Game controller, game controller set, and system

Abstract

The game controller has a side surface, an upper surface, and a front surface. On the side surface, a first operation unit and a second operation unit are provided along the longitudinal direction. On the upper surface, a third operation unit is provided. On the front surface, a pair of fourth operation units, a fifth operation unit, a sixth operation unit, and a seventh operation unit are provided. The fifth operation unit is an operation unit provided below the pair of fourth operation units for inputting a direction. The sixth operation unit is an operation unit provided below the fifth operation unit for opening a first menu having a plurality of items including a first item for executing a first function when selected. The seventh operation unit is an operation unit provided below the sixth operation unit for executing the first function.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a game controller, a game controller set, and a system.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-000757 (Patent Document 1) discloses a game controller.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a novel game controller.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The game controller according to the present disclosure includes a side surface, an upper surface, and a front surface. On the side surface, a first operation unit and a second operation unit are provided along the longitudinal direction. On the upper surface, a third operation unit is provided. On the front surface, a set of fourth operation units, a fifth operation unit, a sixth operation unit, and a seventh operation unit are provided. The fifth operation unit is an operation unit provided below the set of fourth operation units for inputting a direction. The sixth operation unit is an operation unit provided below the fifth operation unit for opening a first menu having a plurality of items including a first item for executing a first function when selected. The seventh operation unit is an operation unit provided below the sixth operation unit for executing the first function.

[0006] According to the game controller described above, the amount of protrusion of the sixth operation unit from the front surface may be different from the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit from the front surface.

[0007] According to the game controller related above, the amount of protrusion of the sixth operation unit from the front surface may be larger than the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit from the front surface.

[0008] According to the game controller related above, the first operation unit may be provided above the second operation unit. In the vertical direction, at least a part of the second operation unit and the sixth and seventh operation units may be in a position where they overlap.

[0009] According to the game controller related above, the type of shape of the sixth operation unit and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit may be different.

[0010] According to the game controller related above, the first function may be executed by pressing the seventh operation unit while the first menu is being displayed.

[0011] According to the game controller related above, a mouse sensor may be provided on the side surface.

[0012] The game controller set according to the present disclosure includes the game controller described above and a second game controller having a second side surface, the second side surface being directly or indirectly fixed to the game controller so as to face the side surface of the game controller. The second game controller has an eighth operation unit that executes a second function at a symmetric position of the sixth operation unit, and does not have an operation unit at a symmetric position of the seventh operation unit.

[0013] According to the game controller set related above, the second game controller may not have an operation unit for opening the first menu and an operation unit for executing the first function.

[0014] According to the game controller set related above, the type of shape of the sixth operation unit and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit may be different. The type of shape of the eighth operation unit and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit may be the same.

[0015] According to the game controller set related to the above, the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit from the front surface may be different from the amount of protrusion of the eighth operation unit from the front surface of the second game controller.

[0016] According to the game controller set related to the above, the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit from the front surface may be larger than the amount of protrusion of the eighth operation unit from the front surface of the second game controller.

[0017] The system according to the present disclosure includes the game controller described above and a main body device that communicates with the game controller.

[0018] The system according to the present disclosure includes the game controller set described above and a main body device that communicates with the game controller set.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure (also referred to as the present embodiments) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. For the same or corresponding parts in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0021] <System>

[0022] First, the configuration of an example of the system 1000 will be described. FIG. 1 is a front schematic view showing the configuration of an example of the system.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the system 1000 includes a first game controller 1, a second game controller 2, and a main body device 3. Hereinafter, the first game controller 1 or the second game controller 2 is collectively referred to simply as a game controller. The main body device 3 can execute game processing. The game processing is executed based on the input to the game controller. The main body device 3 is a console. The first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 are detachable from the main body device 3. In the mounted state shown in FIG. 3, the first game controller 1 is mounted on the right side surface of the main body device 3, and the second game controller 2 is mounted on the left side surface of the main body device 3.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a front schematic view showing a state in which each of the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 is removed from the main body device 3.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, the game controller can be used in either a state of being attached to the main body device 3 or a state of being removed from the main body device 3. The first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 can communicate with the main body device 3.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, when the game controller is attached to the main body device 3, it is used such that the longitudinal direction of the game controller is, for example, in the vertical direction. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, when the game controller is removed from the main body device 3, it is used such that the longitudinal direction of the game controller is in the horizontal direction (from another perspective, a direction parallel to the ground).

[0027] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 are being operated by separate users.

[0028] In the following description, when referring to the direction of the main body device 3 and the direction of the system 1000 in which the game controller is attached to the main body device 3, the description is based on the usage state in which the direction connecting the sides of the main body device 3 to which the game controller is attached is the horizontal direction.

[0029] Note that, as shown in FIG. 5, when the game controller is removed from the main body device 3, it is also used such that the longitudinal direction of the game controller is, for example, in the vertical direction (from another perspective, a direction perpendicular to the ground). In the example shown in FIG. 5, both the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 are being operated by a single user. Each game controller may also be operated by separate users.

[0030] Hereinafter, the usage state shown in FIG. 3 is also referred to as the integrated gripping state, the usage state shown in FIG. 4 is also referred to as the horizontal holding state, and the usage state shown in FIG. 5 is also referred to as the vertical holding state.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the first game controller 1 has a convex portion 100. The convex portion 100 is attached to the controller housing 10. Similarly, the second game controller 2 has a convex portion 200. The convex portion 200 is attached to the controller housing 20.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the main body device 3 has a main body device side recess 310 on the right side surface 313 of the main body. The main body device side recess 310 extends in the longitudinal direction of the right side surface 313 of the main body. The main body device side recess 310 extends along the vertical direction of the right side surface 313 of the main body. The left side surface 314 of the main body of the main body device 3 has a main body device side recess 320. The main body device side recess 320 extends in the longitudinal direction of the left side surface 314 of the main body. The main body device side recess 320 extends along the vertical direction of the left side surface 314 of the main body device 3. The main body device side recesses 310 and 320 are elongated recesses extending along the longitudinal direction of the right side surface 313 or the left side surface 314 of the main body.

[0033] The main body device side recesses 310 and 320 are system mounting portions provided on the main body device 3 of the system 1000. As shown in FIG. 1, the first game controller 1 is attached to the main body device 3 such that the convex portion 100 fits into the main body device side recess 310. The first game controller 1 is attached to the main body device 3 such that the top surface of the convex portion 100 of the first game controller 1 faces the right side surface 313 of the main body device 3 and the longitudinal direction of the top surface of the convex portion 100 of the first game controller 1 is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the right side surface 313 of the main body device 3. Similarly, the second game controller 2 is attached to the main body device 3 such that the convex portion 200 fits into the main body device side recess 320. The second game controller 2 is attached to the main body device 3 such that the top surface of the convex portion 200 of the second game controller 2 faces the left side surface 314 of the main body device 3 and the longitudinal direction of the top surface of the convex portion 200 of the second game controller 2 is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the left side surface 314 of the main body device 3.

[0034] System 1000 may be capable of executing functions other than games. Also, system 1000 may include a case that can accommodate a device capable of executing games. The first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 may be attached to components other than the main device 3 of system 1000. For example, the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 may be attachable to each other.

[0035] <Main device>

[0036] As shown in FIG. 1, a display 305 is provided on the front surface 315 of the main body of the main device 3. The display 305 may be any display device. A touch panel may be provided on the display surface of the display 305.

[0037] The main device 3 has lower terminals 303. The lower terminals 303 are provided on the lower surface 317 of the main body of the main device 3. The lower terminals 303 may be provided at the center in the left - right direction on the lower surface 317 of the main body. The lower terminals 303 are, for example, terminals for communicating with an external device. The lower terminals 303 constitute, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector. Power may be supplied to the main device 3 from the outside through the lower terminals 303. The main device 3 may output an image to the outside through the lower terminals 303. The main device 3 may not include the display 305 and may be capable of displaying an image only on an external display. When the main device 3 is placed on a cradle from the lower surface side of the main body, the lower terminals 303 may be connected to the terminals of the cradle.

[0038] The main device 3 has upper terminals 302 on the upper surface 316 of the main body. The main device 3 may have a power button 307, a memory - media slot 304, and audio input / output terminals 301 on the upper surface 316 of the main body. The main device 3 may execute game processing by executing a game application stored in a memory medium inserted into the memory - media slot 304.

[0039] <First game controller>

[0040] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the first game controller 1.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 6, the first game controller 1 of the present embodiment includes a first operation unit 31, a second operation unit 32, a third operation unit 33, a fourth operation unit 34, a fifth operation unit 35, a sixth operation unit 36, a seventh operation unit 37, a ninth operation unit 39, and a first synchronization button 71. These are examples of operation units, and the first game controller 1 does not necessarily include all of them. Further, the first game controller 1 may have other operation units such as a touch pad and a pressure sensor instead of or in addition to these operation units.

[0042] When the first game controller 1 is attached to the main body device 3, the input information of the operation unit is transmitted to the main body first terminal 331 of the main body device 3 through a first terminal 160 described later, and information processing according to a program is performed by the CPU of the main body device 3. In a usage mode where the game controller is not attached to the main body device 3, the input information of the operation unit is transmitted to the CPU of the main body device 3 via a wireless chip provided in the game controller and a wireless chip provided in the main body device 3. Note that the system 1000 does not necessarily include the first terminal 160 and the main body first terminal 331. In that case, even when the game controller is attached to the main body device 3, information transmission via the wireless chip is performed.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 6, the first game controller 1 has a front surface 15, a back surface 16, a first side surface 11, an upper surface 12, a second side surface 13, and a lower surface 14. The front surface 15 is a surface facing a user who uses the first game controller 1 in an integrated grip state, a horizontal hold state, and a vertical hold state. The back surface 16 is on the opposite side of the front surface 15. The front surface 15 and the back surface 16 are each continuous with the first side surface 11, the upper surface 12, the second side surface 13, and the lower surface 14.

[0044] The normal direction of the first side surface 11 is also referred to as the first direction R1. The first direction R1 is the direction in which the convex portion 100 protrudes, and is also referred to as the left side, the convex direction, or the left direction. The direction opposite to the first direction R1 is also referred to as the third direction R3. The third direction R3 is also referred to as the right side or the right direction. The first direction R1 and the third direction R3 are collectively referred to as the left-right direction.

[0045] The direction that is perpendicular to the up-down direction and faces the upper surface 12 side is also referred to as the second direction R2. The second direction R2 is also referred to as the upper side or the up direction. The direction opposite to the second direction R2 is also referred to as the fourth direction R4. The fourth direction R4 is also referred to as the lower side or the down direction. The second direction R2 and the fourth direction R4 are collectively referred to as the up-down direction.

[0046] The normal direction of the front surface 15 is also referred to as the fifth direction R5. The fifth direction R5 is also referred to as the front side or the front direction. The direction opposite to the fifth direction is also referred to as the sixth direction R6. The sixth direction R6 is also referred to as the back side or the back direction. The fifth direction R5 and the sixth direction R6 are collectively referred to as the front-back direction.

[0047] In the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the front surface 15 is the up-down direction of the front surface 15. The front surface 15 is generally rectangular. The upper right and lower right corners of the front surface 15 are more curved than the upper left and lower left corners.

[0048] As described above, the first side surface 11 is on the left side with respect to the front surface. The first side surface 11 is a side surface that extends in the longitudinal direction of the front surface 15. The first side surface 11 extends in the up-down direction. The second side surface 13 is located on the opposite side of the first side surface 11. The second side surface 13 is on the third direction R3 side of the first side surface 11. The upper surface 12 is continuous with the upper end of the first side surface 11 and is a side surface that extends in a direction away from the first side surface 11. The end portion of the upper surface 12 that is far from the first side surface 11 is continuous with the upper end of the second side surface 13. The lower surface 14 is continuous with the lower end of the first side surface 11 and is a side surface that extends in a direction away from the first side surface 11. The end portion of the lower surface 14 that is far from the first side surface 11 is continuous with the lower end of the second side surface 13. The upper surface 12 is on the second direction R2 side of the lower surface 14.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 6, a first operation unit 31 and a second operation unit 32 are provided along the longitudinal direction on a first side surface 11 of the first game controller 1. A third operation unit 33 and a ninth operation unit 39 are provided on the upper surface 12. On the front surface 15, a + button 110, a set of fourth operation units 34, a fifth operation unit 35, a sixth operation unit 36, and a seventh operation unit 37 are provided.

[0050] In the vertical direction, the first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32 are arranged side by side. The first operation unit 31 is provided above the second operation unit 32. The top surfaces of each of the first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32 extend along the vertical direction.

[0051] The first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32 are buttons that the user presses down, and are components that move rightward by the pressing-down operation. When the first operation unit 31 moves rightward by the user's pressing-down operation, a switch provided inside the first game controller 1 is pressed by the first operation unit 31.

[0052] The third operation unit 33 is, for example, a button used in the integrally-gripped state, and is a button arranged at the upper right part of the first game controller 1 in the integrally-gripped state. The third operation unit 33 may also be used in the vertically-held state. The third operation unit 33 has a curved operation surface. The third operation unit 33 extends in a direction away from the first side surface 11. The third operation unit 33 is provided at a portion that is approximately at the lower right of the first game controller 1 in the horizontally-held state. At least a part of the third operation unit 33 may be provided on the upper surface 12. The operation surface of the third operation unit 33 curves along the upper right part of the first game controller 1 approximately.

[0053] The ninth operation unit 39 is, for example, a button used in the integrally-gripped state. The ninth operation unit 39 may also be used in the vertically-held state. The ninth operation unit 39 is provided behind the third operation unit 33. The ninth operation unit 39 has a curved operation surface. The ninth operation unit 39 is provided at a portion that is approximately at the lower right of the first game controller 1 in the horizontally-held state.

[0054] A set of fourth operation units 34 has, for example, four buttons arranged in a cross shape. Among the four buttons, two buttons are arranged side by side along the vertical direction. Among the four buttons, the other two buttons are arranged side by side along the horizontal direction.

[0055] In the vertical direction, the first operation unit 31 and the set of fourth operation units 34 are at least partially overlapping positions. In the vertical direction, among the set of fourth operation units 34, a part of each of the upper button and the lower button is at an overlapping position with the first operation unit 31, and the whole of the two middle buttons is at an overlapping position with the first operation unit 31.

[0056] The fifth operation unit 35 is an operation unit for inputting a direction. The fifth operation unit 35 is tiltable in a 360-degree direction and may be tiltable in any direction including the first direction R1 to the fourth direction R4. The fifth operation unit 35 may be tiltable only in some directions. The fifth operation unit 35 may be pushable. Instead of tilting, the fifth operation unit 35 may be slidable in each direction.

[0057] The sixth operation unit 36 is an operation unit for opening the first menu 710. Details of the first menu 710 will be described later. The sixth operation unit 36 is a pushable button.

[0058] The seventh operation unit 37 is an operation unit for executing the first function. Details of the first function will be described later. The seventh operation unit 37 is a pushable button.

[0059] In the vertical direction, the second operation unit 32, the sixth operation unit 36, and the seventh operation unit 37 are at least partially overlapping positions. In the vertical direction, a part of the sixth operation unit 36 is at an overlapping position with the second operation unit 32, and the whole of the seventh operation unit 37 is at an overlapping position with the second operation unit 32. In the vertical direction, the whole of the sixth operation unit 36 and the whole of the seventh operation unit 37 may be at an overlapping position with the second operation unit 32.

[0060] In the vertical direction, the + button 110, a pair of fourth operation parts 34, a fifth operation part 35, a sixth operation part 36, and a seventh operation part 37 are arranged side by side. The pair of fourth operation parts 34 are provided below the + button 110. The fifth operation part 35 is provided below the pair of fourth operation parts 34. The sixth operation part 36 is provided below the fifth operation part 35. The seventh operation part 37 is provided below the sixth operation part 36.

[0061] In the left - right direction, the + button 110 is at a position overlapping one of the buttons within the pair of fourth operation parts 34. In the left - right direction, the fifth operation part 35 is at a position overlapping the pair of fourth operation parts 34. In the left - right direction, the sixth operation part 36 is at a position overlapping the fifth operation part 35. In the left - right direction, the center of the sixth operation part 36 is located to the left of the center of the fifth operation part 35. In the left - right direction, the seventh operation part 37 is at a position overlapping the sixth operation part 36. In the left - right direction, the center of the seventh operation part 37 is at substantially the same position as the center of the sixth operation part 36.

[0062] When viewed in the front - back direction, the types of the shapes of the sixth operation part 36 and the seventh operation part 37 are different. In the present embodiment, the type of the shape of the sixth operation part 36 is circular, and the type of the shape of the seventh operation part 37 is square. The type of the shape of the sixth operation part 36 may be, for example, triangular, square, cross - shaped, or star - shaped, etc. The type of the shape of the seventh operation part 37 may be, for example, circular, triangular, cross - shaped, or star - shaped, etc.

[0063] FIG. 7 is an enlarged schematic view of region VII in FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, the amount of protrusion from the front surface 15 of the sixth operation unit 36 (first protrusion amount P1) is different from the amount of protrusion from the front surface 15 of the seventh operation unit 37 (second protrusion amount P2). Specifically, the first protrusion amount P1 is larger than the second protrusion amount P2. The first protrusion amount P1 is, for example, 0.56 mm or more and 0.84 mm or less. The second protrusion amount P2 is, for example, 0.28 mm or more and 0.42 mm or less. The first protrusion amount P1 may be 1.4 times or more of the second protrusion amount P2, or may be 1.8 times or more. The first protrusion amount P1 may be 3 times or less of the second protrusion amount P2, or may be 2.5 times or less.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a perspective schematic view showing the configuration of the first game controller 1.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 8, in addition to the configuration already described, the first game controller 1 includes a mouse sensor 174, a light emitting unit 150 that notifies the identification number of the game controller, a first terminal 160 connected to the main body first terminal 331 of the main body device 3, a terminal opening 196, a first mouse sole member 191, a second mouse sole member 192, a pusher 181 and an operation unit 182 that constitute a removal mechanism for removing the convex portion 100 from the main body device 3.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 8, the convex portion 100 protrudes to the left from the left side surface 4 of the controller housing 10. In other words, from another perspective, the convex portion 100 protrudes in the first direction R1 from the left side surface 4. The first side surface 11 includes at least the left side surface 4 and the convex portion 100. The convex portion 100 is an elongated convex portion extending along the longitudinal direction of the left side surface 4. Note that the convex portion 200 included in the second game controller 2 also has the same configuration as the convex portion 100. Hereinafter, the configuration of the convex portion 100 of the first game controller 1 will be mainly described.

[0067] The convex portion 100 has a top surface 106 and an outer peripheral surface 107. The outer peripheral surface 107 is provided between the top surface 106 and the left side surface 4 and extends from the top surface 106 to the left side surface 4. The outer peripheral surface 107 is continuous with the top surface 106 so as to surround the outer edge of the top surface 106. The top surface 106 extends along the longitudinal direction of the left side surface 4. The vertical length of the top surface 106 is longer than the front-rear length of the top surface 106.

[0068] The vertical length of the convex portion 100 (i.e., the longitudinal length of the convex portion 100) may be, for example, at least twice the front-rear length of the convex portion 100, or at least five times. The left-right length of the convex portion 100 may be, for example, at least 50% of the left-right length of the left side surface 4, or at least 70%. The vertical length of the convex portion 100 may be, for example, at most 25 times the front-rear length of the convex portion 100, or at most 15 times.

[0069] By increasing the vertical length of the convex portion 100, the vertical length of the top surface (operation surface) of each of the first operation portion 31 and the second operation portion 32 can be increased, and for example, the operability in the horizontal holding state can be improved. Also, it becomes easier to arrange the first mouse sole member 191, the second mouse sole member 192, etc. on the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 8, the convex portion 100 is sandwiched between the front housing 61 and the rear housing 62 that constitute the controller housing 10. The left side surface 4 is provided with a housing opening 17 formed by the end surfaces of the front housing 61 and the rear housing 62. The convex portion 100 protrudes from the inside of the controller housing 10 through the housing opening 17.

[0071] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the outer peripheral surface 107 of the convex portion 100 has a first engagement hole 193 and a second engagement hole 194. The first engagement hole 193 is provided at one end surface of the convex portion 100 in the longitudinal direction. The second engagement hole 194 is provided at the other end surface of the convex portion 100 in the longitudinal direction. The shape of the first engagement hole 193 is different from the shape of the second engagement hole 194. In the front-rear direction, the length of the first engagement hole 193 may be different from the length of the second engagement hole 194. In the left-right direction, the length of the first engagement hole 193 may be different from the length of the second engagement hole 194.

[0072] The mouse sensor 174 is provided on the first side surface 11 of the first game controller 1. Specifically, the mouse sensor 174 is provided inside a first opening 170 provided on the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100. The first opening 170 is provided between the first operation portion 31 and the second operation portion 32 in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100. More specifically, the first opening 170 is provided between the first operation portion 31 and a terminal opening 196 (described later) in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100. The mouse sensor 174 is disposed inside the convex portion 100. The mouse sensor 174 is, for example, an optical sensor. The mouse sensor 174 has, for example, a light source (not shown) and a light receiving sensor (not shown). Note that the game controller 1 may include a lens for condensing light emitted from the light source and / or light guided to the light receiving sensor in the first opening 170.

[0073] The light source of the mouse sensor 174 emits light. The light may be, for example, red light, blue light, or laser light. The wavelength of the light is not particularly limited. The light from the light source is irradiated from the first opening 170 onto the tracking surface F. The light receiving sensor detects the reflected light of the light emitted from the light source that enters from the first opening 170 and changes with the relative movement of the game controller 1 with respect to the tracking surface F. The second game controller 2 described later also has a similar configuration.

[0074] The terminal opening 196 is provided on the top surface 106 between the first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32. The first terminal 160 is provided between the first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32 in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100. The first terminal 160 is provided within the convex portion 100.

[0075] The first synchronization button 71 is provided on the convex portion 100. The first synchronization button 71 is pressed by the user. The first synchronization button 71 is provided between the first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32 in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100. More specifically, the first synchronization button 71 is provided between the terminal opening 196 and the second operation unit 32 in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100. The first synchronization button 71 may be used for instructing setting processing related to wireless communication between the first game controller 1 and the main body device 3.

[0076] The light emitting unit 150 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 107 of the convex portion 100. More specifically, the light emitting unit 150 is provided on the front side of the outer peripheral surface 107. From another perspective, the region of the outer peripheral surface 107 where the light emitting unit 150 is provided faces the front side. When the user views the front surface 15 of the first game controller 1, the light from the light emitting unit 150 can be visually recognized. The light emitting unit 150 typically emits the light emitted by the LED to the outside.

[0077] The light emitting unit 150 can notify the user of predetermined information. When the main body device 3 communicates with a plurality of game controllers, the light emitting unit 150 may show the user information for identifying each game controller. The light emitting unit 150 may show other information to the user. The number of the light emitting units 150 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 4. In the present embodiment, the four light emitting units 150 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. For example, among the four light emitting units 150, the light emitting unit 150 corresponding to the identification number assigned to the game controller or a certain number of the light emitting units 150 may be lit.

[0078] The light emitting unit 150 is provided between the first operation unit 31 and the second operation unit 32 in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100. The light emitting unit 150 is provided at a position overlapping the terminal opening 196 in the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100.

[0079] On the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100, the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 are placed. The height of the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 from the top surface 106 is higher than the height from the left side surface 4 of the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100. From another perspective, the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 raise the height of the top surface of the convex portion 100. In the present embodiment, the top surfaces of the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 constitute a part of the first side surface 11. Note that the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 may not be provided.

[0080] The game controller 1 may be placed such that the top surface of the convex portion 100 faces a grounding surface such as a tabletop. At this time, the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 suppress the direct contact of the portion of the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100 without the mouse sole with the grounding surface by grounding themselves. Also, the top surfaces of the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192, when the first game controller 1 is attached to the main body device 3, Main body the Main body contact the bottom surface of the device-side recess 310.

[0081] The height of the top surfaces of the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 is equal to or higher than the maximum height of the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100. From another perspective, the top surfaces of the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 are located on the leftmost side in the first game controller 1. The shape of the first mouse sole member 191 is not particularly limited and may be any shape such as circular, elliptical, rectangular, etc. The first mouse sole member 191 may have a through hole. The shapes of the first mouse sole member 191 and the second mouse sole member 192 may be the same or different.

[0082] In the vertical direction (in other words, the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100), the first mouse sole member 191 is located above the first operation portion 31. In the vertical direction, the first operation portion 31 is located between the terminal opening 196 and the first mouse sole member 191.

[0083] In the vertical direction, the second mouse sole member 192 is located below the second operation portion 32. In the vertical direction, the second operation portion 32 is located between the terminal opening 196 and the second mouse sole member 192. More specifically, in the vertical direction, the second operation portion 32 is located between the first synchronization button 71 and the second mouse sole member 192.

[0084] In the vertical direction, the seventh operation portion 37 is provided below the mouse sensor 174. In the vertical direction, the seventh operation portion 37 is provided below the light emitting portion 150. In the vertical direction, the seventh operation portion 37 is provided below the terminal opening 196. In the vertical direction, the seventh operation portion 37 is provided above the second mouse sole member 192.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 8, the top surface 106 of the convex portion 100 has regions with different heights from the left side surface 4. The top surface 106 of the convex portion 100 has a first region 101, a second region 102, a third region 103, a fourth region 104, and a fifth region 105.

[0086] In the first area 101, a first operation unit 31 is provided. In the second area 102, a second operation unit 32 is provided. In the third area 103, a first mouse sole member 191 is provided. In the fourth area 104, a terminal opening 196 is provided. In the fifth area 105, a second mouse sole member 192 is provided.

[0087] In the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100, the fourth area 104 is located between the first area 101 and the second area 102. In the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100, the first area 101 is located between the third area 103 and the fourth area 104. In the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100, the second area 102 is located between the fifth area 105 and the fourth area 104. In the longitudinal direction of the convex portion 100, each of the first area 101, the second area 102, and the fourth area 104 is located between the third area 103 and the fifth area 105.

[0088] The fourth area 104 is located on the first direction R1 side of each of the first area 101 and the second area 102. The third area 103 is located on the first direction R1 side of the fourth area 104. The fifth area 105 is located on the first direction R1 side of the fourth area 104.

[0089] <Second game controller>

[0090] So far, the configuration of the first game controller 1 has been mainly described. The basic configuration of the second game controller 2 is the same as that of the first game controller 1. Hereinafter, only an outline of the second game controller 2 will be shown.

[0091] FIG. 9 is a six-sided schematic view showing the configuration of the second game controller 2. As shown in FIG. 9, the second game controller 2 includes a first operation unit (left) 41, a second operation unit (left) 42, a third operation unit (left) 43, a fourth operation unit (left) 44, a fifth operation unit (left) 45, an eighth operation unit 48, a - button 210, and a second synchronization button 72.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 9, on the side surface 211 of the second game controller 2, a first operation part (left) 41 and a second operation part (left) 42 are provided along the longitudinal direction. On the upper surface 212, a third operation part (left) 43 and a ninth operation part (left) 49 are provided. On the front surface 215, a - button 210, a set of fourth operation parts (left) 44, a fifth operation part (left) 45, and an eighth operation part 48 are provided.

[0093] In the vertical direction, the first operation part (left) 41 and the second operation part (left) 42 are arranged side by side. The first operation part (left) 41 is provided above the second operation part (left) 42. In the vertical direction, at least a part of the first operation part (left) 41 and the fifth operation part (left) 45 overlap. In the vertical direction, at least a part of the second operation part (left) 42 and the eighth operation part 48 overlap.

[0094] In the vertical direction, the - button 210, a set of fourth operation parts (left) 44, the fifth operation part (left) 45, and the eighth operation part 48 are arranged side by side. The fifth operation part (left) 45 is provided below the - button 210. The set of fourth operation parts (left) 44 is provided below the fifth operation part (left) 45. The eighth operation part 48 is provided below the set of fourth operation parts (left) 44.

[0095] The second game controller 2 has a light emitting part 250, a second terminal 260 connected to the main body second terminal 341 of the main body device 3, a mouse sensor opening 270 for guiding light to the mouse sensor 274, a third mouse sole member 253, a fourth mouse sole member 254, and an operation part 282 that constitutes a removal mechanism for removing the convex part 200 from the main body device 3. The structure and function of each component are substantially the same as those of the first game controller 1. Note that some functions may be different.

[0096] In the horizontally held state, the positional relationship between a pair of fourth operation units 34 and fifth operation units 35 in the first game controller 1 is the same as the positional relationship between a pair of fourth operation units (left) 44 and fifth operation units (left) 45 in the second game controller 2. That is, in the first game controller 1, the fifth operation unit 35 is located on the left side of a pair of fourth operation units 34. Similarly, in the second game controller 2, the fifth operation unit (left) 45 is located on the left side of a pair of fourth operation units (left) 44. On the other hand, in the horizontally held state, the third operation unit 33 and the ninth operation unit 39 in the first game controller 1 are on the right side, while the third operation unit (left) 43 and the ninth operation unit (left) 49 in the second game controller 2 are on the left side. From another perspective, in the integrally held state, the fifth operation unit 35 in the first game controller 1 is located below a pair of fourth operation units 34, while the fifth operation unit (left) 45 in the second game controller 2 is located above a pair of fourth operation units (left) 44. On the other hand, in the integrally held state, the third operation unit 33 and the ninth operation unit 39 of the first game controller 1 and the third operation unit (left) 43 and the ninth operation unit (left) 49 of the second game controller 2 are both on the upper side.

[0097] <Game controller set>

[0098] Next, the configuration of the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a front schematic view showing the configuration of the game controller set 400. As shown in FIG. 10, the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment includes a first game controller 1 and a second game controller 2. In FIG. 10, the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 are arranged such that their longitudinal directions coincide and at least their lower ends coincide in the vertical direction. As shown in FIG. 10, the outer shapes of the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 according to the present embodiment are substantially line-symmetric shapes. The side surface 11 of the first game controller 1 and the side surface 211 of the second game controller 2 facing each other may be parallel or not parallel. For example, the side surface 11 of the first game controller 1 and the side surface 211 of the second game controller 2 may form a V-shaped configuration. Note that the outer shapes of the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 do not necessarily have to be substantially line-symmetric shapes.

[0099] As described above, the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 are indirectly fixed to each other via the main body device 3. They may be indirectly fixed via other peripheral devices. Alternatively, they may be directly fixed to each other. The game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment communicates with the main body device 3.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 10, the second game controller 2 has an eighth operation unit 48. The eighth operation unit 48 is disposed at a symmetric position of the sixth operation unit 36 with respect to the virtual straight line between the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2. In the vertical direction, the distance from the center of the eighth operation unit 48 to the lower end of the front surface 215 is substantially the same as the distance from the center of the sixth operation unit 36 to the lower end of the front surface 15. In the left-right direction, the distance from the center of the eighth operation unit 48 to the right end of the front surface 215 may be substantially the same as the distance from the center of the sixth operation unit 36 to the left end of the front surface 15.

[0101] The eighth operation unit 48 executes a second function. The second function is, for example, a capture function. When the eighth operation unit 48 is pressed, a screenshot, a video, etc. of the screen are captured. The second game controller 2 does not have an operation unit at the symmetric position of the seventh operation unit 37. The second game controller 2 does not have an operation unit for opening the first menu 710. The second game controller 2 does not have an operation unit for executing the first function.

[0102] In the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment, the type of the shape of the eighth operation unit 48 and the type of the shape of the seventh operation unit 37 are the same. The shapes of the inner regions surrounded by their respective outer shapes may be different. For example, printing may be provided near the center of one of the seventh operation unit 37 and the eighth operation unit 48, and printing may not be provided near the center of the other of the seventh operation unit 37 and the eighth operation unit 48. Also, the shape of the eighth operation unit 48 and the shape of the seventh operation unit 37 may be different in size, for example, they may be similar shapes. In the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment, the type of the shape of the eighth operation unit 48 is a quadrilateral, and the type of the shape of the seventh operation unit 37 is a quadrilateral.

[0103] FIG. 11 is an enlarged schematic view of the region XI in FIG. 9. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 7, the amount of protrusion (second protrusion amount P2) of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front surface 15 of the first game controller 1 is different from the amount of protrusion (third protrusion amount P3) of the eighth operation unit 48 from the front surface 215 of the second game controller 2. Specifically, the second protrusion amount P2 is larger than the third protrusion amount P3. The third protrusion amount P3 is, for example, 0.20 mm or more and 0.30 mm or less. The second protrusion amount P2 may be 1.1 times or more, or 1.3 times or more of the third protrusion amount P3. The second protrusion amount P2 may be 2 times or less, or 1.8 times or less of the third protrusion amount P3.

[0104] <First Menu>

[0105] FIG. 12 is an image diagram showing the first menu 710. The first menu 710 is, for example, a home menu. When the user operates the sixth operation unit 36, the first menu 710 is opened. The first menu 710 has, for example, a plurality of game app selection units 711. In the first menu 710, the user can select a game app to play from among the plurality of game app selection units 711. Even while the game application is being executed, the main body device 3 opens the first menu 710 in response to the operation of the sixth operation unit 36. At this time, the main body device 3 may temporarily stop the game application. Note that the main body device 3 may continue to execute the game application without temporarily stopping it. Also, the main body device 3 may open the first menu 710 whenever the sixth operation unit 36 is operated, or may not open it depending on the case.

[0106] The first menu 710 has a plurality of items including a first item 701. The first menu 710 has, for example, a first item 701, a second item 702, a third item 703, and a fourth item 704. The first item 701 is an item that executes a first function when selected. The first function is, for example, a function of opening a second menu 720 for a communication function. The user may be able to communicate with a user using another main body device using the main body device 3. The communication according to the present embodiment includes, for example, video chat, voice chat, and text chat. Also, in the communication, a game screen may be used. The second item 702 is an item that executes an eighth function when selected. The eighth function is, for example, a function of opening an album. The album stores screenshots, videos, etc. that the user has taken so far. The third item 703 is an item that executes a third function when selected. The third function is, for example, a function of accessing an e-shop. The fourth item 704 is an item that executes a fourth function when selected. The fourth function is, for example, a function of changing settings. The first function, the eighth function, the third function, and the fourth function are different from each other.

[0107] <Second Menu>

[0108] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing the second menu 720. The second menu 720 is, for example, a menu for communication. When the user operates the seventh operation unit 37, the second menu 720 is opened. Even while the main body device 3 is executing a game application, when the seventh operation unit 37 is operated, the main body device 3 opens the second menu 720. At this time, the main body device 3 may open the second menu 720 while continuing to execute the game application without pausing it. Note that the main body device 3 may pause the game application. The second menu 720 has, for example, a fifth item 705, a sixth item 706, and a seventh item 707. The fifth item 705 is an item that executes a fifth function when selected. The fifth function is, for example, a function of opening a third menu (not shown). The third menu includes an item for selecting a user to invite to a chat. In the third menu, a user to invite to a chat can be selected. The sixth item 706 is an item that executes a sixth function when selected. The sixth function is, for example, a function of opening a fourth menu (not shown). The fourth menu includes an item for selecting a chat that can be participated in. In the fourth menu, a chat to participate in can be selected. The seventh item 707 is an item that executes a seventh function when selected. The seventh function is, for example, a function of changing settings related to communication. The fifth function, the sixth function, and the seventh function are different from each other. Note that the main body device 3 may open the second menu 720 whenever the seventh operation unit 37 is operated, or may not open it in some cases. As an example, when the main body device 3 is already executing a communication function with another main body device, the main body device 3 may open a menu for changing settings related to the ongoing communication in response to the operation of the seventh operation unit 37.

[0109] <Method of Executing the First Function>

[0110] Next, a method for executing the first function will be described. Here, a case where the first function is a function of opening the second menu 720 for communication will be described.

[0111] There are two ways to execute the first function. First, the first method will be described. When the user operates the sixth operation unit 36, the first menu 710 is opened. The first menu 710 is displayed, for example, on the display of the main body device 3. The first game controller 1 sends a signal indicating that the sixth operation unit 36 has been pressed to the main body device 3. Based on the signal, the main body device 3 executes a process of opening the first menu 710, which is a process associated with the input of the signal. That is, the main body device 3 calls the first menu 710 in response to the operation on the sixth operation unit 36.

[0112] Next, the user selects a first item 701 for executing the first function from among a plurality of items included in the first menu 710. For example, after moving the cursor to the first item 701, the first item 701 may be selected by pressing the operation unit, or the first item 701 may be selected by touching the area on the display where the first item 701 is displayed with a finger. Based on the signal indicating that the first item 701 has been selected, the main body device 3 executes the first function, which is a process associated with the signal. Specifically, based on the signal, the main body device 3 executes a process of opening the second menu 720 for communication. The second menu 720 is displayed, for example, on the display of the main body device 3. The second menu 720 is displayed instead of the first menu 710. The second menu 720 may be superimposed on the first menu 710.

[0113] Next, the second method will be described. When the user operates the seventh operation unit 37, the first function is directly executed. Specifically, the first game controller 1 sends a signal indicating that the seventh operation unit 37 has been pressed to the main body device 3. Based on this signal, the main body device 3 executes a process of opening a second menu 720, which is a process associated with the input of this signal. That is, the main body device 3 calls the second menu 720 in response to the operation on the seventh operation unit 37. As another aspect, based on the pressing of the seventh operation unit 37, the first game controller 1 may generate a command of "open the second menu 720" and send this command to the main body device 3.

[0114] According to the first game controller 1 according to the present embodiment, by providing the seventh operation unit 37 for directly executing the first function, compared with the case where the user first operates the sixth operation unit 36 to open the first menu 710 and then selects an item from there to execute the first function, the user can access the first function in a shorter time.

[0115] Also, when the first game controller 1 according to the present embodiment is held vertically (held so that the third operation unit 33 is above or in front), the third operation unit 33 and the ninth operation unit 39 are operated by the index finger or middle finger of the user's right hand, and the fourth operation unit 34 and the fifth operation unit 35 below it are operated by the user's right thumb. At this time, since the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 are located below the fifth operation unit 35, during game play or the like, it is suppressed that the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 are accidentally operated by the right thumb.

[0116] Furthermore, the sixth operation unit 36 for opening the first menu 710 having a plurality of items including items for executing the first function executed by the seventh operation unit 37 is likely to be used more frequently than the seventh operation unit 37. It is located above the seventh operation unit 37 and close to the fifth operation unit 35. Therefore, when operating, the thumb only needs to be moved a little from the fifth operation unit 35, which is highly convenient. On the other hand, since the seventh operation unit 37 for executing a specific first function is arranged at a farther position, when the user intends to execute the first function, it is necessary to stretch the finger relatively far for operation. Therefore, the possibility of accidental operation when not intending to execute the first function is suppressed. Also, even if the sixth operation unit 36 is accidentally operated when trying to execute the first function, the first function can still be executed from the first menu 710, so the user can reach the target function without going back or canceling.

[0117] Furthermore, when the first game controller 1 according to the present embodiment is held horizontally, the fifth operation unit 35 is operated by the left thumb, and the fourth operation unit 34 is operated by the right thumb. At this time, the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 are located to the left of the fifth operation unit 35. Therefore, accidental operation is suppressed as described above. Also, since the seventh operation unit 37 is located further to the left than the sixth operation unit 36, accidental operation is suppressed as described above.

[0118] According to the first game controller 1 according to the present embodiment, the amount of protrusion of the sixth operation unit 36 from the front is different from the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front. Therefore, the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 can be easily distinguished, and mis-pressing between the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 is suppressed.

[0119] According to the first game controller 1 according to the present embodiment, the amount of protrusion of the sixth operation unit 36 from the front is larger than the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front. Therefore, the sixth operation unit 36 is easier to press than the seventh operation unit 37. Even if the sixth operation unit 36 is pressed when intending to press the seventh operation unit 37, the first function can still be executed afterwards, so the disadvantage is small.

[0120] According to the first game controller 1 according to this embodiment, the first operation unit 31 is provided above the second operation unit 32. In the vertical direction, at least a part of the second operation unit 32, the sixth operation unit 36, and the seventh operation unit 37 are in a position where they overlap. When holding the first game controller 1 horizontally, if the index finger of the left hand is placed on the second operation unit 32, the thumb of the left hand is likely to come to a position where it touches the sixth operation unit 36 or the seventh operation unit 37. Especially when not operating the fifth operation unit 35, there is a possibility that the thumb is held so as to touch the controller to the left (downward in the vertical direction) of the fifth operation unit 35. At this time, since the sixth operation unit 36 protrudes more than the seventh operation unit 37, the thumb may be in a position to touch the sixth operation unit 36. Therefore, when the user wants to execute some function, it is convenient because the sixth operation unit 36 can be directly pressed to move to the selection of the function. If the seventh operation unit 37 protrudes more than the sixth operation unit 36 and the finger is placed there, it is fine when wanting to execute a specific function, but there may be an accidental operation when wanting to execute other functions.

[0121] Furthermore, when holding the first game controller 1 horizontally, the thumb extends almost horizontally from the left side to the center direction of the game controller, and the thumb touches both the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37. When trying to press the sixth operation unit 36 in this state, since the sixth operation unit 36 protrudes more than the seventh operation unit 37, an accidental operation such as pressing not only the sixth operation unit 36 but also the seventh operation unit 37 is suppressed.

[0122] According to the first game controller 1 according to this embodiment, the type of the shape of the sixth operation unit 36 and the type of the shape of the seventh operation unit 37 are different. Therefore, misoperation between the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 is suppressed.

[0123] In the first game controller 1 according to the present embodiment, the first function is executed by pressing the seventh operation unit 37 while the first menu 710 is being displayed. Even if the sixth operation unit 36 is accidentally pressed, or if the seventh operation unit 37 is directly pressed without selecting an item in that case, the first function can be executed.

[0124] The game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment includes a first game controller 1 and a second game controller 2 that is directly or indirectly fixed to the first game controller 1. The second game controller 2 has an eighth operation unit 48 that executes a second function at a symmetric position of the sixth operation unit 36, and does not have an operation unit at a symmetric position of the seventh operation unit 37. Therefore, it is easy to determine which of the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 has the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37.

[0125] According to the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment, the second game controller 2 does not have an operation unit for opening the first menu 710 and an operation unit for executing the first function. As a result, it is clearly understood that it is necessary to have the first game controller 1 to execute the first function.

[0126] According to the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment, the type of shape of the sixth operation unit 36 and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit 37 are different. The type of shape of the eighth operation unit 48 and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit 37 are the same. If all the shapes of the sixth operation unit 36, the seventh operation unit 37, and the eighth operation unit 48 are different, the possibility of confusion increases. By making the type of shape of the eighth operation unit 48 and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit 37 the same, it becomes clear whether it is the sixth operation unit 36 or something else.

[0127] According to the game controller set 400 according to the present embodiment, the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front of the first game controller 1 is different from the amount of protrusion of the eighth operation unit 48 from the front of the second game controller 2. Therefore, misoperation between the eighth operation unit 48 and the seventh operation unit 37 is suppressed.

[0128] <Method of Operating a Mouse with a Game Controller>

[0129] FIG. 14 is a front schematic view showing a state in which the first game controller 1 is used as a mouse. FIG. 15 is a right side schematic view showing a state in which the first game controller 1 is used as a mouse.

[0130] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the game controller 1 according to the present embodiment can also be used as a mouse in a state where the game controller 1 is placed on the tracking surface F such that the first opening in which the mouse sensor 174 is provided inside faces the tracking surface F. As described above, the mouse sensor 174 is provided on the first side surface 11 of the game controller.

[0131] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, when the game controller 1 according to the present embodiment is used as a mouse, the palm of the user's hand is arranged to cover the second side surface 13 of the first game controller 1. The user's right thumb is arranged on the front 15 side. For example, the user's right thumb is placed on the fifth operation unit 35. The user's right index finger is arranged on the third operation unit 33. The user's right middle finger is arranged on the ninth operation unit 39. At this time, since the sixth operation unit 36 and the seventh operation unit 37 are on the user's wrist side, misoperations can be suppressed. Since the seventh operation unit 37 is provided below the sixth operation unit 36, misoperations can be more effectively suppressed.

[0132] Note that the second game controller 2 may also be used as a mouse in the same manner with the left hand. The first game controller 1 may be operated with the right hand and the second game controller 2 may be operated with the left hand. Also, the user may use one of the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 as a mouse and the other as a vertically held game controller. Note that the second game controller 2 may be operated with the right hand and the first game controller 1 may be operated with the left hand.

[0133] <Modification Example>

[0134] In the present disclosure, the first function was the function of opening a menu for communication, but is not limited thereto. The first function may be a function of directly executing a communication function. Further, the first function may be a function of opening an album or a function of accessing an e-shop.

[0135] In the present disclosure, the second function was a capture function, but is not limited thereto. The second function may be a function of opening a menu for communication. Further, the second function may be a function of opening an album or a function of accessing an e-shop.

[0136] In the present disclosure, the first menu 710 was a home menu, but is not limited thereto. The first menu 710 may be a menu including an item of "open the home menu".

[0137] In the present disclosure, when the first operation unit 31 to the fifth operation unit 35, the ninth operation unit 39, the + button 110, and the - button 210 are operated, control according to the game application being executed in the main body device 3 is executed, and when the sixth operation unit 36 to the eighth operation unit 38 are operated, a specific function is executed regardless of the game application being executed in the main body device 3, but is not limited thereto. For example, the + button 110 and the - button 210 may also execute a specific function when operated.

[0138] In the present disclosure, an announcement or item selection may be displayed before opening the second menu 720 for communication. As an example, an account selection screen for who will use the communication function may be opened. In the present disclosure, executing the first function means that the first function may be finally executed. Note that the announcement or item selection may also be displayed after opening the second menu 720 and before executing the communication function.

[0139] In the present disclosure, the system 1000 includes the main body device 3, the first game controller 1, and the second game controller 2, but is not limited thereto. The system 1000 may include only the first game controller 1 and may not include the second game controller 2. Further, the first game controller 1 and the second game controller 2 may not be detachable from the main body device 3. The main body device 3 may not be portable. For example, the main body device 3 may be a server.

[0140] The shape of the game controller is not limited to the shape in the present disclosure. For example, the front of the game controller may be generally elliptical or semi-circular. Further, for example, the game controller may be long in the left-right direction. Further, for example, the game controller may include a grip extending obliquely downward or rearward.

[0141] The amount of protrusion of the sixth operation unit 36 from the front may be the same as the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front.

[0142] The amount of protrusion of the sixth operation unit 36 from the front may be smaller than the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front.

[0143] The first operation unit 31 may be provided below the second operation unit 32.

[0144] In the vertical direction, the second operation unit 32, the sixth operation unit 36, and the seventh operation unit 37 may not be in overlapping positions.

[0145] The type of shape of the sixth operation unit 36 and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit 37 may be the same.

[0146] Pressing the seventh operation unit 37 while the first menu 710 is being displayed may not execute the first function.

[0147] The first game controller 1 may not include the mouse sensor 174.

[0148] The eighth operation unit 48 that executes the second function does not have to be at the symmetric position of the sixth operation unit 36.

[0149] The second game controller 2 may have an operation unit at the symmetric position of the seventh operation unit 37.

[0150] The second game controller 2 may have an operation unit for opening the first menu 710 or an operation unit for executing the first function.

[0151] The type of the shape of the sixth operation unit 36 and the type of the shape of the seventh operation unit 37 may be the same.

[0152] The type of the shape of the eighth operation unit 48 and the type of the shape of the seventh operation unit 37 may be different.

[0153] The amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit 37 from the front may be the same as the amount of protrusion of the eighth operation unit 48 from the front of the second game controller 2.

[0154] It should be considered that all the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description but by the claims, and it is intended that all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

Explanation of Signs

[0155] 1 First game controller, game controller 2 Second game controller 3 Main body device 4 Left side surface 10 Controller housing 11 First side surface, side surface 12 Upper surface 13 Second side surface 14 Lower surface 15 Front surface 16 Rear surface 17 Housing opening 20 Controller housing 31 First operation unit 32 Second Operation Unit 33 Third Operation Unit 34 Fourth Operation Unit 35 Fifth Operation Unit 36 Sixth Operation Unit 37 Seventh Operation Unit 39 Ninth Operation Unit 41 First Operation Unit (Left) 42 Second Operation Unit (Left) 43 Third Operation Unit (Left) 44 Fourth Operation Unit (Left) 45 Fifth Operation Unit (Left) 48 Eighth Operation Unit 49 Ninth Operation Unit (Left) 61 Front Housing 62 Rear Housing 71 First Synchronization Button 72 Second Synchronization Button 100 Convex Portion 101 First Region 102 Second Region 103 Third Region 104 Fourth Region 105 Fifth Region 106 Top Surface 107 Outer Peripheral Surface 110 + Button 150 Light Emitting Unit 160 First Terminal 170 First Opening 174 Mouse Sensor 181 Pusher 182 Operation Unit 191 First Mouse Sole Member 192 Second Mouse Sole Member 193 First Engaging Hole 194 Second Engaging Hole 196 Opening for Terminal 200 Convex Portion 210 - Button 211 Side Surface 212 Upper Surface 215 Front Surface 250 Light Emitting Unit 253 Third Mouse Sole Member 254 Fourth Mouse Sole Member 260 Second terminal 270 Opening for mouse sensor 274 Mouse sensor 282 Operation section 301 Audio input / output terminal 302 Upper terminal 303 Lower terminal 304 Memory media slot 305 Display 307 Power button 313 Right side of main body 314 Left side of main body 315 Front of main body 316 Upper side of main body 317 Lower side of main body 331 First terminal of main body 341 Second terminal of main body 400 Game controller set 701 First item 702 Second item 703 Third item 704 Fourth item 705 Fifth item 706 Sixth item 707 Seventh item 710 First menu 711 Game app selection section 720 Second menu 1000 System F Tracking surface P1 First protrusion amount P2 Second protrusion amount P3 Third protrusion amount R1 First direction R2 Second direction R3 Third direction R4 Fourth direction R5 Fifth direction R6 Sixth direction

Claims

1. A game controller having a side surface, an upper surface, and a front surface, wherein a first operation unit and a second operation unit are provided on the side surface along the longitudinal direction, a third operation unit is provided on the upper surface, on the front surface, a pair of fourth operation units, a fifth operation unit provided below the pair of fourth operation units for inputting a direction, and a sixth operation unit provided below the fifth operation unit for causing the main body device to open a first menu having a plurality of items including a first item for causing the main body device to execute a first function when selected, and a seventh operation unit provided below the sixth operation unit for causing the main body device to execute the first function. A game controller.

2. The game controller according to claim 1, wherein a protruding amount of the sixth operation unit from the front surface is different from a protruding amount of the seventh operation unit from the front surface.

3. The game controller according to claim 2, wherein a protruding amount of the sixth operation unit from the front surface is larger than a protruding amount of the seventh operation unit from the front surface.

4. The first operation unit is provided above the second operation unit, in the vertical direction, at least a part of the second operation unit, the sixth operation unit, and the seventh operation unit are in an overlapping position. The game controller according to claim 3.

5. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a type of shape of the sixth operation unit and a type of shape of the seventh operation unit are different.

6. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first function is executed on the main body device by pressing the seventh operation unit during display of the first menu.

7. The game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a mouse sensor is provided on the side surface.

8. A game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and a second game controller having a second side surface, the second side surface being directly or indirectly fixed to the game controller so as to face the side surface of the game controller. The second game controller has an eighth operation unit for causing the main body device to execute a second function at a position that is the line-symmetric position of the sixth operation unit when the second game controller is arranged line-symmetrically so that the longitudinal direction coincides with that of the game controller, and does not have an operation unit at a position that is the line-symmetric position of the seventh operation unit. Game controller set.

9. The game controller set according to claim 8, wherein the second game controller does not have an operation unit for opening the first menu and an operation unit for executing the first function.

10. The type of shape of the sixth operation unit and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit are different. The game controller set according to claim 8, wherein the type of shape of the eighth operation unit and the type of shape of the seventh operation unit are the same.

11. The game controller set according to claim 8, wherein the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit from the front is different from the amount of protrusion of the eighth operation unit from the front of the second game controller.

12. The game controller set according to claim 11, wherein the amount of protrusion of the seventh operation unit from the front is larger than the amount of protrusion of the eighth operation unit from the front of the second game controller.

13. A game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A system comprising the main body device that communicates with the game controller.

14. A game controller set according to claim 8, A system comprising the main body device that communicates with the game controller set.

Images