the release button 313 in the left controller 3. That is, the release button 333 is located near the ZR button 61 formed on the back of the main body 330 (in other words, near the protruding portion 334). Figure 14 Therefore, in the right controller 4, the ZR button 61 and / or the protrusion 334 function as the protrusion of the protection release button 333.

[0362] As described above, the locking member 339 and release button 333 of the right controller 4 have the same mechanism as the locking member 319 and release button 313 of the left controller 3. Therefore, when the right controller 4 is installed on the main body 2, the locking member 339 is locked to the locking part of the right track member of the main body 2, thereby locking the sliding movement of the right controller 4 installed on the main body 2. Furthermore, in the above-described state, when the release button 333 is pressed, the locking member 339 is in a retracted state, and the lock established by the locking member 339 is released.

[0363] [1-2-4. Installation Actions in the Second Structural Example]

[0364] Next, refer to Figure 26 and Figure 27 The operation of attaching and detaching the controller relative to the main body device 2 in the second structural example will be explained below. Furthermore, the operation of attaching and detaching the left controller 3 relative to the main body device 2 will be described below as an example, but the operation of attaching and detaching the right controller 4 relative to the main body device 2 can also be performed in the same way as the case of the left controller 3.

[0365] (Actions related to terminal connection)

[0366] When installing the left controller 3 onto the main body device 2, in the second structural example, similarly to the first structural example, the user first inserts the lower end of the slider 311 of the left controller 3 into the slot of the left track member 300 from the upper end of the left track member 300 of the main body device 2. Thus, the slider 311 engages with the left track member 300 (in a sliding manner). In the second structural example, similarly to the first structural example, the engagement state of the slider 311 with the left track member 300 is approximately as follows: Figure 7 The state shown. And, the user moves the slider 311 inserted into the left track member 300 to the deeper side of the left track member 300 (i.e., downward).

[0367] Figure 26 This diagram schematically illustrates an example of the arrangement of slider 311 near the left-side terminals 17 and 42 before and after the left track member 300. Furthermore, Figure 26 A cross-sectional view perpendicular to the front-back direction (i.e., the z-axis direction) (in terms of slider 311, with...) Figure 14 (The cross-sectional view shown is on the same cross-section as the C-C' section). In order to make the structural elements of the main body device 2 and the structural elements of the left controller 3 easy to understand, the structural elements of the left controller 3 are shown by adding diagonal lines.

[0368] Figure 26(a) indicates the state where the left controller 3 is not installed on the main body device 2 (i.e., the lower end of the slider 311 does not reach the depth of the left track member 300 of the main body device 2). Additionally, Figure 26 (b) indicates the state in which the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2 (the installation state described above). This is achieved by... Figure 26 The state shown in (a) causes the slider 311 to slide deeper (i.e., downward) towards the left track member 300, thus becoming Figure 26 The installation state shown in (b).

[0369] Furthermore, as described above, a component (specifically, the wall portion 322 and the top portion 323) is provided at the protrusion 321 to perform positional alignment of the left-side terminal 17 and the terminal 42. Therefore, according to the second structural example, when in the installed state, the terminals can be made to contact each other in the correct positional relationship.

[0370] In the installed state, the protrusion 321 of the slider 311 is inserted between the bottom part 301 and the opposing part 304 of the left track member 300. At this time, the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 contacts the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2. Thus, the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 is electrically connected to the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2.

[0371] Furthermore, as described above, in the installed state, a portion of the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 is positioned between the wall portions 307b of the left track member 300 of the main body device 2. Therefore, according to the second structural example, the possibility of the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 shifting in the parallel direction (i.e., the z-axis direction) of the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2 can be reduced.

[0372] In addition, in the installed state, the terminal 42 of the left controller 3 is in contact with the left terminal 17 of the main body device 2, so the friction between the terminals can provide a force to resist the sliding movement of the slider 311 in the pull-out direction (i.e., the direction in which the slider 311 is pulled out from the left track member 300, in other words, the opposite direction to the direction in which the slider 311 is inserted into the left track member 300).

[0373] Furthermore, in the installed state, the leaf spring 305, located on the left track member 300, abuts against the slider 311 (specifically, the upper surface 311d of the slider 311), pressing the left controller 3 in a direction away from the main body device 2 (i.e., the positive x-axis direction). This reduces the wobbling between the main body device 2 and the left controller 3, ensuring a secure connection between them. Additionally, the friction between the leaf spring 305 and the slider 311 provides a force to resist the sliding movement of the slider 311 in the pull-out direction.

[0374] As described above, in the second structural example, the left controller 3 is maintained relative to the main body device 2 not only by the locking member 319 described later, but also by the terminals 17 and 42 and the leaf spring 305.

[0375] (Action related to locking component 319)

[0376] Next, refer to Figure 27 To explain the operation of the locking member 319 when the left controller 3 is installed on the main body device 2. Figure 27 This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a slider 311 installed near the locking member 319 before and after the left track member 300. Furthermore, in Figure 27 In order to make the operation description of the locking member 319 easy to understand, it is shown in a way that only the structural elements relevant to the description are shown and structural elements irrelevant to the description are omitted.

[0377] When the left controller 3 is to be installed on the main body device 2, as described above, the slider 311 of the left controller 3 is inserted into the groove of the left track member 300 of the main body device 2 and moves to the deep side (i.e., downward) of the left track member 300. Figure 27 (a) indicates the state before the locking member 319, which is located at the upper end of the slider 311, reaches the upper end of the top surface 303a of the left track member 300. As described above, the locking member 319 is forced into a protruding state, so the locking member 319 is in a protruding state when the top surface 303a is not in contact with the locking member 319.

[0378] When from Figure 27 When the state shown in (a) causes the slider 311 to move deeper into the left track member 300, the top surface 303a contacts the locking member 319. Figure 27 (b) indicates the state in which the top surface 303a contacts the locking member 319. In this state, the locking member 319 is pressed down by the top surface 303a and is housed within the hole 325a of the shaft portion 325 of the slider 311. Furthermore, as described above, an inclined surface 319a is provided on the lower end side of the locking member 319. Therefore, the top surface 303a approaching the locking member 319 contacts the inclined surface 319a of the locking member 319. Consequently, when the slider 311 is inserted into the left track member 300, the locking member 319 can smoothly reach the housed state without being easily jammed by the top surface 303a.

[0379] When the locking member 319 passes through the top surface 303a and becomes a stored state or a state similar to it ( Figure 27When the slider 311 moves deeper into the left track member 300, it becomes the installation state of the left controller 3 installed on the main body device 2. Figure 27 (c) indicates the installed state. In the installed state, the locking member 319 is located at the position corresponding to the notch C1 formed in the top surface 303a. Therefore, as Figure 27 As shown in (c), the locking member 319 is in the protruding state again. At this time, the upper end (i.e., the positive y-axis direction side) of the locking member 319 is locked (in other words, abuts) against the locked portion of the top surface 303a. That is, the locking member 319 locks the sliding movement of the slider 311 in the pull-out direction. In this way, the controller 3 can be locked (in other words, locked) relative to the main body device 2 by means of the locking member 319.

[0380] Furthermore, as described above, the locking member 319 can also be configured to protrude at least from the side surface and top surface 326 of the main body 310. That is, it can also be configured such that a portion of the locking member 319, in its protruding state, enters the holes provided on the side surface of the main body 310 and the top surface 326. Accordingly, no gap is generated between the locking member 319 and the main body 310 or the top surface 326, thereby reducing the possibility that the top surface 303a of the left track member 300 will pass through the gap. That is, the possibility that the top surface 303a will pass through the aforementioned gap even though the locking member 319 is in a protruding state, thus preventing the locking member 319 from locking with the top surface 303a, resulting in the slider 311 disengaging from the left track member 300.

[0381] To remove the left controller 3 from the main unit 2, the user presses the release button 313. Upon pressing the release button 313, the locking member 319 is retracted as described above, thus releasing the state in which the locking member 319 locks the slider 311 in the pull-out direction. Therefore, the user can more easily slide the left controller 3 in the pull-out direction (compared to the state where the sliding movement was locked by the locking member 319), thereby removing the left controller 3 from the main unit 2.

[0382] [1-3. Functions of terminals in the main unit and controller]

[0383] Next, the functions of each terminal in the main unit 2 and each controller 3 and 4 will be explained (in other words, the content of signals and / or information transmitted and received using the terminals). Furthermore, the terminal configurations differ in the first and second structural examples described above. However, regardless of which of these two structural examples the terminals are in, functions can be assigned to each terminal as explained below.

[0384] In this embodiment, the left terminal 17 of the left track member 300 of the main device 2, the right terminal 21 of the right track member, the terminal 42 of the left controller 3, and the terminal 64 of the right controller 4 each include 10 terminals. These 10 terminals are referred to as the first terminal to the tenth terminal. The following functions are assigned to the first terminal to the tenth terminal.

[0385] • The charging terminal for the controller

[0386] • Terminal for communication of data communication signals from the controller to the main unit 2

[0387] • Terminals for communicating data communication signals from the main unit 2 to the controller, and for the main unit 2 to detect the connection (in other words, installation) of the controller.

[0388] • Terminal for communication of control signals from the controller to the main unit 2

[0389] • Terminal for communication of control signals from main unit 2 to controller

[0390] • The terminal for detecting the connection (in other words, installation) signal of the main unit 2 controller.

[0391] • Terminal for detecting signals from the controller's recognition extension device (e.g., the extension grip described later).

[0392] • Terminals for power supply from the controller to the expansion device

[0393] • Ground terminal

[0394] Furthermore, any of the nine functions described above can be assigned to any terminal. Additionally, in this embodiment, two of the first to tenth terminals are assigned the terminal functions. Furthermore, in other embodiments, at least some of the aforementioned functions may not be assigned to the terminals, and functions other than those described above may be assigned to the terminals.

[0395] [1-4. Bracket Structure]

[0396] Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the overall structure of an example of the information processing system in this embodiment. As described above, the information processing system includes the aforementioned information processing device 1 and the bracket 5. Figure 28As shown, the bracket 5 can hold the information processing device 1. Furthermore, the bracket 5 can communicate with a television 6, which is an example of an external display device independent of the display 12 (either wired or wireless communication). When the information processing device 1 is mounted on the bracket 5, the information processing system can display the images acquired or generated by the information processing device 1 on the television 6, as detailed later. In this embodiment, the bracket 5 also functions as a charging device for the mounted information processing device 1 and as a hub (specifically, a USB hub), as detailed later.

[0397] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing the external structure of an example of the bracket 5. The bracket 5 has a housing capable of mounting (or detaching) the information processing device 1. In this embodiment, as... Figure 29 As shown, the housing has a first support portion 71 forming a groove 71a and a generally planar second support portion 72.

[0398] like Figure 29 As shown, the groove 71a formed in the first support portion 71 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the lower portion of the information processing device 1. Specifically, the groove 71a is shaped to allow the lower portion of the information processing device 1 to be inserted, and more specifically, it is shaped to roughly correspond to the lower portion of the information processing device 1. Therefore, by inserting the lower portion of the information processing device 1 into the groove 71a, the information processing device 1 can be placed on the bracket 5. In addition, the second support portion 72 supports the surface of the information processing device 1 (i.e., the surface where the display 12 is mounted) where the lower portion is inserted into the groove 71a. With this second support portion 72, the bracket 5 can support the information processing device 1 more stably. Furthermore, Figure 29 The shape of the housing shown is one example; in other embodiments, the housing of the bracket 5 can be any shape capable of housing the information processing device 1.

[0399] In addition, Figure 29 In this embodiment, the information processing device 1 is placed on the bracket 5 with the main surface of the main device 2 (i.e., the surface of the display 12) facing the second support 72. However, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can also be placed on the bracket 5 with the back side of the main device 2 facing the second support 72. That is, in this embodiment, the user can place the information processing device 1 on the bracket 5 with the display 12 facing outward (i.e., the orientation where the display 12 can be seen) or with the display 12 facing inward (i.e., the orientation where the display 12 is hidden) on the bracket 5.

[0400] like Figure 29 As shown, the bracket 5 also includes a main terminal 73 for communication between the bracket 5 and the information processing device 1. Figure 29 As shown, the main body terminal 73 is disposed on the bottom surface of the groove 71a formed at the first support portion 71. More specifically, the main body terminal 73 is disposed at a position where the lower terminal 27 of the information processing device 1 contacts when the information processing device 1 is mounted on the bracket 5. In this embodiment, the main body terminal 73 is a USB connector (more specifically, a convex-side connector). Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can be mounted on the bracket 5 either facing outwards or facing inwards. Therefore, the lower terminal 27 of the information processing device 1 and the main body terminal 73 of the bracket 5 have a depth relationship (i.e., Figure 1 The shape shown is symmetrical along the z-axis, and communication is possible regardless of which of the two directions is used to connect it in the depth direction.

[0401] like Figure 29 As shown, the bracket 5 is equipped with a sleep button 74. The sleep button 74 is used to switch between the on mode and sleep mode of the main unit 2 mounted on the bracket 5. In addition, in other embodiments, the sleep button 74 may also have the function of switching the power supply of the main unit 2 on / off, in addition to switching between the on mode and sleep mode of the main unit 2.

[0402] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sleep button 74 is provided on the front side of the first support portion 71. The sleep button 74 can also be provided at any position that can be pressed when the information processing device 1 is installed. For example, the sleep button 74 can also be provided on the side of the housing of the bracket 5 or on the back of the second support portion 72.

[0403] In this embodiment, the sleep button 74 has a light-emitting part (specifically, an LED). The light-emitting part of the sleep button 74 is used to notify the user of the status of the main unit 2 mounted on the bracket 5. That is, the light-emitting state (in other words, the lit state) of the light-emitting part changes according to the status of the main unit 2 mounted on the bracket 5. For example, in this embodiment, the light-emitting part is lit when the main unit 2 mounted on the bracket 5 is in the on mode, and the light-emitting part is off when the main unit 2 is in the sleep mode or the power is off. In addition, the light-emitting part flashes when the main unit 2 has information that should be notified to the user (e.g., program update information, notifications, advertisements, etc.). Furthermore, the light-emitting part may not be provided on the sleep button 74, for example, it may be provided at any position on the housing of the bracket 5.

[0404] Although Figure 29 Not shown in the diagram, but bracket 5 has terminals (multiple terminals in this embodiment) on the back of the housing. Specifically, Figure 32The monitoring terminal 132, power terminal 134, and expansion terminal 137 are shown. Details of these terminals will be described later.

[0405] The shape, quantity, and placement of the structural elements (specifically, the housing, terminals, buttons, etc.) provided on the bracket 5 described above are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, the housing may have other shapes capable of supporting the information processing device 1. Furthermore, some of the terminals provided on the housing may be located on the front side of the housing. Additionally, in other embodiments, the bracket 5 may be a structure that does not include some of the aforementioned structural elements.

[0406] [2. Internal structure of each device]

[0407] [2-1. Internal structure of main device 2]

[0408] Figure 30 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of the main body device 2. The main body device 2, besides... Figure 3 In addition to the structure shown, it also has Figure 30 The structural elements 81 to 98 are shown. Some of these structural elements 81 to 98 can also be mounted as electronic components on an electronic circuit board and housed within the housing 11.

[0409] (Structures related to the execution of information processing)

[0410] The main unit 2 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 81. The CPU 81 is an information processing unit that performs various information processing tasks within the main unit 2. The CPU 81 performs various information processing tasks by executing information processing programs stored in memory that it can access (specifically, internal storage media such as flash memory 84 or external storage media installed in each slot 23 and 24).

[0411] As an example of internal storage media built into the main unit 2 itself, the main unit 2 includes flash memory 84 and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) 85. Flash memory 84 and DRAM 85 are connected to CPU 81. Flash memory 84 is a memory mainly used to store various data (which may also be programs) stored in the main unit 2. DRAM 85 is a memory used to temporarily store various data and commands used in information processing.

[0412] The main unit 2 has a first slot interface (hereinafter referred to as "I / F") 91. Additionally, the main unit 2 has a second slot I / F 92. Each slot I / F 91 and 92 is connected to the CPU 81. The first slot I / F 91 is connected to the first slot 23 and performs data reading and writing to a first type of storage medium (e.g., an SD card) installed in the first slot 23 according to instructions from the CPU 81. The second slot I / F 92 is connected to the second slot 24 and performs data reading and writing to a second type of storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) installed in the second slot 24 according to instructions from the CPU 81.

[0413] The CPU 81 appropriately reads or writes data to the aforementioned memories 84 and 85 and the aforementioned storage media to perform the aforementioned information processing.

[0414] (Structures related to communication)

[0415] The main unit 2 includes a network communication unit 82. The network communication unit 82 is connected to the CPU 81. The network communication unit 82 communicates with external devices via a network (specifically, wirelessly). In this embodiment, the network communication unit 82 is, for example, a Wi-Fi certified communication module that communicates with external devices via a wireless LAN. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the main unit 2 may, in addition to having the function of communicating via a wireless LAN, also (or alternatively) have the function of communicating via a mobile communication network (in other words, a mobile phone communication network).

[0416] The main unit 2 includes a controller communication unit 83. The controller communication unit 83 is connected to the CPU 81. The controller communication unit 83 wirelessly communicates with each controller 3 and / or 4. The communication method between the main unit 2 and each controller is arbitrary. In this embodiment, the controller communication unit 83 communicates with each controller in accordance with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard.

[0417] The CPU 81 is connected to the left terminal 17, right terminal 21, and lower terminal 27 described above. When communicating with the left controller 3 via a wired connection, the CPU 81 sends data to the left controller 3 via the left terminal 17. Similarly, when communicating with the right controller 4 via a wired connection, the CPU 81 sends data to the right controller 4 via the right terminal 21. Furthermore, when communicating with the bracket 5, the CPU 81 sends data to the bracket 5 via the lower terminal 27.

[0418] Thus, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 can communicate with the left and right controllers 3 and 4 via both wired and wireless communication. Furthermore, the process for switching between wired and wireless communication will be described later.

[0419] Furthermore, the main unit 2 can communicate simultaneously (in other words, in parallel) with multiple left controllers. Additionally, the main unit 2 can communicate simultaneously (in other words, in parallel) with multiple right controllers. Therefore, the user can use multiple left controllers and multiple right controllers to input information into the information processing unit 1.

[0420] (Structure related to input and output to main unit 2)

[0421] The main unit 2 includes a touch panel controller 86, which is a circuit for controlling the touch panel 13. The touch panel controller 86 is connected to the touch panel 13 and also to the CPU 81. Based on signals from the touch panel 13, the touch panel controller 86 generates data, for example, indicating the location of a touch input, and outputs this data to the CPU 81.

[0422] Additionally, the aforementioned display 12 is connected to the CPU 81. The CPU 81 displays images generated (e.g., by performing the information processing described above) and / or images acquired from external sources on the display 12.

[0423] The main unit 2 includes a codec circuit 87 and speakers (specifically, a left speaker and a right speaker) 88. The codec circuit 87 is connected to the speaker 88 and the audio input / output terminal 25, and is also connected to the CPU 81. The codec circuit 87 controls the input and output of audio data to the speaker 88 and the audio input / output terminal 25. That is, when the codec circuit 87 receives audio data from the CPU 81, it outputs the audio signal obtained by D / A conversion of the audio data to the speaker 88 or the audio input / output terminal 25. Thus, audio is output from the speaker 88 or an audio output unit (e.g., headphones) connected to the audio input / output terminal 25. Additionally, when the codec circuit 87 receives an audio signal from the audio input / output terminal 25, it performs A / D conversion on the audio signal and outputs audio data in a specified format to the CPU 81.

[0424] Additionally, the aforementioned volume button 26 (specifically, Figure 3 The volume buttons 26a and 26b shown are connected to the CPU 81. The CPU 81 controls the volume output from the speaker 88 or the aforementioned sound output unit based on the input to the volume button 26.

[0425] The main unit 2 includes an acceleration sensor 89. In this embodiment, the acceleration sensor 89 detects acceleration along three predetermined axes (e.g., Figure 1The magnitude of linear acceleration in the xyz axis direction is shown. Furthermore, the acceleration sensor 89 can also detect acceleration in one or two axis directions.

[0426] Additionally, the main body device 2 includes an angular velocity sensor 90. In this embodiment, the angular velocity sensor 90 detects angular velocity around three predetermined axes (e.g., Figure 1 The angular velocity (xyz axis shown) is also measured. Furthermore, the angular velocity sensor 90 can also detect angular velocities about one axis or two axes.

[0427] The aforementioned accelerometer 89 and angular velocity sensor 90 are connected to the CPU 81, and the detection results of the accelerometer 89 and angular velocity sensor 90 are output to the CPU 81. The CPU 81 can calculate information related to the activity and / or posture of the main body device 2 based on the detection results of the accelerometer 89 and angular velocity sensor 90. Furthermore, in other embodiments, other types of sensors (e.g., inertial sensors) can also be used as sensors for calculating the activity, posture, and / or position of the main body device 2.

[0428] (Structures related to electricity)

[0429] The main unit 2 includes a power control unit 97 and a battery 98. The power control unit 97 is connected to the battery 98 and the CPU 81. Although not shown in the diagram, the power control unit 97 is connected to various parts of the main unit 2 (specifically, the parts that receive power from the battery 98, the left terminal 17, and the right terminal 21). The power control unit 97 controls the power supply from the battery 98 to these parts based on instructions from the CPU 81. Furthermore, the power control unit 97 is connected to a power button 28. The power control unit 97 controls the power supply to these parts based on input to the power button 28. That is, when the power button 28 is pressed to turn off the power, the power control unit 97 stops supplying all or part of the power to these parts; when the power button 28 is pressed to turn on the power, the power control unit 97 begins supplying all or part of the power to these parts. Furthermore, when the power button 28 is instructed to switch to sleep mode, the power control unit 97 stops supplying power to a portion of the structure, including the display 12; when the power button 28 is instructed to switch to power-on mode, the power control unit 97 resumes supplying power to that structure. Additionally, the power control unit 97 outputs information indicating input to the power button 28 (specifically, information indicating whether the power button 28 has been pressed) to the CPU 81.

[0430] Additionally, the battery 98 is connected to the lower terminal 27. When an external charging device (e.g., bracket 5) is connected to the lower terminal 27 and power is supplied to the main unit 2 via the lower terminal 27, the supplied power is charged into the battery 98. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the charging capacity of the battery 98 of the main unit 2 is greater than the charging capacity of the batteries of the controllers 3 and 4 described later.

[0431] (Other structures)

[0432] The main unit 2 includes a magnetic sensor (also called a magnetic sensor) 93 for detecting the strength and / or direction of a magnetic field. The magnetic sensor 93 is connected to the CPU 81, and the detection result of the magnetic sensor 93 is output to the CPU 81. In this embodiment, the magnetic sensor 93 is used to detect the opening and closing of a protective cover (not shown) installed on the information processing device 1. For example, a magnet is provided on the protective cover, and the CPU 81 detects whether the protective cover covers the main surface of the main unit 2 based on the detection result of the magnetic sensor 93. Furthermore, if this state is detected, the CPU 81, for example, turns off the display of the display 12.

[0433] The main unit 2 includes an ambient light sensor 94 that detects the intensity of ambient light around the main unit 2. The ambient light sensor 94 is connected to the CPU 81, and the detection result of the ambient light sensor 94 is output to the CPU 81. In this embodiment, the ambient light sensor 94 is used to adjust the brightness of the display 12. That is, the CPU 81 controls the brightness of the display 12 based on the detection result of the ambient light sensor 94.

[0434] The main unit 2 includes a cooling fan 96 for dissipating heat from its interior. By operating the cooling fan 96, external air is drawn into the housing 11 through the intake port 11d, and internal air is expelled from the housing 11 through the exhaust port 11c, thereby releasing heat from the housing 11. The cooling fan 96 is connected to the CPU 81, which controls its operation. Additionally, the main unit 2 includes a temperature sensor 95 for detecting the temperature inside the main unit 2. The temperature sensor 95 is connected to the CPU 81, and its detection result is output to the CPU 81. The CPU 81 controls the operation of the cooling fan 96 based on the temperature sensor's detection result.

[0435] [2-2. Internal structure of left controller 3]

[0436] Figure 31 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of the information processing device 1. Furthermore, details of the internal structure of the information processing device 1 related to the main unit 2 are provided below. Figure 30 As shown in, therefore in Figure 31 Omitted in .

[0437] (Structures related to communication)

[0438] The left controller 3 includes a communication control unit 101 for communicating with the main unit 2. For example... Figure 31 As shown, the communication control unit 101 is connected to various structural elements, including the aforementioned terminal 42. In this embodiment, the communication control unit 101 can communicate with the main device 2 via both wired communication via terminal 42 and wireless communication without using terminal 42. The communication control unit 101 controls the communication method between the left controller 3 and the main device 2. That is, when the left controller 3 is installed on the main device 2, the communication control unit 101 communicates with the main device 2 via terminal 42. Furthermore, when the left controller 3 is detached from the main device 2, the communication control unit 101 communicates wirelessly with the main device 2 (specifically, the controller communication unit 83). The wireless communication between the controller communication unit 83 and the communication control unit 101 follows the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard.

[0439] Additionally, the left controller 3 includes, for example, a memory 102 such as a flash memory. The aforementioned communication control unit 101 is configured as, for example, a microcomputer (also called a microprocessor), which performs various processes by executing firmware stored in the memory 102.

[0440] (Structures related to input)

[0441] The left controller 3 has buttons 103 (specifically, buttons 33-39, 43, and 44). Additionally, the left controller 3 has the aforementioned analog joystick (in... Figure 31 The analog joystick 32 (referred to as "joystick" in the text) will repeatedly output information related to the operation performed on itself to the communication control unit 101 at appropriate times.

[0442] The left controller 3 includes an acceleration sensor 104. In this embodiment, the acceleration sensor 104 detects acceleration along three predetermined axes (e.g., Figure 1 The magnitude of linear acceleration in the xyz axis direction is shown. Furthermore, the acceleration sensor 104 can also detect acceleration in one or two axial directions.

[0443] The left controller 3 includes an angular velocity sensor 105. In this embodiment, the angular velocity sensor 105 detects angular velocity around three predetermined axes (e.g., Figure 1 The angular velocity (xyz axis shown) is also measured. Furthermore, the angular velocity sensor 105 can also detect angular velocities about one axis or two axes.

[0444] Accelerometer 104 and angular velocity sensor 105 are connected to communication control unit 101. The detection results of accelerometer 104 and angular velocity sensor 105 are repeatedly output to communication control unit 101 at appropriate times.

[0445] The communication control unit 101 acquires input-related information (specifically, operation-related information or sensor detection results) from each input unit (specifically, each button 103, analog joystick 32, and each sensor 104 and 105). The communication control unit 101 then transmits operation data containing the acquired information (or information obtained after predetermined processing of the acquired information) to the main unit 2. Furthermore, the operation data is repeatedly transmitted at a rate of once every predetermined time interval. The interval at which input-related information is transmitted to the main unit 2 can be the same or different for each input unit.

[0446] By sending the aforementioned operation data to the main unit 2, the main unit 2 can obtain the input made to the left controller 3. That is, the main unit 2 can determine the operation of each button 103 and analog joystick 32 based on the operation data. In addition, the main unit 2 can calculate information related to the activity and / or posture of the left controller 3 based on the operation data (specifically, the detection results of each sensor 104 and 105).

[0447] (Structures related to output)

[0448] The aforementioned notification LED 45 is connected to the communication control unit 101. In this embodiment, the notification LED 45 is controlled according to instructions from the main unit 2. That is, when the communication control unit 101 receives the aforementioned instructions from the main unit 2, it outputs a control signal to the notification LED 45 to control the lighting of the notification LED 45 according to the instructions.

[0449] Furthermore, the communication control unit 101 can also switch whether the notification LED 45 is illuminated based on whether the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2. That is, the notification LED 45 can be controlled in such a way that it is not illuminated when the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2, and is illuminated when the left controller 3 is not installed on the main unit 2. This is because it is considered that when the left controller 3 is installed on the main unit 2, the notification LED 45 cannot be visually identified, therefore the necessity for it to illuminate is low.

[0450] The left controller 3 includes a vibrator 107 for notifying the user via vibration. In this embodiment, the vibrator 107 is controlled according to instructions from the main unit 2. That is, when the communication control unit 101 receives the aforementioned instructions from the main unit 2, it drives the vibrator 107 according to those instructions. Here, the left controller 3 includes an amplifier 106. When the communication control unit 101 receives the aforementioned instructions, it outputs a control signal corresponding to the instructions to the amplifier 106. The amplifier 106 amplifies the control signal from the communication control unit 101, generates a drive signal for driving the vibrator 107, and provides the drive signal to the vibrator 107. As a result, the vibrator 107 operates. Furthermore, the vibrator 107 can be any type of actuator that generates vibration.

[0451] (Structures related to electricity)

[0452] The left controller 3 includes a power supply unit 108. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 108 includes a battery and a power control circuit. Although not shown in the figure, the power control circuit is connected to the battery and to each part of the left controller 3 (specifically, each part that receives power from the battery). The power control circuit controls the power supply from the battery to the aforementioned parts.

[0453] Additionally, the battery is connected to terminal 42. In this embodiment, with the left controller 3 installed on the main unit 2, the battery is charged via terminal 42 using power from the main unit 2 under specified conditions, as detailed later.

[0454] [2-3. Internal structure of right controller 4]

[0455] (Structures related to communication)

[0456] like Figure 31 As shown, the right controller 4 includes a communication control unit 111 for communicating with the main unit 2. Additionally, the right controller 4 includes a memory 112 connected to the communication control unit 111. The communication control unit 111 is connected to various structural elements, including the aforementioned terminal 64. The communication control unit 111 and memory 112 have the same functions as the communication control unit 101 and memory 102 of the left controller 3. Therefore, the communication control unit 111 can communicate with the main unit 2 through both wired communication via terminal 64 and wireless communication without terminal 64 (specifically, communication conforming to the Bluetooth standard), controlling the communication method of the right controller 4 with the main unit 2.

[0457] (Structures related to input)

[0458] The right controller 4 has the same inputs as the left controller 3 (specifically, the buttons 113, analog joystick 52, accelerometer 114, and angular velocity sensor 115). These inputs have the same functions as the inputs of the left controller 3 and operate in the same manner.

[0459] (Structures related to output)

[0460] The notification LED 67 of the right controller 4 operates in the same manner as the notification LED 45 of the left controller 3. That is, when the communication control unit 111 receives an instruction from the main unit 2, it outputs a control signal to the notification LED 67 to control the lighting of the notification LED 67 according to the instruction.

[0461] Additionally, the right controller 4 includes an oscillator 117 and an amplifier 116. The oscillator 117 and amplifier 116 operate in the same manner as the oscillator 107 and amplifier 106 of the left controller 3. That is, the communication control unit 111 uses the amplifier 116 to operate the oscillator 117 according to the instructions from the main unit 2.

[0462] (Structures related to electricity)

[0463] The right controller 4 includes a power supply unit 118. The power supply unit 118 has the same function as the power supply unit 108 of the left controller 3 and operates in the same manner. That is, the power supply unit 118 controls the power supply from the battery to the various power-receiving components. Furthermore, when the right controller 4 is installed in the main unit 2, under specified conditions, the battery is charged via terminal 64 using power from the main unit 2.

[0464] (Other structures)

[0465] The right controller 4 includes an NFC communication unit 122. The NFC communication unit 122 performs near-field wireless communication based on the NFC (Near Field Communication) standard. The NFC communication unit 122 functions as an NFC reader / writer. For example, the NFC communication unit 122 includes an antenna for near-field wireless communication and circuitry (e.g., an NFC chip) for generating signals (radio waves) that should be transmitted from the antenna. Furthermore, near-field wireless communication is not limited to near-field wireless communication based on the NFC standard; it can also be any proximity communication (also known as contactless communication). Proximity communication includes, for example, the following communication methods: generating an electromotive force in another device through radio waves from one device (e.g., through electromagnetic induction).

[0466] Additionally, the right controller 4 includes an infrared camera unit 123. The infrared camera unit 123 has an infrared camera that captures images of the area surrounding the right controller 4. In this embodiment, the infrared camera unit 123 is used to capture images of the user's hand. The information processing device 1 determines the input (e.g., gesture input) made by the hand based on the captured hand information (e.g., position, size, and shape). Alternatively, the infrared camera unit 123 can also capture images using ambient light, but in this embodiment, it has an illumination unit that illuminates infrared light. The illumination unit illuminates infrared light, for example, synchronously with the timing of the infrared camera capturing images. The infrared light illuminated by the illumination unit is reflected by an object (e.g., the user's hand), and the reflected infrared light is received by the infrared camera, thereby acquiring an infrared image. This allows for a clearer infrared image. In this embodiment, an infrared camera unit 123 with an infrared camera is used; however, in other embodiments, a visible light camera (a camera using a visible light image sensor) can be used instead of an infrared camera as the imaging unit.

[0467] The right controller 4 includes a processing unit 121. The processing unit 121 is connected to the communication control unit 111 and to the NFC communication unit 122. The processing unit 121 performs management processing on the NFC communication unit 122 according to instructions from the host device 2. For example, the processing unit 121 controls the operation of the NFC communication unit 122 according to instructions from the host device 2. Furthermore, the processing unit 121 controls the activation of the NFC communication unit 122, or controls the actions of the NFC communication unit 122 on a communication counterpart (e.g., an NFC tag) (specifically, reading and writing). Additionally, the processing unit 121 receives information to be sent to the communication counterpart from the host device 2 via the communication control unit 111 and transmits that information to the NFC communication unit 122, or obtains information received from the communication counterpart from the NFC communication unit 122 and transmits that information to the host device 2 via the communication control unit 111.

[0468] Furthermore, the processing unit 121 performs management processing on the infrared camera unit 123 according to instructions from the main unit 2. For example, the processing unit 121 causes the infrared camera unit 123 to perform a camera operation, or acquires information based on the camera results (information on the camera image or information calculated based on that information, etc.) and sends that information to the main unit 2 via the communication control unit 111.

[0469] [2-4. Internal structure of bracket 5]

[0470] Figure 32 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of bracket 5. Furthermore, in Figure 32 Details of the internal structure related to the main unit 2 are provided in Figure 30 As shown in the image, it is therefore omitted.

[0471] (Structures related to image transformation)

[0472] like Figure 32 As shown, the bracket 5 includes a conversion unit 131 and a monitoring terminal 132. The conversion unit 131 is connected to the main unit terminal 73 and the monitoring terminal 132. The conversion unit 131 converts the format of the image (or video) and sound signals received from the main unit 2 into a format for output to the television 6. Here, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 outputs the image and sound signals as display port signals (i.e., signals conforming to the DisplayPort standard) to the bracket 5. In addition, in this embodiment, communication between the bracket 5 and the television 6 uses communication based on the HDMI (registered trademark) standard. That is, the monitoring terminal 132 is an HDMI terminal, and the bracket 5 and the television 6 are connected via an HDMI cable. Based on the above, the conversion unit 131 converts the display port signals (specifically, the video and sound signals) received from the main unit 2 via the main unit terminal 73 into HDMI signals. The converted HDMI signals are output to the television 6 via the monitoring terminal 132.

[0473] Furthermore, the bracket 5 includes a processing unit 135 that performs various information processing tasks within the bracket 5. The processing unit 135 is connected to the aforementioned sleep button 74 and is also connected to the main unit terminal 73 via a connection processing unit 136 (details will be described later). The processing unit 135 detects operation of the sleep button 74 and notifies the main unit 2 that the operation has been performed. Upon receiving this notification, the main unit 2 switches between its own on / off mode and sleep mode. Thus, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 switches between its on / off mode and sleep mode based on the sleep button 74 being pressed while the main unit 2 is mounted on the bracket 5.

[0474] (Structures related to charging)

[0475] The bracket 5 includes a power control unit 133 and a power terminal 134. The power terminal 134 is a terminal for connecting a charging device (not shown) (e.g., an AC adapter). In this embodiment, an AC adapter is connected to the power terminal 134 to provide commercial power to the bracket 5.

[0476] With the main unit 2 mounted on the bracket 5, the power control unit 133 supplies power from the power terminal 134 to the main unit 2 via the main unit terminal 73. Thus, as described above, the battery 98 of the main unit 2 is charged.

[0477] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power terminal 134 is a connector with the same shape as the lower terminal 27 of the information processing device 1 (i.e., the USB terminal on the concave side). Therefore, in this embodiment, the charging device can be connected to the bracket 5 to charge the information processing device 1 via the bracket 5, or the charging device can be directly connected to the main unit 2 to charge the information processing device 1.

[0478] (Other structures)

[0479] Additionally, the bracket 5 includes a connection processing unit 136 and expansion terminals 137. The expansion terminals 137 are terminals for connecting other devices. In this embodiment, the bracket 5 includes multiple (more specifically, three) USB terminals as expansion terminals 137. The connection processing unit 136 is connected to the main unit terminal 73 and each expansion terminal 137. The connection processing unit 136 functions as a USB hub, for example, managing communication between devices connected to the expansion terminals 137 and the main unit 2 connected to the main unit terminal 73 (i.e., appropriately distributing signals from one device and sending them to other devices). As described above, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can communicate with other devices via the bracket 5. Furthermore, the connection processing unit 136 can also change the communication speed or supply power to the devices connected to the expansion terminals 137.

[0480] [3. Summary of actions in an information processing system]

[0481] As explained above, the left and right controllers 3 and 4 can be attached and detached from the information processing device 1 in this embodiment. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 can output images (and sound) to the television 6 by being mounted on the bracket 5. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can be used in various ways described below. The operation of the information processing system in the main usage method will now be explained.

[0482] [3-1. Method of utilizing the controller by installing it on the main unit]

[0483] Figure 33 This diagram illustrates an example of the use of the information processing device 1 when the controllers 3 and 4 are installed in the main unit 2 (referred to as the "installation state"). Figure 33 As shown, when each controller 3 and 4 is installed on the main unit 2, the information processing device 1 can be used as a portable device (e.g., a portable game console).

[0484] In the installed state, the main unit 2 communicates with each controller 3 and 4 via wired communication (i.e., communication via the terminals of the interconnected devices). That is, the main unit 2 receives operation data from each controller 3 and 4 installed on itself, and performs information processing based on the received operation data (specifically, using the operation data as input).

[0485] Furthermore, in other embodiments, wireless communication can also be performed between the main unit 2 and the controller in the installed state. However, in this case, the distance between the main unit 2 and the controller is too close in the installed state, which may prevent successful wireless communication. In contrast, in this embodiment, wired communication is performed between the main unit 2 and the controller in the installed state, thereby improving the reliability of communication.

[0486] Furthermore, in the installed state, the four operation buttons 33-36 of the left controller 3 can also be used for directional input (in other words, directional indication). At this time, the user can use either the analog joystick 32 or the operation buttons 33-36 for directional input. Users can use their preferred operation units for directional input, thus improving operability. The specific indication function of each operation button can be freely determined based on the program executed in the main unit 2.

[0487] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the configuration of the analog joystick and the four operation buttons (i.e., A, B, X, Y buttons) in the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 is reversed. That is, in the installed state, the analog joystick 32 in the left controller 3 is positioned above the four operation buttons 33-36, and conversely, the four operation buttons 53-56 in the right controller 4 are positioned above the analog joystick 52. Therefore, in such a configuration... Figure 33 When the information processing device 1 is held at the same height (in other words, at the same position in the vertical direction) as shown, one hand is positioned for easy operation of the analog joystick, and the other hand is positioned for easy operation of the four operation buttons. In other words, this embodiment provides an information processing device that allows for easy operation of both the analog joystick and the four operation buttons.

[0488] Furthermore, as the left and / or right controllers, controllers with structures different from those in this embodiment (e.g., structures with different functions or structures with different configurations of the operating parts, etc.) can also be prepared (see "[5-1. Other Types of Controllers]" described later), details of which will be presented later. In this case, it is also possible to replace the left controller 3 and / or right controller 4 in this embodiment with left and / or right controllers of other structures installed in the main body device 2, thereby providing a configuration similar to that in this embodiment (i.e., Figure 33The information processing device 1 shown is different from other information processing devices in terms of user experience.

[0489] [3-2. Method of disassembling and utilizing one set of controllers]

[0490] As described above, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can also be used in a state where the left and right controllers 3 and 4 are detached from the main unit 2 (referred to as the "detached state"). As a way of using the information processing device 1 in the detached state, at least two methods can be considered: one where one user uses two controllers 3 and 4, and two where two users each use one controller.

[0491] (One user using two controllers)

[0492] Figure 34 This diagram illustrates an example of a scenario where, in a disconnected state, one user controls two controllers 3 and 4 to utilize the information processing device 1. (See diagram for example.) Figure 34 As shown, in the detached state, the user can use their left and right hands to hold and operate one set of two controllers 3 and 4 respectively.

[0493] Furthermore, in this embodiment, information related to the controller's activity and / or posture can be calculated based on the detection results of the accelerometer and / or angular velocity sensor provided with the controller. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can accept operations that activate the controller itself as input. The user can not only operate the control units (operation buttons and analog sticks) provided with the controller, but also perform operations that activate the controller itself to change its position and / or posture. In other words, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1, as a portable device, can provide the user with operations that activate the controller (without activating the display). Additionally, as a portable device, the information processing device 1 can provide an information processing device that allows the user to operate it in a location away from the display 12.

[0494] Furthermore, not limited to the disengaged state, the information processing device 1 can also calculate information related to the activity and / or posture of the information processing device 1 based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor 89 and / or angular velocity sensor 90 provided by the main device 2 when it is installed.

[0495] In the disconnected state, the main unit 2 communicates with each of the controllers 3 and 4 via wireless communication. That is, the main unit 2 receives operation data from each of the controllers 3 and 4 with which it has established wireless communication (and has been paired), and performs information processing based on the received operation data (specifically, using the operation data as input).

[0496] In this embodiment, in the case of wireless communication, the main unit 2 distinguishes between multiple controllers that are communication partners. For example, the main unit 2 identifies whether the received operation data comes from the left controller 3 or the right controller 4. The method for distinguishing controllers will be described later.

[0497] (Two users each use one controller)

[0498] Figure 35 This diagram illustrates an example of a scenario where, in a disconnected state, two users each control one controller to utilize information processing device 1. (See diagram for example.) Figure 35 As shown, in the detached state, two users can operate the device using their respective controllers. Specifically, this can be achieved as follows: one user (referred to as the "first user") operates the device using the left controller 3, and the other user (referred to as the "second user") operates the device using the right controller 4. The information processing device 1 performs information processing, for example, by controlling the actions of a first object (e.g., a player character) in the virtual space based on the operation of the left controller 3, and by controlling the actions of a second object in the virtual space based on the operation of the right controller 4. Furthermore, in Figure 35 The method shown also relates to Figure 34 Similarly, as shown, the user can operate the operating units of the controller and / or activate the controller itself.

[0499] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the positional relationship between the analog joystick 52 and the operation buttons 53-56 in the right controller 4 is the opposite of the positional relationship between these two operation units in the left controller 3. Therefore, in, for example, Figure 35 When two users hold the left controller 3 and right controller 4 in the same orientation as shown, the positional relationship of the two operating units is the same in both controllers. In other words, in this embodiment, users can use the left controller 3 and right controller 4, which are detached from the main unit 2, with the same operational feel. This improves the operability of the controllers.

[0500] Furthermore, in the detached state, the four operation buttons 33-36 of the left controller 3 can also be used for the same functions as the four operation buttons 53-56 of the right controller 4 (in other words, they can also be used to make the same indications). Specifically, the right direction button 33 can be used for the same function as the Y button 56, the down direction button 34 can be used for the same function as the X button 55, the up direction button 35 can be used for the same function as the B button 54, and the left direction button 36 can be used for the same function as the A button 53. Thus, in this embodiment, the functions of the operation buttons 33-36 can be changed between the installed state and the detached state. The indications used for each operation button can be freely determined according to the program executed in the main unit 2.

[0501] In addition, Figure 35 In this embodiment, the information processing device 1 divides the display area of ​​the display 12 into two parts. One of the divided display areas displays an image for a first user (e.g., an image containing a first object), and the other divided display area displays an image for a second user (e.g., an image containing a second object). However, depending on the application executed in the information processing device 1, the information processing device 1 may also not divide the display area of ​​the display 12, but instead display images for both users (e.g., images containing both the first and second objects).

[0502] In addition, Figure 35 The method shown also relates to Figure 34 Similarly, as shown, the main unit 2 communicates with each of the controllers 3 and 4 via wireless communication. In this case, the main unit 2 distinguishes the controllers that are the communication partners.

[0503] (Other methods)

[0504] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the right controller 4 includes an infrared camera unit 123. Therefore, even when the right controller 4 is removed from the main unit 2, the information processing device 1 can still perform information processing based on the imaging results (also called detection results) of the infrared camera unit 123. As an example of this information processing, consider the processing shown below.

[0505] For example, when an accessory with an operating unit (hereinafter referred to as "extended controller") is installed on the right controller 4, the main unit 2 can detect the operation of the operating unit based on the imaging results of the infrared camera 123. Therefore, the main unit 2 can perform information processing corresponding to the operation of the operating unit by using the imaging results.

[0506] Specifically, the aforementioned extension controller can be attached to and detached from the right controller 4, and includes movable operating parts such as buttons and joysticks. Furthermore, the extension controller has a movable part inside its housing that moves (including rotation) when the operating part is operated. This movable part is, for example, a component configured to move when a button, which is the operating part, is pressed. Here, the extension controller is mounted to the right controller 4 such that the infrared camera 123 can capture images of the movable part inside the housing. For example, a window is provided on the housing of the extension controller, and when the extension controller is mounted to the right controller 4, the infrared camera 123 can capture images of the movable part through this window. In the above, the main unit 2 can determine the operation of the operating part of the extension controller based on the position and / or posture of the movable part in the image obtained by the infrared camera 123. Therefore, the main unit 2 can also perform information processing corresponding to the operation of the operating part using the image.

[0507] Alternatively, the main unit 2 can also detect hand gesture input by the user based on the imaging results of the infrared camera unit 123, and perform information processing corresponding to the gesture input. For example, the user holds the right controller 4 with one hand and takes a picture of the other hand with the infrared camera of the infrared camera unit 123. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the infrared camera is configured to capture the area below the right controller 4. Therefore, the user places their other hand below the right controller 4 to perform gesture input. The main unit 2 obtains information based on the imaging results from the right controller 4 to determine the gesture input performed by the user. Then, the main unit 2 performs information processing based on the gesture input.

[0508] Here, gesture input can be any input performed by the user through an object that is manipulated (activated). The object can be the user's body (either a part of the body such as a hand or face, or the entire body), an object held by the user, or both. The information processing device 1 can recognize the shape of the object as gesture input, or the position, orientation, and / or movement of the object as gesture input, or a combination thereof. For example, the user can perform gesture input through the shape of the hand, the movement of the hand, the position of the hand (based on the right controller 4), the orientation (posture), etc.

[0509] Additionally, the infrared camera unit 123 can also be used to determine gesture input and (or instead) calculate the position and / or orientation of the right controller 4 relative to a predetermined marker. For example, the user may pre-position a marker at a desired location (e.g., around the display 12 or the television 6) and perform an operation that allows the right controller 4 to move within the range of the marker that can be captured by the infrared camera. Furthermore, the marker may be made of a material that reflects infrared light. In this case, the information processing device 1 can calculate the position and / or orientation of the right controller 4 relative to the marker based on the imaging results of the infrared camera unit 123. The information processing device 1 can then use the calculated information as user input to perform information processing.

[0510] Furthermore, the main unit 2 can also authenticate the user (specifically, vein authentication) based on the image by capturing a picture of the user's hand (specifically, the veins in the hand) using the infrared camera unit 123. Moreover, the main unit 2 can also measure the user's pulse by capturing a picture of the user's hand using the infrared camera unit 123. That is, when the main unit 2 detects the reflected infrared light from the user's hand illuminated by the infrared camera unit 123, it can calculate the user's pulse based on changes in the reflected light.

[0511] Furthermore, in the above description, the case where the right controller 4 is detached from the main unit 2 was illustrated using the infrared camera unit 123 as an example. Here, even when the right controller 4 is installed in the main unit 2, the information processing unit 1 can still perform information processing based on the imaging results from the infrared camera unit 123.

[0512] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 includes an input section (specifically, a touch panel 13, an accelerometer 89, and an angular velocity sensor 90, etc.). Therefore, the user can use only the main unit 2 even with the controllers 3 and 4 removed. Accordingly, the user can utilize the information processing device 1 in a lightweight manner.

[0513] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can be used even when either the left controller 3 or the right controller 4 has been removed from the main unit 2 and the other has been installed on the main unit 2. In this case, the main unit 2 can also communicate wirelessly with one of the controllers and communicate wiredly with the other controller.

[0514] Furthermore, when the controller is detached from the main unit 2, the user can use it by holding one controller with both hands (for example, see reference). Figure 35 It can also be used by holding one controller with one hand (for example, see reference). Figure 34 Here, the method of holding the controller when the user holds it with one hand is arbitrary, for example, it can be held as follows: Figure 34 The controller is used as shown in the following holding method: the operating section located on the main surface (in other words, the front, i.e., the front side) of the controller is operated with the thumb. Additionally, for example, it can be used as follows: Figure 33 The controller is used as shown in the following holding method: the thumb operates the operating section on the main surface of the controller, and the index and / or middle fingers operate the operating sections on the sides of the controller (e.g., the first L button 38, ZL button 39, first R button 60, and ZR button 61). Furthermore, Figure 33 The diagram shows the controller installed on the main unit 2, but it also shows the controller detached from the main unit 2 and capable of operating in conjunction with... Figure 33 The holding method shown uses the same holding method as the controller, which is obvious.

[0515] Furthermore, even when the user holds the controller with one hand, the controller can also be used by operating the control unit located on the side of the controller with the thumb. Figure 36 This diagram illustrates an example of how to hold the right controller 4 with one hand. (See diagram for example.) Figure 36 As shown, the user can also hold the right controller 4 in the following manner: holding it with the hand gripping the housing 51, and operating the first R button 60 and ZR button 61 with the thumb. In other words, the first R button 60 and ZR button 61 are positioned so that they can be operated with the thumb while the user is gripping the housing 51. With this holding method, the user can, for example, use the controller with a feel similar to operating an aircraft joystick.

[0516] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first R button 60 and the ZR button 61 are positioned at different locations in the front-back direction (in other words, the direction perpendicular to the main surface, i.e., the z-axis direction). In other words, the first R button 60 and the ZR button 61 are offset in the front-back direction. Therefore, the user can easily distinguish between these two buttons for operation.

[0517] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first R button 60 is located on the side of the right controller 4, and the ZR button 61 is located from the side of the right controller 4 to the back. Here, the length of the ZR button 61 in the front-rear direction is longer than the length of the first R button 60 in the front-rear direction. Thus, in this embodiment, the ZR button 61, positioned slightly offset from the side of the right controller 4, has a... Figure 36 The shape is easy to press when holding the right controller 4 as shown.

[0518] exist Figure 36An example of holding the right controller 4 is shown, but the left controller 3 can also be used in the same way as the right controller 4, by holding it with the thumb to operate the operating parts (i.e., the first L button 38 and the ZL button 39) located on the side of the left controller 3.

[0519] In addition, in Figure 36 The illustrated holding method allows the user to operate another controller with their other hand while holding the controller with one hand. In this case, it can be used in both hands simultaneously. Figure 36 The same holding method can be used with the controller, and other holding methods can also be used with the controller.

[0520] In addition, Figure 36 In the illustrated holding method, the user can operate the control unit (e.g., the second L button 65 and the second R button 66) located on a side different from the side where the thumb-operated control unit is located. Additionally, in Figure 36 In the illustrated holding method, the user can also perform the aforementioned operations to activate the controller and / or operations via gesture input. By combining these operations with operations performed via the thumb, it is possible to... Figure 36 The holding method shown is used to perform a somewhat complex operation.

[0521] [3-3. Using more than 3 controllers]

[0522] As described above, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 can communicate with multiple left controllers. Furthermore, the main unit 2 can communicate with multiple right controllers. Therefore, in this embodiment, three or more controllers can be used simultaneously.

[0523] Figure 37 This diagram illustrates an example of utilization when using three or more controllers. Figure 37 The example illustrates a case using two left controllers 3a and 3b and two right controllers 4a and 4b, totaling four controllers. Furthermore, it is assumed here that each controller is detached from the main unit 2. With four controllers used in this manner, at least four users each using one controller can be considered. Figure 37 (a) and the method in which each of the two users uses two controllers (specifically, one set of controllers on the left and one on the right). Figure 37 (b)

[0524] (One user using one controller)

[0525] exist Figure 37In (a), for the four controllers 3a, 3b, 4a, and 4b, each user uses one controller. That is, in this embodiment, with four controllers provided, users A through D can use the controllers to perform operations. The information processing device 1, for example, performs information processing to control the actions of the object corresponding to each controller based on the operations performed on each controller. Furthermore, in Figure 37 The various utilization methods shown also include... Figure 34 and Figure 35 Similarly, in the usage shown, each user can operate the operating unit of the controller and / or activate the controller itself.

[0526] exist Figure 37 In (a), the main unit 2 wirelessly communicates with each of the four controllers 3a, 3b, 4a, and 4b. In this embodiment, the main unit 2 distinguishes between the four controllers 3a, 3b, 4a, and 4b. That is, the main unit 2 identifies which of the four controllers the received operation data originates from. Furthermore, in... Figure 37 In case (a), the main unit 2 distinguishes between the left controller 3a and the left controller 3b, and also distinguishes between the right controller 4a and the right controller 4b. Furthermore, the method for distinguishing each controller will be described later.

[0527] (One user using one set of controllers)

[0528] exist Figure 37 In (b), for the four controllers 3a, 3b, 4a, and 4b, each user uses one set of controllers. That is, user A uses the left controller 3a and the right controller 4a as one set of controllers, and user B uses the left controller 3b and the right controller 4b as one set of controllers. Thus, in this embodiment, with four controllers, it is possible for two users to operate one set of controllers (or a group of controllers).

[0529] Information processing device 1 treats two sets of operational data received from one set of controllers as a single set and performs information processing. For example, information processing device 1 performs information processing to control the actions of objects corresponding to the one set of controllers based on the operations performed on the one set of controllers. Specifically, it controls the actions of a first object based on the operations performed on the left controller 3a and the right controller 4a, and controls the actions of a second object based on the operations performed on the left controller 3b and the right controller 4b.

[0530] Here, in this embodiment, in Figure 37In the usage shown in (b), the main unit 2 sets up a group of left and right controllers used by the user. The main unit 2 performs information processing by using the operation data from the two controllers included in the set group as a set (e.g., as operation data for controlling an operation object).

[0531] The method for setting the controller group can be any method. In this embodiment, the group is set by installing the left and right controllers on the main unit 2. That is, the main unit 2 sets the simultaneously installed left and right controllers as one group of controllers. For example, in setting... Figure 37 In the case of the controller group shown in (b), the user first installs the left controller 3a and the right controller 4a onto the main unit 2. After removing these two left controllers 3a and right controllers 4a from the main unit 2, the user then installs the remaining left controller 3b and right controller 4b onto the main unit 2. Thus, it is possible to set (or register) the group of left controller 3a and right controller 4a, and the group of left controller 3b and right controller 4b, in the main unit 2. Furthermore, details of the group setting process will be described later.

[0532] Furthermore, when using more than three controllers, in addition to Figure 37 Besides the methods shown, the information processing system can be used in various other ways. For example, the information processing system can be used in the following way: one user uses a set of controllers including left and right controllers, while other users use a single controller. Alternatively, it can be implemented, for example, in the following way: one user uses a controller installed on the main unit 2, while other users use controllers detached from the main unit 2.

[0533] [3-4. Methods of displaying on television]

[0534] As described above, in this embodiment, when the information processing device 1 is mounted on the bracket 5, the information processing device 1 can output images (and sound) to the television 6 via the bracket 5. Figure 38 This diagram illustrates an example of how an image is displayed on a television. For example... Figure 38 As shown, the information processing system in this embodiment can use the television 6 as a display device (and a sound output device).

[0535] [3-4-1. Actions when displaying an image on a television]

[0536] Figure 39This diagram illustrates an example of the operation flow when an image is displayed on a television. The operation when switching from using the information processing device 1 as a portable device to using it as a stationary device (i.e., using the television 6 as a display device) will be described below. Furthermore, the bracket 5 is pre-connected to the television 6. Additionally, a charging device (e.g., an AC adapter, not shown) is connected to the power terminal 134 of the bracket 5 to provide commercial power to the bracket 5.

[0537] First, the user uses the information processing device 1 as a portable device, that is, without it being installed in the holder. Figure 39 As shown in (1)). When switching to use the information processing device 1 as a fixed device in this state, the user installs the information processing device 1 on the bracket 5 ( Figure 39 As shown in (2)). Thus, the lower terminal 27 of the information processing device 1 is connected to the main body terminal 73 of the bracket 5. At this time, the information processing device 1 with the states of each controller 3 and 4 installed can be installed on the bracket 5, or the information processing device 1 with the states of each controller 3 and 4 removed (i.e., the main body device 2) can be installed on the bracket 5.

[0538] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when it is detected that the information processing device 1 is mounted on the bracket 5, the information processing device 1 stops displaying on the display 12, as detailed later. Thus, in this embodiment, the display 12 of the main device 2 is not used while mounted on the bracket 5. However, in other embodiments, the main device 2 may also display images on the display 12 while mounted on the bracket 5. In this embodiment, when it is detected that the information processing device 1 is detached from the bracket 5, the information processing device 1 starts displaying on the display 12.

[0539] As described above, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can be mounted on the bracket 5 facing outwards or inwards. Therefore, the user can freely position the information processing device 1 in any orientation, making it easy to install on the bracket 5.

[0540] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the bracket 5 may be configured to support the information processing device 1 inwards (i.e., in the orientation where the display 12 and the second support 72 face each other and are hidden) and not outwards (i.e., in the orientation where the display 12 is not hidden). In this embodiment, when the information processing device 1 is mounted on the bracket 5, the display of the display 12 is stopped. At this time, there is a concern that although the stopping of the display 12's display is an intentional action by the information processing device 1, the user may misunderstand the stopping of the display 12's display as a malfunction or a faulty condition. To address this, by ensuring that the information processing device 1 cannot be mounted on the bracket 5 outwards, the user's misunderstanding described above can be suppressed.

[0541] In this embodiment, when the information processing device 1 is detected to be installed in the bracket 5, the bracket 5 begins charging the information processing device 1. That is, when the processing unit 135 detects that the information processing device 1 is installed in the bracket 5, it instructs the power control unit 133 to supply power from the power terminal 134 to the main unit 2. The power control unit 133 initiates this operation, thereby starting the charging of the main unit 2 by the bracket 5. That is, in the main unit 2, the battery 98 is charged using the power supplied from the bracket 5 via the lower terminal 27.

[0542] Furthermore, when the bracket 5 is charging the main unit 2, if the controller (specifically, the left controller 3 and / or the right controller 4) is installed on the main unit 2, the main unit 2 charges the controller installed on itself. That is, in the above situation, the power control unit 97 of the main unit 2 supplies power from the bracket 5 via the lower terminal 27 to the controller via the terminal corresponding to the controller installed on the main unit 2 (specifically, the left terminal 17 and / or the right terminal 21). This charges the controller. That is, when the left controller 3 is being charged, the battery of the power supply unit 108 is charged using the power supplied via terminal 42. Similarly, when the right controller 4 is being charged, the battery of the power supply unit 118 is charged using the power supplied via terminal 64.

[0543] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the bracket 5 can also charge the main unit 2 under specified conditions. For example, the power control unit 133 of the bracket 5 can charge the main unit 2 when the remaining charge of the battery 98 installed in the bracket 5 is below a specified amount. Similarly, the main unit 2 can also charge the controller under specified conditions. For example, the power control unit 97 of the main unit 2 can charge the controller when the remaining charge of the battery installed in the main unit 2 is below a specified amount.

[0544] Alternatively, the charging-related operations described above can also be performed even when the power to the information processing device 1 is off. In other words, even when the information processing device 1 is installed on the bracket 5 with its power off, the bracket 5 can also charge the information processing device 1 (i.e., charge the main unit 2 and / or the controller).

[0545] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the main unit 2 can charge the controller even when it is not mounted on the bracket 5. This reduces the likelihood of the user being unable to play due to the controller's battery running out of power, despite the main unit 2's battery 98 having sufficient power. Here, as described above, in this embodiment, the charging capacity of the main unit 2's battery 98 is greater than the charging capacity of the controller's battery. This further reduces the aforementioned possibility.

[0546] Furthermore, when the information processing device 1 is installed in the bracket 5, under specified conditions, the information processing device 1 outputs images (and sound) to the television 6, causing the television 6 to output images (and sound). Figure 39 As shown in (3)). That is, the information processing device 1 sends the data of the images and sounds that should be output to the bracket 5 under specified conditions. In addition, in this embodiment, "the images and sounds that should be output" refers to the images and sounds generated or acquired by a program (e.g., an OS program or application) that is running at the time when the information processing device 1 is installed on the bracket 5. For example, when a game application is running at the above-mentioned time, the information processing device 1 outputs the data of the images and sounds generated by the game application to the bracket 5. In addition, for example, when an application that acquires moving images from the Internet to reproduce the moving images is running at the above-mentioned time, the information processing device 1 sends the data of the images and sounds acquired by the application to the bracket 5.

[0547] Furthermore, the conditions for sending the images and sounds that should be output to the bracket 5 (referred to as "image output conditions") are arbitrary, and the image output conditions in this embodiment satisfy the following (condition 1) to (condition 3).

[0548] (Condition 1) Bracket 5 is connected to TV 6

[0549] (Condition 2) Bracket 5 is supplied with power

[0550] (Condition 3) The bracket 5 is a genuine product (or a standard product) (in other words, the bracket 5 is a bracket authorized by the manufacturer of the information processing device 1).

[0551] If the above three conditions are met, the information processing device 1 determines that the image output conditions are met. In this case, the information processing device 1 sends the image and sound that should be output to the bracket 5. In addition, in other embodiments, the information processing device 1 may use any one or two of the above conditions (1) to (3) as image output conditions, or it may use other conditions in addition to these conditions (or instead of these conditions) as image output conditions.

[0552] When bracket 5 receives image and sound data from information processing device 1, it transmits the image and sound data to television 6. Thus, television 6 outputs the aforementioned "image and sound that should be output" (…). Figure 39 As shown in (3)). When the TV is in a state of outputting images and sound from the TV 6, the user can use the controller to operate it. Figure 39 (4)) shown.

[0553] Furthermore, even if the information processing device 1 is mounted on the bracket 5, no image is displayed on the television 6 when no image is displayed on the display 12 of the information processing device 1 (i.e., when the power is off or in sleep mode).

[0554] Furthermore, in this embodiment, even if the above-described image output conditions are not met, the information processing device 1 stops displaying the image on the display 12 while it is mounted on the bracket 5. However, in other embodiments, the information processing device 1 may restart displaying the image on the display 12 even if the image output conditions are not met.

[0555] As described above, in this embodiment, by mounting the information processing device 1 on the bracket 5 while an image is displayed on the display 12 of the information processing device 1, the display destination of the image can be switched from the display 12 to the television 6. In other words, in this embodiment, the user can easily (and seamlessly) switch the display destination simply by placing the information processing device 1 on the bracket 5.

[0556] Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can be used in both the method of displaying an image on the display 12 and the method of displaying an image on the television 6. Here, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 changes its operating mode according to these two methods. That is, the information processing device 1 can operate in at least two modes: portable mode and stationary mode. In portable mode, several functions of the information processing device 1 are restricted, details of which will be described later. Furthermore, the switching of operating modes will be described later (see “[3-5. Changing Operating Mode]” and “[4-3. Mode Setting Processing]”).

[0557] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the information processing device 1 may also be able to communicate directly with the television 6 (i.e., without via the bracket 6). In this case, the information processing device 1 may also directly transmit images and / or sound to the television 6. Moreover, the communication method between the information processing device 1 and the television 6 is arbitrary; for example, it may be wired communication using a cable (e.g., an HDMI cable) or wireless communication. Additionally, in the case where the information processing device 1 communicates directly with the television 6, the bracket 6 may also be used, for example, to charge the information processing device 1. Furthermore, in this case, similar to the embodiments described above, the information processing device 1 may be mounted on the bracket 6 at least as a condition for transmitting images and / or sound to the television 6.

[0558] [3-4-2. How to use it when the image is displayed on a television]

[0559] When outputting images and sound from TV 6, the user can operate the device using the controller. Figure 39 As shown in (4)). Here, in the above-described case, the main unit 2 is mounted on the bracket 5, so it is not easy to use each controller 3 and 4 while they are mounted on the main unit 2. Therefore, in the above-described case, the user can also operate using the controllers removed from the main unit 2. For example, the user can remove the left controller 3 and / or the right controller 4 from the main unit 2 as needed. Here, in this embodiment, each controller 3 and 4 can be removed from the main unit 2 by sliding it upwards. Therefore, the user can conveniently remove each controller 3 and 4 from the main unit 2 while the main unit 2 is still mounted on the bracket 5.

[0560] Furthermore, if other controllers besides the controllers 3 and 4 installed on the main unit 2 are capable of wireless communication with the main unit 2, these other controllers may also be used.

[0561] Furthermore, when using the controller removed from the main unit 2 by displaying an image on the television 6, the controller communicates with the main unit 2 via wireless communication.

[0562] Except for the use of a television 6 instead of a monitor 12, the method of using the television 6 as a display device is the same as that described in "[3-2. Method of using one set of controllers]" and "[3-3. Method of using three or more controllers]". In other words, in this embodiment, when the television 6 is used as a display device, it is similar to the case of using the monitor 12, allowing one user to operate it using one set of controllers (see...). Figure 38) It can also be operated by two users each using one controller. Additionally, when preparing other controllers in addition to the left controller 3 and the right controller 4, it can be operated by three or more users each using one controller, and can also be operated by two or more users each using a set of controllers.

[0563] [3 - 5. Change of operation mode]

[0564] As described above, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 can be utilized by the utilization method of displaying an image on the display 12 and the utilization method of displaying an image on the television 6. Here, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 changes the operation mode according to these two utilization methods. That is, the information processing device 1 can operate at least in two modes: the portable mode and the fixed mode.

[0565] The portable mode is the mode when the information processing device 1 is used as a portable device. In the portable mode, the image acquired or generated by the information processing device 1 is displayed on the display 12. Additionally, the sound acquired or generated by the information processing device 1 is output from the speaker 88. Additionally, in the portable mode, the settings of the information processing device 1 are changed as follows in (a) and (b).

[0566] (a) A setting for restricting the processing ability of the main device 2

[0567] In this embodiment, in the portable mode, the range of the clock frequency at which the CPU 81 can operate is restricted. Here, in this embodiment, the program executed in the main device 2 can be used to specify the range of the clock frequency at which the CPU 81 can operate within a specified range. The range of the clock frequency that can be specified by the program in the portable mode is restricted compared to the range that can be specified in the fixed mode. For example, the range that can be specified in the fixed mode is a range of X1 [Hz] or less. In contrast, the range that can be specified in the portable mode is restricted to X2 (<X1) [Hz]. Additionally, when the main device 2 has a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) in addition to the CPU, the range of the processing ability (i.e., the clock frequency) of the CPU and / or the GPU can also be restricted.

[0568] Additionally, in this embodiment, in the portable mode, the drawing ability (which can also be said to be the generation ability) of the image is restricted. Specifically, the resolution (in other words, the number of pixels) of the image generated by the main device 2 in the portable mode is lower than the resolution of the image generated in the fixed mode.

[0569] By limiting the amount of processing performed in the main unit 2 in portable mode, the heat generation and power consumption in the main unit 2 can be suppressed.

[0570] (b) Setting to limit the operation of cooling fan 96

[0571] In this embodiment, the operation of the cooling fan 96 is restricted in portable mode. Specifically, the rotational speed (in other words, the rotational speed) that the cooling fan 96 can drive in portable mode is limited to a speed lower than the maximum speed that can be driven in stationary mode. For example, in portable mode, the cooling fan 96 is restricted to operate at a predetermined speed lower than the aforementioned maximum speed.

[0572] By applying the limitations described in (b) above, the operating noise of the cooling fan 96 can be reduced. Here, we envision a user using the main unit 2 near themselves in portable mode. Therefore, in this embodiment, the operating noise of the cooling fan 96 can be reduced in portable mode, thus reducing the likelihood that the user will perceive the noise as excessive.

[0573] On the other hand, the fixed mode is the mode in which the information processing device 1 is used as a fixed-type device. In the fixed mode, the image acquired or generated by the information processing device 1 is displayed on the television 6. In addition, the sound acquired or generated by the information processing device 1 is output from the speaker of the television 6. Furthermore, in the fixed mode, the suppression of functions in the portable mode is lifted. That is, in the fixed mode, the restrictions mentioned above (a) and (b) are lifted. Therefore, in the fixed mode, the program in the information processing device 1 can utilize the processing power of the CPU 81 to a greater extent. In addition, the information processing device 1 can display images with a higher resolution than in the portable mode on the television 6. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 can utilize the cooling fan 96 for cooling more efficiently than in the portable mode.

[0574] In this embodiment, the switching between portable mode and fixed mode is performed as follows: When the information processing device 1 is mounted on the holder 5 and the aforementioned image output conditions are met, the information processing device 1 sets its operating mode to fixed mode. Conversely, when the information processing device 1 is detached from the holder 5, the information processing device 1 sets its operating mode to portable mode. Furthermore, the switching of operating modes will be described later (see [reference]). Figure 44 ).

[0575] Furthermore, the differences in settings between portable mode and stationary mode are not limited to those described above and are arbitrary. For example, in other embodiments, the information processing device 1 may apply only one of the restrictions described in (a) and (b) above in portable mode. Additionally, in other embodiments, the information processing system may allow the communication method with external devices via a network (e.g., the Internet) to differ between portable mode and stationary mode (in other words, switch). For example, consider a case where a network connection device with the function of connecting to the aforementioned network is connected to the tray 5. In this case, in portable mode, the information processing device 1 may also use the network communication unit 82 to communicate with the aforementioned network. On the other hand, in stationary mode, the information processing device 1 may also communicate with the aforementioned network via the tray 5 and the network connection device.

[0576] Alternatively, for example, in an application running on information processing device 1, the settings of the application can be changed between portable mode and fixed mode. For example, in a game application, the content of the game (e.g., game rules and operation methods) can be changed between portable mode and fixed mode (see [reference]). Figure 45 ).

[0577] Furthermore, the aforementioned operating modes (portable mode and stationary mode) are different from the aforementioned on mode and sleep mode. That is, when the operating mode is portable mode, the main unit 2 is sometimes on and sometimes in sleep mode. Similarly, when the operating mode is stationary mode, the main unit 2 is sometimes on and sometimes in sleep mode.

[0578] [4. Specific examples of processing in information processing systems]

[0579] Next, more detailed examples will be given regarding the processes performed when the above actions are carried out in the information processing system.

[0580] [4-1. Registration Processing]

[0581] As described above, in this embodiment, communication occurs between the main unit 2 and each of the controllers 3 and 4. Therefore, the main unit 2 performs a registration process for registering the controller in order to identify the controller communicating with it. Furthermore, the controllers provided (specifically, sold) with the main unit 2 may have already been registered with the main unit 2 at the time of provision.

[0582] Figure 40This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the registration process performed in the main unit 2. In this embodiment, the registration process is performed based on whether the controller is installed in the main unit 2. That is, the main unit 2 detects whether the left controller 3 or the right controller 4 is installed, and if it detects that an installation is detected, it begins the registration process. Figure 40 The registration process is shown below.

[0583] The method for detecting whether the controller is installed on the main unit 2 is arbitrary. For example, the detection method can be based on the signal state (e.g., voltage state) at the specified pins included in the terminals of the main unit 2 and / or the controller. Alternatively, the detection method can also be a mechanical method to detect whether the terminals of other devices are connected to the unit. Furthermore, the main unit 2 and the controller may each have the above-described detection function, or only one of them may have the detection function. In the case where only one of them has the detection function, that device may also notify the other device as needed that a connection has been detected.

[0584] also, Figure 40 The flowchart shown (described later) Figures 43-47 The process described in the flowchart above is merely a simple example. As long as the same result is obtained, the order of the steps can be changed, and other processes can be performed in addition to (or instead of) the steps themselves. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the CPU 81 of the main device 2 is used to execute the processes in the flowchart above. However, a processor other than the CPU 81 or a dedicated circuit can also execute some of the steps in the flowchart above. Additionally, a portion of the processing performed in the main device 2 can be executed by other information processing devices capable of communicating with the main device 2 (e.g., a server capable of communicating with the main device 2 via a network). That is, the processing can also be performed by multiple information processing devices, including the main device 2, working together. Figure 40 , Figures 43-47 The processes shown are as follows.

[0585] exist Figure 40 In the registration process shown, firstly in step S1, the CPU 81 determines whether the controller detected and installed on the main unit 2 has been registered. Here, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 stores registration information indicating that the controller has been registered with it in its own storage unit (e.g., flash memory 84). The determination in step S1 is based on this registration information.

[0586] Figure 41 This is a diagram representing an example of registration information. In this embodiment, as... Figure 41As shown, the registration information is information that associates numbering information, identification information, and wireless communication information. The numbering information is a unique identifier assigned to the registered controller. The aforementioned notifications on the controller can also be controlled using LEDs, causing the LEDs to display a value based on this number.

[0587] Identification information is information representing a value (e.g., ID) inherently assigned to the controller. Based on this identification information, the controller can be uniquely identified. In this embodiment, the identification information includes information indicating whether it is a left or right controller. That is, the main device 2 can determine whether the controller is a left or right controller based on the identification information assigned to it. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the identification information may not include information indicating whether it is a left or right controller. In this case, information indicating whether it is a left or right controller (independent of the identification information) can be included in the registration information. Moreover, when the CPU 81 obtains identification information from the controller, it can determine whether the controller represented by the identification information is a left or right controller based on which terminal, either the left terminal 17 or the right terminal 21, the identification information was obtained via.

[0588] The wireless communication information indicates whether the connection setup (i.e., pairing) related to wireless communication with the main device 2 has been completed. Specifically, if pairing between the main device 2 and the controller is complete, information indicating "set" is stored as wireless communication information related to the controller. Conversely, if pairing between the main device 2 and the controller is incomplete, information indicating "not set" is stored as wireless communication information related to the controller. Furthermore, the main device 2 can also (independent of registration information) pre-store information related to the wireless communication connection setup, so that a controller that has already been paired once does not need to be paired again.

[0589] Furthermore, a portion of the aforementioned registration information can be deleted or altered according to the user's instructions. For example, the main unit 2 can delete information related to a designated controller according to the user's instructions, or it can change the number assigned to the controller according to the user's instructions.

[0590] Return to Figure 40As explained above, in step S1, CPU 81 first obtains identification information from the detected installed controller. Furthermore, the controller's own identification information is pre-stored in its memory (e.g., memory 102 or 112). The controller sends its own identification information to the main device 2 either because it is connected to the main device 2 or upon a request from CPU 81. CPU 81 determines whether the detected installed controller has been registered based on whether the obtained identification information is included in the registration information. If the determination result of step S1 is negative, the process of step S2 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result of step S1 is positive, the process of step S2 is skipped, and the process of step S3 is executed.

[0591] In step S2, the CPU 81 registers the detected installed controller. That is, the CPU 81 updates the registration information stored in the storage unit by associating the controller's serial number, identification information, and wireless communication information with the registration information. For example, the serial number is set to indicate that no serial number has been assigned to other registered controllers. The identification information is set to the identification information obtained from the controller in step S1. The wireless communication information is set to indicate "not assigned" since pairing has not yet occurred at this point. Step S3 is then executed after step S2.

[0592] In step S3, CPU 81 determines whether the left controller and the right controller are installed on the main unit 2. That is, it determines whether the installation of the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 on the main unit 2 is detected at the current time. If the determination result of step S3 is positive, the processing of step S4 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result of step S3 is negative, the processing of step S4 is skipped, and CPU 81 ends the registration process.

[0593] In step S4, the CPU 81 sets the left controller 3 and right controller 4 installed on the main unit 2 as a group. Here, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 stores the group information representing the left controller and right controller in a storage unit (e.g., flash memory 84).

[0594] Figure 42 This is a diagram representing an example of group information. In this embodiment, as... Figure 42As shown, group information associates left and right identification information. Left identification information refers to the identification information of the left controller (represented by the identification information included in the registration information) that is designated as part of the group. Right identification information refers to the identification information of the right controller (represented by the identification information included in the registration information) that is designated as part of the group. Furthermore, the left and right identification information associated in the group information represents a group consisting of the left and right controllers.

[0595] In step S4 above, CPU 81 first acquires the identification information of the left and right controllers installed on the main unit 2. Furthermore, for controllers whose identification information has already been acquired in step S1, it is not necessary to acquire the identification information again. Next, CPU 81 associates the acquired identification information of the left and right controllers and appends it to the group information. That is, CPU 81 updates the group information by appending the group of the two acquired identification information to the group information (more precisely, the group information before the update). At this time, the updated group information is stored in the aforementioned storage unit. Furthermore, if the group information already contains information indicating a group of two identification information, CPU 81 may not update the group information. Additionally, if the group information already contains information indicating a group including one of the two identification information, CPU 81 deletes that group from the group information. Thus, the setting of the group including one of the controllers included in the currently set group is deleted (i.e., deleted from the group information). After step S4, CPU 81 ends the registration process.

[0596] As described above, in this embodiment, the controller is installed on the main unit 2 and registered to the main unit 2. Therefore, the user can easily register the controller. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the registration process is performed while the main unit 2 and the controller are in wired communication, thus reducing the possibility that the main unit 2 cannot obtain information (specifically, identification information) from the controller, thereby reducing the possibility of registration failure.

[0597] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since both the left and right controllers are installed on the main unit 2, these two controllers are set as a group. The user only needs to install the two controllers they wish to use as a group on the main unit 2, thus enabling the group to be set up through an easy-to-understand and simple operation.

[0598] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an auxiliary device capable of simultaneously installing both left and right controllers can also be prepared (see [reference]). Figure 52Details will be described later. In the case where both the left and right controllers are installed on the auxiliary equipment, the main unit 2 will set these two controllers as a group, just as it would be in the case where both the left and right controllers are installed on the main unit 2. Details regarding the group setting process will be explained later in "[5-2. Auxiliary Equipment for Controllers]".

[0599] Furthermore, the main unit 2 can either group the two controllers installed simultaneously on the main unit 2 as in the above embodiment, or, unlike the above embodiment, group the two controllers that are not installed simultaneously. For example, the main unit 2 can also group the left controller installed last on itself and the right controller installed last on itself into one group.

[0600] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the method for setting the group is arbitrary, and the controller group can also be set by other methods. For example, the main unit 2 can also set two controllers that perform a specified operation within a specified period to the same group. Specifically, based on the fulfillment of specified conditions (e.g., based on receiving an instruction to set a group from the user), the main unit 2 notifies the user to perform a specified operation. Then, the main unit 2 sets two controllers that performed the specified operation within a specified period after the notification from two or more controllers in communication to form a group of controllers. In addition, the aforementioned "specified operation" can be, for example, pressing button A or causing the two controllers to collide (e.g., the operation can be determined based on the detection result of the acceleration sensor).

[0601] [4-2. Wireless Configuration Processing]

[0602] As described above, in this embodiment, wireless communication sometimes occurs between the main unit 2 and each of the controllers 3 and 4. Therefore, in this embodiment, the information processing device 1 performs setup (also known as pairing) for wireless communication between the main unit 2 and the controllers. Furthermore, regarding the controllers provided (specifically, sold) with the main unit 2, wireless communication setup may have already been completed at the time of provision.

[0603] In this embodiment, the main unit 2 performs wireless setting processing for making wireless communication-related settings with the controller. Figure 43 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the wireless setup process performed in the main unit 2. In this embodiment, the wireless setup process is performed based on the controller being detached from the main unit 2. That is, the main unit 2 detects whether the left controller 3 or the right controller 4 has been detached, and upon detection of detachment (referred to as "detachment"), it begins the wireless setup process. Figure 43The wireless setup process is shown. Furthermore, the method for determining whether the detection controller is detached from the main unit 2 is arbitrary; for example, it can be the same method as determining whether the detection controller is mounted on the main unit 2.

[0604] In the wireless setup process, firstly in step S11, the CPU 81 determines whether the controller detected as detached from the main unit 2 has completed wireless communication pairing. This determination is made using the aforementioned registration information. That is, if the wireless communication information included in the registration information for the detected detached controller indicates "set," the CPU 81 determines that the controller has completed wireless communication pairing. On the other hand, if the wireless communication information included in the registration information for the detected detached controller indicates "not set," the CPU 81 determines that the controller has not completed wireless communication pairing. If the determination result of step S11 is negative, the process of step S12 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result of step S11 is positive, the process of step S12 is skipped, and the CPU 81 ends the wireless setup process.

[0605] In step S12, CPU 81 performs a pairing process to enable wireless communication with the detected disconnected controller. The pairing process in this embodiment can be the same as that in conventional communication technologies conforming to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the controller performs the pairing process based on its disconnection from the main unit 2, as detailed later. Thus, pairing is established between the main unit 2 and the controller, and wireless communication is established. Step S13 is then executed after step S12.

[0606] In step S13, the CPU 81 determines whether pairing with the detected disconnected controller has been successful. Furthermore, step S13 is executed at a predetermined time after the processing in step S12. If the determination result in step S13 is positive, step S14 is executed. Conversely, if the determination result in step S13 is negative, step S14 is skipped, and the CPU 81 terminates the wireless setup process.

[0607] In step S14, the CPU 81 updates the registration information. That is, for controllers detected as disconnected, the wireless communication information contained in the registration information is changed to indicate "set". After step S14, the CPU 81 ends the wireless setting process.

[0608] In this embodiment, regarding the aforementioned wireless setup process, controllers 3 and 4 also perform the same process as the main device 2 (referred to as "controller-side wireless setup process"). Specifically, the controller stores in advance registration information in a storage unit (e.g., memory 102 or 112) that associates the identification information of the main device on which it is installed with wireless communication information indicating whether pairing with the mai...

Claims

1. A game controller capable of being attached to and detached from a device having a device-side mounting portion, the game controller comprising: A front-surface input section is located on the front surface and is operated by the user. The mounting part is provided on one side connected to the front surface in the left-right direction, and can be installed and removed relative to the device-side mounting part. A pairing button is used to pair the game controller with the device; as well as The light-emitting unit is used to notify the user of the status related to the communication between the game controller and the device. The pairing button and the light-emitting part are located in a position on the mounting part that is not exposed when the mounting part is installed on the device-side mounting part.

2. The game controller according to claim 1 further comprises: A first side button, which is disposed on the first side of the mounting portion facing the left-right direction; and The second side button is located on the first side. The pairing button is located on the first side, between the first side button and the second side button in the vertical direction.

3. The game controller according to claim 2, wherein, The light-emitting part is positioned in the vertical direction between the first side button and the second side button.

4. The game controller according to claim 2, wherein, The first surface includes a lower surface extending from one end to the other in a front-back direction, and an upper surface located on the side in the left-right direction that is closer to the lower surface. The pairing button is positioned on the upper surface in such a manner that it is completely surrounded by the upper surface and does not protrude to one side from the upper surface. The first side button and the second side button are disposed on the lower surface in a manner that does not protrude toward one side of the upper surface as much as the upper surface does.

5. The game controller according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a terminal, which is disposed on the mounting portion and is used for electrical connection with a device-side terminal disposed on the device-side mounting portion.

6. The game controller according to claim 5, wherein, The terminal is disposed on the first side of the mounting portion facing the left-right direction.

7. The game controller according to claim 5, wherein, When the game controller is installed in the device, it communicates with the device via the terminal through a wired connection. The game controller communicates wirelessly with the device when it is not installed on the device.

8. The game controller according to claim 7, wherein, When the game controller is installed in the device, it provides information for identifying the game controller to the device via wired communication through the terminal. When the game controller is not installed on the device, it provides the device with the information for identifying the game controller via wireless communication.

9. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, When the pairing button is pressed for a first time, it pairs the game controller with the device; when it is pressed for a second time longer than the first time, it resets the game controller.

10. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The states related to communication between the game controller and the device, as notified by the light-emitting part, include the state in which wireless communication between the device and the game controller has been established.

11. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The status related to communication between the game controller and the device, as notified by the light-emitting part, includes that the game controller has been paired.

12. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The status related to communication between the game controller and the device, as notified by the light-emitting part, includes a number assigned to the game controller as a result of the communication.

13. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The illumination of the light-emitting part is controlled based on information received from the device via wireless communication.

14. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The light-emitting part is turned off when the game controller is installed in the device.

15. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The front surface input section includes an analog joystick.

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